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Writer's pictureJody Reece

A Yogic Approach to Thanksgiving - Cultivate Gratitude


cultivate gratitude
Happy Thanksgiving

As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, it's a wonderful time to reflect on the practice of gratitude and its profound impact on our well-being. In the spirit of yoga, where mindfulness and appreciation are integral, let's explore how we can cultivate gratitude not just on Thanksgiving Day but as a daily practice.


  1. Begin with Breath: Start your yoga practice with a few moments of mindful breathing. Inhale deeply, acknowledging the breath as a gift of life, and exhale, letting go of any tension or stress. This simple act sets the tone for a grateful practice.

  2. Gratitude Meditation: Incorporate a gratitude meditation into your session. Focus on aspects of your life that you are thankful for. It could be the support of loved ones, the strength of your bodies, or the beauty of the present moment.

  3. Heart-Opening Poses: Explore heart-opening yoga poses to physically and energetically open the heart center. Poses like Camel Pose (Ustrasana) and Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana) can help release emotions and create space for gratitude.

  4. Reflect on Abundance: Reflect on the abundance. In yoga philosophy, the concept of Santosha (contentment) teaches us to find joy in the present moment, appreciating what we have rather than focusing on what we lack.

  5. Partner Poses: Incorporate partner poses. Working together in poses like Tree Pose (Vrksasana) or Dancer's Pose (Natarajasana) can symbolize the support we receive from those around us.

  6. Gratitude Journaling: Keep a gratitude journal. Write down three things you are grateful for each day. This simple practice can shift focus towards positive aspects of life and enhance overall well-being.



As we come together to celebrate Thanksgiving, let's carry the spirit of gratitude beyond the holiday and into our daily lives. Yoga provides us with tools to cultivate mindfulness, appreciation, and a deeper connection to ourselves and the world around us. By infusing our practice with gratitude, we not only enhance our well-being but also contribute to creating a more compassionate and harmonious world.

Wishing you a Thanksgiving filled with joy, gratitude, and the abundance of love.

Namaste.


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