Noticing the good and feeling grateful

Have you ever noticed how easy it is to notice what’s not working, what’s wrong, and what you wish it were different, based on comparisons?.

By taking a moment to pause, notice and acknowledge the things in life that are beautiful, you’ll live with grace. Scientific studies show that expressing gratitude may have lasting effects on the brain, which could contribute to improved mental health over time. The expression of gratitude also contributes to better sleep, deeper relationships, motivation to exercise, better health, higher self-esteem and an enhanced sense of happiness.

The word “gratitude” derives from the Latin word “gracia” which means grace or gratefulness. It’s a word we use to show thankful appreciation for something we receive (tangible or intangible).

Here are some ways to cultivate gratitude on a regular basis:

• Write a Thank You note to show your appreciation, expressing in a genuine and warm manner the enjoyment of that person’s impact on you. Ideally, deliver the note personally to talk more about what you wrote.

• Keep a Gratitude Journal. Note 3 things you are grateful for every day. You can do it in a diary, a notebook, or an app (such as bliss). Gratitude journaling can lower your stress levels, help you feel calmer, focus on what’s most important for you, and learn more about yourself.

• Meditate. Mindfulness meditation is a simple but powerful intervention, which brings you to the present moment. You pause and you notice what you’re grateful for right now. You will see that there are a lot more small, good things that are happening, that you wouldn’t otherwise notice. Jon Kabat-Zinn says, “The little things? The little moments? They aren’t little”.

I hope you all find moments to celebrate life, maybe starting this Tuesday, Sept. 21st, on World Gratitude Day.