There are many developmental stages in the life of a parent...at least as many as the children have. Each year and each season mean something new as the children grow, but holidays and school vacations are also new every time they happen. The winter holidays give us great opportunities to spend more time with our children (of all ages) and also great opportunities for increased stress.

Gratitude actually is a magic pill for parenting stress, but it only works as part of a whole system for parenting and self care. Alane delved into that system as she answered live and pre-submitted questions from members and guests. Thanksgiving in the US provides a lovely organic opportunity to bring the discussion and practice of gratitude to the family. In fact, if done well now, it will change the month of December, making it profoundly less stressful, more reverent, and oh so sweet.

People who regularly practice gratitude by taking time to notice and reflect upon the things they’re thankful for experience more positive emotions, feel more alive, sleep better, express more compassion and kindness, and even have stronger immune systems. (The Science Behind Gratitude, happify.com)