Ann recently sent out this great reminder to us Pinky’s on  facebook about the benefits of GRATITUDE…

She replied to my call for declaring  this month gratitude month everyday…

Here is what Ann shared with us.

Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.” ~Author Unknown

An Attitude of Gratitude

Evidence exists that supports the positive effects of gratitude on an individual’s overall health and well-being. Research shows that gratefulness is associated with things like:

* increased alertness

* enthusiasm

* determination

* optimism

* high levels of energy

* decreased levels of depression

* reduced stress

* more and better sleep

* increased physical activity

* more goal progress

An attitude of gratitude has also been shown to impact the physical body. Positive feelings initiate a chemical response that ultimately enhances immune function. In general, this translates to less health problems. Those that are ill but who practice gratitude typically exhibit a better healing response and have decreased risk for recurrence.

Steps to Cultivating Gratitude

1. Practice mindfulness. Quite simply, look for good and acknowledge it. No matter how slight, every situation offers us something.

2. Use affirmations. Create a positive statement that reflects your desired outcome and repeat it several times a day. It also helps to write it down and post it in a conspicuous location. Make sure the statement is in the present tense, relevant to you, and very specific.

3. Utilize cues. Small reminders can be helpful in increasing awareness. Try Post-Its or check out the the Mindful Clock.

Each time you come in contact with your cue, do a gratitude check-in and find something to be thankful for at that moment.

4. Act as if. Otherwise known as faking it until you make it. Did you know that just the act of forming your mouth into a smile releases positive emotion enhancing chemicals into your system? Act thankful, joyful, or optimistic and that will be your experience.

5. Make it known. Write down what your thankful for each day in a gratitude journal. It will be a constant resource for you to draw upon. Express your gratitude to others. Everyone thrives on being needed and appreciated. By sharing this, you pass on an invaluable gift. You can do this in person or by writing a heartfelt message of gratefulness.

So, with that, I wish you all a very great-FULL month! GRATITUDE–BRING IT ON!!! I am so very great-FULL for you, Laura, and all you wonderful Pinky’s!

Isn’t this just the best?

Ann, I, we thank you and praise you for being here on the earth spreading your light and love.

I am grateful to you,  Leah, and all of my Pinky’s.

You all Rock!

I love you, XO

Laura