Today, I’m going to cap off “mindfulness month” with a super important topic: gratitude.
There’s real science behind it – and how taking time to feel and express gratitude can actually help you reach your goals.
If you want to do some extra research-backed reading on this topic, here’s a link: https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_gratitude_motivates_us_to_become_better_people
I’m just going to hit the high points about how having a gratitude practice can help you.
You see, when you make the time to actively think about what you’re grateful for, it’s like doing a positivity reset for your brain and heart.
● It can lead you to see that you deserve positive things to happen in your life, and
● that you are capable of making them happen.
● It can help you feel better physically, with fewer symptoms of illness, and even
● help you to improve your relationships, do better in school and in your career, and so much more.
And here’s something really interesting ...
People who regularly express gratitude are more motivated to engage in healthier activities that help them be more successful.
So, how do you build your gratitude muscles?
Idea #1: Keep a gratitude journal
It’s pretty simple. All you have to do is write down three things every day that you’re grateful for – taking a moment to really feel the gratitude as you write.
but … if you want to add a little “juice” to that, here’s something else to try:
Idea #2: The Subtraction Exercise.
Think about something important in your life – it could be a person, your health, something you’ve achieved, or an experience you’ve had.
Now … imagine your life without it.
What would be different? How would you and your day-to-day life be different?
Doing this exercise can help boost happiness and gratitude, according to researchers.
Powerful stuff!
Today, I’m grateful for:
1. My health and mobility – it allows me to experience so much
2. My family and friends – wouldn’t laugh nearly as much with out them!
3. My amazing clients – their support means the world to me
4. My pets! – best cuddlers I could ask for!
What are YOU grateful for?