An Autumn Practice in Gratitude
Written by Catherine Wortmann, Balanced Rock Wilderness Guide & Lead Facilitator
Welcome to Notes from the Sierra: a monthly offering born from the voices within our own community.
This series is a space for the wisdom of lived experience, the elemental insights that shape our work, and the inspiration we draw from the mountains, forests, and beyond. Each month, someone from our teaching, guiding, or creative circles will share a reflection—a story, a lesson, a moment of relationship with nature or Self.
The only parameters we offer: make it honest. Make it from the heart. Make it real. Rooted in place, shared in the spirit of connection.
October’s entry is courtesy of Catherine Wortmann!
Moving into Autumn has me reflecting on the past six months.
It has me assessing where I am now and looking at where I want to be in six months from now. One of my “go to” practices is gratitude. Science has now proven that those who formally practice gratitude daily actually increase their capacity to experience joy.
And who doesn’t want more joy?!?
It’s easy to find gratitude for the parts of life that are fun, the people you love, and the aspects that feel “good.”
What has been an interesting challenge for me this fall has been taking the parts of my life where I feel lack, and flipping the script to gratitude. Here is the process:
Make a list of everything you already have that you are grateful for.
Make a second list of what you REALLY want. Your deepest desires.
Re-evaluate the second list and re-write what it is you WANT as though it’s already YOURS!
Add the new list to your 1st list and be grateful for all you have.
Review the list before bed and hold it in your thoughts as you fall asleep.
Remember, it is important that you FEEL positive emotions while doing this. If your mind says, “bullshit” or you still feel lack, you will be working against yourself.
If this happens, begin again at number one. You are manifesting with gratitude and it should feel positive.
MEET CATHERINE
Catherine is one of Balanced Rock’s senior wilderness guides, yoga instructors, and retreat leaders. She began teaching in 2013, though her own healing journey began in 2011. She has made her living pursuing her passions and purpose in life, inspiring her students to do the same. A life long resident of the Sierra Nevada mountains, and mother to three children, Catherine provides earthly wisdom and connection through all of her offerings. She is also the sole proprietor of L.E.A.F. (a financial freedom company) and C.W. Healing (private yoga, reiki, and meditation).
How you can find Catherine locally:
Book her for Private Yoga, Meditation, SUP Yoga, or a Guided Hike or Tour through Balanced Rock
Take one of her weekly yoga classes or book a Reiki treatment at Lil’ Beefcake Fitness in Groveland (@beefcakefit209)
All photos provided by Catherine Wortmann.