As the holiday season approaches, it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect on the things we’re grateful for — including our health. Between gatherings, shopping, and to-do lists, it’s easy for the meaning of the season to get lost in the shuffle. But gratitude is more than just a feel-good emotion — it has real benefits for your mind, body, and overall well-being.

By embracing gratitude and mindfulness this time of year, you can bring more calm, connection, and joy into your holiday season.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn how gratitude supports both physical and mental wellness

• Discover simple ways to practice gratitude daily during the holidays

• Explore how immune support with AHCC® helps you stay thankful for good health*

Table of Contents:

1. The Science of Gratitude and Wellness

2. How to Practice Gratitude During the Holidays

3. The Power of Gratitude for Reducing Stress

4. Staying Thankful for Your Health with AHCC®

5. Support Your Wellness This Season

The Science of Gratitude and Wellness

Gratitude isn’t just a mindset — it’s a physiological response that can influence overall health. Research shows that regularly practicing gratitude can help lower stress hormones, support better sleep, and even contribute to a stronger immune system.*

When you focus on what you’re thankful for, your brain releases dopamine and serotonin — neurotransmitters associated with happiness and calm. Over time, this can lead to improved mood and a more balanced emotional state.

Gratitude has also been linked to healthier lifestyle choices, as those who cultivate thankfulness are more likely to exercise, eat well, and take care of themselves consistently.

How to Practice Gratitude During the Holidays

The holidays can bring joy — but also busyness, expectations, and stress. Practicing gratitude daily can help ground you and remind you of what really matters.

Here are a few ways to keep gratitude at the heart of the season:

• Start a gratitude journal: Write down three things you’re thankful for every morning or evening.

• Share appreciation out loud: Tell loved ones what you value about them — it strengthens connection and spreads positivity.

• Savor the moment: Whether it’s a meal, conversation, or quiet night by the fire, pause to fully enjoy it.

• Practice mindful breathing: A few deep breaths can bring you back to the present and renew appreciation for small joys.

• Give back: Acts of kindness and volunteering naturally boost feelings of gratitude and connection.

The Power of Gratitude for Reducing Stress

Gratitude can be one of the most effective tools for managing stress — especially when life gets hectic. By shifting your focus from what’s overwhelming to what’s going well, you can calm your nervous system and improve your resilience.

Taking even five minutes a day to reflect on positive moments helps reframe your mindset. Pairing gratitude practices with healthy habits like gentle exercise, hydration, and balanced meals can make a big difference in your energy and mood during the holiday rush.

Staying Thankful for Your Health with AHCC®

Health is one of the greatest gifts to be thankful for — and maintaining it during the holidays allows you to be present for the people and moments that matter most.

AHCC®, a proprietary mushroom extract, supports immune defenses and helps you stay well throughout the season.* Whether you’re traveling, spending long days with family, or managing holiday stress, AHCC® helps your body’s natural immune response stay strong.*

Quality of Life offers four AHCC® formulas, each designed to meet individual needs and lifestyles:

• AHCC® Platinum: Advanced immune support for daily wellness.*

• AHCC® Rx: Extra concentrated immune defense in softgel form.*

• AHCC® Gold: Daily immune defense for everyday maintenance.*

• 50+ AHCC®: Everyday immune support with Lactobacillus paracasei for older individuals.*

By supporting your immune system, you can stay energized, resilient, and truly thankful for your health this season.

Support Your Wellness and Well-Being This Season

As you move through the busy holiday weeks ahead, remember that gratitude is one of the simplest — yet most powerful — wellness practices available. It helps calm the mind, strengthen relationships, and nurture your overall health.

Take time to appreciate your body, your health, and the small moments of joy that make this season special. Combine your gratitude practice with immune-supporting habits, nourishing foods, and trusted supplements like AHCC® to feel your best all season long.