Being Thankful, Expressing Gratitude, Can Improve Your Attitude.
As our lives get busier, especially during the holidays and special events of our lives, it is typical for the demands on our time to increase our stress levels. It’s hard to be thankful when there is a myriad of expectations to navigate: the planning, parties, gifts, family gatherings, and more. It is easy to become distracted, anxious, and overwhelmed, basically being stress out over it all.
There are many ways to combat these feelings of overwhelm or being stressed out during these periods of time. The most effective way, however, is surprisingly simple and incredibly life changing. What is this miracle cure? It’s gratitude!
Believe it or not, research shows that practicing gratitude dramatically improves our quality of life. It works because it breaks our habit of looking to things outside us for happiness. Engaging in gratitude has many significant beneficial effects. It boosts brain function, makes our heart best more harmoniously, and sets many healthy reactions into motion in our bodies. It even boosts our immune system and assists in managing stress! It also leads to better relationships, lowered materialism, and better sleep!
There are many different ways to practice gratitude. If none of these seem to fit you and your personality, find another way that works for you! There is no wrong way to practice gratitude.
Gratitude List
The gratitude list can be in the form of a journal, an email, a memo on your phone, or even spoken aloud. Think simple. What are you thankful for in the moment? It can be something as small as a great cup of tea or as big as a harmonious family gathering. Whatever you are grateful for, put it on the list!
Gratitude Meditation
Gratitude meditation is simple: meditate on what you’re grateful for. Set aside time to be still and reflect on what you’re grateful for. Thank God. Thank your body. Thank yourself. Spend time in intentional gratitude, even if only for a few minutes a day.
Change Your Perspective
Life can be chaotic and difficult, especially around the holidays. A great way to practice gratitude is to reframe problematic situations through the lens of gratitude and compassion. Rather than criticizing others and yourself, focus on the good in the situation. You will find that this becomes easier with practice and it is monumental in preserving your peace of mind.
Essential Oils Help Feeling Thankful
There are many essential oils used to promote gratitude. Try diffusing bergamot, frankincense, or a unique blend from Young Living actually called Gratitude. You can even diffuse these while you are making your gratitude list or meditating!
As with any healthy habit, gratitude, expressing what you are thankful for, is most effective when practiced regularly. Find the technique that works for you and do it daily. You will soon begin to notice a shift in your perspective as well as an improvement in your health. As always, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact me. I am here to help!
References:
MindFul.org – What the Brain Reveals About Gratitude
PsychologyToday.com – 13 Ways Gratitude Will Significantly Improve Your Life
DevelopGoodHabits.com – Gratitude List
Mindful Movement – 5 Minute Gratitude Meditation
