Gratitude

Happy November, Everyone!

You read that right: November, the month that ushers us into Thanksgiving! Over the next few weeks, we’ll see reminders everywhere to reflect on the abundance of beauty and goodness that exists all around us. But while this message of gratitude might feel a little tired or overdone (cue the involuntary eye rolls), those of us who study yoga know that gratitude is a powerful and transformative practice, woven into the very fabric of yoga philosophy. So allow me a moment to make a case for why gratitude deserves a second look and maybe even a central place in your yoga practice this month.

Gratitude as Presence: Practicing Santosha

One of the foundational concepts in yoga philosophy is Santosha, or contentment. From the Niyamas (personal practices that guide us inward), this principle isn’t just about being satisfied with the status quo. It’s about cultivating peace and appreciation for each moment, regardless of our circumstances. Gratitude, in this light, becomes a practice of grounding ourselves in the here and now, away from that endless mental checklist, budget worries, and world concerns.

When we practice Santosha, we’re invited to let go of the constant need for “more” and instead appreciate what we already have. In yoga, this can be as simple as savoring each breath, feeling the stretch of a well-loved yoga pose, or noticing the warmth and energy flowing through our bodies. Whenever we consciously choose contentment and gratitude, we rewire ourselves to recognize that the present is enough.

Karma Yoga: Giving Thanks Through Action

Yoga reminds us that gratitude doesn’t have to be a private, inward feeling. The philosophy of Karma Yoga, or selfless service, shows us that gratitude can also be an active, outward expression. In Karma Yoga, we practice selflessness by serving others without expecting anything in return. Think of it as the “yoga of action,” a way to put our gratitude into practice by actively contributing to the well-being of those around us.

Consider how you might bring Karma Yoga into your daily life during this Thanksgiving season. Maybe it’s a random act of kindness, offering your time to someone who needs it, or volunteering in your community. By transforming gratitude into action, we deepen our own sense of fulfillment and create more connection and warmth in the lives of others.

Letting Go of Expectations with Aparigraha

Yoga gives us a fresh perspective in a culture that often equates success with acquisition. Aparigraha, or non-possessiveness, encourages us to release attachment to material things, outcomes, or even how we think things should be. This is huge for gratitude because we no longer focus on what we lack when we practice letting go. Instead, we start to see and appreciate what we have — the things we may have taken for granted.

Imagine coming to your mat without expectations for how you’ll perform or what you’ll achieve. You’re free to focus on the simple joy of moving, breathing, and feeling your body just as it is. This, too, is a kind of gratitude. Aparigraha helps us let go of perfectionism and “not enough” thinking and embrace an appreciation for what’s here, right now.

Bhakti Yoga: Gratitude as Devotion

In Bhakti Yoga, the yoga of devotion, gratitude takes on a spiritual, heartfelt dimension. Bhakti invites us to feel connected to something larger than ourselves, whether that’s the universe, divine energy, or simply the pulse of life itself. When we approach life with reverence and humility, our gratitude deepens into devotion.

Consider setting aside a moment each day to celebrate something in your life — maybe a beautiful sunset, a loving friend, or the simple gift of a quiet evening. This practice honors Bhakti’s idea of gratitude, creating space for a daily ritual that fosters a sense of wonder and connectedness.

Finding Gratitude in the Little Things

If all this sounds a bit lofty, start with the basics. You’re here, reading this blog on a computer or phone, with access to the internet — that alone is something to feel thankful for! Or consider your senses: what was the last thing you tasted that brought you pleasure? What can you see around you right now? These everyday experiences become small gratitude checkpoints that ground us and help us notice the abundance that exists in the little things.

The Science Backs It Up

We’re not just practicing gratitude because it sounds nice; science supports it! Research shows that practicing gratitude regularly can improve both mental and physical health, boost self-esteem, strengthen resilience, improve relationships, and even enhance productivity. In other words, gratitude can be an essential tool for personal growth and well-being.

So, This Month, Let’s Practice

Pausing to practice gratitude is one of the simplest, most accessible forms of self-care. It brings us back to ourselves, connects us with others, and reminds us of what really matters. Doing so fills us with a kind of happiness and peace that isn’t dependent on circumstances.

So, let me kick things off. I am incredibly grateful for YOU! Your support and engagement allow me to share my passion for yoga, personal growth, and building a mindful community here at OYC. Thank you for being here, reading, and helping to create this space with us. <3

Now, it’s your turn! Take a moment today to recognize one thing, big or small, that brings you joy, and hold that gratitude close.

With Endless Gratitude,

Kristine and the OYC Team