Gratitude has been my guiding light through some of the darkest chapters of my life. One of the most challenging times was during the height of COVID-19 while I was working in a skilled nursing facility. I witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of social isolation as depression and dementia rates skyrocketed. The heaviness of the environment weighed on me daily as I saw patients disconnected from loved ones, grappling with loneliness, and losing their sense of purpose.
Amid the emotional toll, I found a lifeline in something so simple yet profoundly impactful: gratitude. It started as an intentional practice to help me cope and as a way to help patients improve their mood and mental well-being. Over time, it became a cornerstone of my daily routine. Not just saying aloud what I was grateful for, but taking the time to write down three things each day that I appreciated—no matter how small or seemingly insignificant—shifted my perspective. It was an anchor on days when the weight felt unbearable.
Writing down moments of gratitude allowed me to appreciate life in ways I hadn’t before. Suddenly, small joys—the warmth of the sun, the kindness of a colleague, or even just a few minutes of peace with a cup of tea—became sources of strength. This practice helped me to not only show up for my patients but also for myself and those who needed me most. Gratitude grounded me, gave me perspective, and helped me find a sense of purpose even amid the chaos.
Gratitude played a powerful role during another deeply personal struggle: trying for a child. After enduring the heartbreak of miscarriage, I felt lost. There were days when hope felt distant, and I questioned whether I had the emotional strength to keep going. Yet, even through the pain, I continued my gratitude practice. Every day, I found three things to be thankful for—no matter how small. This simple act helped me rebuild trust and connection with my body and my husband as we navigated this emotional journey together.
It wasn’t an instant fix, but it brought clarity, patience, and a renewed sense of peace. That gratitude helped us to face each day, no matter how difficult, with open hearts. And when our journey led to the birth of our beautiful child, I felt not only gratitude for our daughter but also for every challenge that led us to her. It made our joy that much deeper.
Most recently, gratitude has helped me cope with the passing of our beloved dog, Leo. After defying the odds and staying with us for 11 more months than the vet predicted, he remained part of our lives just long enough to watch over our growing family. Losing him has been another difficult chapter, but reflecting on the precious time we had together, and the joy he brought us, has given me comfort. I am grateful for every moment, knowing he stayed with us as long as he could.
Gratitude isn’t just about appreciating the good; it’s about finding light, no matter how small, even in the darkest times. By writing down what we’re thankful for, we allow ourselves to see the world differently—to recognize that even in pain, there is beauty. Gratitude has carried me through personal struggles, helped me heal, and continues to guide me today. And for that, I am forever grateful.
And as always, I am grateful for all of you—my followers, my clients, my patients, my friends, and my family. Everyone who has come into my life has touched my heart, spirit, and soul in ways I never could have imagined. So thank you for listening, for reading, and for giving me a sense of purpose each and every day.
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Author: Dr. Sarah Kingsley PT, DPT, RYT
Disclaimer: This information is generalized and intended for educational purposes only. Due to potential individual contraindications, please see your primary care provider before implementing any strategies in these posts.