Gratitude is more than a fleeting feeling—it’s a daily practice that shapes how we connect with ourselves, with others, and with the natural world. When I reflect on what first drew me to naturopathic medicine, gratitude is at the center. I wanted the knowledge and tools to care for my own health and to support the wellbeing of my family, friends, and community. Each patient I meet reminds me that healing is never a solitary act—it is something we build together through trust, presence, and shared effort.
In Braiding Sweetgrass, Robin Wall Kimmerer writes: “Gratitude cultivates an ethic of fullness, but the economy needs emptiness.” This resonates deeply. We live in a culture that often tells us we’re incomplete unless we buy more, do more, or achieve more. Gratitude helps us step out of that cycle by reminding us to notice what is already working—our bodies’ ability to adapt, the healing power of rest and movement, the support of community, and the resources nature has always provided. When we see what’s already present, our choices come from a place of abundance rather than lack.
For thousands of years, humans have relied on natural remedies, food, and community connection to support health. These practices are not trends—they are part of our shared human story, passed down and refined through generations. At Aralia Health, we carry this legacy forward by blending traditional healing knowledge with evidence-based medicine.
For me, gratitude is both a practice and a compass. It grounds me, strengthens my relationships, and keeps me focused on what matters most: supporting my loved ones, my patients, and the broader community so we can thrive together.
Dr. Stephanie Raven