My name is Jillian Buckley and today we'll be moving through a short meditation focused on gratitude.
A gratitude practice can be a really powerful tool to have in your toolbox.
As humans we spend a lot of time gathering possessions and focusing on what we don't have.
And sometimes we forget that all we truly need in life we really already have.
So by taking a moment each day to appreciate what we already have in our lives we prepare our minds to be on the lookout for things to be grateful for.
Life is made up of so many tiny perfect moments like a sunrise,
A cup of coffee,
A text message from a friend.
But sometimes we get so caught up in trying to get to the next thing that we forget to pause and take in the magic that's all around us.
So let's take a moment now to get out any movement that your body wants you to take.
Maybe it's a stretch,
A twist,
And then settle yourself into a position where you can comfortably meditate.
Maybe you're seated on the floor or on a chair,
Maybe you're lying down.
Now take a deep breath in and out.
Breathe in again and let it go.
Keep mindfully breathing in and out.
Let's begin to picture what we're grateful for.
Be grateful that you are alive.
Be grateful for your five senses that allow you to take in the world.
Your ability to hear beautiful music.
Think food prepared by someone who loves you.
The pressure on your body of a tight hug.
The smell after a rainstorm.
Be grateful for beautiful sunsets.
Now think about the planet that you live on.
The air you breathe in and out.
Sunlight that lets you take everything in.
The fresh,
Clean water you drink.
Food that nourishes you and helps you feel connected to your family.
The fire that warms us and cooks that food.
Take a moment to appreciate all that you have.
Feel comfortable and safe.
Who are you grateful for?
Who do you spend your time with?
Who makes your life better?
Send gratitude to them for all of the moments you've had together.
Be thankful for all that you've learned from them and all they have given you.
Think about what you love doing.
Your hobbies.
The art you create.
The things that you build.
The projects you take on.
Feel gratitude for the skills and the talents that you have.
For those things in your life that bring you joy and fill you with pride.
Settle in and feel your sense of thankfulness and appreciation.
Let this gratitude sink deep into your heart.
Carry it with you as you move into your day.
Think of all of the blessings present in your life.
You have everything you need.
You have more than what you need.
You are so blessed.
As you move into your day,
Take your blessings out into the world and share them with everyone around you.
Let every interaction today be infused with your gratitude.
How fortunate we are to have this life.
Now start to move your attention to your body.
Begin moving fingers and toes.
Deepen the breath and move in any way that your body is asking you to.
Take your hands,
Place them over your heart and offer thanks for all that you have.
Have a beautiful day.
