Altered.

Issue 18, on gratitude

Turns out, gratitude isn’t just about improving your mood. Yes – it gives your brain a boost of those feel-good chemicals – but it’s also a pretty sneaky way to level up your creativity. When you’re tuned into what makes you happy, even the weirdest little things can spark ideas. Today, we’re diving into how practicing an attitude of gratitude can lead to surprising moments of inspiration.


"You wind up self-reporting more positive emotions and a deeper satisfaction with life."

Dr. Laurie Santos, psychology professor

Dr. Laurie Santos brings a scientific twist to the concept of gratitude in this Headspace video. She explains how being grateful can not only boost your mood but also make you feel more connected to the world around you. It’s a quick, insightful watch that might just have you feeling a little more thankful by the end.


"1000 Awesome Things is like being a three- or four-year-old and looking at the world for the first time again."

Jim Hedger, radio host

Ever feel like gratitude is a little too... predictable? Not here! In his blog 1000 Awesome Things, Neil Pasricha celebrates the everyday quirks you probably didn’t even realize you were grateful for. Like swerving a hangover or the oddly satisfying smell of freshly opened tennis balls. It’s a creative approach to gratitude that goes beyond the obvious, making you appreciate everything from high fiving babies to really old Tupperware. If you’re ready to laugh and feel grateful for the weirdest bits of life, this list is for you!


"Living in a state of gratitude is a gateway to grace."

Arianna Huffington, founder of The Huffington Post

Ever feel like your lunch could use a little extra love? Here are 11 creative ways to say grace before a meal, with prayers from all corners of the globe. Whether you're channeling a Zen blessing, offering a Native American thanksgiving, or simply thanking the earth for your meal, these prayers will help you savor your food with a bit more mindfulness.


Alter. Gratitude tree

Gratitude’s a game-changer for both your mood and your creativity. Today, we’re bringing it to life by making a ‘gratitude tree’, a fun way to visually celebrate all the things that make your life a little brighter!

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