10 Ways to Find Joy Every Day

 When was the last time you felt happy? If you can’t pinpoint the occasion, it’s time to bring back the joy to your life.

 

Delighting in the little things requires you to cultivate an attitude of gratitude instead of focusing on what you lack. Here are ten ways to find joy every day.

1. Go to the Playground

 

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), children between one and four need at least 180 minutes of activity each day. Adults need from 150 to 300 minutes of moderate movement, too. Why not kill two birds with one stone by taking your kids to the playground? You’ll get closer to your daily exercise quotient while cultivating joy and returning the smile to your face.

 

.Make the most of the occasion by getting in the game. Take along costumes for playing dress-up or create a scavenger hunt that will have your little ones scouring the athletic fields. While they go on their quest, squeeze in a few picnic bench squats and triceps dips as an impromptu workout.

2. Listen to Music

 

When was the last time you turned your car into a miniature concert hall? You can make your commute less painful if you recently got called back to the office by cranking the tunes and belting out your favorite song at the top of your lungs.

 

There’s scientific evidence to support listening to music to enhance your joy. Researchers analyzed 25 studies and found that music is an effective therapy to reduce depression and anxiety and improve your overall quality of life.

3. Dance

 

While the music plays, why don’t you dance like no one’s watching — assuming you’re safely in your living room? Doing so gets oxygen-rich blood flowing to your brain, making you feel sharper. It also prompts your body to release endorphins, natural body chemicals that improve your mood and decrease pain.

 

Cutting a rug now and then could even reduce your risk of dementia better than other activities. Researchers investigated the impact of various tasks, like riding a bike and doing crossword puzzles, on cognitive decline. They found dance the most effective for staving off the neurological deficits that often appear with age.

4. Go for a Walk or Hike

 

Did you know that merely venturing outdoors can improve your mood? Even looking at pictures of nature decreases stress levels and increases productivity. Immersing yourself in the natural world is even more effective at beating the blues.

 

If possible, take your walk into a wooded area. Exposure to trees could boost your immunity. Researchers who studied forest bathers found a higher number and activity in natural killer cells, attacking and destroying germs. Getting sick less often is a sure reason for joy.

5. Treat Yourself

 

Indulging in the occasional latte isn’t to blame for financial hardship. It’s one thing to cut back to once a week, but life is short. Capturing little pleasures while you can help you find more joy every day.

 

Remember, treating yourself doesn’t necessarily mean spending money. Plan little mood-boosters, like putting an energizing morning meditation on your playlist to adjust to a more positive mindset before you even climb out of bed. If you finish your work duties a little early, take a mindful walk or let yourself “waste” a few minutes catching up with friends on social media.

6. Write a Gratitude List

 

Toxic positivity is the kind that says, “It’s not so bad,” when you’re going through a crisis. It denies reality, which is why it rubs so many people the wrong way. However, gratitude for what you have is genuine, stemming from inside you.

 

Keeping a gratitude list or journal reminds you of all you have to give thanks for. It’s handy to keep a small notebook in your backpack or briefcase, writing down those things that make you smile and reflecting on your blessings during dark days.

7. Watch the Birds

 

If you spent part of your quarantine lockdowns building a better birdhouse, you might have discovered what cats have long known. Watching the birds is relaxing and fun.

 

It also takes a minimum investment to bring hordes of colorful avian friends to your yard or the courtyard outside your workplace window. You can pick up feeders for less than $20 at many retailers or make a DIY version with an empty paper towel roll, some peanut butter and seed.

8. Do a Random Kindness

 

Did you know that helping others benefits you? It increases several neurotransmitter levels responsible for improving your mood.

 

What can you do? It takes little to stop and offer some cash and kindness to someone holding a sign on a street corner. Many people are suffering, finding themselves homeless as pandemic eviction restrictions lift and landlords raise rents. Even helping a colleague with a task they find challenging gives you a neuro-boost —  and it might catch your boss’ attention, where your team-player attitude could fast-track you for promotion.

9. Volunteer

 

Another way to make a difference? Volunteer. Find a cause you feel passionate about and get involved.

 

Please don’t feel left out if you’re still hesitant of venturing forth due to lingering COVID-19 concerns. You can find online opportunities you can do from your couch.

10. Smile

 

The suggestion to smile might make you understandably angry if you’re already in a foul mood. However, you should know that moving your facial muscles can improve your outlook — even if you’re faking it.

 

Researchers had participants manipulate their faces into a smile with chopsticks. Those who did reported improvements in mood, even though they weren’t genuinely smiling from pleasure.

Ways to Find Joy Every Day

 

Your happiness affects your health and overall quality of life. When was the last time you smiled?

If it’s been too long, please embrace the ten tips above. Finding joy every day will lead to a better attitude and help you make the most of each moment.