SIMPLE JOYS

Life doesn’t have to look perfect to feel good.
For me, the biggest shift in my wellness journey wasn’t about doing more, it was about learning to slow down and be present enough to notice the small joys that stack up in my days.

Joy doesn’t have to be expensive, or earned, or something that can only exist in a far away “someday.” Joy is found in the moments that feel ordinary. Here are some of the simple joys that I have been noticing and loving lately, and I hope they inspire you to take notice of the ones already present in your life.

1. MORNING SUN

I try to start every morning outside when I can. Just a few minutes of sunlight before scrolling, before emails, before the world wakes up. There is something grounding about feeling the sun first thing and giving yourself time to slow down and be present before you are pulled by all your daily responsibilities. Waking up early gives you sacred time just for you while the rest of the world sleeps.

2. COFFEE WITHOUT RUSHING

Going along with morning sun, this one has been huge for me.

Not drinking my coffee in the car.
Not chugging it between tasks.
Actually sitting with it.

Turning something as simple as a drink into a ritual has changed how my mornings feel. Instead of chaotic and rushed, they’re grounded and peaceful. I genuinely look forward to this sacred time each morning.

3. DAILY WALKING

Some of my clearest thoughts come when I’m walking. Especially by the ocean. No destination, no urgency, just movement and fresh air. I try to walk for about an hour everyday, and it has been so game changing for me. Walking has become one of my favorite forms of therapy as it makes my mind and body feel good.

4. OCEAN TIME

The ocean is where I feel the calmest. Whether I’m surfing, sitting on the beach, or just watching the waves, water has a way of quieting my mind in a way nothing else can.

5. READING OUTSIDE

I romanticize this one heavily. Taking the time to dive in and read a novel in the midst of my busy days is one of my favorite things.

6. MOVING MY BODY

I no longer try to force workouts I hate. Yoga, Pilates, dancing, walking, and surfing are my current favorites. Movement should feel like self-care, not punishment. When it feels good, it becomes something you want to do.

7. A CALM EVENING ROUTINE

Soft lighting, skincare, instrumental music, and candles lit. Slowing down at night is just as important as how you start your morning. These quiet moments are where I can truly wind down.

8. COOKING AS A RITUAL

I used to hate cooking. I thought I didn’t have enough time to dedicate to it, so I was always grabbing something quick and easy. However, lately, I have started making it more of a self-care ritual. Taking the time to slow down and cook something for myself that is full of nutrients and delicious while having some music going and candles lit has become one of my new favorite things. What used to feel like a chore is now one of the most grounding parts of my day.

9. JOURNALING

Some days it’s emotional, some days it’s lists, some days it’s just thoughts. Writing helps me process everything. It clears space in my head and allows me to take on my day from a more grounded and level-headed place.

10. LETTING LIFE BE SIMPLE

Not every moment has to be productive.
Not every day has to be impressive.

Sometimes joy is just standing in the sun, taking a deep breath, and realizing that a healthy body and having people you love, who love you too, are the greatest joys you could ever ask for.

Kehlani