There are times in your recovery that will be smooth sailing, but there will be other times that the waters are rough and you may feel like you are losing control. No matter which moment you’re in, it’s important to implement gratitude in your daily life. Routines are helpful for keeping us on track. Implement gratitude into your routine to help keep you on track during your recovery.
Gratitude
It’s no secret that practicing gratitude can increase our well-being. If we are feeling low, gratitude can return us to a balanced mindset. A balanced mindset must include gratitude. It helps us look at the positives, keeps us open to new experiences, and betters our lives. The more gratitude we practice, the more fulfilled we become, which can lower the stress in our lives and help us during our recovery. Let’s say we have been feeling down about our physical image. Instead of focusing on all the things you don’t like about your body, write out three things that you are thankful for. It could be something as simple as you are thankful that your body keeps you safe or that your body brings you happiness because of the things you can do with it. It’s important to look past the outside of your physical body and look within, including your mind and spirit, when you are searching for things to be grateful for.
Gratitude Barriers
We know that gratitude isn’t always an easy thing. There are some things that keep you from being grateful. It’s important to know that you can overcome those barriers and transform your well-being. An overall negative mindset can be a huge barrier. If you aren’t used to a more leveled mindset that includes positivity, it may be a difficult thing for you to accomplish. The more you practice, the smaller that barrier becomes. It will soon become automatic and you don’t have to think about it as much. An exercise you can try is figuring out five things you are grateful for. If you can find five things, go for ten. A barrier to this could be your mental illness or substance use disorder. If your brain is so engrained in negativity, it’s easy to go back to that old pattern. This is all the more reason to get and stay healthy and sober. It makes gratitude easier.
Keep a Journal
Keeping a gratitude journal can help you focus on the things you are thankful for. You can make the journal as simple as a sheet of paper or you can make it fancy if that’s your thing. Whatever it is, make sure to write every day and write for yourself. Repetition helps to create the gratitude habit. Writing for yourself means that you are honest with yourself. You don’t have to share your journal with everyone, so write your heart out.
Arbor Behavioral Healthcare is here to help you implement gratitude in your daily recovery journey. Call us today at 844-413-2690. We can’t wait to speak with you!