Written by Christy Little, Intuitive Artist
Christy Little is an intuitive artist speaking in color. Through deep personal growth she found her authenticity and a new sense of inner peace. Now Christy uses creativity as a catalyst to make positive changes in the world.
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle of daily life, often overlooking the simple pleasures and profound moments that bring true joy and fulfillment. By practicing gratitude, awe, and presence, we can transform our outlook on life and foster a deeper sense of happiness and contentment. These practices are powerful tools that can help us reconnect with ourselves, appreciate the beauty around us, and live more fully in the now moment.
The practice of gratitude
Practicing gratitude helps us recognize and appreciate the good in our lives. It’s about acknowledging the blessings, big and small, that often go unnoticed. Practicing gratitude can be profound for our mental and emotional well-being. It can reduce stress, increase resilience, and promote a positive outlook on life. When we focus on what we’re grateful for, we shift our attention away from negative thoughts and experiences, fostering a more optimistic mindset.
How to practice gratitude
Keep a gratitude journal
Set aside a few minutes each day to write down three things you’re grateful for. They can be as simple as a delicious meal, a kind gesture from a friend, or a beautiful sunset. Reflecting on these moments can help you appreciate the positive aspects of your life.
Express your gratitude
Take time to thank the people who make a difference in your life. Whether it’s a heartfelt note, a phone call, or a face-to-face conversation, expressing your gratitude can strengthen your relationships and spread positivity.
Mindful reflection
Spend a few minutes each day reflecting on the things you’re grateful for. This can be done during meditation, while taking a walk, or before going to bed. Allow yourself to fully experience and savor these moments of gratitude.
Cultivating a sense of awe
Awe is a profound sense of wonder and amazement that can be triggered by experiences of vastness or beauty. It can be felt in the presence of nature, art, music, or even during moments of deep connection with others. Experiencing awe can have a transformative effect on our lives. It can expand our perception of the world, enhance our creativity, and increase our sense of connectedness. Awe can also reduce feelings of stress and promote a greater sense of well-being.
How to cultivate awe
Spend time in nature
Nature is a powerful source of awe. Take regular walks in the park, hike in the mountains, or simply sit by a body of water. Allow yourself to be fully present and take in the beauty and majesty of your surroundings.
Engage with art and music
Visit art galleries, listen to music, or watch performances that inspire you. Allow yourself to be moved by the creativity and expression of others.
Practice mindful observation
Pay attention to the small details in your everyday life that often go unnoticed. The intricate patterns on a leaf, the colors of the sky at sunset, or the sound of birds singing. Mindful observation can help you find awe in the ordinary.
Embracing presence
Being present means fully engaging with the current moment, without judgment or distraction. It’s about experiencing life as it unfolds, rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. Practicing presence can improve our emotional health, enhance our relationships, and increase our overall happiness. When we are present, we are more attentive, empathetic, and connected to ourselves and others.
How to embrace presence
Mindful breathing
Practice mindful breathing to anchor yourself in the present moment. Focus on your breath as it flows in and out, and gently bring your attention back whenever it wanders.
Digital detox
Take regular breaks from technology to reduce distractions and increase your ability to be present. Set aside specific times each day to disconnect from your devices and engage with the world around you.
Engage fully in activities
Whether you’re eating, working, or spending time with loved ones, make a conscious effort to be fully present. Listen actively, observe mindfully, and participate wholeheartedly.
Integrating gratitude, awe, and presence
By integrating gratitude, awe, and presence into our daily lives, we can cultivate a
deeper sense of joy and fulfillment. Here are some ways to combine these practices:
Gratitude walks
Take a daily walk and combine it with gratitude practice. As you walk, reflect on the things you’re grateful for and allow yourself to feel awe at the beauty of nature.
Mindful eating with gratitude
Practice mindful eating by savoring each bite and appreciating the flavors, textures, and aromas of your food. Reflect on the journey your meal took to reach your plate and the people involved in its preparation.
Gratitude and awe journal
Keep a journal where you not only write down things you’re grateful for but also moments of awe you’ve experienced. Reflect on how these moments have enriched your life.
Practicing gratitude, awe, and presence can profoundly impact our well-being, helping us lead more joyful and meaningful lives. By regularly engaging in these practices, we can shift our focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant, from the mundane to the extraordinary, and from distractions to the present moment. Start incorporating these practices into your daily routine, and watch as your life transforms into a journey filled with joy, wonder, and fulfillment
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Christy Little, Intuitive Artist
Christy Little is an intuitive artist speaking in color. Through deep personal growth she found her authenticity and a new sense of inner peace. Now Christy uses creativity as a catalyst to make positive changes in the world. She created the “Gratitude & Awe Journal,” available on Amazon, which helps people discover more joy in their everyday experiences through gratitude, delight, and awe. In an effort to help people feel good inside and out, Christy has collaborated to offer pieces of wearable art: original paintings designed into clothing and accessories, including luxury watches. She has a strong mission to help open the hearts of humanity through her journals, wearable art, and in her energetic paintings.
