Getting Healthy With Joy

When I was young, my parents raised quarter horses. I loved going to the barn with my dad after work and feeding the horses, brushing them, and sometimes trimming their manes and tails.  When my brother and I were old enough to ride, my dad thought they would be too big for us to manage. So instead, he decided that he would invest in two little Appaloosas that were more appropriate for our small stature.  I was so excited the day they arrived.  I had my saddle ready and waiting.  Let me tell you, these two small horses were a force of nature.  There was no trot, no lope, no slow walk.  They went from stop to run.  Period.  I loved riding that horse more than anything in the world.  Every day after school I could not wait to go saddle up for a ride.  I felt so happy and free…. I felt utter JOY!

In the pursuit of health, many people leave joy out of the equation.  However, joy is an integral part of holistic wellness, and it’s not a luxury; it’s an essential aspect of thriving.  Joy is a tangible way to improve physical, spiritual, emotional, and mental health. Research shows that happiness has significant health impacts for the body and the brain.  It relaxes the whole body and triggers endorphins and alleviates stress.  It is linked to reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, pulmonary disease, diabetes, hypertension, and upper respiratory infections. 

Joy is  a deep experience of inward peace and intense, momentary happiness that arises when something in your life aligns with your core values.  Feelings of joy are more connected to your being and purpose, coming from the inside out.

One of the beauties of joy is that, like other areas of wellness, it builds over time.  Tiny moments of joy can contribute to greater feelings of joy on a regular basis! The more you notice joy throughout the day, the easier it is to connect with positive feelings that joy induces.

Practicing gratitude, offering gifts of service, and surrounding yourself with uplifting people can all boost joy…. So can little Appaloosas!

Stay Healthy!  Xoxo Melinda