How finding joy in life’s small moments can boost your wellbeing

Life is busy. Juggling work, family, finances, homes, and gardens. Remembering to drink enough water, eat healthily, and exercise the right amount. Food shopping, cooking, cleaning, washing, and chores.

The list is pretty much endless.

It can be very difficult to take yourself off the hamster wheel and simply stop once in a while to appreciate a pure moment of joy.

But noticing the small pleasures in life could actually improve your wellbeing. In fact, studies have found that that the pursuit of short-term pleasures could be just as important as focusing on long-term goals.

And the NHS cites studies that show mindfulness can help with stress, anxiety, and depression. This means paying attention to the present moment, tuning into an awareness about thoughts, feelings, emotions and physical sensations.

Ultimately, helping you to notice them without allowing them to be all-consuming.

Finding moments of joy each day can change your whole mindset

When we’re rushing about, it can be very difficult to tell ourselves to slow down. But you can find moments of micro joy in almost any day, and they could even spur you on and act as a motivator.

Here are 10 ideas for moments to appreciate each day:

1. Savour your first drink of the day

Whatever drink you wake up to, try to spend a few moments simply enjoying it. Hold your hands around the warm mug or cool glass.

Breathe in the gentle steam if you have a hot drink. Take a few mindful sips to appreciate the taste and sensation.

It’s a nice idea to avoid reaching for your phone first thing and simply sit with your drink and enjoy a few moments of peace.

2. Notice the birds

If you have a feeder in your garden, it can be pretty magical watching the little birds flock to it.

Or you could simply listen to the sound of their song through an open window.

2. Enjoy your shower

Instead of focusing on everything you have to do that day (or the next day, if you like an evening shower), try to just cherish these few minutes with the soothing hot water. Of course, for those inclined, there are suggested health benefits from a cold shower, too!

3. Watch the sunrise (or sunset)

Appreciating the beauty of the sky can stop you in your tracks, shifting your mind from a busy rush to simple focus.

4. Smell the roses…

… Or whichever flowers you happen to have in your garden or locality as you walk. Immersing yourself in nature is a great way to reconnect with the world around you.

5. Change your bedding

Getting into fresh, clean sheets is one of life’s simple pleasures, so allow yourself a moment to indulge in the feeling.

6. Play with your children or grandchildren

No screens! Just some old-fashioned games or even simply chatting and being silly. Kids love having your attention. But even listening to them laugh and play can be like mini therapy.

7. Listen to the rain

There’s a reason that a lot of meditation apps feature rain sounds – the steady, soothing pattern can be relaxing and even help you sleep. Nature gives us plenty of rain, so next time there’s a downpour, let yourself simply listen.

8. Celebrate little wins

Most days bring highs and lows. So, try to focus on the highs where you can. Making your bus just in time. Being at home for a parcel delivery. A walk with a friend. A delicious meal.

Nothing that’s going to change your whole world, but things that made that moment something special.

9. Read a book

Many of us spend a lot of time scrolling on our phones. Pick up a book occasionally (even if you just read a few pages) and immerse yourself in a whole new world.

You’ll have your own ideas for what makes a moment into one of micro joy. These are the small, even tiny, snapshots in each day that you can hold onto, taking your focus away from irritations and directing it into a happier place.

Get in touch

We focus on the details that make a difference. Email us at info@harperlees.co.uk or call 01277 350560 to find out more, and we’ll be very happy to help.

Please note

This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.

All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.