Why You Need To Start Practicing Gratitude
Everyone knows that one person that seems to be happy all the time no matter what is going on in the world. Wouldn’t it be amazing to one day be that person? If you are currently reading this, and like me, have wondered what goes on in the heads of people like that, I have some good news for you. In the world of science, spirituality, and even religion, it is no secret that an act as simple as gratitude could be the answer.
Gratitude transforms your perception of the world and is the quickest, easiest way to shift from a mindset of lack to one of abundance. By focusing on appreciating all the things we do have in our lives (material and beyond), we create space for the awareness of even more things to be grateful for.
According to Robert Emmons, a leading scientific expert on gratitude, gratitude is “an affirmation of goodness” that can have significant and long-lasting changes in our lives. It can reduce the risk of depression and anxiety, improve immune function and even help us sleep better! By focusing on the more positive and abundant aspects of our lives, we train our minds to block out toxicity that can negatively impact our state of being.
Practicing gratitude helps us to grow a deep and genuine appreciation for all the things we already have in our lives. If you have the privilege of reading this right now, you have so much to be grateful for because just having a computer and a stable internet connection is not to be taken for granted.
Yet, it is not to say that we should be constantly comparing ourselves to others who may have less or more than we do – that defeats the whole purpose. The purpose of practicing gratitude is to lead us to the realization that just being alive is a blessing and no matter what is going on in our day-to-day, we can rest in the fact that we can be thankful for life.
When you begin to express gratitude for the little things that make up your life experiences, more things will magically just appear for you to be grateful for. Gratitude acts as this expansive energy that can spread throughout our lives and even our relationships. It is like a portal from our unconscious day-to-day mode to a more intentional and positive way of operating in the world. Gratitude shifts us from a mindset of lack to a mindset of abundance almost automatically.
Gratitude journal
Curious on how to get started? As basic as they sound, gratitude journals are an excellent starting point. It is as easy as grabbing a piece of paper or a notebook and writing down 3 things you are grateful for each day. To improve and enjoy the benefits of gratitude journaling, you need to make a commitment to yourself to be consistent with your practice – after all, you deserve to be happier. Personally, I like to incorporate gratitude into my morning routine because it sets the tone for the rest of my day.
If you tend to feel stuck or just can’t seem to find your way out of a dark place, I invite you to welcome gratitude into your life. Think back to times when you wanted what you have now. Think about how good that morning shower makes you feel. Think about the smile of that person you love the most. What does your favorite food taste like? The list is endless! Create some magic in your life today.
For more tips on gratitude and self-love, follow @memyself.and.love on Instagram
Written by Tomisin Oyinloye
