Finding Joy Within Yourself
Have you ever wondered about the difference between happiness and joy? Unlike happiness, which often depends on external events like getting a promotion or going on holiday, joy is deeper.
It’s something that comes from within us, and it can stay with us no matter what life throws our way.
Research and wisdom from science, yoga and spiritual practices remind us that joy can be cultivated intentionally, enhancing our well-being and resilience.
What Do Spiritual Practices Have To Say About Joy?
Yoga philosophy has some important lessons about finding joy. One of its teachings is Santosha, which means contentment. It’s about being at peace with your current circumstances right now, rather than always wishing for more or different.
Buddhism talks about mudita, which means feeling joy for someone else’s happiness. It’s the opposite of jealousy. Instead of comparing yourself to others, you simply feel glad for their success or good fortune.
When we practice yoga or meditation, we give ourselves the chance to quiet the noise in our heads. In those quieter moments, joy can surface. It’s already there—sometimes we just need to slow down to notice it.
What Science Says About Joy
Positive psychology studies show that happiness is often related to external factors that amuse, entertain or bring us pleasure. Whereas joy is connected to things that give us a sense of meaning and purpose, or that we have worked hard for.
Research indicates that there are some key factors for developing more joy:
Social connection: Whether this be through family, friendships or groups of people who share a common interest, social connection enhances our sense of belonging.
Mindfulness and presence: Being in the moment allows us to focus on simple things that bring joy, reduces rumination and worry about the future, and develops inner peace and acceptance.
Gratitude: Focusing on the circumstances or things that we are grateful for is a powerful tool for connecting us to our inner joy.
Purpose and meaning: small actions or involvement in things that are bigger than ourselves can contribute to long lasting feelings of fulfillment.
So, it’s no surprise that experiencing joy on a regular basis can influence our long-term wellbeing. Our relationships are better, we feel calmer under pressure and even our physical and mental health improves.
My Personal Connection To Joy
Fun fact: my middle name is Joy - literally. I actually used to hate my middle name as a kid, because other kids would sing "Joy To The World" in a sarcastic tone when they heard it.
But my yoga studies have given me a new appreciation for what joy means and the importance of actively cultivating it.
I now make it a priority to do things that bring me joy, and I am not surprised that they all involve being present - yoga, meditation, drumming, painting and being in nature, to name a few.
Simple Ways to Bring More Joy Into Your Day
Small habits like writing down things you’re thankful for or pausing to enjoy the moment can help you feel more joy every day.
You don’t need fancy tools or lots of time to bring more joy into your life. Here are some ideas:
Take a Breathing Break: Pause for a few minutes and take slow, deep breaths. Focus on how it feels to simply be in the moment.
Write It Down: At the end of each day, jot down a couple of small things that made you smile or feel content —nature’s beauty, a kind word, or a moment of calm.
Move Your Body: Gentle yoga, dancing or a walk in the fresh air can shift your mood and connect you to yourself.
Share Joy: Spend quality time with friends, family, or your yoga community. When someone in your life has good news, celebrate with them. Sharing in their happiness can spark joy in you too.
Get involved: Find a cause, project or activity that you care deeply about and see how you might be able to contribute your unique gifts and talents to.
Joy Is Already Within You
The best thing about joy is that you don’t have to wait for it. It’s not something you need to buy or earn—it’s already there, in the sunshine, in a kind word, or in your favourite hobby. The presence that we develop through yoga can help us see these moments more clearly and enjoy them fully.
Next time you’re on the mat or even just sitting quietly, ask yourself: What brings me joy today?
References and further reading:
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