Gratitude
Is good for you
Giving thanks can already lift our spirits - sometimes simply noting down positive experiences improves our sense of wellbeing.
We often think of thanks, perhaps even give it and express it, we write it and read it in the ‘acknowledgement’ section of books or works...but do we really appreciate what gratitude does for us and others?
Gratitude marks the bonds we share with others - everyone who's been part of our story and enriched our lives.
‘Gratitude is the single most important ingredient to living a successful and fulfilled life’
Jack Canfield
Notes on recognising what we have to be grateful for...
Keep a Diary
Over the years positive psychology has taken a keen interest in how we can construct happier lives for ourselves, rather than reduce our suffering. One of the most common methods of doing so is by keeping a diary to jot down all the big and little things that have brought us pleasure. These usually turn out to be the simplest of things - preparing a meal, a ray of sunshine, flowers in the window, breathing in fresh air, a friendly smile…
The simple act of writing these positive experiences enables us to focus on what makes us feel good - improving our mood and wellbeing.
Write a Letter
If you’re not much of a diary-keeper you might prefer writing a letter instead. Write a letter of gratitude to someone for what they have done or brought to your life.
This is an exercise in courage - your thanks no longer remains personal but is shared, and you must give in to your feelings, so to speak, so that it all comes from the heart.
Feed Your Good Side
There is an old Native American story that within every one of us there are two wolves locked in combat. An old man explained this story to his young grandson. One wolf represents anger, jealousy, pride, fear, shame; the other gentleness, kindness, gratitude, hope, happiness and love. The young boy asks which wolf is stronger and the old man replies ~ “The one you feed”.
