What brings you joy?

Imagine yourself in the place you love the most. The place that brings you the greatest sense of joy, peace, satisfaction.

Close your eyes.

Take in the sights, sounds, smells.

Notice how you’re feeling — what emotions show up. The sensations they create in your body. The way you’re breathing. The way you’re holding your shoulders.

Stay here for a few moments.

Now bring yourself back to the space you’re in right now.

The room you’re in. The seat you’re on. This text you’re reading.

Pause.

Notice any shifts in emotions or the way your body feels. What changed?

Know that the any difference you feel between the place of joy and the place you’re at now is a thought away.

You didn’t physically have to go to your joyful place to feel joy.

You created that feeling by using your mind. You returned to any other feelings — perhaps stress, anxiety, tension — using the same.

Minding your mind is one of the most powerful skills to cultivate when learning to enjoy your life.

Committing to the practice takes energy. It takes courage. You’re exercising a new part of your brain. You’re developing a new habit.

But the confidence it builds in your ability to take care of yourself is worth the investment.

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