Anonymous wrote:Looking for ideas! I seem to be out of touch with side of myself! [/quolte]

I love this question because joy is something we have to cultivate with intention, almost the way we nourish our bodies. I’ve learned that the things that bring me the most happiness are usually the simplest and most grounding.

For me, it starts with ritual. I light a candle, make a cup of herbal tea, and give myself permission to slow down. I spend time cooking something beautiful and whole, even if it’s just for myself. There’s something incredibly joyful about choosing ingredients that feel good and creating a moment that feels cared for.

Movement is another source of joy. Not the punishing kind, but the kind that lets you reconnect with your body. A long walk, a gentle yoga flow, or just stretching on the floor while listening to music I love. It recalibrates me.

And then there’s curiosity. I try to keep one small practice in my life that feels playful or creative. Reading a book that inspires me, experimenting in the kitchen, learning a new skill, or taking a short weekend trip to somewhere that feels nourishing.

Joy doesn’t usually arrive in big dramatic bursts. It shows up in the micro-moments we choose to honor. When you create those little pockets of care for yourself, joy becomes something you can feel every day, not just chase.