As the holidays approach it's natural to spend time reflecting on the importance of gratitude. Being grateful and counting your blessings can help you stay focused on what is truly important in life as well as keep you connected with your inner spirit. Researchers have even found that people who regularly nurture gratitude in their lives tend to be happier and more relaxed than those who do not. Everyone has their struggles in life, and gratitude is not about dismissing these struggles. Instead it is a mindset of awareness that recognizes and nurtures the positive aspects of life, no matter how small they may be.
Ways to Practice Gratitude
Take a few moments each day to reflect on the positives in your life. It can be anything from the great job you just landed to the taste of a good cup of coffee. Be mindful of beauty that's around you, such as the color of autumn leaves, the sound of children's laughter or the twinkling stars above you at night. Read books that promote a sense of gratitude such as Attitudes of Gratitude by M.J. Ryan and Gratitude: A Way of Life by Louise L. Hay.
Create a Gratitude Board by hanging up a cork bulletin board in your home and tacking on images, quotes or sayings that remind you of what you're grateful for. Get creative and make a collage or a drawing of what you're grateful for. If you have children, get them involved too. This can be a great family project for Thanksgiving.
Be mindful of your strengths. Recognize the challenges in your life, but take stock of what you've learned from them and how you've grown.
Bring centeredness and many joys into your life by practicing gratitude every day!
