This is taken from the winter 2015/2016 issue of Positive Life. Subscribe | Stockists
By Sarah McLean
Almost every moment offers an opportunity to be grateful. While practicing gratitude takes a bit of attention and time, scientists at the University of California have discovered that those who do, thrive.
Grateful people enjoy lower levels of stress and depression, are more empathetic and generous, place less importance on material goods, are more satisfied with life and benefit from more vitality and optimism. Here are some easy ways to get your gratitude groove on.
- Remember all who work on your behalf. As you go through your day, remember those who make your clothes, grow and pick your food, provide you with water and electricity, and those who built your car, house and place of work. Take a moment and look at the work that went into any item. Even this magazine. Many hands are a part of your life.
- Attend to present moment. When you’re mindful, you can appreciate everyone around you and the environment you’re in. Right here, right now, your life is taking place. Savour life by slowing down to pay attention to each moment. On your way to school or work you might notice the clouds form in the sky, or the sunlight reflecting off of the leaves of a tree. Awaken to nature’s beauty and appreciate it.
- Keep a gratitude journal. Before bed or first thing in the morning take a moment to jot down a list of people, things or experiences you’re grateful for. This will train your attention to look for what you’re grateful for all day, every day.
Take a moment now to appreciate your life. This makes the world a friendlier place.
