Simple Everyday Things That Will Make You Smile

“Stop worrying about tomorrow, because tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” – Matthew 6:34

Sometimes life throws such challenges at us that smiling becomes an effort. A loss of a loved one, financial difficulties, breakups, bullying, etc. If loss is part of life, so is birth, because life goes on. Some light moments that bring smiles can renew our faith and help us heal. There are simple things that most of us can do to keep ourselves happy. Besides going on vacation or eating your favourite meal, perhaps there are other things that do not cost a penny but make you smile.

This post is a reminder to myself and to everyone that it’s possible to be happy even with simple things and experiences. 

Disclaimer: All contents in this post are for general health information only. Please consult a specialist physician or a coach before trying any new exercise, diet or health advice. There are no affiliate links attached to this post.

Playing in water

Summers and beaches give us an opportunity to cool down by spending some time in water. There’s some magic in being close to nature that awakens a child-like curiosity and makes it fun. Play with water over your body in a relaxing bath or a swim at the beach, indulge in some aqua yoga, splash the water fountain, dance in the rain. Let your worries wash away. 

Trampoline or jumping or any cardio activity

When we are happy, we always feel like jumping. It’s a natural reaction. When you are bored, a cardio activity like jumping on a trampoline can be great exercise and lots of fun. If you have a trampoline, then jump with your kids and pets. Other cardio activities that can uplift your mood are aerobics, hula hooping, dancing, and playing basketball, to name a few.

You may also like to read: Have Fun And Burn Calories With A Hula Hoop

Lounging on a comfortable cushion and covering bedcovers

When life pulls you down, the only thing you want to do is lie down and rest. Make your lounge comfortable by adding a double or triple layer of cushions and burying your body into it. Cuddle with your soft toy or your loved ones photographs who you miss. Maybe play a slow, relaxing song or instrumental music to calm your anxious thoughts. Try to avoid unhealthy foods and drinks when feeling too emotional. It’s not going to help you or your family in any way. It’s only going to make any situation worse.

Experience Petrichor

The rain brings relief from the scorching heat and, along with it, the fresh smell of rain. Petrichor is the Greek word for the fresh smell of rain. When the rain starts falling on rock, mud, clay, dust, and sand, it traps the air bubbles and creates a specific smell of rain. It has a beautiful, therapeutic effect on our senses that makes us smile and forget all our worries.

Feel the breeze in your hair.

Another reason to smile and celebrate the new season is by letting your hair loose. The beautiful breeze is a gift for anyone who wants to take a moment’s pause. There are many reasons to be busy, and multitasking never ends. There’s a reason why we all love sitting for some time on a terrace, a balcony, or a veranda. Just sitting with a cup of coffee or tea becomes amazing when a light breeze sweeps over our face and hair.

Play in swings or lie down on a hammock.

An addition to your beautiful balcony or backyard is a wonderful swing or a hammock. Just like a child who loves playing in a swing, forget your worries for a moment.

“As it turns out, swinging in a hammock stimulates the vestibular system. Studies have shown that rocking or swaying gently in a hammock can also help us fall asleep faster, encouraging a deeper state of sleep compared to a standard bed. This rocking motion can help increase the duration of stage N2 sleep, during which we experience a ton of rapid eye movement.”

Feel the grass under your feet.

Therapy comes in many forms, and the best one recommended for everyone is spending time in nature. Though city life demands that we wear comfortable shoes, nothing compares to walking barefoot on the grass. Walking on grass may appear to be an exotic or weird thing to some people, but it actually stimulates the nerves in the feet. The pedicures in a salon do the same thing when they massage your feet and trigger the specific points that relax your feet as well as your mind. It is especially recommended early in the morning when there is moisture from dew on the grass.

Watching the beautiful sunrise or sunset

Every traveller should definitely include watching a sunrise or sunset in their itinerary. It’s something that costs nothing to appreciate the natural things God has created. Everyday we are so busy checking notifications on our mobile devices that we take so many things for granted. People who wake up early in the morning and do gardening, go for a walk or jog, or do yoga get a peaceful start to the day. Dieticians and coaches also recommend exercising in the morning, which is best for those who want to lose weight.

A slow walk on the beach

If not walking on the grass, if not swimming, then a slow walk on the beach, either with your partner or by yourself, is an absolute treat for your senses. The serenity and calm you will feel will help you reflect on some lovely memories. I remember spending a wonderful evening with my friends at the beach. Unlike the late-night party scene, the morning was so calm that all 8 of us friends just strolled silently on the beach. Experiences like these stay with you forever and bring a smile to your lips.

Sleeping beside your pets

saw a sweet Instagram Story video that showed 3 kittens hugging each other, and the audio message said, There’s a reason why the universe didn’t give animals any language. It’s to show humans that real love is shown through actions rather than just words. Pets love us unconditionally. All they want in return is shelter, food, and lots of love. It’s sure fun to play with them, and when life’s problems overwhelm you, talking to and sleeping beside your pets can be so comforting. 

You may also like to read: Heart Health Benefits Of Hugging

Sing and perform your favourite song in the shower

You may not be born to sing, but you can still sing your worries away in the shower. The acoustic surrounding that a bathroom has makes it convenient to sing your favourite song. Just once, sing so loudly that your neighbours are surprised or shocked. Sing as if you are auditioning for a talent show. Be in that moment like Adele or Ed Sheeran or whoever is your favourite singer. 

Final Thoughts

These are some crazy and simple ideas that will make you smile. Your burden of worries is too heavy, and it’s okay to take a break just for a moment to smile.

References

Petrichor

https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/learn-about/weather/types-of-weather/rain/petrichor

HANG IN A HAMMOCK FOR BETTER MENTAL HEALTH, August 04, 2022.

https://www.hammockuniverse.com/blogs/hammock-blog/hang-in-a-hammock-for-better-mental-health