Feeling gratitude, and not expressing it, is like wrapping a present and not giving it.” – William Arthur Ward

With the holidays upon us, warm feelings and thoughts of giving flow freely. As we generously gift cookies and hugs to co-workers, friends and family, do you ever wonder why we can’t enjoy these sensuous pleasures every day? Not sensuality to the point of a sexual encounter, but demonstrating our feelings through appreciation of human nature and our senses. “Truly grateful feelings surge from our core whenever we fulfill our potential in small ways to grand,” remind Alexandra Katehakis and Tom Bliss in their essential guide Mirror of Intimacy. Relish the moment of joy brought on when you feel truly appreciated – after you share a home cooked meal, a compliment, or a surprise visit. As you thank others gratefully for their appreciation of you, appreciate them in return.Be grateful for family, life, and beauty all around us, as well as the current bounty, health and prosperity. Actually feel the meaning behind the words when you say “thank you” or “you’re welcome.” Also remember to appreciate things about you: your sense of humor, sensuality, intellect, warmth, and generosity. Sometimes when we feel alone, we forget to be grateful. Katehakis and Bliss assure us that “In the worst of times, during a material, relational, emotional or spiritual depression, summoning gratitude is a sure way of getting life back on track.” Perhaps it’s time to write yourself a love letter? Appreciation of your own sensuality, feeling each day with full body and mind, unlocks the richness of life. Imagine living an entire day in sensual gratitude, fully appreciating life as it unfolds in absolute perfection. Arouse your senses daily. Ignoring personal pleasures is simply being out of touch with living. Acts that gratify the senses also fill the soul. Mirror of Intimacy also explains that “the physiology of gratitude induces a regulated state similar to mediation or prayer: slow and steady breathing, blood flowing to the brain, neural pathways rewired. Gratitude as a physical act actually builds a healthier brain.” Bask and flow in appreciation of small details such as nature, friendships and sensual moments. Be grateful for your sexuality and being able to share your gifts, love, and body with others. The heart is most alive when we are conscious of our worth. Remember to beam with gratitude and sensual appreciation as you move through your day. Check out Mirror of Intimacy by Alexandra Katehakis and Tom Bliss in The Sensualogist bookshop.