I love getting lost amongst the myriad of books in the library or any bookstore. Picking up and reading books that catch my attention feels joyous. Ah, the love of sniffing the pages of a new book!
Our busy daily lives keep us on our toes as months and years pass by in a flash. We get caught up in our routine and miss enjoying the little things.
The book “Hygge” ( pronounced as hyoo-guh in Danish) is such a delightful little cozy book. It tells us about enjoying the little moments in life alone or with good people in many ways. Danish culture sounds so joyous; you would feel like moving there! This book gives us many reasons why Danes are the happiest in the world.
It also tells us how we can find hygge in many ways and make it a part of our lifestyle.
While we keep waiting to get a breakthrough or to achieve some milestones, we tend to neglect the things that make us smile.
Amongst the countless things that can bring us joy, let’s discuss some that I feel good about.
You, too, got to tell me what increases your dopamine levels!
Comfort Food
Because food always comes first, it had to top the list. We all have our favorites that satiate our taste buds or trigger nostalgia. Food reminds us of childhood memories or our staple food at home. When my stomach growls with hunger, comfort food is the first pick!
Like kimchi is a portion of comfort food for most Koreans ( I love kimchi too), mine would be dal rice or my mom’s rasam rice. But there are days when Maggi (instant noodles) is equally pleasurable.
Cozy feeling on a cold day
Curled up on the couch on a chilly day with a cuddly soft blanket watching a good show is blissful! Or a hot bubble bath with some lit scented candles is also relaxing.
Discovering the small joys
- Good food, drinks, and chit-chat with loved ones.
- To sleep on freshly changed sheets after a long day.
- The feeling of satisfaction after cleaning the house gives me positivity. Though, I understand this might not be a favorable task for all.
- Dancing to favorite tunes while cooking or just for fun. I have mentioned this on the blog before, but I dance every day, even if it’s just that one song that instills the vibe! I love dancing, and it instantaneously boosts my mood and gives me the feeling of looking forward to a joyous day.
- I don’t bake often, but the aroma of the cake that fills the house brings so much warmth and positivity when I do.
- Admiring nature makes everything seem better. Stargazing or sitting on the beach makes me so happy.
Why do we complicate things?
As children, it was much easier to make us happy. Playing with friends or watching my favorite cartoon was enough to enjoy life. Expectations and worries were limited to things that seem trivial now. While as adults, we are often more occupied with thoughts about the past or future than living in the present moment.
In the fast pace of social media and the competitive world, everyone wants to beat others. No matter what we have, the focus to want more and chase these goals makes us miss important moments.
With past experiences and knowledge, I learned the importance of appreciating things around me or making the best out of the worst situation. If I am in a sullen mood, eating a plate of warm comfort food and watching my favorite show could change into good feelings!
Adding these little things could significantly change your bad day into a good one. It is also a reminder to realize that material possessions could only make us happy momentarily. Mindfulness, appreciation, and cherishing small joys can instill happiness, positivity, and hope in everyday life.
What little things can instantly lift your spirits and make you happy?