Gratitude: in three parts
Part I:
Benefits of Cultivating a Daily Practice
“Gratitude is a powerful catalyst for happiness. It’s the spark that lights a fire of joy in your soul.”
A daily gratitude practice can be tremendously beneficial, and this time of year provides us with a sweet reminder to give thanks. Studies show that a focus on gratitude leads to a more optimistic life. It increases our feelings of happiness and well-being. Cultivating gratitude improves our mental and physical health. It enhances empathy, improves sleep, augments self-esteem, elevates resilience, and strengthens relationships. When we appreciate the good things we have, it diminishes any concerns for what we lack.
Recognizing the little things for which we are grateful can drastically influence our outlook on life. Pay attention to those things and life’s abundance begins to reveal itself. That perfect latte, a smile from a stranger, hearing your favorite song on the radio, or resting your head on a soft pillow at night.
If you haven’t already, consider creating a daily gratitude practice. Find the method that works for you and take a little time each day to give thanks. Whether that be writing down five things each day that you were grateful for, listening to a few minutes of a guided meditation on gratitude, or spending the first five minutes of your day thinking about those things for which you are truly appreciative.
Part II:
Self-Love
“The universe is not outside of you. Look inside yourself, everything that you want, you already are.”
We often focus on things outside of ourselves when we think of what we’re grateful for. We think of family, friends, basic needs being met, creature comforts, or the beauty to be found in nature. But how often do you give thanks for all that is within YOU?
This time of year, I am humbled by all the gifts and blessings I’ve been lucky to receive throughout my life. But what about giving thanks for what I bring to the table (I know there’s a Thanksgiving Day pun in there somewhere)? If you need a little inspiration, take a look at the following questions and be grateful for all that you are.
What are you passionate about?
What hardships or obstacles have you overcome?
What are three qualities you love about yourself?
Have you healed or are you in the process of healing from a physical or emotional blow?
What is your best talent or ability?
What are your favorite aspects of your physical being? Your smile, your eyes, your ankles, your eyelashes?
What have you created throughout your lifetime?
How can your weaknesses also be considered personal strengths?
Have you ever learned something from making a mistake?
What makes you uniquely you?
When we unabashedly let our light shine, it radiates out into the world and makes others feel good, too. People gravitate toward us if we spread positivity, hope, love…I truly believe that makes the world a better place. And that, my friend, is something to be grateful for.
Part III
the boudoir studios new york community
“Gratitude also opens your eyes to the limitless potential of the universe, while dissatisfaction closes your eyes to it”
I can’t conclude this post without describing how grateful I am to the team at Boudoir Studios New York and for what they do.
I am beyond grateful for having experienced my own boudoir shoot with them. I can’t possibly mention enough times how the experience made my confidence skyrocket. It provided me with mental and physical images that help me connect to my most sensual and beautiful self. I now have, for eternity, an elegant album full of images that remind me of my bravery and unique value. I am proud to share the images and EXTREMELY GRATEFUL to also share my story and experience with others… to encourage everyone to find the genuine value within themselves.
I am also extremely appreciative for all the encouragement and positivity I find within The Boudoir Lounge, our Facebook group. I am thankful to have a safe space where we all share stories, successes, fears, business ventures, gorgeous images, special weekend moments, tips & tricks, and interest in all things boudoir and/or erotica. Among the potentially negative vibes, comments, and memes that I come across in other areas of social media, the lounge is a comforting space where all are welcomed, valued, encouraged, inspired, and heard. It is a little digital treat when I need that extra boost. For me, the lounge is also a reminder that we’re all in this together and that sensuality and self-love are such essential components of a robust and beautiful life.
Lastly, I am over-the-moon grateful for the entire team at Boudoir Studios New York. I cannot emphasize enough what a dedicated, competent, and caring team of lovely individuals I have had the pleasure to meet. Asif, Nicki, Andrea, Zach, Teresa, Brittany, Tiffany, Shoranda, and Bekky, each bring their real, raw love and passion into every one of their interactions and endeavors. The minute you meet them, you are instantly put at ease, yet energized by their expertise and interest in revealing your true beauty. Their talent for bringing out your precious best is truly AMAZING. Their positivity and creativity are contagious. I know because I have had the good fortune to work with them and learn from what they have to offer. It has been invaluable. And for that, I am truly grateful.
“Life is strange, beautiful, and terrifying...and I am thankful for every minute of it that I have had. I am thankful for every minute yet to come”
“She could go on asking herself why roses had thorns or she could be thankful that thorns had roses”