Journaling. Photo by Jess Bailey on Unsplash
Finding things to be thankful for reduces stress, boosts creativity, and can even help you sleep better. But what do you do if you keep writing down the same things or starting to feel like gratitude is just another task on your to-do list? Dubai based author and journaling advocate Rachael Lynn offers up these simple steps to help give you a boost of new energy to experience that gratitude joy.
Start small to build momentum. If you’re having trouble thinking of anything or having a particularly rough day – start with the things that seem obvious to list, like your toothbrush, your sense of smell, or your heartbeat. After a few of those ‘easy’ ones, your brain will naturally find more to list. Give yourself a chance and ride the momentum, stopping when you feel your energy raise.
Use ‘Appreciation’ instead of gratitude to prompt slightly different responses. Similar words but can allow for new ideas. What do I appreciate about my life? What do I appreciate about my skin? What do I appreciate about this year? Fill in the question with any person, place, or thing, and with this approach, you might just be able to feel some new perspectives.
Always Include yourself. You need some love, too. Whenever you’re making your gratitude list, be sure to include at least one thing you’re grateful for or appreciate about you as an individual. Not the way you look, not the work you do, but who you are, in your heart.
Practice in the morning to feel a boost of energy or right before bed to de-stress. You can even do it in your head while you lay down to sleep to reduce stressful thoughts. With this refresh and less than five minutes a day – you’re sure to feel renewed.
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