Prayer, meditation and gratitude are essentials to living a balanced life and one in which you feel more connected with your higher self and the Universal Energy Field.
Living from the heart center and thinking, speaking, acting eating and working accordingly is what really counts. Living from the source center with intent while also being grounded to the earth will enable one to become healed, enlightened and to ascend more smoothly. As we vibrate purely and strongly we effect those around us in a more positive way. If we are in a high energy nature spot or a sacred area, this can be even more profound.
A good exercise to do is; walking in nature or in the mountains with out talking for while and with intent as if it is a meditation in itself. This is also a zen way of being. Also, expanding our heart chakra while we visit with others or do our day to day activities will help to expand the consciousness of those around you.