Gratitude

A powerful tool in your arsenal

The days when nothing sits right, and we find ourselves disturbed by thoughts of fear, envy, worry, or even a feeling of emptiness within, let us turn our hearts towards gratitude.

Epictetus, a Greek philosopher, once said -

“He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has.”

During those challenging days when negative thoughts and emotions seem to overwhelm us, it is essential to shift our focus toward gratitude.

Start with recognizing that these feelings are temporary and simply thoughts or sensations in the mind or body.

Instead, consciously redirect your attention to the present moment and reflect on every significant aspect of the current moment that makes it worth living.

Maybe it’s your loved ones whose existence you are grateful for, the privilege of having a home, access to basic necessities, good health, or even the subtle act of breathing.

Just being able to feel the connection with your breath.

The feeling of being alive.

Unknowingly in the humdrum and busyness of daily routines, we take so many things this Universe has given us for granted. We all need a gentle reminder about the abundance we do possess in our lives. Our minds are designed to create an illusion of lack and so, forgetfulness of this abundance is a natural consequence we must all face from time to time.

In moments of uncertainty or despair, let us set aside the painful thoughts and instead zoom in on the simple feeling of existing.

Intentionally feeling grateful for what we have right now instead of what we lack. How would that feel?

This is an immensely powerful realization.

As soon as we immerse ourselves in this feeling of gratitude, this feeling of existing right here, in this moment, being just as we are, the mind begins to quiet down, the burdensome thoughts disappear into the ether & a sense of lightness emerges within us.

Direct experience of this lightness reveals the transformative power of gratitude.