Discover the power of self-care with gratitude journaling. This practice can improve your overall wellness and promote mindfulness and relaxation.

By focusing on the good things in life, you can reduce stress and cultivate emotional well-being. Use this article to start your journey of self-improvement and personal growth through the simple act of writing down what you're grateful for. Incorporate gratitude journaling into your healthy habits and practice self-compassion as you discover the benefits of this effective stress relief technique.

Start your journey towards a more positive mindset and a healthier lifestyle today.

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What is gratitude journaling?

Literally count your blessings.

In the midst of our stressful and busy lives, we somehow get accustomed to focus on the negatives which overshadow the joyous things and people in our lives. Thus, gratitude journaling is making a conscious effort to routinely acknowledge and be grateful for small to big events, people, and comforts of life. Research has supported that this small exercise can have positive effects on our mental wellbeing, increase optimism about the future, enable sound sleep and reduce stress. 

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Why do we have to write and not just think?

A study suggested that decluttering thoughts into concrete language increases our awareness which deepens the emotional impact.

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Certain pointers to ease your journey:

• When to write? – Well, try to schedule time which works best for you. However, writing the journal before sleeping can enhance quality of sleep. For instance, at the end of the day, you might be worried about what did you not achieve, what went wrong, and what will happen tomorrow. Writing and thinking positively counters this thought process directs your mind towards more peaceful and joyous instances.
• How to start? – Start slow and easy. Try writing 3-5 things to begin with. They can be as simple as a good lunch to more complex instances such as a promotion or someone getting engaged.
• Be specific about instances and focus on depth instead of breadth of events. 
• Instead of only accumulating the good things and events, evaluate what your life would have looked like without some people or certain circumstances.
• Show gratitude towards unfavourable circumstances which you have evaded. 
• Try not to be repetitive. If you must, then try to broaden your thought process and discover new aspects of why you are grateful for them. 

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Download our gratitude worksheet and start your journey towards a more positive mindset today.

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