Mindfulness Paired with Music Series: Day 2

Today's theme is #gratitude. In difficult moments we can take for granted what we do have, even the smallest gift, like your breath (you wouldn't be here without it). Of course, it's important to acknowledge when you're experiencing difficultly. Still, it's also just as important to be grateful for what you do have.

On Day 1, we talked about how to make the most of these mindfulness and music pairings. Check it out if you missed Day 1 and then start experimenting.

The Song: One Sweet World by Dave Matthews Band

Nine planets round the sun Only one does the sun embrace Upon this watered one So much to we take for granted -Dave Matthews Band

The Practice: Rest Safely with Gratitude

Start your day with gratitude. "In positive psychology research, gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships."

Now, make your way back to bed (yes, you heard me) and listen to Rest Safely with Gratitude here.

See the transcript below if you'd like to do it on your own.

We'll do this practice in bed, and you can do it every morning before you start your day. So, go back to your bed and get comfy. Allow yourself to sink into your bed.

Start by bringing to mind what you're grateful for in this moment... it could be how warm, and plush your bed is, the sound of birds singing outside, a gentle breeze coming in through the window, the ability to rest in peace and silence, the sun saying good morning with its rays warming your face, or the feeling of cuddling your loved one... what are you grateful for in this moment?

There's so much we take for granted. This is one sweet world.

Now focus deeply on this thing you're grateful for. Notice the details. The smells. The sounds. The physical sensations. Any emotions that arise.

Rest in the details. Allow them to soak in like the sun's embrace.

Here, we can rest safely.

Now imagine what life would be like without this thing you're grateful for. Maybe how hard, cold, or scary it would be to sleep without a bed. How gloomy, numb, or longing you would feel without the sunshine. How lonely or disconnected you might feel without the morning cuddle of your loved one.

So, what are you grateful for in this moment, and how can you bring this gratitude to your day?