Turn the volume up on JOY

Turning the volume up on the tiny joys. Because of our survival instincts we often remember the tricky or scary moments more than the joyous ones... but I find that if I am really mindful of these, they stick better.

When you notice moments of joy bring awareness to feeling what body sensations joy is for you, what happens to your movement, facial expression, posture, stride length, the tone and pitch of your voice, your breath, your thoughts.... the whole orchestra of feeling of joy for you. Take a moment to be aware of the whole scene, everything you see, hear, feel, smell, taste... see if it's possible to turn the "volume" up on all your sensory awareness of the joyous moment.

A tiny moment of joy for me a few weeks ago was this shadow on frosty grass. It looked like the tree was waving or dancing and I noticed a smile broaden on my face, a warmth in my chest, a spring in my step, a pull to share it with someone, a lightness... and I have looked out for and noticed similar joyous shadows since. Looking at the photo, all those feelings and sensations return, so I also know that if I needed a little cheer I could remember it, or look at the image, and conjure back that warm joy.

What has brought you joy this week?

What did it feel like?

How did your body, mind, emotions respond?