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Gratitude Is a Gift We Give Ourselves- Appreciation Is a Gift to Others

Even though this year has been challenging, there is so much to be grateful for in my life. I appreciate those most precious to me, which are my family and friends. Then also, I am grateful for the caregivers, delivery personnel, medical staff, restaurant servers, cashiers, post office workers, etc. 

If the pandemic has taught me one thing it is how, before covid or B.C. it was easy to take for granted the little things, like spending time with friends, celebrating with family, attending concerts, and sporting events,  and workouts at the gym.  Now, these are gone, or limited. It is when you lose those moments that you realize how important they are to you and your well-being.  

Thank goodness for Technology though, because even though it is not the same there still is an opportunity to stay connected.   I am very thankful that technology exists which keeps me connected to my family, friends, clients, and members of organizations and provides speaking and networking opportunities. Without these connections, I would have a greater feeling of loneliness, isolation, and missing out.   

As Thanksgiving approaches, many reflect on being grateful and count their blessings, yet the benefits of being grateful all year long are huge.  Gratitude is often forgotten, when the time comes to express one’s appreciation for a gift or act of kindness.  Gratitude doesn’t take much to express, and it doesn’t cost much in terms of time and money. 

However, research has shown that being thankful and appreciative throughout the year, for what you have, and for what you are given, has enormous benefits on your quality of life.

Gratitude…

• promotes and enhances relationships.

  Saying “thank you” not only demonstrates good manners but showing appreciation fosters new friendships, according to a 2014 study published in Emotion. The study showed that thanking a new acquaintance makes them more likely to seek an ongoing relationship. So whether you thank a stranger for holding the door or you send a thank-you note to that co-worker who assisted you with a project, acknowledging the contributions of others can lead to new opportunities.

• improves physical and psychological health.

  According to a 2012 study published in Personality and Individual Differences, grateful people experience fewer aches and pains. Also, they report feeling healthier than other people largely because they are more likely to take care of their health. Exercising routinely and getting regular check-ups with their doctors may further contribute to their longevity. A 2011 study published in Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being revealed that writing down a few grateful sentiments before bed may foster better and longer sleep. Gratitude impacts psychological health too by reducing a multitude of toxic emotions, ranging from envy and resentment to frustration and regret. A leading gratitude researcher, Robert A. Emmons, Ph.D., conducted multiple studies on the link between gratitude and well-being that confirmed that gratitude effectively reduces depression and increases happiness.

• improves self-esteem and mental strength

  According to the Journal of Applied Sport, Psychology and Journal of Personality and Social Psychology showed that gratitude increased self-esteem and mental strength.  Both are essential in everyday life and experiences.   A major factor in reduced self-esteem and mental strength is resentment toward people with more money or better jobs. This is because so much time and energy is spent on what others are doing rather than focusing on self-care. Grateful people can appreciate the accomplishments of others without negatively impacting their self-esteem or mental strength.  Recognizing all our blessings and expressing thanks, even during the worst times, builds resilience. 

Gifts to Express Your Gratitude that They’ll Appreciate- Wearable Art in 9 original designs

Even though expressing gratitude does not necessarily mean spending money, this is the season of purchasing gifts for those special people in our life. Consider investing in exquisite Wearable Art, by Lady Barbara, an Artist that will be treasured for a lifetime. 

$100 0r Less

1. Mask- $20
2. Pouchette- $39
3. Apron-$38

1. Tote- $48
2. Cross body clutch- $99.50
3. Gift certificate $99 for $125 product

       
$200 or Less

1. Art glass tray $115
2. Chiffon scarf 50”x 50”- $130
3. A line dress- $140
4. Botanical cashmere scarf 28”x80”- $189

       
$325 or Less

1. Cocoon wrap made of Bemberg, 100% echo friendly plant-based silk substitute -$268
2. Cashmere silk scarf 28”x 80” – $289
3. Luxury statement purse that fits a laptop, made with Turkish leather bottom and handles $320

Please contact me to place your orders that will arrive gift-wrapped and shipped to your/or their door. Yes, we ship so you don’t stand in line at the post office. 

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As 2020 comes to a close, we are all thankful that it is almost over and look hopefully to a brighter future.  What are you grateful for, as this year comes to a close, and what are some ways you express that gratitude? Let me know in the comments below.

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