I have been working with this mantra recently, “I accept the abundance of the universe into my life” and it has a truly magical affect: As soon as I say these words to myself, I start to become aware of, and appreciate the abundance that I had heretofore overlooked.

Most of the time, most of us are wrapped up in the thinking mind, the ego. Because of evolution and the need for survival, our thoughts tend to skew negative -toward lack.

We spend a lot of time thinking about what is wrong, or what is missing, and it creates suffering in us.

“I accept the abundance of the universe into my life” focuses on what is going right.{Tweet it!}

At night in my room, it helped me to appreciate my cozy, comforting bedroom that we had created in our own home.

The other day as I said it, I started to feel and relish the warm sun shining down on my arms.

The next day was overcast as I left after dropping my girls off, but I said my mantra and I started to enjoy the chorus of birdsong the accompanied my walk.

It was such a gift to move into a state of appreciation. My mood lightened, and I could simply enjoy my walk home.

The universe is abundant. We are in a world that is constantly growing – the galaxies ever-expanding. As part of it, we are constantly growing too.

We are always in a process of change, the great thing is, we get to decide how we want to change.{Tweet it!}

What we put our energy and attention into grows.

Are we going to focus on the same worries, perceived flaws, and problems until we are like a tree with a big gnarled old knot that impedes its growth? Or can we emulate the strength and beauty of tree always putting out new branches, reaching ever outward and upward?

“I accept the abundance of the universe into my life” puts us in a place of gratitude. In yoga it is part of the path called Santosha, or contentment.

Thich Nhat Hanh encourages us to practice “selective watering,” or choosing to cultivate positive emotions. And not only does an attitude of appreciation make us feel better, but research shows that positive emotions, “broaden peoples ideas, making us more receptive and more creative.”

As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, take time to practice appreciation in your life. It’s profound change is simple to begin.

Now it’s your turn.

In the comments below, tell us 3 things you appreciate that you had been previously overlooking.

Thank you so much for reading! It is truly a gift to me to be able to water YOUR good seeds.

Be well,

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