The great poet and philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson once said it so wisely, "cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and give thanks continuously." When we live in the present moment and are aware of our thoughts, words and actions, and practice gratitude then and only then will we truly live in the abundance of all that we desire. Being grateful is the key to a happier and healthier life. Gratitude shifts our focus into the present moment. Being appreciated and feeling connected, feeling needed and desired are deep human needs. You can practice gratitude simply by thanking someone for a job well done at work or for something that you like that they did. A simple compliment or pat on the back goes a long way. Simply acklowledge the people you come in contact with with warmth and compassion. Set your phone down in the check out lane of the grocery store or drive through, and take a moment to say "thank you." It does not take much to practice gratitude. You will feel better and so will those around you, improving relationships and decreasing stress!
So here are my top 5 Suggestions for How To Practice Gratitude Daily to Create Abundance in Your Life:
1. Journal: write down one to five things you are grateful for each and everyday this month! Some days may be simple and other days may be more complex and that is ok. Do this without judgment of any sort. There are no wrong answers.
2. Random Acts of Kindness: Give what you can when you can. This has a ripple effect like you cannot imagine. which raises the vibrational energy all around you bringing you love and good energy. Hold the door open for a stranger, smile, buy a hot meal for a homeless person, volunteer (giving your time is an amazing gift), pay the toll for the person behind you, donate your old coats......
3. Be grateful for what you already have. Practice the concept of needing less.
4. Know that you are ENOUGH. Practice the I AM mantra each morning when you wake up. Say I AM and then follow that with possitive affirmations such as I am enough, I am loved, I am strong, I am forgiving, I am compassionate, I am grateful, I am kind.... Then look in the mirror and say "I LOVE YOU" yes, to YOURSELF! Practice loving yourself! It is amazing how far this will go. You must first love yourself deeply before you can love others and before others can love you.
5. Finally, learn from your own experiences. Be aware of what shifts your energy from dark to light, from sadness to happiness... then do more of what makes you happy and THAT will bring gratitude.
Often the people who have suffered the most trauma and hardships in life are the most grateful and for the most simple things. So, my advice is keep it simple, stay aware, stay grateful and keep your heart wide open. Let that love energy flow freely. Peace and love to you all this holiday season and throughout the new year!
Much gratitude,
Libby
