“We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.” — Thornton Wilder

There is no doubt that there is a strong mind and body connection and it’s a link which is especially noticeable in individuals who practice gratitude daily .

We all know that exercise and a healthy diet are important, but research has shown that those who are grateful in their daily lives suffer fewer stress-related symptoms, such as headaches, stomach problems, chest pains and muscle aches. Those who practice gratitude actually do experience less stress and depression, as well as being more optimistic and more content.

Developing and practising an attitude of gratitude requires focus and commitment, as well as a willingness to spend time on this important lifestyle change … because it is a lifestyle change.

Saying thank you for something nice is a start but really, gratitude is about wonder and thankfulness and appreciation for our life … what has been, what is and what will be … it’s a sense of fulfilment that comes from within, by being able to see the good in every situation. And there are some situations in which it is really hard to see any good; but it is there and the more you practice gratitude, the more good you will be able see.

There are many different ways in which you can develop your Attitude of Gratitude. Anything that causes you to focus on the present helps you to increase your gratitude so try meditation, yoga, or prayer.

Become more aware.

When you walk outside, notice the birds and the trees and the colours around you.

Be grateful if the sun is shining, and smile. And if it’s raining, be grateful the dams are being filled and the grass is having a drink!

Be grateful the car starts or that the train/bus/tram is running on time

Be grateful for your breakfast … there really are millions of people who will not have breakfast or any other meal, for quite a while

Re-frame your thinking.

If the person in the coffee shop is rude to you, create a gratitude list of 10 things your grateful for in the situation … for example, they may be rude but they make great coffee

Do something for someone else.

Helping someone else helps you to focus on all the things in your life that are great. So do a good deed, it will probably come back to you.

Keep a written gratitude journal.

Write down what you’re thankful for, preferably before you go you go to sleep. You can even simply think about those things before going to sleep … although, if you’re just thinking, you may ask how big a commitment you’re really making!

If you live alone, get yourself a dog or a cat … unbelievable health benefits because you can share everything, including your gratitude, with the little creature.

The simple act of smiling can change your life … if this is something you don’t normally do much of, change! Smile at the bus driver and the coffee person and the person who holds the lift for you. Yes, they will smile back, and you will all have a much brighter day …

Being grateful and creating your own Attitude of Gratitude is much more than acknowledging your thanks; it’s a philosophy of life that can open up endless possibilities.

10 Ways to say Thank You (for a gift!) http://bit.ly/uYDR6T