● Self-appreciation — Every day , practice saying five good things you like about yourself . It may be awkward or difficult at first ; however , over time it will become easier .
● Tell someone you appreciate them — Whether a simple statement over the phone or an expression of thanks when someone helps you with something at work , letting someone know you are grateful for them not only improves your own mood but improves the other person ’ s mood as well .
● Write a letter of thanks to someone — This can be a letter you send or keep for yourself . Try writing to a friend or a loved one and tell them about a time they did something for you that you were grateful for .
● Give thanks for little things — You can be grateful for little things that may be insignificant to others . For example : a hot cup of coffee or getting a great parking spot . These little things can give your mood a little boost and train your brain to focus on the positive rather than the negative .
● Enjoy the beauty of nature — Technology is all around us . Putting those devices aside and noticing the beauty of nature by going for a walk , a hike , or even a drive can be good for the soul . The ocean , trees , flowers , and animals can all have a calming effect and help you to feel connected to something bigger than ourselves .
Unfortunately , our time and energy are often focused on pursuing things we don ’ t currently have — a longing for a nicer car , luxury vacation , or bigger house . Gratitude reverses our priorities to help us appreciate the people and things we do have . If you are kind to yourself and grateful toward others , people will likely start by taking your lead and feeding off your positive energy . Before you know it , the world has the potential to be a more thoughtful and kinder place .
ARTACares is included at no additional cost with all ARTA Benefit Plans and is provided by HumanaCare , an Alberta-based health and wellness provider with more than thirty-five years of Canadian health care experience . For more information on health and wellness topics , webinars , and articles , visit your
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