What brings you joy?

Our yoga instructor, Natalie, challenged us to look for joy even during difficult times (and poses). She said there will always be challenges, but life is short, and we must always appreciate our joys (or before you know it, it may be too late).

Joy may seem illusive or fleeting. Yet there is a path we can choose that brings wonder, passion, and joy into our lives, helping us to make life feel worthwhile. We can prepare for joy by being authentic and open to learning, caring for ourselves and our relationships, and following where our hearts lead us.

How many times have you raced through your day, unknowingly overlooking moments of joy that could have brought a smile to your heart? Our days are brimming with ongoing responsibilities and challenges of family and friends, work and school, not to mention our politics and news. Understandably, it can be quite easy to race through the day and miss what makes us genuinely happy.

However, taking a moment to pause, identify, and appreciate the little things in life that make us happy is a great way to create a joy-filled life.

25 things that bring me joy:

The beauty of a body of water

My family and friends

My dog

First cup of coffee in the morning

Celebrating the 1920’s

Chocolate

Driving in our convertible TR3

The beach

A good book

Floating on anything in the water

Happy hour

Dinner out

Beauty in nature

Art

Birds in my backyard

A fresh Snowfall

My garden in bloom

My family home for the holidays and chilling

Vacations

Stars

Traveling

Sister-time

Painting

Dancing, walking, being active

Research and sharing knowledge that lift others up

What brings you joy?