7 Ways to Create Joy in Your Life

​​Have you ever questioned "where is my joy?" I believe we all have at some point. At times our joy can feel overshadowed by every day challenges, emotions, and experiences. Yet even then, joy can still be felt. There is space for all of it.  During my own experiences of challenging times and heartbreak, I also experienced joy. Whether that may be a walk in nature, time with my dog or a good friend.  

If you are needing some ideas to get started, here are a few suggestions for you to experience  joy in your own life.  You may also want to create your own list or add to this one: 

1) Make yourself a priority.  You deserve your own time and attention.  There are 1440 minutes in a day; make yourself a priority and use some of those minutes for you. Whether that is getting in a yoga class, running a bubble bath, or reading a book. Do what makes your heart sing. 

2) Try something new.  Maybe it is a new coffee flavor or a new meal? Or an art museum or a new sport? Trying something new adds a little adventure into every day life. Sometimes that may feel a little scary at first. However on the other side of fear, you may discover complete JOY!

3) Move your body.  Movement can wake us up and provide a boost of energy when we are feeling lethargic. Maybe that is going for a walk, having a dance party in the kitchen to your favorite music, doing some yoga or stretching. Make it fun for yourself. When we start moving and boost our energy, it's an opening to feel joy.  

4) Affirm yourself.  How many times have you started a sentence with, “I am ... ?” What comes after the "I am" is super important. A suggestion is to write down: “I AM... Strong.  Worthy.  Beautiful.  Loving. ” or any other statements that resonate.  Every morning, read them to yourself or out loud. In 30 days you may notice a big shift in how you are feeling.

5)  Go into nature. Research shows that being outdoors for only 5 minutes a day can improve your mood, raise your self-esteem, and reduce trauma symptoms. Go outside. Touch the earth. Breathe in the smells. Notice the sounds  you hear. Notice what's around you. Connect with the beauty that surrounds you.

6) Nurture Relationships. That may be calling a friend, meeting someone you care about for lunch or coffee. Share what's going on in your life and connect.  Laugh out loud, as laugher is so therapeutic. Let yourself be silly too. It's ok to be an adult and play too!

7)  Invest in you.  Joy comes from within - no doubt. And the greatest way to create more joy is through healing, growth, and exploration of self.  Feed your soul by reading a good book,  take that class you are interested in, go on that adventure you seek.  The more joy we create from within, the more joy we create in our life. 

Feel free to share below ways you experience joy in your life, I would love to hear it you

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