This weekend is Thanksgiving here in Canada. At this time of year many of us think about the things that we have to be grateful for as part of giving thanks to the universe. It is so important to take time to do this. Feeling and expressing gratitude has health benefits both physical and psychological, not to mention spiritual. Health benefits include better sleep, and a more optimistic outlook which is linked to a strengthened immune system.
It increases our self-esteem as it balances the resentfulness we may sometimes feel if we compare ourselves to others. It also open us up to more relationships, because expressing gratitude can help us to foster new friendships. It strengthens the relationships that we already have.
And feeling and expressing gratitude can increase mental toughness and our resiliency.
This year I feel particularly thankful for the health and wellness of my family as so many people all over the world struggle with war, natural disasters, food insecurity and other issues. I am giving thanks for having a safe place to live and to be able to support myself and have enough to eat which so many others in the world do not have at this time. And I’m grateful for my loved ones including my human family and friends and my dear dog, Charlie.
You can give thanks in prayer, in your journal, through art, through writing poetry and many other ways. What are some of your favourite ways to give thanks? Let us know in the comments below. And here is a poem that I wrote to give thanks.
I AM GRATEFUL
Feeling the gentle breeze
And hearing the wind rustle the leaves
Shimmering greens in sunlight
Feeling the connection
The circle of the Earth
Of life
Of nature
I am the earth
I am the wind
I am the trees
Living in the moment
I am here now
To enjoy eternity
A bird calls
An insect whirs
I am grateful
For this moment
If you are looking for a printable PDF with Daily Gratitude Pages, I have one available on Etsy now.
Also, you may enjoy this related post on expressing gratitude, it’s about writing a thank you letter to your body.
Enjoy!