Gratitude is a powerful practice that not only raises your appreciation for what you have, but invites new and innovative ideas into your life.

When we express heartfelt appreciation for people, places, things, ideas, concepts and situations, we actively put good into the world-- good that will come back to us.

The practices listed here will help you focus on gratitude. They must be attended to everyday, or at least as often as possible. When gratitude blends into your everyday routine, you'll find your level of serenity increase, and your creative juices released.

1. Make a Gratitude list.Start reciting the alphabet and fill in a person, place or thing for each letter. (If you're stuck for people's names that start with the letter X, remember Xena the Warrior Princess and my friends Gil and Lily's cool kid Xiarel. He won't mind if you're grateful for him!) Making a Gratitude List is a wonderful way to shift your focus when feeling down.
2. Write thank you notes for everything. Have a wonderful client? Send her a card. Do you appreciate the service at a neighborhood store? Write a note saying so.
3. Free e-cards are everywhere on the Internet. These are easy ways to send a grateful thought to someone.
4. When you go out to eat or patronize a store that gives you exceptional service, ask for the manager. Tell her what a wonderful time you had and how nice it was to visit.
5. Whenever you write a check, jot the words "Thank You!" in the memo line. Even though you're parting with your dear cash, think of the goods or services you enjoyed in return. (Some people believe that this practice will attract wealth... you never know unless you try!)
6. Thank the people in your life who would least expect it. "Mom, thank you for having me." She'll probably come back at you with a shocked look, but think how dull the world would be without you!
7. Write a thank you letter to your Higher Power.
8. Write a letter of thanks to yourself.

Challenge yourself to practicing these acts of gratitude everyday for the next month. Use your creative gifts to add that unique touch of yours to the way you express thanks.

Your creativity will rise to the occasion at unexpected times. Welcome it and have fun!

As always, your experiences and stories from the Loca Rituals are welcome. What are your thoughts on gratitude? I'd love to hear from you - contact me..