Simple Pleasures: A Guide
Life has felt a little extra chaotic lately. Nothing specific to mention, just the general and persistent stress and trauma of living in a fast paced society, ya know?
Even as someone who practices mindfulness like a full time job, my mind sometimes feels like city streets- where all the traffic lights have stopped working and it has become a blood bath, free for all, every man, car, pedestrian for themself.
So, I am here to remind you, and myself, of the simple pleasures in life- and how to return to them when life feels messy.
Let me remind you that simple pleasures are highly personal- what I find joy in might not be the same little things that you find joy in, and that is okay- encouraged even! How beautiful to experience life uniquely!
It is my belief though, that to live fully we must uncover what it is that brings use joy and then keep allowing that to be in our orbit of life.
As I turn 30 in just a few months, I have created a list of 30 things that bring me simple pleasure.
Take what resonates, leave what doesn't, and then go create your own.
Waking up by the light of the sun and not your alarm (!!!!!!!)
Going to bed a little earlier, just because you can
Receiving a handwritten note, or writing one
Walking barefoot
Plating a meal you cooked for friends or family
Feeling sunshine after never ending grey
Listening to your favorite music while walking or running
Adding something life-giving to your daily routine
Starting to feel better after being sick (currently looking forward to this, as I sit here sipping hot tea and blowing my nose, repetitively)
Lighting your favorite candle
Taking the first sip of your favorite beverage
Looking back at old photos
Coming into work to an organized and clean space
Breathing salty fresh air at the beach
Buying something nice for yourself “just because”
Coming home to a clean house
Hugging someone who needs emotional support
Going to the farmer’s market on a Saturday morning
Being read to out loud
Going on a long walk with your dog
Taking a cleansing deep breath
Listening to live music
Finishing a good book and starting a new book
Merging on the highway at the start of a road trip
Sitting by a campfire
Turning up the radio when a good song comes on
Experiencing post-workout endorphins
Climbing into bed with fresh sheets
Dipping down into a hot tub
Snuggling up under a cozy blanket
Whatever it is you are doing with your day today, I encourage you to take a moment to pause and indulge in a simple pleasure.
What a different world we might live in, if THIS was the core practice of living.
