Here in the US, we are coming up on Thanksgiving. It's a nice holiday because we get to share food with family and friends, without the extra burden of giving gifts and other more materialistic pastimes. We are able to give thanks for what we have in our lives, in other words, we express our gratitude. While it's nice to have a day focused on expressing our gratitude, practicing gratitude on a daily basis has many positive effects, some of which you may surprise you. What is a gratitude practice?A gratitude practice is simply taking time every day to express gratitude for the blessings in your life. These blessings are often overlooked if we don't consciously take the time to count them. What happens when we practice gratitude?Our personal perspective changes.When we practice gratitude our focus changes from what we don't have to what we do have. When we focus on what we have, or what we are grateful for, our sense of negativity, entitlement, and obstacles dissolve. It helps to remember that reality is personal and subjective. It's a product of our own unique history, our attitudes, and our beliefs. If we can remember that, then with our inner awareness we can see the possibilities and the choice for change in any moment. It's liberating to understand that we can change our reality and it empowers us to see the opportunities in our lives with fresh eyes. Our mind-body connections change.The feeling we produce from practicing gratitude doesn't just stay in our mind or in our heart. The positive input to our mind-body system leads to increased psychological and physical well-being. This positive input from our minds actually change your brain chemistry and circuitry. Positive thoughts transmit their effects via neurotransmitters to the body's cells, creating new brain cells, pathways, and brain patterns.
Our relationships changeFeeling gratitude towards one another, expands your heart which has the effect of erasing resentments, petty differences and old grievances that we may have been holding onto. It is practically impossible to feel both gratitude and anger at the same time. Gratitude is an expression of love and can help to remove feelings of distance and separation from our loved ones. Gratitude benefits both the giver and receiver. The expansion and the healing of our hearts uplifts and opens every aspect of our relationship with that person. These feelings are shared by both of you. What if we could completely transform our relationships just by practicing gratitude? Hint: It's way cheaper than therapy! No matter when you're reading this, try to make practicing gratitude part of your life. Whether it's appreciating a beautiful sunrise or sunset, or just being grateful you have a roof over your head, it will make a difference in your perception of your life. Will you join me in an experiment? You get bonus points if you share this article with your friends!
2 Comments
1/19/2018 04:40:18 am
We might not be able to see it, but if we constantly show our gratitude, we're actually helping out in the world. We don't have to do or say anything extravagant, as long as it came from out of your heart. A human being is fragile and sensitive, you can make someone's day with a simple thank you. We should all commit to practicing gratitude, so that we can make our place livelier and happier.
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Crystal
1/19/2018 08:26:26 am
Yes, I agree. I try to smile at people, at least, when I walk by or have some pleasant words for the grocery clerk, or even the person on the other end of the phone when I'm trying to resolve a problem.
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Women's Wellness Circle: Create Your Extraordinary Life AuthorHi, I’m Crystal! If you'd like to access my Farmer's Market Friday posts from 2018, click here!
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