Practice #5: You know this one, the mother of them all… have a grateful heart. Write down three things you are grateful for every morning when you start your day. I know that even in the worst of circumstances you can find those gems. Perhaps, you are grateful for running water, hot water, a roof over your head, your support system, for all the laundry you have as it is evidence your family is alive and well. For your health or for the good medical care you have if you are struggling with your health. Be grateful for the wind that blows out the pollution, the food in your refrigerator, your car, your thick hair, fresh fruit and veggies, your comfy bed, your loyal pet,  your functioning body, your friends and family.  There are so many things we can be grateful for, even when we feel sad, lonely, frustrated or when we grieve our devastating losses. Acknowledging that you are grateful everyday for things in your life will take you to a place of relief, if not for just a few minutes. It is worth it.

This is a practice and practice makes permanent.  When you practice these essential five things daily, I promise you your day will be better, your happiness level increased and this will put a smile on your beautiful heart.