Cultivating Gratitude

Practicing gratitude is one of my favorite tools to help when I’m feeling down. It is a great way to put things into perspective, and remind us of how blessed we all are. We can be grateful for something big like getting a new job, or something smaller like a delicious cup of coffee.

So, what is gratitude? According to Harvard Health, “Gratitude is a thankful appreciation for what an individual receives, whether tangible or intangible.” When we show gratitude, we cultivate a happier, more positive outlook on life. The benefits are endless! It is a great practice to help us stay positive and grounded during these overwhelming times. It can also remind us of the smaller things in life to be happy about. Showing gratitude can bring to light the many things we take for granted such as having food and water, or clean clothes and a roof over our heads. There are amazing benefits of having a consistent practice such as making us “. . . feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve [our] health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships” (Harvard Health Publishing). Overall, gratitude can be very empowering and humbling. I really enjoy reflecting each day on different things that I am grateful for, and understanding that even if I am feeling down, there is a lot to be happy about. This is a great tool because over time, it will change our mind’s focus to positive things. Here are some simple ways you can practice gratitude - 

• Daily Journaling - Reflect on your day, and try to think of some positive things that happened. What are you grateful for? Did a stranger hold the door for you today? Did you get a promotion at work? Whatever it is, jot it down! When you are feeling down or need some reminders of positive things in your life, take a look at your journal. 
• If you are feeling stuck in a bad mood or feeling sad, think of three things you are grateful for. You can think of them to yourself, or tell someone close to you. Either way, it should make you feel happier and more positive.

→ Keep an eye out for a gratitude challenge I’ll have on my Instagram this week!