Living Your life with gratitude

Are you consciously living your life with gratitude… practicing gratitude?

Developing a gratitude practice means making a conscious effort to focus on the positive aspects of your life and to express thankfulness for them. Here are some ways to help you get started:

• Keep a gratitude journal: Write down three to five things you are thankful for each day. This could be anything from people in your life to experiences or material possessions. Don't fret over what to write. You'll get better at it over time.

• Practice mindfulness: Take time to reflect on the present moment and focus on the things you are grateful for in your life right now. Don't dwell over yesterday or worry about tomorrow. As Ram Dass said: “Be here now”.

• Express gratitude to others: Take the time to write a thank you note, send a text, or verbally express your gratitude to someone who has made a positive impact on your life. Simple gestures can make a world of difference in your life and other's too.

• Incorporate gratitude into your daily routine: Start and end each day by reflecting on what you are grateful for. Do this while you are still in bed just before beginning your day.

• Focus on the positive: Instead of dwelling on the negative aspects of your life, actively seek out and focus on the positive. For every one negative thought, come up with at least six positive thoughts. This is a great way to reinforce the power of positive impact in your mind. 

• Make it a habit: The more you practice gratitude, the easier it becomes. Try to make it a part of your daily routine, like brushing your teeth or going for a walk. It will become second nature to you in time.

Remember, developing a gratitude practice takes time and effort, but the benefits are well worth it. Over time, you will find yourself feeling more positive, less stressed, and more content with your life.