What is gratitude? Well, in the simplest sense, gratitude is a feeling of thankfulness and appreciation. It’s what naturally happens when you focus positive energy on the things in your life. Gratitude sends out loving kindness and returns the love back to you.
There are many studies that show that being grateful increases well-being and contributes to improved mental health. People who practice gratitude every day are happier, less stressed and anxious, and have better relationships with themselves and others.
Here are some tips on how to practice gratitude every day:
1. Keep a gratitude journal where you write 3-5 things you’re thankful for every day. Try writing in it first thing in the morning or right before bed.
2. Give to others. One small token of appreciation or gift can benefit the giver the most.
3. Spend some time everyday appreciating the small things that are around you—the sounds, the things you see—whatever you notice in daily life that you might easily let slip by.
4. Try to have a daily habit that surrounds being grateful. Maybe it’s while you’re in the shower or while you’re driving your car, but try to practice appreciation and thankfulness during those mindless moments.
5. Practicing saying “thank you” more often. Next time you say it to someone, pause and notice how it feels—then ask the Universe for more.
6. Practice gratitude even when you’re not in the mood. Choose to be grateful for what you do have.
7. When you catch yourself complaining, flip the switch and try being grateful instead.
8. Create rituals around teaching yourself and others how to practice gratitude. Involve your whole family, such as discussing things you’re grateful for at the dinner table or lighting a candle together.
9. Think loving thoughts about one person during your day who helped you; this could be anyone from a spouse to a stranger on the street.
10. There are some many things to be thankful for, so take a moment and be grateful that you’re alive and well.
[…] automatically shifts your attention closer to your heart’s desires. Just a small nugget of gratitude basically moves you into the frequency that matches what you […]