Practice True Gratitude

These days, so many of us are feeling stressed or afraid of not having enough. Fear is everywhere. But a True Gratitude practice can go a long, long way to alleviate those uncomfortable feelings of scarcity and fear.

The secret is that where there is gratitude, there isn’t room in the human heart and consciousness for fear. Here are some simple ideas and suggestions to help us open our hearts to the blessings of each moment, and feel thankful rather than fearful, here:

1. Start by Witnessing. When you catch yourself feeling tense, anxious, or afraid, just notice that those feelings are coming up. Give yourself permission to feel them. There is no shame in responding to life with tension or fear. Life can be pretty anxiety-provoking and scary!

2. Name Three Things. When you do notice yourself feeling anxious or scared, think of three things for which you are really grateful. They can be really small–”The sweater I’m wearing is really warm and comforting”–or large–”I’m grateful for the presence of my son in my life.”

3. Write them Down. You can designate a special blank book to be your Gratitude Journal (there are so many gorgeous blank books available these days). Soon you will have a beautiful list of things to reread in the wee hours to soothe yourself when you can’t sleep or you‘re feeling upset.

4. Gratitude Mantra. I often do this when I’m driving: I simply remind myself of all the things I can think of right now in the moment that make me feel grateful. You don‘t need to really think much–just start naming. “I’m grateful for the trees turning colors. I’m grateful that I can breathe. I’m grateful that my car runs. I’m grateful that I have enough to eat.” Sometimes the list is short. Other times, I reach my destination and I’m still thinking of things! See what you can come up with. (Nature is a great prompter; when all else fails, I can be grateful for the sky and the rocks, the deer, the wind, and the hawks soaring overhead.)

5. In This Moment. Here is a healing affirmation that promotes gratitude: “Right now, in this moment, I have enough.” It is true. And it is a deep balm for fearful-future thinking. Let’s all be grateful for the enough-ness of the present moment!

Read more: Spirit, Guidance, Self-Help

By Cait Johnson, author of Earth, Water, Fire, and Air (SkyLight Paths, 2003).

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Harsha V.

6:29PM PDT on May 17, 2012

The latest book "The Magic" is a great workbook for gratitude. I am deeply grateful for the book and the author, Rhonda Byrne ( The Secret)

send a green star

Deborah D.

8:35AM PST on Jan 12, 2012

I am grateful for my partner who never forgets
to say "thank you" for the things I do
for him. It is nice to be appreciated.

Beatriz T.

7:57AM PDT on Sep 17, 2011

Gratitude is a great value that must be taught to our kids....thanks for this awesome article.

Nawang J.

9:37AM PST on Mar 12, 2011

Thanks
great gratitude
I think the last "in this moment" is the best suggestion.
Let us enjoy what we have, the fact that we are alive,
and wehn he die, we can be grateful for that.
Gratitude opens our hearts...

Kerry S.

11:40AM PST on Nov 11, 2010

what a wonderful article! thanks :)

Kanta O.

1:32AM PDT on Mar 19, 2010

Truly inspiring article. I feel grateful to God for giving me the wherewithal (loving parents, caring friends, good health, financial solvency amongst other things) and above all, bestowing me with inner strength and qualities that have made it possible to handle the most unsettling and stressful situations of life and still be around to appreciate joys of life.

Grateful to be an optimist and think positive, no matter what !

Jamie L.

12:04AM PDT on May 30, 2009

Thanks Cait! I am grateful for Care2!

Past Member .

5:29AM PDT on May 27, 2009

I am very grateful for my life - especially since I nearly lost it. Also for my precious children, family, friends and the opportunity to participate Care2. It is very comforting to know there are so many caring people in this beautiful old world of ours. Thank you to all of you - especially on behalf of all the animals who can't speak for themselves. May the saints and saviour watch over you.

Jennifer O.

11:00PM PDT on May 26, 2009

This is a great idea.
I know that I do not think about how priviledged I am in my life nearly enough.
I will definelty start that gratitude Journal.
I'm very grateful that I decided to read this artical! :)

Jessica M.

6:04PM PDT on May 23, 2009

I am a Christian and I am grateful that God loves me. I am looking forward to His return to take me home with Him so that I can enjoy eternity with Him.