FINDING HAPPINESS IN THE NEW NORMAL
Yes, We’re in very different times. And right smack in the middle of winter. But there is still happiness to be found!
It's hard to believe one year ago from today, the world was relatively normal. There were rumblings of a "new" virus in China and potential concerns of it spreading, but nothing to the extent of the pandemic thrust upon society today. People went to their offices, masks were pretty much not worn, and trips were still planned. Friends and loved ones were hugged and kissed and the joy that comes with having plans in the future to look forward to was still a part of most people's lives. Of course, today that has all changed. And while happiness and how it is found might be different, it doesn't mean we can't still strive to find it, even if it might be a bit simplified in today's new normal.
For much of the country, winter brings harsh temperatures and most of the day is spent indoors. For active people like myself, this can get old, but it also gives the opportunity of finding new projects and activities to learn. One of my favorite ways to relax on quiet winter evenings, is to break out a canvas or paper, and my paints. Water, oil, or acrylic, it's the dealer's choice; there are no rules in art. And there is no such thing as a mistake. Turn a wayward brushstroke into a new concept. Painting gives you time to relax your mind, give your eyes a break from the strain of screentime, and give your imagination the freedom to soar, even if physically you can't really go very far at the moment.
Additionally, even if it's 28 degrees outside, or snowing heavily like today, I try to get out there even if it's just for a twenty minute walk. The fresh air is a genuine mood elevator and will make you feel rejuvenated in a way nothing else can. Invest in a pair of quality gloves or mittens because your hands will likely be the first body parts to get unbearably cold, but with a good coat and thick socks, you may just end up enjoying a walk in the cool winter air.
Another piece of happiness I've found this winter, and since March, is cooking at home. Having lived in NYC the last three years, making actual real dinners — at least regularly — was not the norm with so many incredible restaurants in every direction. But I've found a renewed love for my cooking hobby and the creativity that can be found within it. Especially when you take joy in cooking with the seasons (spaghetti squash going in the oven tonight!). We're lucky to live in a country with so many different options in grocery stores, even with the state of the planet right now, that can be brought right into our homes. And with access to the internet, all one has to do is a quick google search to find incredible recipes from all around the world (or not!), and get to work. It's really pretty incredible.
There is also the happiness and beauty of routine. Every morning, I have a coffee at home, which I've come to enjoy much more than going to Starbucks...especially with the addition of a frother to my kitchen...and take half an hour to enjoy this along with the hand-delivered NYT. It's a small luxury and engrained routine that reminds me that not everything has changed. Some things we can control and make the same by our routine, and if nothing else, the newspaper will be on my front porch waiting. But at the end of the day, happiness means different things for everyone. The key? Finding little slivers of happiness within your life.…take a look, it probably is just there waiting.