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Health & Wellness

The 7-Minute Routine That Will Leave You Feeling Amazing All Day

8:20 PM

feeling amazing

7-minute Routine to Feel Amazing All Day

Of course you do your usual; shower, prepare for the day, check your to-do list, eat. But you can improve your day by doing some simple short hacks in between.
First of all, don’t start your day with your smartphone. Don’t open your email or check your messages especially if you’re not out of bed yet.

Don’t stress yourself out before your day even starts.

Make wise choices.

1 minute – Drink lemon water when you wake up

Prepare your lemon water ahead of time or before going to bed. But if you can’t, that’s fine. Squeezing lemon in your water wouldn’t take you a very long time. Half of fresh lemon into 8-12 ounces of water is good. Why start your day with lemon water? It cleanses your digestive system from all the food you had the previous day.
It’s also full of vitamin C that can help boost your immune system so you are more protected from diseases during the day. As an effect of the nutrients found in lemon (and the amazing properties of water as hydrating agent), you get healthier skin, your calories are burned and you are even protected from cancer.
All these benefits in 1 minute!

2 minutes – Thank the universe

It’s amazing what gratitude can do. A grateful heart is more open to blessings and possibilities.

A grateful heart is a healthy heart.

There is instant joy if you start thinking about all the great things in your life and be thankful for what you have. Contentment follows, so does peace of mind. What could be more amazing than that?

2 minutes – Stretch

You don’t need to have a daily hard work out or a run (although you can if you have a lot of time). But you can always have a few minutes of stretching in the morning. Stretch those muscles that have been sore or sleeping.

Some uses the testosterone cypionate online for to improve performance in athletics and bodybuilding.

Stretch to let your blood circulate better. When you have healthy circulation, oxygen is well distributed all over your body including---and most of all---your brain!
Stretching is also a form of exercise and exercise releases happy hormones in your brain. Of course you will feel amazing!
To make stretching more fun and the experience even better, play on your favorite track. Music does so much goodness to your being. Your favorite music can set the mood for a beautiful start of the day. It can also help keep you motivated. Music uplifts the mood instantly.

2 minute – Find your Zen

It is important to keep your focus. What are your goals? What are your long term and short term goals? Before you do what you need to do, remember your ‘why’. It is your purpose that will give you the drive to keep going.
You can’t get through the day without being focused or finding your center. Meditate. Find your Zen. Try reading some good morning quotes to fill your heart with gratitude.

good morning quotes to fill your heart with gratitude. Your whole day depends on how you start it. Begin with a good kick-start. Begin with your health and well-being in mind. Don’t just get on the day like a robot or zombie. Be intentional. Be mindful. Do what makes you feel good and help yourself.
At the end of the day, it is our choices that determine how our day—and life would go. As American author Annie Dillard say, “How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives.”
Spend it wisely by starting it right with this easy to do routine.

If you like this blog post about life and love, please share the article
using the social media buttons below or on the left. Thanks!

Listicle

Top 10 Blog Posts in the Past 10 Years

1. About Hush Puppies and Finding Your One True Love

It seems only yesterday...

I was fresh from a heartbreak.

In an unfamiliar place.

Surrounded by the most toxic people I've ever known.

I felt like Eeyore. With a constant storm cloud above me.

About Hush Puppies and Finding Your One True Love

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Alas, one day...a silver lining!

I received a bonus.

And since my shoes then were at the end of their life, I went shoe shopping.

While looking around for a good pair, I realized that shopping for shoes is like finding your life partner.

Finding your one true love as with shoe shopping could take longer and could be frustrating. But in the end, it's rewarding.

This is where I shared why.

Shoe shopping and Finding Your One True Love

2. 16 Reasons Why The Feast Is The Coolest Place To Recover Your Faith

The Catholic faith is boring and superficial. They worship sculptures. They're blind followers.

That's what they say.

The Feast will show you otherwise.

What's The Feast?

It's a weekly gathering of the LOJ Family.

There's live music and worship, fun and moving talks, and it's lightyears away from boring.

I went through a phase when I was thirsting for more, spiritually. I wanted to seek God on a deeper level.

Going to mass wasn't enough to quench my thirst.

I searched for God in other religions.

I'm glad I've found The Feast.

I saw God in a different light.

A loving Father more than a ruler.

A generous provider.

An invincible protector.

A loyal friend.

My vindicator.

God is the best life-planner and matchmaker ever.

He looks at me with adoration. He's been waiting for me to return without question or judgment.

I've met some of my lifelong friends at The Feast, too.

The Feast truly is the best place to recover your faith.

Check out the other reasons why here.

Tenor

3. I Choose To Be Happy

This was written when I was down in the dumps and have had enough of my situation.

Dramatic but true.

I realized...

God didn't knit me together in my mother's womb so I'd wake up feeling dejected every day.

I've had enough of the dark times. I wanted to see the light.

And I realized the only person stopping me from doing so is...

Myself.

So, I made a choice.

I chose to get up and make things happen.

I chose forgiveness even when I never received the apology I needed.

I chose to be happy then, and I keep choosing happiness today.

Read here and find out why you should too.

Tenor

4. 13 Things You Should Never Apologize For

Do you catch yourself apologizing even when it's unnecessary?

I'm sorry, I just have a question.

I'm sorry, but I think you should leave.

I'm sorry, but that's not funny. It's offensive.

It's like we're too scared to rock the boat. And to show how we really feel.

Women, especially.

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I love this quote from Marianne Williamson:

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, "Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?" Actually, who are you not to be?

We shouldn't apologize if we shine too brightly for others who choose to stay in the dark.

You should not apologize for being yourself (as long as you're not hurting anyone).

What are the things you don't apologize for? Here are mine.

Shine bright, baby!

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5. Life Lessons From Maleficent Movie

Another post about making a choice and how our choices affect our lives.

Hold a grudge or forgive?

Love or hate?

To vindicate or to let go?

In every choice we make, there's a consequence.

Especially choosing the words that come out of our mouth.

Because words are extremely powerful.

Maleficent is also about the importance of not judging others based on their appearance.

She may have a menacing look but she's got a good heart.

She was only temporarily hateful because she was hurt. And you know what they say about women scorned.

No? Read about it here.

6. The Power Of An Introvert

I scored 99% introvert in the personality test I took. No kidding.

I'm at peace and at my best when I'm in my own little bubble.

When I finally realized that choosing to stay home over partying is not being a killjoy but just being myself, I felt more powerful. In control. And blissful.

Oh, the quiet power of an introvert and the fun things we can do.

I love to be alone. I never found the companion that was so companionable as solitude. -Henry David Thoreau

Are you an introvert or know someone who is? You should read this.

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7. 25 Powerful Declarations To Shape Your Day & Change Your Life

Words can shape your day and change your life.

We all need motivation. Every day.

Do you speak encouraging and kind words to yourself? Or do you wake up feeling defeated?

This could help you.

I love what Annie Dillard said:

How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives.

Copy and paste these 25 declarations here.

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8. 10 Signs Your Partner Is A Man-Child And Not A Man

Big thanks to guest blogger Tracey Clayton for this enlightening and fun read.

Could it be that there are more "man-child" than we think there are? Why the interest in knowing the signs?

If you're in a relationship and you're not sure if your partner is a man-child or not, this article is for you.

Save yourself from a lifetime of headaches and tears.

If you see a red flag, run.

Gifer

9. Dogs Are Family, Not Food

I wasn't vegan yet when I wrote this.

I found out that there is a festival wherein people feast on dog meat.

As disgusting and preposterous as it sounds, it's true.

It's happening. Every year.

I wrote this as a petition.

Man is the only one to whom the torture and death of his fellow-creatures are amusing in itself. -James Anthony Froude

PLEASE sign the petition because sadly, it's still happening.

Tenor

10. My Birthday Gratitude List

Thankful every day but especially during my birthday.

I would look back at the year that has passed (because my birth month is December), and think about how blessed I am.

My heart is filled with gratitude as I'm listing down my blessings.

Writing down a gratitude list improves your life.

You become more mindful and focused.

You're more cheerful and optimistic.

You'll have fewer worries. Have more energy. More motivated to do more. And you feel more confident that no matter what happens, everything's going to be okay.

Make it a habit to write a gratitude list, especially on your birthday. You'll feel more special and you'll appreciate life more.

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Rereading these articles is a trip.

I could picture my younger self hunched down on my laptop and baring my soul.

What a wonderful 10 years of blogging it has been!

Thank you for being a part of it. 😊

Tell me which of these top 10 blog posts you enjoyed the most. What has resonated with you? I'd love to read your thoughts in the comments below.

This post here may contain affiliate links. Meaning I get a commission if you purchase through my links at no additional cost to you. This helps me maintain my site. Thank you for your support.

Dating

8 Ways To Keep The Love Alive When You're Past The Romantic Stage

7:25 AM

Love never dies a natural death. It dies because we don't know how to replenish its source. It dies of blindness and errors, and betrayals. It dies of illness and wounds; it dies of weariness, of withering, of tarnishing.

-Anais Nin

The honeymoon stage of a relationship is truly magical. The surprises, sweet gestures, and basking in each other's presence keep the happy hormones flowing. However, change happens as time goes by.

In many cases, the romance begins to fade, and the frequency of dates and surprises diminishes. Even passion can dwindle.

So how do you keep the love alive when you're past the romantic stage? Here are eight ways to keep the music playing!

1. Have open and honest communication.

Maintaining strong and effective communication is crucial for keeping the love alive in a relationship, especially when you have moved past the romantic stage. Here are some tips to enhance communication and nurture your connection:

Create a Safe and Judgment-Free Space: Foster an environment where both partners feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, feelings, and concerns without fear of judgment or criticism. Instead, encourage open dialogue and active listening.
Practice Active Listening: When your partner is speaking, give them your full attention. Avoid interrupting or formulating a response while they are still talking. Instead, focus on understanding their perspective and emotions. Show empathy and validate their feelings.
Express Yourself Clearly and Honestly: Be transparent about your thoughts, needs, and desires. Clearly communicate your expectations and concerns. Avoid assuming your partner can read your mind or understand your unspoken needs. Instead, be open and direct in your communication.
Use "I" Statements: When discussing sensitive topics or expressing dissatisfaction, use "I" statements to convey your emotions and experiences. For example, say, "I feel hurt when..." instead of blaming or accusing with, "You always..." This helps avoid defensiveness and fosters a more productive conversation.
Practice Non-Verbal Communication: Communication is not limited to words alone. Pay attention to non-verbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. These can provide valuable insights into your partner's emotions and feelings.
Be Mindful of Timing: Choose the right time and place for meaningful discussions. For example, avoid having serious conversations when one or both of you are tired, stressed, or distracted. Instead, find a calm and neutral environment where you can focus on the exchange.
Seek Compromise and Find Solutions Together: Remember that effective communication involves finding common ground and working towards solutions that benefit both partners. Approach conflicts as opportunities for growth and understanding rather than battles to be won.
Practice Regular Check-Ins: Set aside dedicated time to check in with each other about the state of the relationship, individual needs, and any potential issues that may have arisen. This can be done through regular conversations, weekly date nights, or even relationship counseling if needed.
Show Appreciation and Gratitude: Express gratitude for your partner's efforts, support, and love. Acknowledge and appreciate their contributions to the relationship. Small gestures of appreciation can go a long way in nurturing love and strengthening your bond.
Be Patient and Understanding: Recognize that maintaining effective communication takes effort and practice. Be patient with each other and understand that it may take time to fully understand and address each other's needs. Be willing to learn and grow together.

Remember that your partner is not a mind reader, even if you share a special connection.

So be willing to keep your foundation strong by communicating your needs and making your partner feel they're heard and matter.

2. Protect secrets.

The value of trust is paramount in a relationship. Consider it an honor if your partner confides in you, whether it be a childhood memory, a fear, or an aspiration.

Their decision to open up and share a part of themselves is a testament to their trust in you.

Make it your mission to protect them when they're most vulnerable. Never use their secrets as a weapon to hurt them.

These seemingly small gestures are of utmost importance and contribute significantly to the strength of your relationship even when romance is not at its peak.

3. Value commitments.

Reliability and dependability are critical components of a solid relationship. So, first, let your partner know they can count on you. Then, follow through on your word in everyday situations.

If you've promised to take care of something, fulfill that commitment.

Something as simple as calling them when you agreed, doing your part in the household chores religiously, or keeping your date nights sacred are seemingly insignificant actions. But they can bolster the bond between partners and demonstrate reliability.

4. Say sorry and mean it.

Inevitably, there will be instances where you unintentionally hurt your partners with your words or actions. When this happens, it is crucial to apologize right away.

Saying "sorry" is insufficient; you must genuinely feel remorse and avoid becoming defensive.

More importantly, avoid committing the same mistake again.

Continuing harmful behavior towards your partner after apologizing can erode trust and ultimately lead to the end of your relationship.

It is essential to recognize the impact of your actions and take responsibility for them if you want to maintain a healthy and fulfilling partnership.

5. Forgive.

Forgiveness plays a pivotal role in maintaining a healthy relationship. If your partner has hurt you and sincerely apologizes, wholeheartedly forgive them.
Holding grudges only creates further negativity and tension.
Remember, we are all human; even the most compatible and compassionate individuals may have disagreements.
Love keeps no record of wrongs. -1 Corinthians 13:1

6. Have some time apart.

Maintaining a balance between time spent together and time spent apart is crucial. While it's important to enjoy each other's company to keep the love alive, having separate interests and friendships is equally vital.

Maintaining individual hobbies and social circles brings freshness and excitement to the relationship.

Being together constantly can lead to feelings of suffocation.

However, finding the right balance and carving out quality time for each other is essential. Here are some strategies to help you achieve this balance:

Prioritize and Schedule: Make spending quality time together a priority by scheduling dedicated time in your calendars. This could be date nights, weekend getaways, or simply setting aside uninterrupted time each day to connect and bond. Treat this time as sacred and non-negotiable.
Communicate and Coordinate: Openly communicate with your partner about your needs for alone time or pursuing personal interests. For example, discuss and coordinate your schedules to ensure you can engage in activities or hobbies you enjoy.
Respect Personal Boundaries: Understand and respect each other's need for personal space and alone time. Recognize that time apart can be beneficial for individual growth, self-reflection, and recharging. Support each other in pursuing solo activities or spending time with friends.
Engage in Shared Interests: Find activities you enjoy and can do together. This allows you to bond and have quality time while engaging in shared hobbies, such as cooking, walking, or watching a series together.
Encourage Independence: Encourage and support each other's individual interests and passions. Embrace the idea that maintaining a sense of self is important for a healthy and fulfilling relationship. Pursue activities or hobbies independently that bring you joy and fulfillment.
Establish Rituals or Routines: Create rituals or routines that allow you to connect and spend time together consistently. This could be a weekly date night, a morning coffee ritual, or a shared activity before bedtime. These rituals provide a sense of stability and togetherness.
Embrace Quality Over Quantity: It's not just about the amount of time you spend together but the quality of that time. Make the most of your time by being fully present, engaged, and attentive to each other. Focus on building meaningful connections and creating shared memories.
Foster Trust and Independence: Building a solid foundation of trust in your relationship allows both partners to feel secure and comfortable when spending time apart. Trust that your partner values the relationship and respects the boundaries you establish for personal time.
Regularly Reassess and Adjust: Periodically evaluate how you balance time together and apart. Check-in with each other to ensure that both of you feel satisfied and fulfilled. Adjust your routines and schedules as needed to maintain a healthy balance.

7. Appreciate each other.

We all seek approval and reassurance from those we love. However, appreciating each other is crucial in keeping the love alive, especially as you move past the romantic stage of a relationship. Here are some ways to cultivate appreciation:

Be grateful: Take the time to express gratitude for your partner and what they do for you. Let them know how much you appreciate their efforts, support, and presence in your life. A simple "thank you" can go a long way in making your partner feel valued and loved.
Focus on Strengths and Qualities: Acknowledge and appreciate your partner's strengths, talents, and unique qualities. Let them know what you admire about them and why you feel lucky to have them in your life. Celebrate their achievements and personal growth.
Notice the Little Things: Pay attention to the small gestures and acts of kindness your partner does for you or others. It could be making you a cup of coffee in the morning, leaving a sweet note, or helping with household chores. Express your appreciation for these little things that often go unnoticed but contribute to the strength of your relationship.
Show Affection and Physical Touch: Physical touch is vital for expressing appreciation and love. Show affection through hugs, kisses, cuddling, and holding hands. Physical contact can create a sense of closeness and reinforce your emotional connection. In addition, it will keep things spicy and exciting, igniting the embers of love even when you're past the romantic stage.
Quality Time and Presence: Make an effort to spend quality time together without distractions. Put away phones, turn off the TV, and truly engage with each other. Be fully present, actively listen, and participate in activities you enjoy. This undivided attention demonstrates that you value and cherish your time together.
Surprise and Delight: Plan surprises or small acts of kindness to show your partner that you are thinking of them. It could be bringing home their favorite treat, planning a surprise date night, or leaving little love notes for them to find. These unexpected gestures help keep the romance and excitement alive.
Compliment and Encourage: Offer genuine compliments and encouragement to uplift your partner. Acknowledge their efforts, achievements, and personal growth. Let them know you believe in their abilities and support their dreams and aspirations.
Support Each Other's Well-Being: Show appreciation by supporting your partner's physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Encourage healthy habits, listen to their concerns, and provide a safe space to express their thoughts and feelings. Be their cheerleader and source of comfort during challenging times.
Celebrate Milestones and Special Moments: Take the time to celebrate important milestones, anniversaries, and memorable moments in your relationship. Create meaningful traditions and rituals that allow you to reflect on your journey together and appreciate how far you've come.
Practice Active Appreciation: Make it a habit to express gratitude and appreciation regularly, not just on special occasions. Cultivate a mindset of recognizing and valuing your partner's and your relationship's positive aspects.

8. Rekindle the romance.

Rekindling romance is possible even when you have moved past the initial romantic stage of a relationship. Here are some ways to reignite the spark and bring back the romance:

Plan Surprise Dates or Getaways: Surprise your partner with a special date or weekend getaway. Plan activities or outings that you know they will enjoy. Breaking the routine and injecting new experiences into your relationship can create a sense of excitement and adventure.
Bring Back Romantic Gestures: Recall the romantic gestures you used to do early in the relationship and reintroduce them. For example, write love letters, leave sweet notes, or send romantic text messages throughout the day. Small gestures can make a significant impact in rekindling the romance.
Create a Romantic Atmosphere: Set the mood for romance by creating a cozy and romantic atmosphere. Light candles, play soft music and prepare a special meal together. Transforming your space into a romantic haven can evoke intimacy and closeness.
Engage in Shared Activities: Rediscover shared interests and engage in activities you enjoy. It could be taking a dance class, cooking together, hiking, or engaging in a new hobby. Sharing experiences and creating new memories can reignite the connection between you.
Physical Intimacy and Affection: Prioritize physical intimacy and affection in your relationship. Kiss, cuddle, and hold hands. Make time for intimate moments and explore ways to enhance your physical connection. Physical touch can rekindle passion and desire.
Prioritize Quality Time: Set aside dedicated quality time for each other. Put away distractions such as phones or work and genuinely focus on each other. Engage in deep conversations, share your dreams and aspirations, and actively listen to your partner. This undivided attention strengthens the emotional bond.
Surprise Gifts or Gestures: Surprise your partner with thoughtful gifts or gestures that show you care. It could be their favorite book, a handwritten love poem, or planning a surprise outing. These unexpected acts of love can reignite feelings of excitement and appreciation.
Explore New Experiences Together: Step outside your comfort zone and try new things together. Take up a new hobby, adventure, or explore a new city. The shared excitement and exploration can reignite the sense of discovery and bring back the thrill of being together.

Rekindling romance takes effort from both sides. However, with time and dedication, you can reignite the flame and bring back the romance in your lives.

Keep the Love Alive

Both partners seek and require validation, which can be achieved through trust and reciprocity. It's essential to recognize that this is a natural progression, as all couples experience these phases.

A solid and lasting relationship is tested through various ups and downs. The pillars of respect, trust, commitment, and love are tested.

Remember that romance evolves beyond candlelit dinners and boxes of chocolates and transforms into a deep sense of respect and understanding for one another.

Work towards maintaining excitement and freshness in your relationship by keeping the love alive even when you're past the romantic stage.

How do you keep the flame of love burning brightly in your relationship?

How-To

Simple Joys: A 31-Day Challenge for Happiness Happens Month

7:34 PM

31 Day Challenge for Happiness Happens Month

Happiness does not depend on outward things but on the way we see them.

- Leo Tolstoy

Finding happiness in the ordinary, the small, and the seemingly mundane can make life extraordinarily joyful. What if there was a way to focus on these moments more deliberately, to truly soak in the happiness they offer? Well, there is! And it takes place in the sun-soaked span of August, a month declared Happiness Happens Month.

Imagine that. A month dedicated to observing and celebrating instances of happiness, and you'll have a picture of what Happiness Happens Month is all about.

It's an opportunity to cherish the joy in simple things and learn that happiness isn't always about the grand events but often about the precious moments we experience daily.

And so, in the spirit of this particular month, the idea of a 31-Day Challenge was born in my ever-restless, chaotic, colorful, introverted brain.

A daily activity designed to help us spot and truly engage with these simple joys, the small moments that create a ripple effect of happiness.

The Importance of Celebrating Small Joys

Those fleeting instances of joy, like a heartfelt laugh with a friend or the peaceful tranquility of a morning cup of coffee, add up, forming the rich tapestry of our life's happiness.

It's crucial to acknowledge these moments to celebrate them. This act of recognition has a profound effect on our well-being.

Psychologists tell us that we anchor ourselves in the present moment by focusing on these simple joys.

This mindfulness can lead to a cascade of positive effects.

Benefits of celebrating simple joys:

It reduces stress.
It improves our mood and increases our overall sense of happiness.
It contributes to our resilience, our ability to bounce back from adversity.
It helps cultivate a positive mindset, a kind of happiness bank we can draw from in more challenging times.
It's like having a lens that filters out the mundane and zooms in on the delightful.

Celebrating simple joys equips us with a mental toolkit, enabling us to navigate our ups and downs with a joyful spirit and a resilient heart.

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Recognizing and Avoiding Toxic Positivity

It's essential to distinguish the pursuit of happiness from the trap of toxic positivity. Toxic positivity refers to the excessive and ineffective overgeneralization of a happy, optimistic state across all situations. It dismisses authentic human emotional experience and forces a "positive" outlook even when it's not practical or healthy.

Avoiding this trap is critical in any happiness journey. Here are some pointers to guide you:

Feel Your Feelings. It's okay to have days when you're not feeling 100%. Acknowledge your feelings: sadness, anger, frustration, or anything else. All emotions are valid and deserve to be felt and processed.
Authenticity Over Forced Positivity. Being true to your feelings is far more essential than projecting an image of constant positivity. Authenticity breeds happiness, not the other way around.
Active Listening. When someone shares their struggles or pain, listen to them without trying to paint a silver lining around their cloud. Sometimes, people just need to be heard and validated, not cheered.
Practice Self-Compassion. Don't blame yourself for feeling low or not being "positive enough." Instead, treat yourself with the kindness you would offer a friend in a similar situation.

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Reframe, Don't Repress. Instead of suppressing your feelings, try to reframe them. For example, acknowledge it if you're feeling anxious and consider what your anxiety might be trying to tell you. Reframing isn't about changing the emotion; it's about understanding its source and learning from it.
Bouncing Back. Remember, resilience isn't about never falling but about how you bounce back when you do. Even on your worst days, remember that they are just moments that will pass. You can and will bounce back.

Happiness Happens Month: The 31-Day Challenge.

Embracing the spirit of Happiness Happens Month, the 31-Day Challenge is designed to help you seek, recognize, and celebrate the simple joys in everyday life.

Each day in August is a unique task, meant to shine a light on those tiny, sometimes mundane, activities that could surprisingly spark joy.

Ready?

Here are 31 Admit Your Happy Month activities to get you through August – and beyond.

Day 1: Morning Serenity. Start your day positively by spending 5 minutes in silent contemplation as you sip your morning beverage. Feel the cup's warmth, inhale the aroma, and let this tranquil moment set a joyful tone for the day.

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Day 2: Nature Walk. Take a short walk at a nearby park or around your neighborhood. Notice the trees, the sounds of the birds, and the wind on your skin. Let the connection with nature fill you with joy.

Or Visualize Nature. If you can't make it outdoors create peace by visualizing a serene natural setting. Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and imagine yourself in a calming place - maybe a tranquil forest, a sun-drenched beach, or a lush green meadow.

There are playlists online that feature the sound of nature, which you can play to help you get in the moment. Feel the joy that this mental escape brings you.

Day 3: Random Act of Kindness. Doing small acts of kindness can have a significant impact. You can let someone go ahead of you in line or leave a supportive note for a coworker. Feel the happiness ripple from your act of kindness.

Day 4: Play Your Anthem. Listen to your favorite song, let the rhythm move you, and don't be afraid to dance a little! Music has a profound way of lifting our spirits; let it lift yours today. I included my personal favorites in the Gratitude Affirmation Cards. Download it HERE.

Day 5: Savory Moment. Savor your favorite meal today. Instead of rushing through it, take time to appreciate every bite. Recognize how this simple nourishment can be a source of great joy for your mind and body.

Day 6: Reach Out. August 6^th is Friendship Day. Send a message to a friend you haven't talked to. Reconnecting with old friends can spark joy and warmth in your heart.

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Day 7: Share a Smile. The 2^nd week of August is National Smile Week. Make it a point to share a genuine smile with people you interact with throughout the day. Smiling not only lifts your mood but can also make someone else's day brighter, bringing joy to both parties.

Day 8: Photo Walk. August 8^th is National Happiness Happens Day. Grab your phone or a camera and take a walk to capture the beauty around you. The act of seeking beauty in everyday scenes will bring a sense of joy and appreciation.

Day 9: Indulge in a Book. It's Book Lover's Day! Dedicate some time to reading. Whether it's a novel, a self-help book, or a comic, allow the joy of an excellent read to wash over you.

Day 10: Unplug and Unwind. Take a digital detox for an hour. Switch off your gadgets, disconnect from the digital world, and enjoy the serenity. Read a book, play with your pet, walk, write down your thoughts, or enjoy the view outside. You'd be surprised by the peace and joy this little break can bring.

Day 11: Meditate. Carve out 10 minutes for a meditation session. Focus on your breath and let go of any stressful thoughts. Experience the joy of tranquility.

Day 12: Share Your Wisdom. Share advice or a life lesson with someone who might benefit from it. The act of sharing wisdom can bring a sense of fulfillment and joy.

Day 13: Hydration Happiness. Turn the act of hydration into a joyful moment. Add a slice of fruit or a dash of herbs to your water and savor each refreshing sip.

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Day 14: Home Sweet Home. Tidy up a small corner of your home. Cleaning and organizing can be surprisingly therapeutic, creating a cozy space that brings you joy.

Day 15: Rediscover a Hobby. Dedicate some time to a hobby you love but have neglected lately. Whether painting, reading, playing an instrument, or gardening, immersing yourself in a hobby is an excellent way to tap into happiness.

Day 16: Family Connection. Spend quality time with your family, whether playing a board game or preparing dinner together. Family time is a source of profound joy with shared laughs and warmth. Remember that family doesn't always mean blood. You can connect with people you consider as a family or your pets, who are the most loyal creatures you could ask for.

Day 17: Treat Yourself. Buy yourself a small treat, like a favorite snack or a flower for your desk.

Day 18: Cook a Meal. Make a favorite dish for yourself or your loved ones. Find joy in the cooking process and the satisfaction of a well-made meal.

Day 19: Laughter Therapy. Watch a comedy or read some funny jokes. The act of laughing releases endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals, promoting an overall sense of well-being and joy.

Day 20: Positive Affirmations. Start your day with positive affirmations. Statements like "I allow myself to slow down and enjoy life" or "I can handle whatever comes my way" can set a positive tone for your day and bring happiness. Need more affirmations and daily inspiration? Download the FREE Gratitude Affirmation Cards.

Day 21: Dance it Out. Put on your favorite music and have a dance break. Dancing is a great stress reliever; it releases endorphins, creating joy.

Tenor

Day 22: Compliment Someone. Give a genuine compliment to a coworker, family, or stranger. This simple act of kindness can bring joy not just to them but to you as well.

Day 23: Learn Something New. Learn something new today - a new word, recipe, or yoga pose. This act of self-improvement can bring a sense of accomplishment and joy.

Day 24: Gratitude Journaling. Dedicate a few minutes to write down three things you're grateful for today. It could be anything from the air conditioner to a good book or remember a fond memory.

Day 25: Digital Detox. Spend a few hours without any digital devices. The break from constant notifications can bring relief and happiness. This is not a repeat. It is that important to filter what you feed your mind.

Day 26: Express Your Feelings. Write a letter expressing your feelings to someone. You don't have to send it. Just the act of expressing yourself can bring relief and joy.

Day 27: Walk Down Memory Lane. Revisit a fond memory from your childhood or early adult years. Nostalgia can bring warmth and joy.

Day 28: Quiet Time. Spend some time in silence. Just sit with your thoughts, observing them without judgment. When you talk to yourself, act like you're speaking with a close friend.

Day 29: Draw or Doodle. Even if you don't consider yourself an artist, try doodling or sketching something. This process can be calming, therapeutic, and joyful, allowing your creativity to flow freely.

Day 30: Self-Reflection. Think about what you've learned this month and how it's brought you joy.

Day 31: Celebrate Yourself. Celebrate your completion of this challenge. Recognize the happiness you've cultivated through these simple daily activities and commit to continue finding joy in small things.

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Tips for Engaging with the Challenge

Savoring the journey of our Happiness Happens challenge can become even more rewarding with the right approach. Here are some tips to amplify the joy in this journey:

Keep a Happiness Journal. The pen is indeed mightier than the sword when battling the blues. Jotting down your thoughts and feelings associated with each daily activity helps you savor those moments of joy. Remember to note what made you smile or feel good each day. Download the FREE printable journal that came with the Gratitude Affirmation Card.
Get Social. Sharing is caring; in this case, it can also be a source of happiness. Feel free to share your experiences with the challenge on social media using the hashtag #HappinessHappensMonth. Seeing others participate and share their moments of joy can enhance your own.
Involve Loved Ones. Happiness doubles when shared. Involve your family and friends in this challenge. Engaging in activities together can add another layer of joy.
Embrace Patience and Open-mindedness. Not every day might seem joyous, and that's perfectly okay. Embrace the process with patience and keep an open mind. This challenge is about finding happiness in unexpected places, so allow yourself to be surprised.
Remember to Be Mindful. As you go through each task, focus on the present moment. Savor it. Pay attention to how it makes you feel, what you observe, and what you learn about yourself.
Celebrate Your Journey. Each step in this challenge is a step towards a happier you. Celebrate that fact. Be proud of your progress, no matter how small it seems.

Tenor
Make Happiness Happen for You It's incredible how our individual sparks of joy can collectively brighten the world. Here's how you can make happiness happen: Download the challenge. I'd be thrilled if you downloaded the Happiness Happens 31-Day Challenge pdf and joined.
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Share the Joy

If this challenge resonates with you, feel free to share this article with others so we can create a ripple effect of happiness. Shared joy is double joy.

Feed Your Brain

Read How Happiness Happens: Finding Lasting Joy in a World of Comparison, Disappointment, and Unmet Expectations by bestselling author Max Lucado. Write down the nuggets of wisdom you'll learn and call it your How Happiness Happens Journal.
Watch this TEDTalk video of psychologist Katarina Blom about creating happiness.

Mark your calendar

Don't forget to celebrate on these dates:

August 6^th – Friendship Day
August 8^th – Admit You're Happy Day or Happiness Happens Day
World of Happiness Day is on March 20th.

Admit You're Happy

August, fondly known as the Admit You're Happy Month, where Happiness Happens Day occurs, provides an excellent opportunity to invite more joy into your life. It's a chance to intentionally focus on happiness and incorporate more of it into your day-to-day activities.

However, this shouldn't feel like a chore or an added stressor; instead, let it be an enlightening journey into simple pleasures.

The Simple Joys: 31-Day Challenge for Happiness Happens Month is a path towards recognizing that happiness is not always about the grand gestures and significant milestones but often about the little moments that fill our days.

Whether it's a mindful sip of coffee in the morning, a moment of laughter shared with a friend, or a quiet evening with your thoughts, these are all seeds of joy that can enrich our lives immensely.

For this August, I invite you to open up to these moments and fully embrace them. But remember, this doesn't end when the calendar flips to September. Let this challenge set a precedent for the rest of your year and beyond. As the saying goes, "Don't be sad it's over, be happy it happened."