Gratitude

Like most people this week I have been watching the awful news from Ukraine and it can be hard not to be overwhelmed by it.  If you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, whether by world events or by what is going on in your own life, practising gratitude can help you to hold onto hope and happiness by reminding you of what is good.

Spend 5 or 10 minutes a day writing down the things that you are grateful for.  This might be your family, friends, finding something you had lost, seeing a rainbow, being able to take your dog for a walk, having a good night’s sleep, the bus being on time, it can be whatever is good for you today.

There are several benefits.  Firstly, it allows you to focus on something positive, not just the bad things in life.  Secondly, it can help you to realise what is important to you and therefore what you might want to prioritise, for example if you love spending time with people who make you laugh try to make this a priority.  And finally, when things do get overwhelming, it gives you a list of good things to look at to spark some joy back into your life.

Practising gratitude is just one way of caring for yourself which is a vital part of looking after both physical and mental health.  Give it a try and see what you are grateful for.

PS. If you are grateful to have a safe home with enough food and a little cash to spare then maybe consider donating to the Disasters Emergency Committee. Thank you. https://www.dec.org.uk/appeal/ukraine-humanitarian-appeal