Gratitude is one of the most important attitudes you can cultivate. Quite simply, gratitude involves a sense of thankfulness and appreciation for what we have and the world around us. Studies show that when we cultivate gratitude regularly, we experience increased happiness, less stress, and we’re more likely to make more friends. Gratitude is important because it teaches us to be mindful of the positive things in life, even when we’re in the midst of difficulties. Here are a few ways to incorporate gratitude into your daily life. Remember that gratitude is a daily practice. The more time and space you devote to these simple practices, the more benefits you will reap.

Take a Gratitude Inventory

Take an inventory of all of the wonderful things you’re grateful for in your life. These can be people, pets, learning experiences, or sobriety. Your inventory can also include simple pleasures in life, such as a morning cup of coffee. 

Keeping a Gratitude Journal

Writing about things that you’re grateful for is a simple way to stay in the gratitude vibration. You can form a ritual around your writing practice and write for a few minutes in the morning and night. 

Thoughts of Gratitude

Upon waking, try thinking of at least three things that you’re feeling grateful for. You’ll find that it sets the tone for a more positive and mindful day. 

Express Gratitude

Gratitude is more than a state of mind. It’s an action. If you’re grateful for someone’s presence in your life, let them know. Before expressing gratitude or living in a state of heightened thankfulness, it’s necessary to cultivate awareness. Take a look at your daily life and search for moments of gratitude. Your perspective will shift for the better.

Tree House Recovery of Portland, Oregon uses cutting-edge techniques in individualized programs to help men achieve freedom from addiction. Taking a holistic, sustainable approach to the inner and outer effects of addiction ensures you or your loved one will emerge with the confidence and skills to manage your addiction independently. No one is beyond help- our Admissions Counselors are available 24/7 at  (503) 850-2474