Day of Thanks: Why it's important to have a daily gratitude practice
Here in the US today is Thanksgiving.
It's a day of food, football, and reflection.
Personally, I have a lot to be thankful for. A family that cares for me, friends that will do anything for me, and my health couldn't be better right now. I am a very fortunate individual.
It is important to give thanks for the things you have in life. Even if times are tough be grateful for the struggle. It will help make you stronger.
You don't not have to wait until the holidays to be grateful for the things you have in your life. Many of the most successful people, like Tony Robbins, have a daily gratitude practice.
Studies have shown that people who have a daily gratitude practice experience:
- Stronger immune systems and lower blood pressure;
- Higher levels of positive emotions;
- More joy, optimism, and happiness;
- Acting with more generosity and compassion;
- Feeling less lonely and isolated.
A gratitude practice is easy to set up.
- Pick a time
- I would suggest the morning. This way your mind is clear and not trouble by what has happened during the day. You only need a minute, make it part of your morning routine.
- Use a Journal
- You of course don’t need to write down your gratitudes. But there is something to be said about putting pen to paper. I use this journal every morning.
- Pick 3 different, original gratitudes
- Don’t just say you are grateful for the obvious: friends, family, and health. Get specific. Say you are grateful for your workout yesterday, a good night sleep, or the conversation with an old friend. The more original and specific the gratitude the more you will gain from this practice.
That’s it.
A daily gratitude practice is simple and takes almost no time. Give it a try. Test it out for a week. If it doesn’t work out what have you lost? But if it does work you will gain a sense of joy few other activities can provide.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.
Michael Ryan