“Gratitude opens the door to the power, the wisdom, the creativity of the universe. You open the door through gratitude.” ~ Deepak Chopra

In just a few days we will celebrate Thanksgiving. In the United States, families have a lovely tradition of going around the table and encouraging everyone to share a few things that they are grateful for. I love the fact that this holiday serves as a reminder to give thanks, but I find it hard to imagine limiting yourself to a single day or a single season to practice gratitude.

Living every day in gratitude.

For me, gratitude is a habit, a constant presence that permeates every moment of my life. I wake up in gratitude, and that feeling expands as I go about my day. When I open my eyes, I’m immediately thankful for the sun streaming through my windows, and my little dogs cuddled beside me. The limitless potential of a fresh new day fills my heart with joy.

As I brew my coffee and check my appointments, I’m conscious of how lucky I am to live in this beautiful place, surrounded by people I love, doing meaningful work that allows me to spread love and light throughout the world. As the day goes on, I marvel at the beauty all around me, taking time to admire the flowers that bloom in my garden and smelling the crisp scent of citrus as I pick a few lemons to bring inside.

I always make it a point to send gratitude and love to the people I come in contact with. I talk to so many students, friends, and staff members every day, in person, through social media, on the phone, and on Skype. So many opportunities for soul-connections! Taking a moment to make someone feel appreciated and recognized benefits the giver as much as the recipient.

This exchange of positive energy creates what I can only describe as a “gratitude vortex” an ever-expanding energy field that attracts more things to be thankful for.

To experience your own gratitude vortex, try starting the day with this visualization. You might try printing it out and propping it on a bedside table, so it’s the first thing you see when you wake up. It won’t be long before this ritual becomes a habit, with no reminders necessary!

Infinite Gratitude Mind Journey:

Imagine a swirling circle of light with beautiful colors, all blending into one another. Picture the colors, the green of the heart chakra, the deep indigo of the intuitive third eye, the beautiful violet of the crown chakra.

As you watch, the colors continue to blend and expand in a stunning kaleidoscope.

Now picture the people in your life and your pets, and think of the things you look forward to doing in the upcoming day – exercising, walking in the park, having a cup of tea, meditating, greeting your co-workers. As you create each happy image in your mind, say a silent thank you.

Imagine these positive events becoming part of your swirling circle of light. Realize that they are infinite – they will always be with you – they are a part of your energy field.

Now imagine this beautiful swirl of colors surrounding you as you go about your day. As you connect with other people, they too are surrounded by this field of light, love, and gratitude. The beautiful energy grows and expands.

Now imagine your dreams, goals, everything you want in your life. Picture them becoming part of your beautiful gratitude vortex.

Give thanks for what you have, and for the infinite gifts, the universe has in store for you.

I hope this exercise ignites the power of gratitude in your soul. I wish you love,  light, and happiness today, during the holiday season, and throughout the upcoming year!