Frank R.Gratitude helps us feel better both about ourselves and those around us. It gives us the ability to whisk away stress more effectively, to fall asleep more easily, and enjoy each day more fully. It improves our emotional and physical wellbeing, and picks us up when we feel down or overwhelmed. It is a source of the positive energy we desire, and that we thrive on. This is why gratitude practices are so important, as they allow us to express gratitude and to get feeling better. However, in my opinion, too much emphasis has been levied on practicing gratitude through a journal. This means writing down what you are grateful for, ala “counting your blessings,” or expressing all of those thoughts into writing that is shared only with you. That, to me, is removing some of the point of expressing gratitude: it should be pointed not just at yourself, but also at the moments, people, and memories that have provided you something to be grateful about. Here are some gratitude exercises that do not require the use of a journal, and that can help you relieve stress and feel more whole.
Express Your Gratitude for Another
One of the greatest ways to practice gratitude is expressing it to another person. That means doing so face-to-face, over the phone, or through written correspondence. However you choose to talk to them, the end result should be the same: you should tell them how grateful you are for them. This person could be a family member who has had a positive influence on your life, a friend who has always stuck by your side and made you feel appreciated, or a mentor figure who helped you to overcome a great challenge, or learn how to be a better person. There are countless figures that impact our lives, and we have to recognize their contribution to our body and soul. Our interactions, memories, and relationships help forge who we are. We are a culmination of many different experiences, and we should feel grateful for those who helped elevate those lived experiences.
You will never regret having strong friendships and connections to rely on in times of need, or to strengthen one another through each of your days spent together. These will be relationships you treasure, rely on, and build throughout the years. Knowing how you feel about one another is part of what makes those bonds so special. You do not have to hide your feelings.
Imagine being on the receiving end of such gratitude. Your family member will doubtless feel love, appreciation, and pride for your brave, forward-thinking, and honest expression of gratitude for them. They may not be expecting it at all, but that positivity — that honesty and whole-heartedness — will help to turn around and brighten their day and present moment. We are always happy to hear how we have positively impacted others, and like to think that the good we do in the world will help others. This is a way to confirm that feeling in others, and to spread a beneficial positivity throughout your most treasured connections and relationships.
Remembering Bad Times Brightens the Good Times
We all go through tough times in life; it is part of what unites us as a species. Try to remember when things were worse, or on a similarly negative keel to how they are when you are going through one of those challenging times. Think of how you got through those previous obstacles, and periods of discomfort and ire, and remember that you are built for this present challenge. Remind yourself that you are grateful for what you have done to lift up your spirits and persevere, and be thankful for how the bad times have given you a new perspective on the positive times in your life. Without balance, the good would not feel so wonderful, and vice versa. It’s important to remember that.
Conclusion
Gratitude can benefit you every day, and you should always be able to recall a happy memory, something you’re grateful for, or something you have read that has brightened your day and changed your perspective on life. Tell people how you feel about them: it will improve both your and their days, and help us to feel more connected to those we care about. If you are interested in more lifestyle, wellness, or mindfulness topic, make sure to check out our other blogs!
