Global Traditions of Gratitude

Pinterest @eratyra

As the year winds down and the days grow shorter, cultures around the world pause to give thanks, not only for harvests, but for labour, community, and renewal. These celebrations remind us that gratitude is universal, and can inspire intentional practices in our own lives.

Chuseok (South Korea)

Chuseok, one of South Korea’s most important autumn festivals, is a harvest‑moon celebration where families return home to pay respect to ancestors and share food and drink. A central ritual is the making and sharing of songpyeon, half‑moon shaped rice cakes steamed on pine needles.

Lessons for today:

1. Gratitude is rooted in both the land and family lineage.

2. Food becomes ritual: preparing and sharing meals binds generations.

3. Reflect on what you’ve grown or achieved this year.

Kinrō Kansha no Hi (Japan)

Held on 23 November, Japan’s Labour Thanksgiving Day honours work and productivity. It has its roots in the ancient harvest ritual Niinamesai, when the emperor offered the first rice of the season to the gods. Today, it emphasises gratitude for all forms of labour, from farmers to factory workers.

Lessons for today:

1. Gratitude is not only for abundance, but for effort and collaboration.

2. Acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of yourself and others.

3. A pause of recognition can restore perspective before the holiday rush.

Tokhü Emong (Lotha Naga tribe, India)

Tokhü Emong, celebrated by the Lotha Naga people of Nagaland in early November, marks the end of the harvest. Beyond feasting, the festival focuses on forgiveness, reconciliation, and communal joy. Sharing food and stories strengthens bonds and restores balance after months of hard work.

Lessons for today:

1. Harvest is about more than gathering; it’s about rest, reflection, and connection.

2. Letting go of past grievances frees energy for renewal.

3. Hospitality and shared celebration reinforce community.

Bringing It Home

Pinterest @gertrudetornwall

Even if you’re not participating in these traditions directly, you can adopt their spirit:

Create a mini ritual: Light a candle, set a small gratitude table, or share a meal with intention.

Reflect inward and outward: Gratitude works both ways, for what you’ve done, and what’s been done for you.

Prepare for the season ahead: Pause, rest, and reconnect before the year-end rush.

These global traditions remind us that gratitude is not a single day, but a practice, one that can nourish the mind, body, and community in the most meaningful way.