VIDEO EXERCISE: PRACTICE GRATEFULNESS
Make a Gratitude List
Gratitude simply means being thankful for what we have, both tangible and intangible. Taking the opportunity to express gratitude has been scientifically proven to increase our feelings of happiness.
Additional benefits of Gratitude include:
- Reduced anxiety and depression
- Increased mental strength
- Improved sleep quality
- Aided in stress regulation
- Improved relationships
- Improved self-esteem
- Improved physical health
GRATITUDE ACTIVITY OPTIONS
(Pick one to add to your daily routine)
Make a Gratitude List
Pick out a journal. You do not have to get a fancy, leather bound notebook, just something simple you can dedicate to your gratitude practice.
- Don’t overthink it. You might find it hard to get started and that’s ok. Just keep it simple and write down 3-5 things that you are grateful for
- “I have a job”
- “I was able to take a walk today”
- “I got an appointment with a new doctor”
- “I have food in my kitchen”
- “I’m getting help for things that concern me”
- Set aside 5 minutes each day to add to your Gratitude list
Start a Gratitude Jar
Everyday add a short note to your gratitude jar. It can be about something big or small. At the end of each month, read your gratefulness notes and enjoy all that you have to be grateful for.
Share Your Gratitude
Each day, pick a person and share why you are grateful for them. This is a great way to reconnect and reenergize relationships. A quick phone call or text to say “I’m thinking about you and appreciate the friendship we have” or “I never said thank you for standing by me”. Keep it simple and speak from the heart.
Both giving and receiving gratitude have a similar effect on our wellbeing. By sharing gratitude, you are helping yourself and someone else!
QUESTION FOR REFLECTION
Would you like to share your LSF story? We’d love to hear from you!
If you’d like to share your experience, please email programs@lonesurvivorfoundation.org