Yes, thanks

We can say yes and feel thankful. There are so many things we can say yes to. We can appreciate these things – our body, our eyes. With our eyes we can see the blue sky and the mountains.

This past week has been a week of suffering for productivity due to harsh loadshedding. Last night (Thursday), I reached the "yes, thanks" point and let go. As I let go, and focused on all the good in my life, I felt my energy being restored.

Of course, it might not be that easy to identify things to be thankful for. Below, I’ve highlighted some gratitude journal prompts that can help you across all ways of expressing gratefulness. If you’re looking for gratitude examples, these can help:

• Simple pleasures. Think about some of the everyday things that you take joy in. A nice cup of coffee, your favourite song on the radio, a particularly cosy legging. Anything that has brought you pleasure can be celebrated.

• Happy memories. It doesn’t have to be in there here and now; you could focus on positive moments from the past. Memorable days, happy events, or times when you’ve felt content are all worth being grateful for.

• Important people. Your friends, family, and even your colleagues can play a big role in your life. Think about the people whose love and support has helped you through difficult times and those who have been there with you for the good times.

• Nature. The world around us is full of wonder and beauty. Consider something from your environment that you find appealing or amazing, or simply enjoyable. The warm sun on your face, the smell of freshly cut grass, or the beauty of Spring’s first bloom.

• Acts of kindness. If someone has done something nice for you, no matter how small, being grateful can enhance your positive feelings. Similarly, if you’ve carried out a kind act, celebrate the mutually shared experience.

• Accomplishments. Throughout your life, you will have worked towards goals, mastered skills, and demonstrated your abilities. Highlighting these accomplishments can help to boost your self-esteem.

• Tranquil moments. Be grateful for the time you have to reflect on life or the moments where you can relax and take in all that’s around you. They don’t need to be incredible or extra special; you can still express gratitude for them.

To quote Thay, “Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.” We can choose to create more joy, love and happiness in our lives simply by choosing to notice what it is that we are grateful for around us.