The writing practice of gratitude can add a lot to your life. Here’s how to start.
– KEYS SOULCARE
It’s no surprise that “gratitude journaling” is gaining popularity considering how deep its health benefits run. In addition to forcing us to look at the positive happening in the here-and-now, the ritual of documenting moments of gratitude (a.k.a. gratitude journaling) is proven to reduce levels of depression, help us sleep better, and improve heart health.
Here are a few ideas to spark or encourage your own gratitude journaling practice:
Find Your Flow
Build writing in your gratitude journal into the rhythm of your day. Some members of our team do it first thing, before (or instead of) checking social media or the news. Others use it as a moment of pause and transition from work to at-home time. And others incorporate it into their nightly wind-down routines. The great news is that the feel-good benefits extend 24/7 — so finding the time that feeds your spirit is the most crucial factor.
Get Gritty About Your Gratitude
We loved our conversation with yogi Hilary Lopes for so many reasons, but one our team couldn’t stop talking about what was her willingness to hold space for things that were less than ideal (or even pleasant).
Self-reflection can be tricky —and when life is hard, it can feel damn near impossible. But science proves that our ability to see ourselves and the world through lenses of humility, grace, and gratitude helps us thrive.
Put It In One Spot
Treat yourself to a cool new notebook and pen. Start a private note in your phone and put fresh “Thank you, Universe!” ideas up top. There’s no right place to write it all down, but committing to one ongoing list comes with the bonus of being able to look back at past gratitudes over time. (Which feels seriously good, no matter what kind of day is happening around it!)
Lean Into Prompts
Expressing gratitude is a self-generating habit: the more you do it, the more organically it’ll happen on it’s own. We love prompts — such as words and phrases based upon a certain theme or idea — because they give our minds just enough structure to get deep, random, and free. (Alex Elle and Elena Brower are two gratitude advocates whose prompts regularly take our spirits to cool, untapped places.)
How are you staying inspired to grow in gratitude? Do you have a ritual for getting it all down? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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