Gratitude Practices: Yoga and Journalling for Thanksgiving

As we gather for Thanksgiving, we’re reminded that gratitude is more than a seasonal thought — it’s a practice that can shift how we move, think, and connect with ourselves and others. Gratitude doesn’t always come easily, especially in times of stress or change, but weaving it into our yoga and journalling can nurture a deeper sense of presence and joy.

This year, consider embracing practices that ground you in thankfulness through movement, reflection, and mindful moments.

Heart-Centred Yoga Poses for Gratitude

Yoga gives us the opportunity to open not only the body, but also the heart. By choosing postures that expand the chest and create space for breath, we invite feelings of connection, compassion, and gratitude. Try these gratitude-inducing poses:

• Supported Fish Pose (Matsyasana variation): Place a bolster or cushion beneath the upper back, allowing the heart to gently open towards the sky. Breathe slowly and invite gratitude for the support beneath you.

• Camel Pose (Ustrasana): A powerful backbend that lifts the heart, encouraging openness and vulnerability. Hold for a few breaths, focusing on one thing you are thankful for in this moment.

• Seated Forward Fold with Gratitude (Paschimottanasana): Fold forward with hands resting gently on your legs. As you soften into the stretch, silently list three things you appreciate about your body.

• Child’s Pose (Balasana): Bowing down in this grounding posture can be an offering of humility and thankfulness. Rest your forehead on the mat, acknowledging gratitude for the present moment.

Journalling Prompts for Gratitude

Journalling allows us to give words to our inner experiences, creating space to notice what’s often overlooked. These prompts can help you uncover and anchor gratitude:

1. What are three small things from today that made me smile?

2. Which challenge in my life has taught me something I’m now grateful for?

3. Who has supported me recently, and how can I express my thanks?

4. What part of my body am I most thankful for, and why?

5. How does gratitude feel in my body right now?

Short Mindful Moments to Cultivate Gratitude

Gratitude doesn’t require a full yoga class or pages of journalling — it can be built into small pauses throughout the day. Try these mindful moments:

• Morning Breath of Thanks: Before getting out of bed, take three slow breaths. With each inhale, think of something you’re grateful for. With each exhale, let go of tension.

• Gratitude Pause Before Meals: Place your hands over your heart for a breath before eating, acknowledging the food, the hands that prepared it, and the nourishment it provides.

• Evening Gratitude Scan: As you prepare for rest, mentally scan your day and recall one moment that brought comfort, joy, or learning.

Closing Thoughts

Thanksgiving can remind us that gratitude is not just about the grand gestures, but about noticing the quiet blessings woven into daily life. Whether it’s through a heart-opening yoga pose, a journalling reflection, or a mindful pause, gratitude is always accessible.

This season, may your practice be a gentle reminder: gratitude is a gift we give ourselves as much as we give to others.

Disclaimer
All beliefs and perspectives shared in this blog are uniquely mine, shaped by my experiences and personal journey. However, due to challenges with language and expression following a brain injury, I use AI as a supportive tool in crafting my blog entries. This collaboration helps me articulate my thoughts more clearly while staying true to my voice.