April is National Stress Awareness Month—the perfect reminder to pause, take a deep breath, and tune into your total wellbeing. But let’s face it: every month deserves a healthy dose of mental health TLC. Cultivating an attitude of gratitude is one way to combat stress and roll with life’s inevitable punches.
Here are some tips for developing a sustainable gratitude practice that will have you feeling cool, calm, and collected in no time.
The Importance of Gratitude
Life can throw us curveballs left and right, making stress an all-too-common byproduct of our daily routines. But gratitude can be your secret weapon against the chaos. Research shows that regularly acknowledging the good stuff—even the little things—can significantly reduce stress levels and boost overall happiness. Not only does pausing to say “thank you” help us navigate rough patches with resilience, but it also enhances our relationships, promotes a more positive outlook, and can even give our physical health a boost.
Getting Started: Baby Steps
Feeling a bit overwhelmed by the idea of a gratitude practice? It doesn’t have to be complicated. Start small by incorporating gratitude into your existing routine. That could mean kicking off your morning by jotting down three things you’re grateful for in a journal—maybe it’s the warmth of the sun on your face, a cozy bed to wake up in, or the smell of freshly brewed coffee. No matter how seemingly insignificant, starting your day with a dose of gratitude sets the tone for positivity.
Mindful Moments: Pause and Appreciate
In the hustle and bustle of life, it can be easy to get swept away by stress and overlook the little joys around us. Periodically pause throughout your day to tune into the here and now. Take a deep breath, look around, and notice the small things that bring you joy. Whether it’s a heartfelt conversation with a friend, a delicious meal shared with loved ones, or a peaceful moment spent in nature, practicing mindfulness allows gratitude to naturally follow suit.
Spread the Love: Share Your Gratitude
Gratitude is like a boomerang—it comes back to you twofold when you express it to others. Take a moment to share your appreciation for the special people in your life. Who are three individuals you’re grateful for today? Reach out with a thoughtful text, give them a call, or simply check in and let them know how much they mean to you. Remember: spreading gratitude not only lifts up others, it also fills your own cup.
Gratitude on the Go: Incorporating It Everywhere
Who says gratitude must be limited to your journal or meditation practice? Get creative and find ways to sprinkle it into every aspect of your day. Turn your commute into a gratitude session by reflecting on the blessings you encountered. Create a “gratitude jar” at work and encourage colleagues to join you in jotting down moments of appreciation. Involve your kids by starting a nightly tradition at the dinner table where each family member shares one good thing that happened to them that day. Not only does this foster a sense of gratitude, but it also creates precious bonding moments.
You don’t need fancy tools or apps to cultivate gratitude (although those can be handy!). Whether you’re scribbling in a notebook, typing notes on your phone, or simply taking a mental picture, gratitude is accessible to everyone.
Final Thoughts: Keep Calm and Gratitude On
Gratitude can be an effective tool in your self-care toolkit when facing life’s inevitable ups and downs. During National Stress Awareness Month (and every month!), make it a priority to bring more gratitude into your life. Remember, even on the stormiest of days, there’s always something—however small—worthy of appreciation.
If stress ever feels overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out for extra support. Whether through therapy, meditation, or leaning on loved ones, you have a wide circle of care surrounding you.