Peace and gratitude
Discover the transformative power of peace and gratitude in finding calm, contentment, and meaning in everyday life.
Peace and Gratitude
When it comes down to it, peace and gratitude are two of the keys to living a good life. You may be asking, Why these two? The answer is simple. Having peace and gratitude in your life not only helps regulate your nervous system, but also allows you to appreciate everything you currently have. The peace that comes from gratitude is essential to living well.
I remember the days when I didn't have either of these in my life and the overwhelming, hellish feeling that came from being dysregulated. When I speak of gratitude, I am not referring to "false positivity" or the idea of "fake it until you make it." True gratitude is felt in the body, not simply whispered words that carry no meaning. The same is true of peace. It has to be experienced, not just talked about. Believe me, I got it wrong, too, until recently.
So, How Can We Be Grateful in the Midst of Chaos?
It may take a little searching, but there are always things to be grateful for: the water you drink, the food you eat, the clothes you wear, and so much more.
One practice that works for me is part of my daily morning routine. I rise before dawn and watch the sunrise. As the sun comes up, I do a calming yoga workout that helps reset both my body and mind. This kind of peace simply cannot be bought at any price.
Another idea is to begin a daily mindfulness practice to bring more peace into your life. Too often, we move through our days on autopilot, reacting without intention. Developing a mindfulness practice can help you become more present, intentional, and peaceful.
I am grateful for the mindfulness practice I began two years ago. It truly works. It helps quiet the noise of the past and the future, allowing me to focus on the present moment. I still slip up and make mistakes. I'm only human—and so are you.
Try some of these suggestions, and let me know what you discover!
