November- the month of Gratitude

It has been tough year for everyone. Wherever you are in the world, you have most likely been affected by Covid either directly through the virus itself, social isolation, financial hardships, civil unrest and overall unease in heart and mind. More than ever before, our overall well-being is suffering and more than ever it is important to focus on creating and keeping up a Gratitude Practice!

By doing so we take control of where our attention goes. When we focus on what we can control, within the the realm of our thoughts and actions, we can turn a negative cycle into a positive one.  People who regularly practice gratitude experience more positive emotions, feel more alive, sleep better, express more compassion and kindness, and even have stronger immune systems. All because they take time to notice and reflect upon the things they are thankful for.

Benefits of a Gratitude Practice:

  • Gratitude reduces stress

  • Gratitude creates more positive emotions

  • Gratitude transform negative thought patterns

  • Gratitude improves self esteem

  • Gratitude decreases depression

There are many ways of practicing gratitude. In our family, we each end the day with saying five things we are grateful for. The most important thing to remember is to intentionally choose to practice gratitude no matter the circumstances. There is always something to be grateful for and once you start feeling that, the sooner you will discover a snowball effect and recognize more and more good things in your life!

Gratitude Practices:

  • Each day, think of 5 things you are grateful for that happened during that day

  • Keep a daily Gratitude Journal

  • SMILE

  • Spend time in nature everyday

  • Focus on the growth opportunity in challenges

  • Tell someone you love them and how much you appreciate them

  • Cook your meals with love and think of the people you will feed

  • Spend quality time with yourself, your children, your spouse and your friends

  • Use kind, positive and uplifting words each day to yourself and others

  • Thank everyone that helps you throughout the day

  • Keep a gratitude jar

What are your Gratitude Practices and what would you add to your list?