Gratitude is a habit, and a powerful one at that. It takes time and discipline to get accustomed to, and much like the things we take for granted, its impact in somebody’s life usually shows itself through ways that are easily overlooked—from really taking the time to savor each fleeting moment with a loved one to being more appreciative of the simplest joys.
Clinical psychologist and reality therapy instructor Katrina Vandenbroeck, M.S., says gratitude has a strong role in improving our mental health. “It allows our brain to develop connections that have a positive effect on our mental health and overall well-being,” she tells mbg. “When you are grateful, you focus on what is and not on what isn’t or what should have or could have been. This is very powerful and valuable because you are brought back to the present moment—the only point in time that is within our full control.”
Over the next couple of weeks we will discuss gratitude for the following –
- Small everyday things
- In relationships
- In yourself
- Unique things to be grateful for
- In the world
If you are looking to develop a deeper sense of gratitude, here is a list of things to be grateful for to help you get started in your practice –
Some big things to be grateful for in your life
Breath
Being alive is a gift. You’re still breathing despite all the hardships that have come your way, and that’s something you can be truly proud of.
Family & Friendship
Life is so much easier to bear with the loving presence of others, whether that’s your parents, siblings, romantic partners, friends, or children. Family could also be those chosen few that complete your constellation. Make sure to cherish each one.
Love
Whatever the nature, love can be found even in the most unexpected places. Do not be afraid to welcome it when it comes to you. Be generous with it when your heart is overflowing with it.
Pets
The loyalty and quiet companionship of a pet that loves you no matter who and what you are, are some of the best things you can experience in life. The more you have, the merrier.
Your Body
Thank your body for doing its absolute best to be a vessel that keeps your soul fed. Physical and mental well-being come with the opportunity to enjoy many things in life.
Money, however much you have
There is truth to money being a real source of happiness. It gives you access to many comforts, security, and pleasures.
Peace
Like love, peace comes in many forms. Whether it’s a quiet mind or a loving community you’re a part of, acknowledge and treasure its existence in your life.
Nourishment
It’s so easy to take the food you eat every day for granted. It fuels you for your daily activities and reinvigorates your soul if it’s a comfort dish. Without proper nourishment, you wouldn’t be able to do a lot of things.
Nature
Many of the comforts we enjoy now, such as drinkable water, clean air, and the solid foundation on which our homes are built, are being held together by the mere existence of nature. Being grateful for these things helps develop a deeper sense of accountability in all of us in taking care of the environment.
Home
Having a roof over your head is such a huge blessing. Not everyone has a place to call their own when safety and belongingness matter so much in life.
Laughter
There is much to be said about the healing properties of laughter. Be grateful when you experience it, and be glad each time you make someone else do the same.
Kindness
The world is a cruel place, but kindness sprouts everywhere it is planted. Knowing this restores our faith in humanity and inspires us to be better people. If someone had it in their heart to help you overcome a difficult time, let this be enough to stir up gratitude in you.
Freedom
Not everyone in the world enjoys the same liberties and privileges as you do. Enjoy the freedom that you have, and, most importantly, be responsible with it.
Employment
Having a source of income that sustains all your needs, even if it is not the job you want, is a big deal, especially during these trying times. With security comes peace of mind.
Education
The opportunity to seek higher education and advance yourself is a huge privilege. Learn everything that you can, and don’t be stingy when sharing your wisdom.
The benefits of gratitude
“A grateful mind will allow you to be less stressed and feel more positive emotions,” licensed clinical psychologist and board-certified neurotherapist Catherine Jackson tells mbg.
From reducing stress to improving mental health, several studies have shown that making space for appreciation on a regular basis can positively affect your life both physically and emotionally. For example, one study found more grateful people tend to report better physical health, while another study suggests that honing a more grateful mentality could even help lower the risk of disease later in life.
Here’s a more detailed list of the benefits of gratitude to convince you to start practicing gratitude today.
How to start a gratitude practice
“The more your brain is able to practice gratitude, the smoother and stronger the connections will become for it to spot moments of gratitude,” says Vandenbroeck.
If you are not sure where or how to begin, she recommends trying out the following:
- Notice what stimulates your senses in the present moment.
- What can you see
- What can you hear?
- What can you smell?
- What can you taste?
- What can you touch?
There is so much to be grateful for around us, and, instead of focusing on the “buts” and “what if’s,” asking yourself these questions can help expand your perspective. You can start with the smallest things and allow your thoughts to grow in magnitude at their own pace as you become more comfortable with the practice.
- Incorporate gratitude into your daily routine. Make it a habit to inject gratitude in activities as simple as your daily commute to and from work or even while taking a bath. If you like journaling, you can begin an entry by asking yourself what made you feel grateful during the day. What matters is that you carve out the time to practice this when you can.
The Key takeaway
It is never too late to practice being more grateful. The sooner you start on this journey, the better the rewards you reap in the long run. To make it more fun, you can try keeping a gratitude jar or gratitude journal, or you can share this experience with other people by taking the time to appreciate them. Remember, consistency is key.
To keep your body at it’s absolute best, book your wellness screening with Balanced Healing.
Reference
Website – https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/things-to-be-grateful-for
