Do you ever have one of those days, or weeks, (or dreadfully, months) where one bad thing happens after another? During these times, it can feel like the whole world is against you - you crave just one glimpse of goodness or luck.
The truth is, good things happen all the time, we just don’t always call attention to them. Our brains are wired to remember the bad, the mistakes, the close-calls, so that we don’t repeat those things again. It makes sense that our brains are built to remember about the poisonous plants, treacherous terrains, and dangerous species, because we needed these memories to survive as humans. However, our brains are also wired by what we practice. Just like a muscle, the brain gets really good at doing what we have it do regularly, and the contents of our thoughts are included in this. So, when things are tough and life is being unkind, treat yourself to some gratitude. And when things are great and life is wonderful, continue practicing gratitude. Then on days in the middle, again, take a moment of gratitude.
Studies show all sorts of benefits of a regular gratitude practice. Gratitude can improve both your physical and mental health. It helps improve sleep and immunity, while also reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Gratitude helps improve your mood, increasing positive emotions, and allowing you to appreciate those special moments in your life. With these positive shifts, it makes it easier to endure and heal from difficult life circumstances, and also just makes you happier, improving your interactions and relationships with others.
It’s not that we’re ignoring the tough things in life by practicing this, but we’re helping shape helpful thought patterns that highlight the good things we might forget about. Jotting down just a few things each day that went well or that you’re thankful for can help you see in a concrete way that there are good things in your life. Another idea would be to share your gratitude with your family at breakfast or dinner. Alternatively, you can practice this in bed at night before sleep, giving you happy thoughts to drift off to. In my yoga classes, I always invite students to think of something they’re grateful for before rising off the mat. Wherever you fit it in, consider making gratitude a habit for yourself and your family!
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