If there’s one thing I’m sure of, it’s that our lives have never been as complicated as they are today. With so many things to juggle around daily, we often forget what’s most important: taking care of ourselves. Just think about it: when was the last time you did something just to feel happy?
I think it’s not always the big, extravagant experiences that bring us the most fulfillment, but rather the small, everyday moments that we often take for granted. That’s why I made this list of 10 small life pleasures that can turn your mood and day around within minutes.
Are you ready to make a real difference today? Then let’s begin!
Enjoying a warm, cozy blanket on a cold day
What could be cozier on a chilly day than curling up under a warm, fuzzy blanket with a cup of hot coffee nearby? Never forget that you deserve this, no matter how busy you may become.
Here are some pointers to keep in mind if you want to get the most of this experience:
- Choose a nice, soft blanket that feels great on your skin. Believe me when I say that materials like wool, cotton, or synthetic options like microfleece or sherpa can change your life.
- Make it more inviting: To make your environment cozier, you may turn on a candle or add some pillows and cushions.
- Spend some time unwinding: Last but not least, remember to unwind and savor your warm blanket.
- Put away any devices that might be a distraction, such as laptops or phones, and allow yourself to relax into the warmth and comfort of your blanket. Now is your chance!
Writing a handwritten letter or note from a loved one
A very precious yet tiny pleasure can be getting a handwritten note or letter from a loved one. Spending the effort to genuinely put personal thoughts down on paper just seems so intimate! In fact, many people are unaware that writing to your loved ones can make you just as happy!
If you want to bring a smile on someone’s face by sending a handwritten letter or note, here are a few tips:
- Take your time: this is a crucial component of the magic. Spend at least a few minutes imagining your loved one in your thoughts and in your heart.
- Make it your own: A handwritten note or letter should be sincere and personable. Your mood will also be lifted by sharing private experiences, inside jokes, or amusing memories.
- Add a little something extra: To make your letter or message even more memorable, think about incorporating a tiny gift or keepsake.
Listening to Your Favorite Song and Singing Along
Simple as it may seem, singing along can instantly lift your spirits! This practice has been shown to lower stress and anxiety, two issues that everyone I know is now experiencing.
It could feel a little awkward at first if you’re not used to doing this, though. Here are some tips to reap the most of this small pleasure:
- Pick a tune that brings you joy: The secret to savoring this habit is to select a song that resonates deeply with you and makes you happy. There is no right or wrong decision, whether it’s your old high school fave or a current hit!
- Find a quiet location to sing: While singing along with others might be enjoyable, it’s also crucial to find a space where you feel confident making your voice heard. This might be a safe environment, such as your van, the bathroom, or a private room.
- Don’t stress about your singing ability: The most important bit is to enjoy yourself and let loose. Don’t stress about your singing ability; simply let yourself take in the song and the delight of joining in.
Sinking Your Teeth Into a Juicy, Ripe Piece of Fruit
Didn’t see this coming, did you? The act of sinking your teeth in a luscious, ripe apple is surprisingly gratifying. In addition to its health advantages, the blend of sweet, energizing flavors and the crisp, crunchy texture can be an incredible tiny pleasure.
Here are some pointers for making the most of this little pleasure:
- Try out several fruit varieties: There are so many to pick from, and each one has a distinctive flavor and texture. Remember: b y making a new choice, you step outside of your comfort zone and transform your day.
- Eat fruit as a dessert or a snack: When you choose fruit as your snack or dessert, you’ll feel more satisfied than when you eat processed foods.
- Including fruit in your meals: You can include fruit in your meals in addition to having it as a snack or dessert. For instance, you may mix some berries into a salad or add fruit pieces to your yogurt or oatmeal.
Taking a Walk Through a Beautiful Park or Garden
I know, I know, you think you’re too busy to just take a walk on a random day. But once you get into this easy routine, you’ll realize that it’s truly a fantastic investment in your mood. Fresh air, physical activity, and the beauty of nature can all help you unwind, decompress, and recharge.
Here are some guidelines for getting the most of this minor pleasure:
Look for a peaceful, picturesque park or garden with lots of trees, flowers, and other natural beauties to admire while choosing a location.
- Observe patience: Let go of the pressure to complete your walk quickly. Instead, savor the moment and take your time. Enjoy your surroundings, take in the fresh air, and listen to the birds chirping.
- Leaving your phone at home: Consider putting your phone away and just savoring the experience to really immerse yourself into the moment.
- Make it an ongoing habit: Try to incorporate this small pleasure regularly into your routine to reap the most enjoyment possible from it.
Curling up With a Good Book
One of the best ways to relax, unwind, or to get away from the stress of everyday life is to read. Read something every day, whether it’s a romance novel, a book on self-improvement, or a fashion magazine. This will help you be more self-aware in the long run.
Not sure e to begin? Here are some starting points:
- Choose something you’re interested in, because that’s the key to enjoying this activity. From a page-turning thriller, to a book that makes you think, or a magazine with articles on your favorite topics, there’s no right or wrong. Put Instagram trends and suggestions out of your mind. You do you!
- Find a place to sit down: This could be a comfy chair or couch, a quiet corner of your bedroom, or even a hammock in your backyard.
- Spend time reading: Yes, you will need to give yourself some time to read. This could be a few minutes before bed, a half hour on the weekend, or even just a few minutes during lunch.
- Turn off the noise: To get the most out of your reading time, it’s best to keep phones, TVs, and other electronic devices to a minimum.
- Try new things without being afraid: Lastly, don’t be afraid to read books or magazines from different genres or types. You never know what fun things you might find.
Having a Deep Conversation with A Close Friend or Family Member
Talking to someone you care about and trust can be a great way to get to know them better and make your relationship stronger.
If you feel like you can’t find the perfect moment, here are some good ways to do it:
Choose someone you feel comfortable with. If you want to have a deep and meaningful conversation, choose a friend or family member you trust and feel comfortable with. We shouldn’t hang out with negative people just because we feel bad or guilty if we don’t. After all, it’s your life, right?
- Find a quiet, comfortable place to talk so you can pay attention to what is being said. This could be a quiet corner of a park, a cozy café, or even your own bedroom (pajama party, anyone?).
- Be honest: whether it’s marriage and dating, health or just a movie with a big impact, s hare your thoughts and ideas – and be willing to hear what others have to say.
- Pay attention: Being a good listener can be just as healing as telling your own story. For example, this means paying attention to what the other person is saying, asking follow-up questions, and showing a genuine interest in what they have to say.
- Bring up tough subjects: Finally, don’t be afraid to delve into difficult or sensitive topics during your conversation. This can be a great way to grow closer together and learn more about each other.
Treating Yourself to A Warm Bubble Bath / a Long Shower
Ahh, my personal favorite! Taking some time to relax and pamper yourself can be a great way to unwind or recharge after a long day.
In my personal experience, these things have worked magic:
- Add some extras: If you want to enjoy your bubble bath or shower even more, try adding some extras like scented candles, soft music, or luxurious bath products.
- Take your time: Don’t feel like you need to rush through your bubble bath or shower. Don’t forget that you are doing it to relax, not just to clean your body. Let yourself sink into the warm water and just enjoy the moment.
- Get a massage: If you really want to treat yourself, you could get a massage while you’re taking a bubble bath or a shower. You could do this by yourself with your hands or a massage tool, or you could ask a partner or loved one to massage you.
- Treat yourself to it often: Try to make a warm bubble bath or long shower a regular part of your routine so you can get the most out of this small pleasure. Whether it’s once a week or once a day, taking some time to relax and pamper yourself can have a positive impact on your well-being.
Sipping on A Delicious Cup of Coffee or Tea
Sipping on a delicious cup of coffee or tea can be a very enjoyable small pleasure for ANYBODY. I don’t care if you’re a coffee person or a tea person – and it doesn’t really matter! There’s just something so soothing and comforting about a hot drink, like a freshly brewed cup of coffee in the morning or some tea in the evening.
Here are a few tips for getting the most out of this small pleasure:
- Choose good coffee or tea: look for specialty roasters or tea shops that have a lot of options, and don’t be afraid to pay a little more for something that tastes great.
- Take the time to enjoy your drink: this may seem obvious, but you’d be surprised by how many people rush the habit!
- Make it a ritual: make sure to enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning, a cup of tea in the evening, or a special treat on the weekends. Repetition is key to truly enjoying this small pleasure;
- Share it with someone: having a warm drink with a friend, partner, or family member is a great way to start (or end) the day. Trust me on this one!
Indulging in A Small Luxury
Feeling like you’ve lost motivation? Indulging in a small luxury, like buying a new plant or piece of artwork, can boost your mood instantly. Taking the time to treat yourself to something special can be a great way to add a little joy and beauty to your life.
Here are some tips to help you be happy with what you buy:
- Choose something that brings you joy: this could be a beautiful plant that brightens up your home, a piece of artwork that speaks to you, or something else that catches your eye.
- Don’t overspend: choose something that you can afford and that won’t break the bank.
- Make it an event to remember: this could be a monthly treat, something you do to mark a special occasion or a job promotion, or just a way to remind yourself that YOU matter too!
- Take the time to enjoy it: this could be as simple as looking at a pretty plant or wearing that new blouse when going out.
Overall, small things can have a big impact on our well-being and happiness, and it’s important to take the time to appreciate and enjoy them. We often forget to enjoy life’s little pleasures, but in the end that’s why we’re working so hard daily, right?
Read also: 7 Things That Prove You ARE Good Enough
