Viva Vitality: Thankful hearts, healthy minds

By Erin Lawson on October 10, 2025.

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to think about everything we are grateful for. Gratitude means noticing the good things in our lives – like family, friends, our health, or even a sunny day. When we practice gratitude, we feel happier, calmer and more hopeful. It can even help our mental health, especially during stressful times. Here are some simple ways to practice gratitude this October.

One great way to feel more thankful is to move your body. Going for a walk, playing outside or doing a fun activity like dancing can help you feel better inside and out. Physical activity boosts your mood, gives you energy and helps you think more clearly. Take time to notice things around you – like the changing colours of leaves, fresh crisp air or time with people you love.

Parents and caregivers can help children learn to be more grateful by setting a good example. Share what made you smile today or what you feel lucky to have, then ask your child, “What made you feel happy today?” or “Who helped you today?”

There are also fun ways to show gratitude as a family. Children can draw pictures of things they are thankful for, like their pet, favourite meal or a fun day at the park. You can even take “gratitude walks” as a family – look for things you enjoy or appreciate and talk about them together.

Even on hard days, there is usually something good if we look for it. Maybe someone told a funny joke or you listened to your favourite music. Noticing small, happy moments helps us stay strong and positive.

This Thanksgiving, take time to move your body, enjoy fresh air and share with friends and family what you are thankful for. Gratitude is a habit that helps our hearts and minds and is something we can practice every day.

For more information and ideas on the practice of gratitude, visit myhealth.alberta.ca and search ‘Gratitude’ under the health information and tools tab.

Erin Lawson is a health promotion facilitator with Primary Care Alberta

9
-8