In recent months many of the patients in the clinic have all hinted around a similar issue.  After the pandemic, people feel lost.  They’ve lost their joy and are wanting to get their mojo back. 

We get it.  Life can be tough, and it's easy to get bogged down by the stress and monotony of it all. But that doesn't mean you can't find joy and happiness again. Whether you've hit a rough patch, gone through a major life change, or simply feel stuck in a rut, there are ways to rediscover your joy and start living your best life. Here are some tips to help you get there:

Connect with loved ones: Spending time with people who care about you can be a great way to boost your mood and find joy. We’re not talking about the people you “should” go visit, but the people you WANT to go see.  The ones that fill our cup.  Reach out to friends and family and make plans to spend time together. Whether it's a movie night, a dinner party, or a weekend getaway, being around people you love can help lift your spirits.

Find your passion: Rediscovering your passions can be a great way to find joy again. Think about what you used to love doing as a child, or what you've always wanted to try but never had the chance. What were the things you have always wanted to get back to, but never have the time.  Whether it's painting, playing an instrument, or learning a new language, pursuing your interests can be a great way to find happiness. 

Get active: Exercise has been shown to boost mood and reduce stress. Find a physical activity that you enjoy and make it a regular part of your routine. Whether it's yoga, running, or dancing, getting your body moving can help you feel better physically and mentally.  We are lovers of hiking, Zumba and long walks in nature to reconnect with the beauty of the environment, our peeps and ourselves.  Bonus points for the silly stuff that brings a smile to your face. 

Practice gratitude: It's easy to get caught up in what's going wrong in your life. But taking the time to focus on what's going well can help shift your perspective and bring more joy into your life. Start a gratitude journal or simply take a few minutes each day to reflect on what you're thankful for.  Easy tips for getting started; try starting and ending your day with gratitude.  While layin in bed think of 3 things you’re grateful for in that moment or from that day.  Or as part of your morning routing, make a list of 5 things your grateful for. 

Make time for self-care: Taking care of yourself is crucial for finding joy and happiness. Make sure you're getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking time to do things you enjoy. Whether it's taking a bath, reading a book, or watching your favorite show, taking time for yourself can help you feel more relaxed and rejuvenated.

Learn something new: Learning a new skill or taking up a new hobby can be a great way to find joy and purpose. Whether it's taking a cooking class, learning to code, or joining a book club, challenging yourself in new ways can help you feel more fulfilled and happy.

Laugh: Laughter is the best medicine, as they say. Spend time with people who make you laugh, watch a comedy, or simply find humor in everyday situations. Laughing can help reduce stress and boost your mood.  Don’t just type LOL…actually do it!  Laugh Out Loud!

Remember, finding joy and happiness is a journey, not a destination. By taking small steps each day to prioritize your well-being and focus on the things that bring you joy, you can start living a happier, more fulfilling life.  This world needs a little more joy, and it can start with YOU!