By Angie Mostrom, Nurse Practitioner in Tribal Public Health
Our culture seems to bombard us with daily messages saying that we should have more, do more, and be more, which is often driven by effective social media and advertising strategy. Feelings of inadequacy and discontentment or even signs of depression could result from this daily dose of “not enough.”
What if we could press pause on these intense, negative pressures and refocus our energy on what we do have: healthy relationships with family and friends, breath in our lungs, opportunities to work or volunteer, a mind to think, nature, freedoms, safety, shelter, food, and much more. Can we reframe our mind and spirit against this negative, toxic dwelling on what “isn’t” to the possibilities and recognition of what “is”? Let’s talk about gratitude!
Here are some powerful benefits of gratitude:
- Improves self-esteem, and increases joy and optimism
- Enhances sleep, energy, health, and immunity
- Increases ability to tolerate difficulties
- Encourages generosity, kindness, and forgiveness
- Keeps you in the present moment
- Lowers stress, anxiety, and depressive thoughts
- Strengthens healthy relationships
- Grows with regular practice and it’s free!
You might be wondering, “how do I start the practice of gratitude in my daily life?” Research shows that participants who recorded at least three things daily of what they’re grateful for resulted in increased happiness, improved sleep, and greater healthy habits. Though some variables in our daily lives are not in our control, that isn’t the case with gratitude. Gratitude is a choice. When we practice gratitude in our daily lives, we are recruiting other positive emotions, like hope and courage that make us stronger and more resilient to handle the storms in life.
Gratitude also acts as kryptonite for anger, jealousy, our weaknesses, our shortfalls, disappointment, greed, and fear. Joy does not simply come from possessions or experiences; it is deeper than that. Meaning does not come from temporary circumstances or achievements; it is higher than that. One’s value isn’t defined or determined by others’ opinions of them; you are priceless and uniquely woven together beyond compare. Make no mistake, there is meaning, joy, and hope in something greater than ourselves, our things, and our circumstances. The search for these will certainly take you on a worthwhile journey!
You will know when you encounter meaning, joy, and hope–all of which can start with the practice of gratitude. Gratefulness can transform distress and fear into blessing and contentment. Today is your day to start reframing your experience.
Start by writing down three simple things you are grateful for and notice how these thoughts and perspectives grant you a fresh lens to see the world in a new light. See how gratitude can transform you!
Employee RESOURCES:
- Visit eM Life, and type “gratitude” into the search bar to find multiple relevant meditations to help you focus on gratitude in as little as five minutes.
- ASPIRE counselors can help you adopt an attitude of gratitude, even during life’s tough times. Call 952.403.5241 to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are also welcome.
- As part of the SMSC’s Fitbit program, you automatically have access to Fitbit Premium, where you can explore mindfulness sessions, healthy recipes, and workout videos. You can also download your personal 30-day wellness report.
Community Member Resources:
- The SMSC Specialty Clinic’s counselors can help you adopt an attitude of gratitude, even during life’s tough times. Call 952.496.6164 to schedule an appointment.
- The Physical Therapy/Chiropractic Clinic offers physical therapy, chiropractic services, acupuncture, reiki, and more to help align your mind, body, and spirit.
