A Note of Gratitude

Have you ever written a note of gratitude?

Monumental chaos proceeds monumental change. The world is changing. During these changing times, it’s more important than ever to lean into trust, joy and gratitude.

Gratitude opens our hearts to more love, compassion and beauty. It reminds us of and gives attention to the good things that are happening. It helps us to be mindful of each beautiful passing moment.

Feeling grateful feels good! It expands and warms our hearts, brings us joy, puts a skip in our step and a smile on our face. Not only that, these positive feelings ripple out to those around you. It’s actually contagious. It lightens up the world and goodness knows, this world could use some lightening up!

Scientific studies have shown gratitude affects brain function on a chemical level and its practice promotes feelings of self-worth, optimism and compassion for others. Those who practiced feeling grateful were more physically active and reported fewer visits to a doctor than those who had negative thoughts throughout their day.

In challenging times, it might be difficult to reach for something you are grateful for however, this is an especially important time to dig deep. There is always something to feel grateful for. A roof over our head, a bed to sleep in and a healthy body are good places to start.

“As you feel grateful for what you have, you start having more things about which to feel gratitude.” ~Lazaris

Below are 7 simple ways to engage an attitude of gratitude:

1. Keep a gratitude journal. Each day, write down at least three new things you are grateful for. The best times to do this are upon awakening or before sleeping.
2. Perform a random act of kindness. Simply smiling at a stranger has a positive impact. Not only does it feel good for you and the person receiving the act of kindness, but anyone watching this kind act is warmly rewarded too.
3. Give someone a simple, heart-felt thank you.
4. Speak kindly to yourself. Treat yourself as you would someone you appreciate and love.
5. Look in the mirror and notice something you love about yourself. Something you are grateful for. This right here is an important practice. Do this daily.
6. Tell someone something you appreciate about them. Being recognized for even the littlest thing warms our heart and puts a smile on our face.
7. Send a quick text, email or note telling someone you are thinking about them with love.

We are all connected. Your thoughts and feelings impact the world, whether you are aware of it or not.

I invite you to pick one of the above suggestions and begin right now conjuring up feelings of gratitude within you. Notice how it feels.

For bonus points, comment below and tell me what you’re grateful for. As always, it will put a smile on my face and warm my heart.