Being in appreciation can transform your life. It is a way of looking at the world with gratitude and thankfulness, even when facing challenges and difficulties. This month, we will explore the benefits of being in appreciation and how you can cultivate this state of mind in your daily life.
Increased happiness
When we are in appreciation, we focus on the positive aspects of our lives. We are grateful for what we have, rather than focusing on what we lack. This shift in mindset can lead to increased happiness and contentment.
Improved relationships
Being in appreciation can also improve our relationships with others. When we appreciate the people in our lives, we are more likely to treat them with greater kindness and respect. This can lead to stronger and more meaningful connections with others.
Reduced stress
Appreciation can also help reduce stress. When we focus on the positive aspects of our lives, we are less likely to feel overwhelmed by the challenges we face. We are more resilient and better able to cope with stress and adversity.
Appreciating our bodies
February's 3C Gathering is about appreciating our bodies as women. Understanding our natural cycles and giving ourselves grace when we aren't operating at 100% all day, every day. There are natural rhythms in nature, as there are natural rhythms in our body and our lives. On February 1, we will take the time to learn about, and appreciate our bodies and how we can honor the unique strengths that reside within the feminine experience.
Increased resilience
Being in appreciation can also increase our resilience. When we are grateful for the good things in our lives, we are better able to bounce back from setbacks and challenges. We are more likely to see the silver lining in difficult situations and find the strength to persevere. Many years ago, I read a quote that went something like, ‘good luck is often disguised as bad luck and may not be recognized until years later.’ Whenever I remember this quote, it allows me to sit in appreciation even when things aren’t going as I planned. I know something else, bigger, better will come along.
Improved physical health
Research has shown that being in appreciation can also have physical health benefits. Gratitude has been linked to lower blood pressure, improved immune function, and better sleep. So, how can you cultivate a state of appreciation in your daily life? One way is to start a gratitude journal. If you are like me, you have a handful of beautiful journals that you have purchased and are sitting in a drawer or on a shelf. Find one. Dust it off. Find a pen you like writing with. Keep it with your journal. Then find a place for your journal. Somewhere you can find it easily and quickly grab when you need to record something. Each day, write down three things you are grateful for. This can help train your mind to focus on the positive aspects of your life.
In a recent update on the iPhone, a new app was added - Journal. Have a look for it, if you have an iPhone. Open it, try it. See if this option will work for you instead of or as well as a physical journal.
Another way to cultivate appreciation is to practice mindfulness. Take a few minutes each day to focus on your breath and the present moment. Notice the sights, sounds, and sensations around you. This can help you to appreciate the beauty and wonder of the world around you. There are apps available that will remind you to be mindful throughout the day. If you can’t find something you like, set your watch or phone. The key is finding the time to say thank you to yourself.
Being in appreciation is a powerful state of mind that can transform your life. It can increase happiness, improve relationships, reduce stress, increase resilience, and improve physical health. By cultivating appreciation in your daily life, you can experience these benefits and live a more fulfilling and joyful life.
Thank you
Pick one or more days this month to say thank you to people you encounter. Share with me what happens. Email me, send a note on Facebook or Instagram. I’d love to hear what you appreciate.
Thank you.
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