“Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings” -William Arthur Ward
Here we are, moving toward the end of 2023, and smack-dab in the middle of the holiday season. As we close out this year, what are we grateful for, and why is it important to create a mindset of gratitude?
While it's SO tempting to dwell on misfortunes, wallowing in misery and sitting in a low vibe doesn't contribute to improvement. In line with the Ayurvedic wisdom that suggests "opposites heal," the key to transforming our ordinary lives into something extraordinary lies in the straightforward practice of "GRATITUDE".
Practicing gratitude
There are many ways to guide your heart toward the benefit of gratitude.
- Volunteer - there is plenty of opportunity to do this over the holidays. Lending your time, care, and attention to those in our community that could use a little more this season can offer us perspective.
- Journaling - whether you're jotting down 3 things for which you are grateful each morning or creating pages of a professed love for your life, taking the time to acknowledge the things that are Good in your life helps you to see that it’s not all bad.
- Spending time with loved ones - this is encouraged, especially at the holidays. Who do you love spending time with? Who makes you laugh? Who listens to you when you need an ear? These people have a special place in our hearts and the human connection raises vibration. To feel love and then feel grateful for that love is a high vibe double-whammy!
- Reflection - Where were you this time last year? Have you grown? Have you made efforts and strides toward your goals this year? Taking the time to reflect on how far you've come and what challenges you overcame this year can not only increase awareness but also motivate you to move into 2024 feeling grateful for all you have accomplished.
- Cacao - when it’s chilly out, a wholesome hot beverage can literally warm the heart. But cacao goes a step further by increasing blood flow to the heart and lowering the risk of heart disease (thank you theobromine!) also helping us to feel grounded, secure, warm, and happy by releasing serotonin and dopamine.
Gratitude functions as a healing tonic in our continuous journey of self-restoration. Given that we are all in a constant state of healing, the prescription for this medicine becomes universal. Moreover, practicing gratitude acts as a magnetic force, naturally fostering an abundance mindset.
Caution: side effects may include: heightened happiness, increased wealth, amplified energy, deeper love, and greater success.
So what are you waiting for? Go count your blessings and watch your life expand!
In gratitude,
- Amanda