The theme for this month’s practice series is GRATITUDE.
A few weeks ago, I was feeling melancholy after the culmination of a big event I’d spent months planning (which, by all measures, was a success). I decided I wanted to find a way to shift my energy, so I texted a good friend and told her how grateful I was for her friendship and presence at the event. Almost immediately, I felt more optimistic and connected, as I switched my focus from what was lacking to what was good.
In our busy lives, it can be easy to gloss over gratitude—to feel it but not voice it. Yet expressing true gratitude can be one of the easiest ways to shift perspective, nurture relationships, and connect to community. This week’s practice invites you to connect to that in-the-moment power of gratitude in an easy, quick way.
Practice:
- Take three deep breaths down into your belly and chest.
- Call to mind someone you’re grateful for. Don’t think too hard—just see who bubbles up.
- Now, take action: Reach out to that person with a quick email, phone call, or text (or thank them in person if they’re in front of you) right now. Rather than simply saying “thank you,” include what you’re grateful for.
- If you feel inspired, do this practice every day this week. You could even set a gratitude alarm on your phone for the same time each day.
And feel free to let us know what you’re grateful for in the comments below!
Image by Bibbie Friman
