Power of Thankfulness For Health
Thanksgiving is a time to pause, reflect, and appreciate the people and blessings in our lives. But gratitude is more than just a positive feeling. It’s a powerful mindset that can create meaningful changes inside the body.
In fact, research shows that practicing thankfulness can improve your physical health, emotional resilience, stress response, and even the way your nervous system functions. This makes gratitude an incredible (and free!) tool for supporting whole-body wellness during the holiday season and beyond.
How Gratitude Impacts the Body
Gratitude might seem like an emotion, but the body treats it like a physiological event. Meaning it creates measurable changes in how your systems function.
1. Gratitude reduces stress and calms the nervous system
When you express thankfulness, your brain shifts out of “fight or flight” mode and into a calmer parasympathetic state.
This can lead to:
Lower stress hormones
More relaxed muscles
A slower, steadier heart rate
Better digestion
Higher mental clarity
2. Gratitude improves mood and emotional balance
Studies show that regularly practicing gratitude increases levels of:
Serotonin (mood)
Dopamine (motivation & reward)
Oxytocin (connection & calm)
These natural chemicals support emotional well-being and help buffer against anxiety and overwhelm. Something many families can use during the busy holiday season.
3. Gratitude improves sleep quality
People who practice gratitude before bed fall asleep faster, sleep deeper, and wake feeling more refreshed.
This helps the brain and body recharge, essential for nervous system health.
4. Gratitude strengthens the immune system
Research from the University of California and the American Heart Association shows that gratitude practices can reduce inflammation markers and improve immune function.
When stress decreases, the immune system works better. Especially helpful during cold and flu season.
5. Gratitude improves overall heart and brain health
Gratitude is associated with:
Lower blood pressure
Improved circulation
Better emotional resilience
Reduced symptoms of burnout
A thankful heart truly supports a healthier body.
The Chiropractic Connection
Chiropractic care doesn’t “create gratitude,” but it supports the systems of the body that gratitude works through the nervous system.
When your spine is aligned and your nervous system is functioning well, your body is more capable of:
Managing stress
Regulating emotions
Recovering from tension
Improving sleep
Communicating effectively between the brain and body
In short:
A regulated nervous system makes gratitude easier to access and gratitude makes the nervous system easier to regulate.
It’s a powerful cycle of wellness.
Simple Ways to Practice Gratitude This Thanksgiving
You don’t need a journal or long routine to benefit from gratitude. Here are simple, family-friendly ideas:
1. Ask at the dinner table:
“What’s one thing you’re thankful for today?”
2. Gratitude walk
Name things you appreciate during a short walk outside.
3. Gratitude jar
Have family members drop notes of appreciation throughout the week.
4. Bedtime gratitude with your kids
Share 3 things you loved about the day.
5. Gratitude in the moment
Thank someone out loud, even for something small.
These practices take minutes but have powerful effects.
Conclusion
Thankfulness isn’t just a holiday tradition. It’s a powerful tool for creating better health, stronger relationships, and a calmer nervous system.This Thanksgiving, take a moment to breathe, appreciate the blessings around you, and allow your body to benefit from the healing power of gratitude.
From our family at Third Coast Chiropractic, we’re thankful for YOU and the privilege of supporting your family’s health.
📞 If you want to head into the holidays centered and stress-resilient, call 231-354-2600 to schedule your next adjustment.