The power of Gratitude

 The power of gratitude is transformative to our lives and the way we live. I started practicing gratitude on a daily basis back when the pandemic first started and it massively changed how I viewed my life on a day to day basis and gave me a more positive and grateful outlook on everything and I want to share the things I  have learnt and the things that I do in this blog. 

I think the biggest thing that happened when I  started to really practice gratitude is it changed  not only how  I perceived myself but also others and the world around me, leading me with a greater sense of fulfilment and satisfaction. Not only this but I started seeing an increase in my happiness as I focused on the positive aspects of my life, instead of dwelling on what's lacking in my life and what I don't yet have. Focusing on all the things I have to be grateful for massively reduced my stress as it helped to change my mindset to see challenges as opportunities for growth. It has also helped to build more emotional resilience  for me during tough times where I still carry on focusing on the good rather than the negative in every situation.

 But this is not just my own experience of practicing gratitude, studies have shown that practicing gratitude does in fact improve our mental and cognitive well being by  reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety and increase our overall well-being. It enhances our positive thinking which in turn leads us to begin to see solutions, opportunities and the good in people. As well as becoming more attuned to the present rather than dwelling on past regrets or future anxieties. 

Practicing gratitude does not only have mental health benefits though, it also has physical benefits. It can improve the sleep quality we get. By writing things down that we are grateful for before we go to sleep it helps to relax the mind and reduces any negative thoughts which may keep you awake.  Furthermore studies have shown that individuals who focus on positive emotions and gratitude have stronger immune systems which helps protect them against illness. 

Moreover, I noticed that by practicing gratitude I was also strengthening my personals relationships by fostering appreciation and understanding. Expressing gratitude to other people in my life built trust and deepened connections.

The last thing I want to talk about is how I felt a deeper sense of faith through understanding gratitude. It deepened my sense of connection to God and helped me feel more spiritually fulfilled. I was able to recognize the blessings and grace I was receiving from God and appreciate them so much more. 

So how can we practice gratitude more?

- Gratitude Journaling- This is evident to be one of the most effective ways to practice gratitude. Writing down at least three things every day in the morning  and night helps us to begin and end each day in a positive way and boost our overall mood.  

- Expressing Gratitude to others - Taking time to express our appreciation to others  whether over a text message or face to face can go along way and help to strengthen relationships and further spread positivity. 

-  Visual reminders- Surrounding ourselves with reminder of things we are grateful for in our life. For example having photos of people in our life or inspirational quotes. These simple reminders can help shift our attention back to what really matters and all the things we have in life to be grateful for. 

- Lastly Gratitude mediation/prayer- incorporating gratitude into your mediation and prayer can help you to focus on things your thankful and blessed for. 

In conclusion, Practicing gratitude has so many benefits and really is life changing , and I hope that you are able to start incorporating it into your life. 

Love Always,

Ruby xo

 

 










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