Image by Sixteen Miles Out
I’m having a cup of chamomile tea this morning (I don’t see why it should be limited to evenings) and I decided to come on here and talk about what is possibly one of the most overwritten topics there is. Happiness.
The current state of the world and frankly my life at the moment, has had me thinking about happiness a lot more lately. And in different ways, from what it means to what we’ve been taught about it and most importantly, how it looks and feels to me.
Image by Carli Jeen
Over the months, I’ve come to a vague conclusion that happiness is a shapeshifter. Fluid and ever-changing,.,never quite the same one day as it is the next. And knowing that, it makes all the more sense why we’re often told you can’t chase happiness.
So what is happiness then and how do you consistently make yourself happy if each season comes with change?
Needless to say, I journaled through this question for a few weeks, months rather…questioning where I am, where I’ve been and where I’d like to head as an individual; mentally, spiritually, emotionally.
In the midst of this, I recognised a pattern. Happiness for me, whether in the simplest or grandest of things and moments was always marked by one thing…my ability to be present. Mindfulness in other words.
Image by AnneMarie Gruden
It’s probably why children are statistically happier. They, unlike most of us adults, are able to truly immerse themselves in the wonder and magic of things and the world around them.
And so rather than just trying to ensure I’m constantly doing things that make me feel good, I’ve also decided to recommit to being mindful. To existing in the now, in what is here this very moment before thinking of adding on new elements
Image by Peter Idowu
So that means truly laughing when something is funny, it means savouring my successes, enjoying the wafts of perfume from a cosy sweater or the feel of a rich butter melting into the skin of my arms…it means being in the moment even now, sipping on my cup of chamomile tea with a song I like playing in the background.
In these simplest of things lies a happiness that is beautiful and sustainable.
The world is full of magical things, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper.
– W.B. Yeats
Image by Frida Aguilar
What does happiness look like to you? Share a comment or a thought, we’d love to know.
Have a great day!
-Malaika
1 thought on “ON CULTIVATING JOY IN STRANGE TIMES”
Hi Malaika,
This is a well timed post. It’s a strange time indeed as I go into my 3rd lockdown. Happiness for me right now is cherishing the few family members I am able to be with. In a way, it ties in with the idea of mindfulness you evoked – just enjoying the precious moments as they come. Have a good day!