GRATITUDE OR APPRECIATION – WHICH SHOULD YOU USE?
YOGA’S APPROACH TO GRATITUDE
The concept of gratitude appears in all religions and various ancient texts as a virtue and blessing from a higher power. In Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras it is set out at 2.39:
“Acknowledging abundance (aparigraha) we recognize the blessings in everything and gain insights into the purpose for our worldly existence.” ~ translation by Nischala Joy Devi, The Secret Power of Yoga.
This is a two-part practice of (i) acknowledging abundance and, (ii) recognizing the blessings in everything. In yoga, it is understood that this practice connects you to an appreciation of the abundance around you, this enables you to see the gifts of the world. As you practice gratitude and acknowledge the role of others in that thanks, there is a space to tap into thanking something behind all external: a Divine source.
YOGA’S APPROACH TO GRATITUDE
The concept of gratitude appears in all religions and various ancient texts as a virtue and blessing from a higher power. In Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras it is set out at 2.39:
“Acknowledging abundance (aparigraha) we recognize the blessings in everything and gain insights into the purpose for our worldly existence.” ~ translation by Nischala Joy Devi, The Secret Power of Yoga.
This is a two-part practice of (i) acknowledging abundance and, (ii) recognizing the blessings in everything. In yoga, it is understood that this practice connects you to an appreciation of the abundance around you, this enables you to see the gifts of the world. As you practice gratitude and acknowledge the role of others in that thanks, there is a space to tap into thanking something behind all external: a Divine source.
WHEN TO USE APPRECIATION ALONE
It is essential to build your own inner strength, esteem and willpower. A positive value without interdependence on another is vital for this self-building process. This applies especially where relationships have a power imbalance: you want to recognize your self-worth. For example, you may not feel that you can be grateful to your boss when they approve your leave because it is in your contract to receive leave for your work, but you can appreciate the approval if it is at a busy time of the work calendar. You do not have to be grateful in all situations.
APPRECIATION EXERCISE
Select any subject, but start with something simple like: “I appreciate that I have water to hydrate my body”.
GRATITUDE IS A SOCIAL EXCHANGE
The second aspect of gratitude is key to being a human: that you acknowledge the role of others in your positive experiences. Through valued reciprocity in social interactions, we build and maintain relationships, which connects us all and drove our evolution. Studies demonstrate that gratitude brings us: – New and better relationships – Larger social networks – A larger spread of gratitude and abundance – Positive social emotions to a larger group of people, reducing ‘them vs us’ feelings
WHEN TO PRACTICE GRATITUDE
If a relationship in your life is struggling, it can be positive to stop and reflect on what that person brings to your life. When you have something, express it to them.
But have no fear. If you can’t be grateful to someone with honesty, then go back to appreciation. Appreciation is often simpler and more achievable an emotion to obtain. You can still express appreciation to another that will begin to take you toward gratitude.
GRATITUDE EXERCISE
You can pick any subject, but something neutral can help to start. Try: “I’m grateful for these three blue things: …”
APPRECIATION AND GRATITUDE BECOME SPIRITUAL
To see the inherent wonder in something draws us into the creation of the universe. To see the amazing diversity, uniqueness and perfection in all that exists is a recognition of something greater than us. Whether you relate to this as science or a specific God, it is an extension of appreciation that moves into gratitude for something Divine.
Much gratitude to
Nid
https://www.blueosa.com
