Gratitude Practices for Every Day
As I begin planning my time away from the studio for maternity leave, I find myself deeply grateful to this community because of all we have been through together.
We made it through a global pandemic, and never stopped practicing together even though we couldn't meet in person for a year. We have seen each other through grief, loss and huge life changes. We have supported each other through times of growth, challenge and joy.
Our commitment to yoga and to each other as a community hasn't wavered, and because of this I am so deeply grateful to you all and I am so happy to bring my daughter into this wonderful community of yogis.
Your support, love, joy and encouragement have meant the world to me and I wouldn't be in here without it.
I look forward to all the times ahead we will share together, and encourage you all to share your gratitude for Lotus Yoga in the ways you can. Perhaps it's hugging your yoga teacher, writing a review, or simply continuing to show up on your mat each day .
Therefore, this month we focus on gratitude in our daily practices, on and off the mat.
When we incorporate gratitude into our daily practices, we re-wire our brains from a mindset of doom and gloom, to one that is more hopeful and compassionate.
3 Easy Ways to Add Gratitude Practices Into Every Day:
Begin a gratitude journal: once a day write down 3-5 things you are grateful for that day.
Share your gratitude for others by letting them know: Tell your friend thanks for the ride, tell your partner thank you for cooking, tell your pet thanks for the snuggles. The more we practice expressing our gratitude the more it becomes second nature.
Remind yourself of something about YOU that you are grateful for each day: Maybe it's your smile, your great hair day, or your kindness. Express it to yourself as you look in the mirror and begin to see your true inner self.
Notice any shifts in your mind, body or heart as you incorporate more gratitude into every day activities this month. The more I practice gratitude, especially in difficult moments, I find more patience and less resistance. I am able to pull myself out of a doom spiral much faster, and I am able to combat anxiety and worry with gratitude because it reminds me that it’s not all bad.
Gratitude practices are powerful ways to change our mindset and bring ourselves more peace. As we find peace those around us also benefit.
In conclusion, I am grateful for gratitude practices, and I am grateful to be able to share them with you.
Further Reading: Here is a link to a scholarly article that cites the wellness benefits of gratitude practices, especially on depression.