Unlocking everyday magic: a guide to living with gratitude
We often think of gratitude as simply saying “thank you,” but it’s so much more, it is a mindset, a way of living that connects us to the magic all around us. Studies have shown that “participants who regularly engaged in recognizing and expressing gratitude experienced a significant increase in their overall sense of well-being.” There’s something seriously transformative about it—it doesn’t just shift our mood; it brings us back to ourselves in the most authentic and beautiful way.
Alright, picture this babe : you’re stuck at every single red light on your way to an important meeting. Annoying AF? But what if, instead of basically raging to yourself, you shifted to noticing something good? Maybe the song that pops on the radio is a favorite. Maybe the sun’s hitting the trees just right. That’s f*cking gratitude!!!—noticing the good things in every situation, even in the most mundane. When you can find at least one positive thing in your day, you’re holding the kind of power that radiates outward making you magnetic. For every negative thought counteract it with at least one positive thought right away and just wait, you’ll eventually catch yourself noticing more glimmers in each moment and those negative thoughts will happen less and less.
Gratitude isn’t just a feeling; it’s a superpower that connects you to the energy of the universe and, ULTIMATELY, to yourself. It’s been shown that people who embrace gratitude feel “more optimistic about their lives, experience a heightened sense of joy and happiness, and a bonus—they also feel a greater willingness to help others.” Gratitude makes life richer, deeper, and more beautiful.
This doesn’t need to be overwhelming, so take a deep breath! We got this! Here’s a few simple, soulful ways to invite more gratefulness into your life:
1. The Gratitude Jar
Grab an old jar, a few scraps of paper, and each day, write down one thing you’re grateful for. It could be anything: a friend’s laugh, a delicious coffee, the warmth of your bed, someone holding the door open for you. Add it to the jar. On days that feel a little heavy, take out a few notes and read them to remind yourself of the good in your life.
2. Write a Letter to Yourself
Pick a mood—maybe you’re feeling joyful, or maybe you’re a bit down. Write a letter to yourself from that place. On tough days, you can come back to a letter written from a brighter moment, and it’s literally receiving a message from your true higher self.
3. Hot Girl Walk
Put on your cutesy athleisure wear and your comfiest walking shoes. Skip the headphones, we are fully getting into it with nature. you want to be tuned into your surroundings; the birds chirping, the leaves crunching beneath each step, the wind whispering. Now that you’re in the zone hunny, consciously notice the little things around you. These walks are about the destination, but more about savoring each moment.
4. Thank-You Note to Yourself
Take a moment to thank yourself for the things you’ve overcome, the kindness you’ve shown others and yourself, or even just for taking the time to slow down. You’re a work in progress, and that deserves appreciation.
The 3-Day Gratitude Challenge
Ready to dive in? Here’s a challenge: for the next three days, take a few minutes each night to reflect on the smallest moments of gratitude in your day. Did you experience a slight shift in mood, perspective, or sense of calm? Even the tiniest shifts count. Gratitude is an ongoing journey—one that helps us see beauty and abundance in every corner of life.
We’d love to see your practices in action. Tag @asyouare_mag in your stories or drop a comment to share how you embrace gratitude. Remember, gratitude doesn’t need a reason or a special occasion. It’s always there, waiting to be noticed, connecting us to the magic within.
Xoxo
We are grateful for you babes!
Your witchy guide Alli & fairy bestie Alexis
Authors: Alli Guest and Alexis Charles
Cited Article:
Staff writer. (November 22, 2022) The Science Behind the Lasting Benefits of Gratitude. Retrieved from https://www.psychiatrist.com/news/the-science-behind-the-lasting-benefits-of-gratitude/
