In the journey toward holistic wellness, the quest for peace and joy plays a crucial role. It’s about more than just physical health; it’s about nurturing a state of well-being that encompasses mind, body, and spirit. To elevate your sense of serenity and happiness, consider these four transformative tips that can guide you toward a more fulfilled life.
1. Become More Aware
Awareness is the cornerstone of mindfulness and a gateway to peace and joy. Becoming more aware means tuning into your thoughts, emotions, and the sensations in your body without judgment. It’s about observing the world around you with fresh eyes and an open heart. This heightened state of awareness allows you to experience life more fully, appreciate the present moment, and recognize the beauty in simplicity.
How to Practice:
- Dedicate time each day to mindfulness or meditation practices.
- Engage in mindful walking, where you fully concentrate on the act of walking and the sensations in your feet and body.
- Practice mindful eating, savoring each bite and being fully present with your meal.
2. Remember Everything Is a Choice
Recognizing that everything is a choice, even when you’re choosing to do something out of obligation, empowers you to take control of your life. This perspective encourages responsibility for your reactions and emotions. By understanding that your response to any situation is a choice, you can choose paths that align more closely with peace and joy, rather than frustration or resentment.
How to Apply:
- When faced with obligations, reframe your mindset to see the choices available to you, including your attitude and response.
- Acknowledge that choosing your reaction can empower you to handle situations more positively.
3. Do Less of the Things You Don’t Easily Choose
Life is full of tasks and activities that may not bring you joy or fulfillment. Recognizing and minimizing these can significantly increase your happiness. Focus on what truly matters to you and brings you joy, and try to let go of or delegate tasks that drain your energy.
Strategies for Implementation:
- Make a list of activities that you do not enjoy and explore ways to reduce these tasks, delegate them, or make them more enjoyable.
- Prioritize your time and energy on activities that align with your values and bring you happiness.
- Notice when you’re scrolling on your phone or mindlessly watching TV, and check in to see if it’s still serving you, or maybe it’s time to switch to a different task.
- You might find yourself in a post-holiday slump, so instead of saying “yes” to more family gatherings, you might want to mix it up with a new hobby, going out dancing or to a concert with friends, or schedule brunch with a bestie!
4. Check in with the Body & Breathe
Your body holds wisdom about your emotional and physical state. Regularly checking in with your body and practicing deep breathing can reduce stress, enhance your awareness, and anchor you in the present moment. This simple act can be profoundly calming and a quick route to peace and joy.
Practices to Incorporate:
- Take short breaks throughout the day to focus on your breath, using deep, slow breathing techniques to center yourself.
- Perform a body scan meditation, paying attention to each part of your body in turn, noticing any sensations, tension, or discomfort without judgment.
- I love taking opportunities, such as when I’m taking a bathroom break to incorporate these tools! Implementing these four tips can significantly impact your well-being, leading to increased peace, joy, and overall wellness. By becoming more aware, recognizing the power of choice, reducing joyless obligations, and tuning into your body through breath, you create a solid foundation for a life filled with greater contentment and happiness.
Start small, incorporating these practices into your daily routine, and watch as your world transforms, one mindful choice at a time.
Sarah Murray, LCSW: Personal Growth Artist and Ketamine
Therapist
Sarah has been working in the mental health field for over 15 years and opened a small group practice in Olde Town Arvada in 2023. The team focuses on personal growth and creative ways to move through life and mental health struggles. We support individuals over the age of 15 using EMDR, ketamine therapy, body-based therapies, and the like. We can help people in Colorado virtually, or would love to welcome folx into our comforting space in Arvada. Learn more about the practice here:
