National Day of Joy: Celebrating Life’s Simple Pleasures

In a time of instant gratification and rising prices for the latest things (looking at you, smartphones and iPhones), we find ourselves growing more focused on a person’s material possessions and external achievements than the person. However, it’s crucial to pause and appreciate the little things that bring is joy; things that don’t involve staring at screens all day, comparing clothes, houses, and other possessions.

That’s where National Day of Joy comes in. Celebrated on the last Wednesday of June, we encourage you to find happiness in activities that don’t rely on fancy toys and gadgets. This day serves as a reminder to prioritize our mental well-being. Remember to take time to embrace the beauty of everyday moments.

The Origin Story

The National Day of Joy began in 2019 in a senior care facility, Comfort Keepers. The compassionate caregivers observed the profound impact of joyful moments on seniors’ lives, noting how their clients’ mental health significantly improved with each shared moment. This recognition inspired them to dedicate a day for people to seek happiness beyond societal norms and material possessions.

It’s the Little Things

Here are a few activities you can do in celebration of National Day of Joy:

1. Connect with loved ones: It’s too easy to drift away from friends and families, especially with life getting busier to keep up with rising costs. Spending quality time with family and friends is one of the simplest and most fulfilling sources of joy. Engage in heartfelt conversations, catch up in each other’s lives, and create cherished memories together.
2. Embrace nature’s beauty: No matter the season, nature will always have something beautiful to share! Step outside, find a trail to walk or visit a park and just feel the sun kiss your skin, and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. Life moves quickly, so take some time to breathe in the fresh air, admire the flowers, or sit under a tree and envelop yourself in the calming presence of the natural world. Slowing down can really make those small, joyful moments shine.
3. Engage your creativity: With our busy lives, sometimes we forget to take time to enjoy our hobbies. Explore your artistic side and express yourself in mediums you either enjoy or have always wanted to try. Whether it’s painting, writing, dancing, or singing, let your imagination run free. Empower your imagination and enjoy the process of creating something entirely you.

There are more ways to celebrate, of course, but we’ll leave the joy of finding activities you’d like to you!

Impacts on Mental Health

The National Day of Joy has had a profound impact on the mental health of those who celebrate it. People have found solace in appreciating the present moment and seeking joy in non-materialistic activities. This new perspective promotes mindfulness, gratitude, and a greater sense of overall well-being.

Participants also reported feeling more connected with loved ones, experiencing reduced stress levels, and cultivating a deeper appreciation for the simple joys that surround them. The National Day of Joy has helped individuals prioritize their mental health, reminding them that true happiness can be found in the everyday, often overlooked moments.

As the National Day of Joy approaches, let us embrace the opportunity to find happiness in the little things that life has to offer. By engaging in non-materialistic activities, connecting with loved ones, immersing ourselves in nature, nurturing our creativity, and spreading kindness, we can experience the profound joy that exists beyond material possessions.

Together, let’s celebrate this special day and continue to prioritize our mental well-being, one moment of joy at a time.