Happy

Have you guys seen the documentary Happy? I found it on Netflix and decided to check it out - I highly recommend it! They present different life experiences and couple it with research by scientists in an engaging way. Certainly happiness is something that almost everyone thinks about on a regular basis - just look at all the books and movies and research centered around it!

The movie sparked some inspiration as I continue to grow and develop this blog with content that I feel proud of, that's relatable. As I begin a new chapter in my life with this yoga teacher certification program, I'm excited by all the possibilities of being able to help others in their personal journeys, whatever that may mean for an individual.

So why not bring this new aspect to the blog?

Let's talk about happiness! It would be great to hear everyone's perspective on the matter. Where I've found happiness is often in the little moments that catch you by surprise, the ones you never expect. It isn't always easy, but as I strive to be more present in the moment, reveling in the little things really helps you focus and perspective. And besides, the little everyday things happen a whole lot more than the big "milestone" moments.

So with all that, I'm trying a new column about appreciating the little things, and I hope you really enjoy it. I would love to hear what makes you happy in your everyday life, so please feel free to reach out. I want to hear your stories, what you appreciate in life, what makes you smile.

Image by Martin Munkacsi.

Slow Down, Smell the Roses, Relish in the Moment

Okay, so I'm supposed to be on vacation right now, but I just wanted to take a minute and remind you to make it a point to slow down every once in a while. It's really easy to lose perspective and forget to appreciate everything when your life feels like it's going a million miles an hour (which mine has the last few weeks). Even if it's something small, treat yourself to some good quality time for yourself. Me? I'm spending the weekend with my favorite girls in Michigan. We don't get to see each other all that often these days, or even really talk on the phone as much as we'd like, but sometimes you just have to squeeze in whatever time you can get together and be ok with that. It doesn't take a whole lot to regain perspective. As I sit in this coffee shop and wait for my friend to pick me up, I already feel a million times more focused and calm and it's only been a few hours since I got into vacation mode.

The last few weeks have been pretty crazy (in mostly good ways) as I start to work on projects I've always dreamed of. At the same time, I've been sitting in front of a computer screen for many many hours working away and it's made me realize something: I need to get away from my computer more. Not only will it inspire my work in new ways, but well, I also won't feel like such a blob. I'm taking more initiative to take my design efforts away from the computer as much as possible, and back into hand-rendered work, which is where I started.

Whatever you may be doing with your life, don't forget to slow down every once in a while. Even if it's for a few hours. It will do wonders, I promise.

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