Sourcing Joy for Enhanced Wellbeing
Life is full of highs and lows, and there is no avoiding adversity as part of the human experience. However, we can control how we perceive and react to the world around us. There are many tools to help us stay resilient. One of those tools is sourcing our own joy. Intentionally seeking out positive experiences helps us move through difficult moments with more balance. The following lifestyle practices can assist with adding more joy to your life.
Mindfulness
One of the most powerful ways to source joy is through mindfulness. When we are present in the moment, we can better appreciate the complexity in everyday experiences. When difficult moments happen, we can pause and observe our thoughts and emotions, then actively release them without judgment. Deep breathing and meditation help activate the body’s relaxation response, increasing cognitive function and the release of endorphins. This self-awareness practice takes time but will help you see the world and your personal journey with more reverence and admiration.
Connection
Another key to sourcing joy lies in connection. Whether it's reaching out to loved ones, engaging in a creative activity, or spending time in nature, the act of connecting with yourself, your passions, and other people enhances opportunity to source joy on a regular basis. This type of connection reduces stress-related hormones, lowers blood pressure, enhances immunity, increases cognitive thinking, and allows for a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Gratitude
The state of joy often stems from the simple act of gratitude. When we take a moment to reflect on what we're thankful for, we shift our focus from what is lacking to what we already have. This positive shift can amplify feelings of joy and help us recognize the beauty already present in our lives. Imagine the smile on your child’s face, the scent of fresh baked cookies, or feeling the warmth of sunlight on your face. These moments are powerful and incredibly restorative. Taking time to be thankful causes physiological changes, including initiating the parasympathetic nervous system, lowering blood pressure, enhancing sleep quality, and improved mental health.
You don’t need to wait for something or someone to be the source of your joy. Actively seek out joy and give yourself permission to experience joy even during illness or crisis. If someone is negative or cruel, find a way to respond with compassion as they may be moving through their own difficult experience. Share your joy every day without expectation but be confident in knowing you are helping others.
How can you source joy today? It might be as simple as deep breathing while listening to music, savoring a delicious meal, or reaching out to someone who makes you laugh. The key is to make joy an everyday activity as part of a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.
Michelle MartinMichelle is a Certified International Health Coach (CIHC) and Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. She supports Canopy’s health and wellness initiatives through a holistic approach based on bio–individuality. Michelle writes and speaks about health-related issues including sleep hygiene, nutrition, mindfulness, and forgiveness. She has presented for a wide variety of industries and audiences, and encourages attendees to be boldly curious about their wellness journey. Michelle volunteers her time as a National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) instructor, providing evidence-based education and coaching for families of loved ones with a mental health condition.
Along with supporting wellbeing initiatives, she is part of the Customer Success Management team and assists with providing proactive service and solutions for Canopy Members and partners.