How to Cultivate a Daily Practice of Gratitude

How to Cultivate a Daily Practice of Gratitude

What do the world’s happiest people have in common? They’re grateful

Studies show that gratitude can lower depression levels, help people sleep better, and may even lower blood pressure. Gratitude can even improve our relationships with people, whether they’re friends, co-workers, family members, or partners.

Gratitude can also impact the “bystanders” who are watching - according to a study by APA PsycNet®, witnessing an act of gratitude can increase warm feelings toward both the giver and the recipient. It brings us together, so why don’t we do it - and show it - more?

If you’re like me, you’ve:

  • Focused on the one thing going wrong instead of hundreds of things going right
  • Thought about your awesome friend, but forgot to send them a note saying so
  • Been grateful for your morning coffee, but didn’t thank the person who made it

That’s just the tip of the iceberg. We walk through our daily lives oblivious to the beautiful graces that surround us.

So here’s a question for you:

What will you be grateful for today, and who will you tell about it?

Quote of the Week

“Let gratitude be the pillow upon which you kneel to say your nightly prayer.” - Maya Angelou

Mindful Living Tip

If you want to develop an “attitude of gratitude,” try doing at least one of these every day:

  1. Send a text to a friend who helped you telling them why you’re thankful for them. 

  2. Create a gratitude jar or journal and write out the blessings you’ve been given.

  3. Bake some cookies and attach a note saying you’re grateful for the recipient.

  4. Make it a point to remember and thank the people who serve you.

  5. Start your prayers with thanksgiving. 

The more specific and vocal you can get about your gratitude, the better!

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Author Bio

This piece was written for Flowering Phoenix by Jennifer Wallace, a writer and homeschooling mom who loves beauty and creativity.
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