4 tips to help you find joy everyday (the secret to mindfulness)
We hear a lot about mindfulness these days, and while it sounds great in theory, how do you actually apply it in your daily life when you have a million things going on?
It's easy to get caught up in the grind (I sometimes feel this way too). And I have a lot of clients who feel like they are just waiting for the weekend to finally relax.
But what if there was a way to integrate mindfulness into your everyday routine, finding joy and beauty in the little moments, and making each day a bit brighter and more fulfilling?
One of my favorite ways to bring a touch of wonder into my daily routine is by simply looking up.
I have recently become obsessed with clouds. There's something incredibly magical about them. Taking a moment to appreciate these fleeting masterpieces gives me a sense of calm and a reminder of the beauty that exists all around us. It also reminds me that we are just a tiny part of an infinite universe, and that helps me put things into perspective.
But finding joy in the mundane doesn't have to be limited to nature.
It could be the act of making your morning coffee just the way you like it, your dog greeting you when you walk through the door, or the sound of your child's laughter echoing through the house (even if they are up to no good!)
These small, seemingly insignificant moments can be a source of immense happiness if we take the time to notice and appreciate them.
So, let's put the theory into practice. Here are a few simple ways to start incorporating mindfulness and finding beauty in your everyday life. You can try just one, two or all of these approaches:
Observe it: Take a few moments each day to pause and really observe something around you. It could be the way the sunlight filters through the trees, the sound of birds chirping (I do this one a lot), or even staring at that family photo that you have mindlessly walked past for the last 8 years.
Note it: Keep a small journal where you jot down things that brought you joy each day. It could be as simple as a smile from a stranger or a delicious meal you enjoyed. Reflecting on these moments can help you cultivate a sense of gratitude and appreciation (this is the secret to a happier life, it really is that simple!)
Share it: Talk to your loved ones about the little things that make you happy. Sharing these moments can deepen your connections and encourage others to find joy in their own lives.
Bank it: This is quite similar to 'Note it", but my husband prefers this one, so you might too. When something good happens or you experience a small moment of joy, make a mental note and say "bank it" to yourself. Throughout the day, you’ll be adding credit to your little gratitude piggy bank.
By embracing the beauty in everyday moments (which is basically what mindfulness is), you can transform the way you experience life.
Instead of merely surviving the week to reach the weekend, you can find joy and fulfillment each and every day.
Take a moment now to find one thing that brought you joy today, no matter how small. You might be surprised at how much it can brighten your day.