The Gifts of Gratitude

The dictionary defines gratitude as an expression of being grateful and showing deep appreciation for a benefit or kindness. What it doesn’t say is that gratitude itself is a gift! In fact, here at The Next Step School of Dance, we believe there are many gifts that gratitude offers—to yourself and to others.

For example, did you know that showing gratitude actually benefits your health, both physically and emotionally? Research has shown that for adults and children alike, being consciously thankful can ease stress, improve sleep, boost self-esteem, and offer protection from negativity.

And gratitude propels you to pay it forward. If you’re grateful for your friendships, then in turn you are kind to others. If you are grateful for the food you eat, then you feel compelled to share. If you’re grateful for the joy of dance, then you lift up those around you with your joy!

Gratitude is an endless gift, because you can both accept it and give it away, over and over again. It is an awesome power. So during this season of giving and beyond, we hope you’ll join us in recognizing the gifts that being thankful brings, and to let gratitude guide your heart.

In that spirit of being truly grateful, I want to thank all of our students, families and staff that joined us in our “Color the World Orange” week. We raised $96.00 which was donated to the RSDSA Organization. Creating awareness to CRPS/RSD, by wearing orange, seeing the lights lit up around the world, or simply having a conversation about a chronic pain condition that has secretly burdened my everyday since December 2003 has been rewarding. Seeing the students wearing orange, touched my heart, even if they weren’t sure why they were. It’s the start of awareness and I’m so grateful. It has taken me years to come to terms with something that changed my active dancing life forever, but, God had a new path for me, and I embrace the joy of dance! I’m forever thankful and grateful for our dance family at NSSD.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Miss Bonnie