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?