I’ve always loved looking for the little things in life that bring me joy. Whether that’s a new magazine or a good cuppa, they keep my happiness levels topped up.

Here’s some of the things I do everyday that I love..

GOING FOR A WALK + PODCAST LISTENING

My love for podcasts has only been around for a good couple of months, and I love combining it with another activity that brings me joy, getting outside for a walk. Luckily, I listen to them all on my iPhone so I always have a camera ready if I come across anything that piques my interest too.

Getting outside always takes me away from whatever situation my mind is in at the minute, and creates breathing space where I can step back and see the bigger picture.

A SKINCARE ROUTINE

Over the years my skincare routine has developed and (thankfully) I got rid of the makeup wipes when I entered my 20’s.

Taking the time to do a thorough cleanse and moisturise always keeps my skin happy, and I feel a bit more pampered and put together to. Who knew you only had to apply eye cream everyday to feel like you have your life in somewhat order?

YOGA AND MEDITATION

Ah my two favourite things, yoga and meditating. I’ve spoken about both of these subjects at length on the blog before so I won’t harp on now, but having 10 minutes every day to refresh my mind and clear my thoughts works wonders for me, and a good 30 minutes on my yoga mat makes me feel like a better human being in general too.

A ROUTINE

Boy do I love a good routine. I just need structure in my day people!

Knowing what I’m doing and where throughout the day keeps me feeling on top of everything and stress free, even just scheduling in a cup of tea and biscuit break at 11am at work helps and the rest of the day feels more manageable too.

What are the simple things that you do which bring you joy?

I think at some point in our lives being popular is something that we’ve always considered or even, lusted after.

Even if we were happy with the friends we had at high school, or the success of a loved one who seems to always be the belle of the ball, the attention they get can seem alluring, and we’d like a slice of that pie too.

I bet even if your someone who doesn’t like too much attention being on themselves (like me), all of a sudden fashion blogs are becoming increasing popular and maybe you should ditch the niche you already have and hop on the train. (Never mind the fact that you haven’t bought clothes in about 2 years).

It’s great to become inspired by others, in fact its bloody awesome, but just because the thing that they’re doing is going down well with others, doesn’t mean you have to do it too.

There’s been SO many times I’ve tried to create a wonderfully creative Instagram picture, only for it to feel pretty crap and I don’t even like the look of it at the end. There’s something to be said for finding your own style and way of doing things, even if it doesn’t seem to be getting the likes these days.

Basically, this is a long-winded version of me saying YOU DO YOU. Like what you like and don’t focus too much on what other people are doing.

And you never know, one day the ‘popular’ things might be the stuff you’ve been doing all along.

Have you ever done anything purely because it was popular?

Living more mindfully is something I strive to do every day. Granted, it doesn’t all work out like that but the intention is always there. I know I’m the best version of myself when I’m being mindful and balanced, so it’s a big priority. Of course it is totally unique to every individual, but here’s how I try to do it…

COUNTING THE LITTLE THINGS

Ahhh. I always say the little things are what I live for and it’s true. It’s like it’s almost in my DNA to look for everyday moments of magic. I remember getting so excited about things that were so simple when I was little, and I’m glad I can still feel like that now. Whether that’s a cup of tea in one of my favourite mugs, or painting my nails with a fresh coat, they brighten up the day. It also helps me live in the moment, I’m not thinking about future worries or past memories, I’m thinking about RIGHT NOW.

KNOW WHAT WORKS FOR YOU

For me personally, I have to be strict with myself on knowing my boundaries. I can easily get carried away and that enthusiasm is great, but realistically I know if I’ve been out all day, I need a night at home and not go somewhere else again, that’s just how I re-set. Being mindful means taking care of your mental health and looking after YOU.

FIND A MINDFUL ACTIVITY- IT DOESNT *HAVE* TO BE MEDITATION IF YOU DON’T LIKE IT.

There’s quite a few things I enjoy that I like to turn into mindful events, such as colouring, walking the dog outside, and baking. I’m trying to incorporate new activities into my daily routine, and I’m loving new hobbies such as cross-stitching too.

Is being more mindful something that you’re thinking about?