Cultivate a Practice of Gratitude
What does it mean to practice gratitude?
When I was going through a very difficult transition in my life I committed myself to practicing gratitude. I was relieved it had nothing to do with convincing myself that everything was all fine and dandy (it was not) and that I needed to put on the proverbial "rose colored glasses". I was inspired that Gratitude can transform the mind by changing the neural structures of the brain making us more content and altering the way we see ourselves and the world.
When something becomes a practice we commit ourselves to that activity. I committed to practicing gratitude (every day) even though things were raw and I was filled with grief. I found solace in my practice. I began to process my grief, connect to my self more deeply and notice that I was TRULY GRATEFUL for many things.
Creating and Cultivating a Gratitude Practice had and continues to have a profound impact on my life.
Here are a few things I have incorporated into my daily practice.
*Keep a Gratitude Journal (or jar).
I keep a journal in which I write down things I was grateful for that day- (these could be very simple things like enjoying a cup of tea or that I was grateful for seeing a red tailed hawk perched on a branch in my backyard.) When you stop and reflect you may find there were many moments in your day to be thankful for.
*Share Your Gratitude with Others.
I make a point to tell my children, my partner, family and friends how much I appreciate them. It may be difficult on some days but even if I am frustrated I try to find something to thank them for.
*Spend time out in Nature! I find this so vital for me. I am truly grateful for the presence and bounty of Nature. When I see the beauty of nature or hear bird song or touch the trunk of a tree I am reminded of how truly blessed I am.
*Focus on your Strengths
I acknowledge each day something I did well (no matter how small it may seem).
*Be Present. This is probably one of the most vital practices. When we are clinging to the past or fixated on the future we miss what is happening in the moment. When I am truly present to an experience I know am alive and connected.
There are so many things you can incorporate into your day to cultivate a daily practice. What ways do you practice gratitude?
Gratitude doesn't change what we have in front of us; it changes the way we see what we have.
With a Grateful Heart, Julie
