On the Habit Thrive Podcast this month, we are focusing on gratitude and began last week by talking about the habit of our gratitude practice and why it may not be working.

Today, on Episode #68, we will explore the profound connection between mindfulness and gratitude and delve into how practicing mindfulness can enhance our ability to experience - and express - gratitude in our daily lives.

I just recently experienced one of my favorite ways to practice gratitude: On a long car ride.

My (already normally long) 7-hour trip became 10 because of the holiday traffic.

And a time that may have otherwise been spent lamenting the traffic, the wasted time or the sore and stiff back I might expect from sitting stationary for so long instead became a time for gratitude.

And it all started with mindfulness.

I have three techniques that I love to use that help make mindfulness and gratitude flow more easily into these moments:

• Mindful breathing:Taking a few moments to focus on our breath can anchor us in the present and allow us to cultivate gratitude for the simple act of being alive.
• Body scanning: This practice involves systematically scanning our body from head to toe, paying attention to any sensations or areas of tension. This helps us develop a deeper appreciation for our bodies and their abilities.
• Loving-Kindness Meditation: Directing well-wishes toward ourselves and others cultivates feelings of kindness and compassion and fosters gratitude for the interconnectedness of all beings.

So I can - and did - incorporate these 3 techniques into my drive.

At the start of the drive, I like to recite a meditation that brings into the forefront the idea of my trip being safe, comfortable and easy - not just for me, but for others on the road around me.

I make sure to position myself in my seat with my hands on the wheel and focus on my breathing for a moment before venturing out (or any time I feel I need to hit the “reset” button).

And I periodically do a body scan to check on where I may be feeling tension or pressure.

All of these things bring about gratitude:

• Gratitude for a safe vehicle to travel in, good weather and safe drivers around me.
• Gratitude for the moment and my ability and freedom to go where I want and need to go.
• Gratitude for a stronger body that can endure a long ride.

And all of this can be applied to other areas of our lives:

• Any time we are in pain.
• When we are letting go into sleep.
• In our relationships.

By cultivating mindfulness, we become more present, aware, and appreciative of the abundance that surrounds us.

So practice these 3 techniques the next time you are in your car, in your bed, sitting on your front porch, etc.

You may be surprised by the positive changes gratitude brings to your life.

Lorrie xoxox

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Habits, Mindfulness Routines & Self Care for Women 50 & Beyond