When I began my "journey" into Happiness, I was asked the question, "What do you do for yourself?" This had to be something that didn't involve a lot of money, or any other person/people. It had to be a solitary activity that was pleasing to me, and no one else. At first, I had a really hard time coming up with even one thing. But now, years later, I have a list, and here are 5 of my favorites:
1. Walking on the beach:
Sometimes, I go twice, depending on how busy my day is, or how stressful. I have even been known to go at night, to listen to the crashing of the waves against the shore. Once you find your happy place, it is truly a sanctuary. Winnie the Pooh knew he needed a "thinking spot," and so do you!
2. Enjoying some good food
For me, this means one thing: sushi. Obviously, everyone is different in their likes and disikes, especially when it comes to food. Find something that you enjoy, but make sure you are eating "consciously." Enjoy and savor the flavor and texture. I take mine to go, because I don't like sitting in a restaurant alone, but many people have no issue with this. Do what works for you, this is, after all, YOUR date. Sometimes, I cook for myself, too.
3. Music
There are so many variations of this one, that I didn't specify. Technically, music involves others, since the musician is performing, but you can listen alone, so I think it's still fair game. For the purpose of really serving your higher self, I would encourage you to find some music that is uplifting, and calming. You may even find that the you enjoy what you used to call "elevator music," and "old person music." Since no one else is involved in this decision, it will just be our little secret. No one else needs to know what kind of music really speaks to your inner self.
Lady Antebellum's "Compass"
4. Meditation
This has been a huge part of my path in recent years. There are many different types of meditation, and you do not have to sit in the lotus position for a day to acheive results. You may have preconceived notions of this word, but I assure you that if every one of us took 30 minutes a day to simply sit in silence, the world would be a much better place. Being still and quiet is difficult for those of us who have spent a lifetime trying to distract ourselves. However; once you master it, the rewards are great, and endless. There are lots of great resources online for learning this ancient and lost art.
5. Water
Again, there are tons of variations on this one, I personally enjoy a nice salt bath, but you may enjoy swimming, a jacuzzi, or something along those lines. Water has a very effective grounding effect, and you can also use it for powerful visualizations of washing away energies, cords, etc. I like to meditate in the bath, listening to music. When I go to let the water out, I visualize all my stress and energy from others that I have collected over the last day, washes down the drain. You can do a quick version of this with a shower. Again, make it your own, it's your time to give to yourself.
Making time to nourish your inner light is key to finding contentment and Happiness. As a good friend of mine says, "Happiness is found many different ways, and each are as varied as the soul who is searching for it."
