Today’s blog is short & sweet… and a few days early due to the holiday!
I’m guessing that you might be guessing what today’s topic is about…but I have a twist on it so read on.
Over the years I’ve incorporated different types of rituals into my mornings. Sometimes I’ll do them right when I wake up and other times on my walk. This morning I reflected on how my rituals have changed over the years as I have evolved through life’s experiences and lessons.
A few of my standby’s include:
- Embodiment
- Energy work (aka sending good vibes and thoughts to others and myself)
- Meditation
- Gratitude
This week, in lieu of the upcoming holiday in the United States, the power of gratitude has taken center stage within my morning routine and it got me thinking…
Why am I not incorporating this tool throughout the day beyond my 15 minutes of morning ritual time…especially when overwhelmed or triggered throughout the day?
As often happens, the synchronicity of the right message or messenger comes along exactly when you need it.
Recently, I happened to watch one of Danielle LaPorte’s short videos on Instagram. In it, she dives into the “why” behind your gratitude list. Super simple and all you have to do is add a “because” at the end of each item.
The result? For me personally, it’s a deeper sense of appreciation and an elevated experience of joy.
For example, this was a typical morning list for me…
I am grateful for all the love in my life from loved ones.I am grateful for my dog.I am grateful for my cozy bed.I am grateful for freshwater and food in the fridge.I am grateful for my gifts.I am grateful for my experiences thus far in life.I am grateful for the sunrise.
And this is what it’s evolved into…
I am grateful for all the love in my life from loved ones…because love is everything… without it, nothing else really matters.
I am grateful for my dog… because she creates more happiness in my home, gets me going in the morning, and is soft and cuddly.
I am grateful for my cozy bed… because it allows me to have a restful sleep.
I am grateful for freshwater and food in the fridge… because it helps my body move and feel good each day.
I am grateful for my gifts… because they allow me to fulfill my purpose in this lifetime.
I am grateful for my experiences thus far in life… because they have been my greatest lessons and the doorways into learning to create more peace in my life.
I am grateful for the sunrise… because it’s simply beautiful and signifies another opportunity for me to fully engage in life.
This year, as you go through your gratitude list in the quiet space of your mind or at the table with friends or family, try this simple twist on the old standby. Pay attention to how widening your sense of awe at life’s abundance moves you to a deeper level of intimacy with yourself and others.
Happy Thanksgiving… and l am grateful for you BECAUSE you provide a space for me to share my own experiences, struggles, joy, and lessons… and I thank you for that.
Sincerely,
Meg
