Prayer has already become ingrained in my routine. I automatically say one of gratitude the minute I wake up. Having hypothyroidism along with a slew of other conditions growing up has made me really grateful to be alive each day. Even the fact that I can see clearly is already a reason for me to thank God. You see, I grew up with bad eyesight. My eye prescription peaked at 750 and my lenses were thick and heavy despite being already "ultrathin" (this was before geek chic became in fashion). Everything changed (really, clearer eyesight = clarity in my life) when my eyesight miraculously became 20/20 after a visit to Our Lady of Lourdes in France. I get my eyes checked annually and it is incredible to still have 20/20 vision after that miracle in 2001. Nowadays, I just wear non-prescription specs for fun (and to protect my eyes from gadget strain). But that miracle has truly moved me to pray, be thankful and well, #slay.
One of my favorite prayers was by St. Francis. This was taken at St. Clare Monastery, a frequent hangout of mine in Quezon City.
I do not think that you have to be religious or even believe in God to pray. All it takes is an honest faith in yourself and the ability to transcend your personal limitations and present condition. There are plenty of factors that you cannot control, but if you lift them up to a power greater than you will ever be, then you will also imbibe that power. I do recommend that you always practice thankfulness. Just be grateful for one thing each day until it becomes another, and another, and another. It will make you healthier, more balanced, and just a better person to be with since you appreciate how fine your life is