The dictionary definition of joy is a feeling of great pleasure and happiness. Joy comes in moments, which is beautiful, as it lets us experience a feeling of great pleasure numerous times a day, every day.
So, what does joy have to do with wellness? Everything!
I am a joy seeker, and I encourage you to be one as well. Taking just minutes a day throughout the day to seek and find joy can be a life-changer. When the brain senses joy, it releases dopamine and serotonin, and wonderful things happen. Tension begins to leave your body, energy increases, facial muscles relax, you feel a bit lighter and carefree, and all this allows you to become grounded.
Here is more good news. Joy seeking is simple. The small and seemingly insignificant moments in life that build on each other can lead to overall happiness while teaching us the practice of being present to them. Being aware of when joy hits, no matter how fleeting, is key.
Here are some examples of how I seek and find joy in my day to reap all the benefits:
· I enjoy a cup of hot tea in a quiet area as I feel the warmth of the cup in my hands, experience the aroma of the steam as it dances in the air, and savor the calming flavor as I take my first sip. I stop, enjoy, and allow myself to be present for this small moment in time.
· When I need quick energy and clearing of my mind, I go for a short walk around my block and look for three beautiful things I've never noticed before.
· I watch a comedy. Thanks to the many streaming apps, I can watch one in about 20 minutes without commercials and enjoy a good laugh. Golden Girls is my favorite.
· When I need to take five, I color, doodle, or draw.
· I play fetch with my dogs. There is nothing like their enthusiasm, bouncy excitement, and rapid dog tail wags as they wait for me to throw the ball to instantly put a smile on my face and pep in my step.
· I step outside for a few minutes and just listen. What I hear depends on the season. This fall morning, it was the rustling of leaves on the ground from the gentle breeze and crows flying from tree to tree and yard to yard, squawking at each other as they traveled.
· I plan an outing, adventure, or vacation. For me, having something to look forward to dramatically increases my joy.
Now it's your turn. What simple and easy things do you enjoy that will give you a moment of joy? Take five minutes right now to write them down and then post them where you can see them. The next time stress hits hard, or you need a breather, I challenge you to do one of them and experience how it will shift your whole day. These are the "life is good" moments that will contribute to your overall wellness.
Today and every day, seek joy, be present, be well.