Did you know that Mindfulness and Gratitude are skills that can be practiced to help support your recovery?
How can Gratitude help?
- The practice of gratitude focuses on what you do have, instead of what you don’t, shifting energy and priorities to more of a feeling of well-being and abundance.
- Start a gratitude journal. Before you begin the day or as you end the day, take a few minutes to write down who and what you appreciate and are grateful for on that day. Reflect on what shifts you observe over time.
How can Mindfulness help?
- Mindfulness is focusing on the task at hand and “using proven techniques to increase calm, focus, optimism …” This can be done by focusing on your breath.
- Try “belly breathing” or diaphragmatic breathing consistently throughout your day. Deep breathing activates your parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes recovery and rest for your body.
Tell us how you’ve added in Gratitude and Mindfulness to you day!
“Regular practice of mindfulness is an extremely valuable act particularly when managing pain and facing a change or challenging times, but can also be quite effective in maintaining a positive or successful experience. Journaling can be a great way to check in with yourself, and reflect on challenging moments or times of strength. Practicing gratitude through journaling helps to create a positive outlook on what we can do and thankfulness for all we have which further supports this path to healthy behavior change. I would recommend adding-in a quick morning yoga, breathing or meditation minute to start your day off strong.”
– Kristen Wentworth DPT
Lori Duran, Director of Health & Wellness