How I Start My Day with Mindfulness and Gratitude
I’ve been sticking to my morning mindfulness practice for 634 days straight, and honestly, it’s been a game changer for me. I use the Insight Timer app, which has opened up a world of voices from people practicing mindfulness all over—places like Norway, Vancouver, and beyond. It’s amazing hearing all these different perspectives on spirituality and just learning how other people center themselves.
Every morning, I wake up, and the first thing I do is practice gratitude. This wasn’t always easy; in the beginning, it felt awkward, almost like trying to fit into a sleeve that’s too tight. But now, it’s second nature. I can literally look at anything—like my steering wheel—and think, “Wow, how lucky am I to have this?” Can you imagine driving without a steering wheel? Or think about the signs on the road that show us where to go. Someone invented all of that, and it’s easy to forget how much there is to appreciate in everyday life.
One of the things I’m most grateful for is my ability to drive to the gym. I use hand controls since my right leg isn’t always cooperative, but even that feels like a blessing. I get to work out and challenge my body in ways that keep me going, even when things are tough. Today, for example, I wasn’t sure if I’d get to the gym because my leg felt stiff, but I set my intention, got up, and made it happen.
Setting intentions is another big part of my day. Before I leave the house, I already know what I’m doing at the gym, or at least I have a plan. Whether it works out or not, having that intention makes me feel more in control, more focused. And sure enough, today, I ended up doing some mileage on the elliptical, even though I wasn’t sure I could at first.
I also meditate every day. Some days it’s a guided talk that really hits home; other days, I might turn something off if it’s not resonating. But I’m always grateful for the people out there who are sharing their knowledge, even when it doesn’t fully connect. We all try, right? And we all get better with practice.
My nights end with gratitude, too. I listen to a meditation as I fall asleep that’s all about being thankful and recognizing how lucky I am to wake up each day. Whether it’s working through stiff legs, handling MS, or just getting through a tough day, this practice reminds me there’s always something to be grateful for. It’s not always easy, but it makes a world of difference.
In the end, my morning practice helps me feel like I’m living with purpose. It’s not just about getting through the day but being mindful of how I approach each moment, each challenge. I truly believe we can all rise above and crush it, no matter what life throws at us.
How do you incorporate mindfulness or gratitude into your daily routine? I’d love to hear about the small things you’re grateful for, or how you set your intentions for the day! Share your thoughts in the comments below.
