What is gratitude? Gratitude is being out in the desert for 6 days with limited water and then it rains. Each drop of water is magical and magnificent. And there is nothing else but sheer appreciation for each moment in the rain. That’s gratitude. Really appreciating what you have.
Not complaining that the rain didn’t come with a cheeseburger. Just appreciating the rain!
These days the word “gratitude” has become a buzzword, just like “happiness.” Everybody wants to do it and be it, but struggle to understand it. The act of gratitude takes some deep thought and consideration. The superficial “thank you” is just not enough to reap the true benefits of gratitude.
Gratitude gives us the ability to see the world in a different light. Instead of complaining about what you don’t have, you can appreciate what you’ve got.
The power of gratitude lies in the ability to really let go of any expectations and be present in the moment. This takes practice and conditioning of the mental muscles of gratitude.
Here is a quick meditation and journal exercise for gratitude:
- Find a quiet space where you won’t be interrupted for 5 minutes.
- Write down three things that you are grateful for in your life in your journal.
- Circle one of these things to focus on during this practice.
- Sit down or lie down and close your eyes.
- Hold your thumb and index finger together on your laps.
- Inhale with a deep breath and hold it.
- Let it all out.
- Exhale with a deep breath and hold it.
- Let it all out.
- Repeat for 5 cycles.
- Think of something in your life that makes you feel truly grateful.
- Let it feeling of gratitude fill your heart for five breaths.
- When you are ready, open your eyes and enjoy this moment of gratitude.
- Journal about your experience.
Final Thoughts
Conditioning the mind to feel authentic gratitude takes practice. Do this exercise when you want to experience more gratitude in your life. With true gratitude in life, comes an openness to experience more and thus a richer life with happiness, abundance, and prosperity.
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