Five Ways to Practice Gratitude

Let’s talk about gratitude. It gets thrown around a lot online and around healing and personally, my brain just didn’t get it and how to do it… if that sounds like you too, then let’s clear it up a little and dive in.

Gratitude is more than just a feel-good emotion; it's a powerful practice that can transform your life. In a world that often feels overwhelming, focusing on the positives can bring a sense of peace, fulfillment, and connection.

Here are five simple yet impactful ways to incorporate gratitude into your daily routine.

Remember, this is not a one-size-fits-all type of thing. What you may find works for you might not work for someone else - and that is TOTALLY okay! Maybe you want to create your own type of gratitude practice - go for it! That is the beauty of this whole healing, self love, self care journey - you can experiment and find what actually works for you and leave behind what doesn’t. There are no stipulations or rules or image that you have to maintain, you get to let yourself BE and listen to what feels right to you.

Sorry, sorry - onto the five!

One of the most effective ways to cultivate gratitude is by keeping a gratitude journal. Every day, take a few minutes to jot down three things you're thankful for. They don't have to be grand or life-changing—sometimes, the simplest joys bring the most comfort. It could be the warmth of your morning coffee, a kind word from a friend, or the beauty of a sunset. Over time, this practice trains your mind to focus on the positives, helping you find joy even in challenging times.

Gratitude is powerful when shared. Take the time to express your appreciation to those around you, whether in person, through a text, or even in a heartfelt letter. Let someone know how much they mean to you or how their actions have positively impacted your life. This not only strengthens your relationships but also creates a ripple effect of positivity. Imagine the difference it could make if everyone took a moment to uplift each other through gratitude.

In our busy lives, we often overlook the beauty that surrounds us and the goodness within ourselves. Take a moment each day to notice the colors of the sky, the rustle of leaves, or the laughter of a child. At the same time, acknowledge your own strengths and accomplishments. You are a unique and valuable individual with so much to offer. Recognizing the beauty both around and within you can lead to a deeper sense of appreciation for life.

Mindfulness is about being fully present in the here and now. By practicing mindfulness, you can cultivate a deep sense of gratitude for the present moment. Whether you're eating, walking, or simply breathing, focus on the sensations and experiences without judgment. Notice the taste of your food, the feeling of the ground beneath your feet, or the rhythm of your breath. This practice helps you find joy and appreciation in the everyday moments that often go unnoticed.

A gratitude jar is a fun and creative way to practice gratitude. Find a jar and some slips of paper. Whenever you feel grateful for something, write it down and place it in the jar. Over time, your jar will fill with positive memories and moments. On days when you're feeling down, open the jar and read through the notes to remind yourself of the abundance of good in your life. This simple act can shift your perspective and lift your spirits.

Practicing gratitude is like planting seeds of happiness in your life. The more you focus on what you're thankful for, the more you cultivate a mindset of abundance and positivity.

Whether you're journaling, expressing thanks to others, appreciating the beauty around you, practicing mindfulness, or filling a gratitude jar, each of these practices helps you live a more joyful and fulfilling life.

So, why not start practicing gratitude today? Your future self will thank you.

I am proud of you. Keep moving forward, through every sunrise and every sunset, no matter how high the high or low the low. Keep your crown up, always.