Do you want to practice gratitude? As the great poet David Whyte says, “Gratitude is not a passive response to something we have been given, gratitude arises from paying attention, from being awake in the presence of everything that lives within and without us.” It is understanding the miracle of each moment and observing how so many things need to come together in order for us take one breath. Sometimes what comes together results in loss, heartbreak, or pain and at other times what comes together brings peace, hope, or joy. However, regardless of the situation- this human experience is a wonderful privilege that is outside our control. Thanksgiving reminds us that we are actually a part of something rather than nothing. It reminds us that we belong here. So what or who are you thankful for this year and how can you continue to cultivate & practice gratitude?
3 Ways to Practice Gratitude
- Meditate– gratitude is paying attention or seeing clearly what is right in front of you. It is a simple, yet challenging practice of being present to yourself, your surroundings, your community, and your life. Start each morning with a few minutes of quiet & notice your breath. Take a few deeper breaths and recognize all that you have. Attend Yoga & Meditation Tues/Thurs mornings at 6:15 am or listen to Meredith’s meditation podcast.
- Express yourself– write it down! Keep a gratitude journal and make notes of what you are feeling grateful for each day. What are you thankful for this year? What have you accomplished? What opportunities have you been given? Who is in your life?
- Share it– if you feel empowered, share your gratitude with yourself, your community and the world. Give yourself a gift! Write a letter to a friend that showed up for you this year. Send a prayer to the ocean or the land that provides for you. Recognize a family member that cared deeply for you.
As we approach the busy holiday season, take time to slow down and practice gratitude.
