The fall season is here and we are quickly approaching the holiday seasons. As we dream of pumpkin pie and green bean casserole, it can be easy to forget the true meaning of Thanksgiving. The fourth Thursday in November is a day that brings people together to celebrate the end of the harvest, and to celebrate the people in our lives who gives us the support and love we need to make a difference. So, this Thanksgiving instead of stressing over what to cook, make a list of things you are grateful for.
I AM THANKFUL FOR…HOBBIES
When life becomes hectic, how amazing is it that we can turn to our hobbies to take our minds off of the stresses of daily life?
Hobbies are a way of clearing our mental plate and helps promote “flow.” Flow is invigorated by active leisure. If you have ever lost yourself in a sport, art project, yoga, or other challenging and absorbing activity you have experienced flow. When we are fully immersed in these kinds of hobbies especially ones that expand our skills, time flies, self-consciousness disappears, and we foster a desirable and elusive state.
I AM THANKFUL FOR…COMMUNITY
"I believe in community. I believe that if you ask for what you need, people will give it. And sometimes, even when you do not ask, people see what you need and come forward." —Nancy Smith Worthen
We can share our unique hobbies with the people in our community who share the same passion.
I AM THANKFUL FOR…CREATIVITY
The root of the word creativity means “to grow.” Creativity is about living life as a journey into seeing and communicating the extra-ordinariness of the simplest, most every day acts. It makes life infinitely interesting and fulfilling.
The most creative people find ways around obstacles because they see them not just as roadblocks but also as opportunities. It expands our perceptions, and with that comes new ways of problem-solving.
I AM THANKFUL FOR…TRAVEL
Traveling fundamentally changes our lives by allowing us to unplug from daily life and move in new directions. It awakens our inner child by offering us new “first time” experiences, connects us to other people and cultures, and introduces us to diversity.
When we get caught up in the difficulties of life, travel gives us time to heal, reduce stress, and regain enthusiasm for life.
I AM THANKFUL FOR… THE LITTLE THINGS
Morning coffee. Good hair days. Puppy videos. The one movie that always makes you laugh. The moment when your food comes at a restaurant. A great pair of jeans. Sibling bonds. The cold side of a pillow. A perfectly ripe avocado. A long shower.
What are you grateful for this holiday season?
About The Author
Ashley Zhang is a 22 year old fitness enthusiast, YogaClub Tribe Leader, RYT-200 yoga instructor, and health & wellness blogger. Ashley works as a social media specialist in Indianapolis and has a burning love for travel. She enjoys cooking for other people, bathing in sunshine, and being a lifelong student.
