It is so important to take time to think about the things that we have to be grateful for as part of giving thanks to the universe. Feeling and expressing gratitude has health benefits both physical and psychological, not to mention spiritual. Health benefits include better sleep, and a more optimistic outlook which is linked to a strengthened immune system.
It increases our self-esteem as it balances the resentfulness we may sometimes feel if we compare ourselves to others. It also open us up to more relationships, because expressing gratitude can help us to foster new friendships. It strengthens the relationships that we already have.
And feeling and expressing gratitude can increase mental toughness and our resiliency.
You can give thanks in prayer, in your journal, through art, through writing poetry and many other ways. Here is a poem that I wrote to give thanks.
I AM GRATEFUL
Feeling the gentle breeze
And hearing the wind rustle the leaves
Shimmering greens in sunlight
Feeling the connection
The circle of the Earth
Of life
Of nature
I am the earth
I am the wind
I am the trees
Living in the moment
I am here now
To enjoy eternity
A bird calls
An insect whirs
I am grateful
For this moment