Focusing on the simple joys in life is an act of gratitude and a way to ground yourself in the present moment. It’s a way to stop thinking about what you don’t have and start thinking about what you do.
Focusing on life's simple joys is a way to find greater contentment and happiness in the tiny moments that often pass us by without a second thought. Simply joys are about participating in activities that bring us happiness, yes, but they’re also about noticing the beauty around you.
Long story short: Spending time listing out, thinking about, and participating in our favorite simple joys can help us find happiness and develop a greater appreciation for life over time. Here are 60 of them.
Simple joys for the body
1. A long walk on the beach
2. A hot shower
3. A warm, fragrant bubble bath
4. A deep, healing stretch
5. Five deep breaths
6. A slow yoga flow
7. A massage
8. Eating nutritious food
9. Hugs
10. A long, nourishing night of sleep
11. A nap
12. Moving your body in a way that inspires joy
13. A fresh haircut
14. A manicure or pedicure
15. Freshly cut flowers
Freshly cut flowers are one of life's simple joys.
Simple joys for the mind
16. Reading a great book
17. Noticing the flowers in your yard or town
18. Listen to a relaxing song
19. Meditation
20. A body scan
21. Closing your eyes and thinking about a happy memory
22. A restorative vacation
23. Logging off of social media
24. Accepting a mistake
25. Letting go of regrets
27. Talking on the phone with someone you love
28. Listing out five things you’re grateful for
29. Cooking a great meal
30. Accepting imperfections
31. Not comparing yourself to others
Cook yourself a nourishing meal.
Simple joys for the soul
32. Journaling
33. Lighting a candle and gazing at the flame
34. Singing
35. Inhaling a scent that conjures up a happy memory
36. Traveling somewhere new
37. Visiting a place that inspires joy and comfort, like your childhood home
38. A cozy blanket
39. Feeling the air on your face
40. Freshly cleaned sheets
41. Listening to the sound of singing birds
42. Holding hands with someone you love
43. Daydreaming
44. Writing down or looking at inspirational quotes
45. Saying thank you
46. Giving someone a compliment
47. Reading or listening to an inspiring story
48. Treating yourself with kindness and compassion
49. Making self-care your top priority
50. Letting things roll off you instead of getting involved with them
51. Making time for mental rest
52. Sitting outside in the sun on a perfect, 70-degree day
53. Indulging in your favorite dessert
54. Catching up with an old friend
55. Getting good news
56. Cuddling with someone you love
57. Seeing your pet at the end of a long day
58. Eating a warm roll of bread
59. The first scents of spring
60. The first orange leaf in the fall
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