Gratitude is appreciating what is valuable and important to you. Research has shown that expressing gratitude not only makes you happier but also promotes better health. The power of practising daily gratitude lies in its ability to reshape your mindset. Zig Zigler once said, “Gratitude is the healthiest of all human emotions.” This is because the more you express gratitude for what you have, the more opportunities you find to be grateful for. As a result, your mind begins to actively seek positive aspects, leading to an improved sense of self and a positive outlook on those around you. Cultivating gratitude is an excellent strategy for enhancing mental wellness.
When I think of my earliest gratitude practises, I have fond childhood memories of the Kenyan schools I went to as a kid. One thing in particular sticks out for me, and that was our daily morning gratitude practise. Of course, only much later in life could I articulate this as a gratitude practise. This was our normal morning routine before starting class. This tradition is common in many African schools. We would all sing together as a class or as a school.
There is one song in particular that has stayed with me, symbolising the essence of thankfulness. “Thank you for everything this morning.” From a young age, we were taught to be grateful—not just for ourselves but for all that we have and the world we inhabit.
What makes this memory significant is that gratitude is more than just a habit; it is a state of mind, a way of life, and a path to improved mental well-being. Over the past few years, I have developed various gratitude practises that have proven immensely beneficial to me. I can confidently say that my daily practise has brought about significant changes. It has become an integral part of my morning routine, greatly enhancing my mood. I have observed how my mind can transform negative thoughts into positive ones, allowing me to feel better and make better decisions. Here are four of my favourite tips on how to start this powerful habit of saying a daily “thank you.”
Author: Ceri Samvilian
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