However, I believe that being able to access genuine JOY from inside is crucial. So how do we do that?
I ordered a book today called, 'The Joy Compass: Eight Ways to Find Lasting Happiness, Gratitude, and Optimism in the Present Moment' by Donald Altman. One of the things he says is that joy is a state of moment to moment being and experiencing. So basically, being aware. Sounds easy enough, right?
Well, yesterday was a tough day for me and I knew during the days leading up to it that it was going to be challenging so I made sure that those closest to me knew where I was at. I consider that a win because rather than burying my feelings and getting stuck in the mire, I acknowledged where I was at. Is that being aware? I am not sure but I am looking forward to reading the book when it arrives.
In the midst of my day yesterday, one of my daughter-in-laws reached out to me with this video:
If you watched that video without smiling and/or laughing, I have no idea how you did it. haha. You know what? I felt a real, true sense of JOY when I watched that.
Have you heard the old adage, "Laughter is the Best Medicine" Well, I think that there is a lot of truth to that.
As I mentioned before, I love research. Well, research has shown that laughter can bolster physical health and reduce stress. A study I read found that cancer patients who watched a humorous video had increased immune function. Another study I found said that laughter helps stave off depression. Do you think that is true?
I do!
So... laugh!! Read something funny, watch a funny video.... whatever it is for you, do it!
#joyinmyjourney
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