Day 41: In gratitude

Gratitude is as much an intentional act as a spontaneous emotion. We can evoke the feeling of gratitude, and know that the practice of gratitude begets more of that spontaneous occurrence.

It is often easiest to practice something in the best of conditions, so that we can then apply it to the more challenging moments. Pick a calm morning, perhaps one where your baby is resting in your lap or chilling at your side on a blanket.

Close your eyes, or look at this little one, and think the words, "I am so deeply grateful for you." Often the sensations of gratitude originate in the chest, the heart center, and are experienced as warmth or light. Whatever it is for you, breathe in that gratitude and as you exhale, let it wash over your whole body.

Consider the specifics of what you feel grateful for.

I am deeply grateful for...

...your health.

...your trust in me.

...your patience as I screw up this new parenting thing.

After each idea, again inhale that gratitude, and exhale it throughout the body. Notice that feeling. Savor that feeling.

(Note: I find this one makes me a little teary. Perhaps best practiced with a box of tissues nearby.)