In the charming and whimsical world of Amélie Poulain, we find a protagonist who revels in the simple pleasures of life, those small, often overlooked joys that can bring a surprising amount of happiness. Amélie finds delight in the most unexpected moments—placing her hands into sacks of grains at the market, cracking the top of a crème brûlée with a spoon, or skipping stones along the canal. Her life is a collection of these seemingly insignificant pleasures, each contributing to her overall sense of well-being and contentment.
In our fast-paced, high-stress world, we often forget the importance of these small joys. We become so consumed by our responsibilities, our screens, and our worries that we neglect the simple pleasures that can bring us peace and happiness.
Here are ten little joys inspired by the spirit of Amélie.
1. Finding a Great Show on Netflix
One of the simple pleasures many of us can relate to is discovering a great show on Netflix. There’s something wonderfully satisfying about stumbling upon a film or series that captures your imagination, whether it’s a gripping drama, a witty comedy, or an intriguing documentary. The joy of this experience lies in the anticipation of what comes next—the characters’ development, the unfolding of the plot, or the exploration of new ideas.
But perhaps the real pleasure comes from the self-control of watching just one episode at a time. Instead of binge-watching the entire series in one go, taking the time to savour each episode can make the experience even more enjoyable. This way, you stretch out the pleasure, allowing the show to remain a highlight of your day without overwhelming it. After all, part of the joy is having something to look forward to tomorrow.
2. Playing Classic Games Online
Remember the simple joy of playing Solitaire or Minesweeper on an old Windows computer? These classic games, though simple in design, have a timeless appeal. They don’t demand much of your time or energy, but they provide a quick, satisfying mental break. The gentle rhythm of flipping through cards in Solitaire or cautiously clicking on Minesweeper squares brings a nostalgic comfort, reminiscent of a simpler time.
Playing one of these classic games online is a perfect way to relax for a few minutes. It’s a low-pressure activity that allows you to unwind, take your mind off things, and enjoy a small victory before returning to your day. Just like Amélie’s simple pleasures, these games remind us that happiness can often be found in the most modest of places.
3. Making a Nice Cup of Tea
There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a freshly brewed cup of tea. The ritual of boiling the water, selecting your favourite tea, and letting it steep is, in itself, a moment of calm in a busy day. As you take that first sip, the warmth spreads through you, offering a sense of relaxation and grounding.
Tea is more than just a drink; it’s an experience. Whether you prefer a strong black tea, a soothing green tea, or a fragrant herbal blend, the act of making and drinking tea can be a simple yet profound pleasure. It’s a small act of self-care that can bring a moment of peace, a chance to pause and breathe in the midst of a hectic schedule
4. Dressing for Dopamine
Dressing for dopamine is a concept that has gained popularity in recent years, and it’s all about choosing clothes that make you feel good. Whether it’s a vibrant colour, a favourite outfit, or something with a playful pattern, the clothes you wear can have a significant impact on your mood.
By intentionally dressing in a way that boosts your spirits, you can start your day on a positive note. It’s a simple pleasure that’s often overlooked, but putting on something that makes you smile can be a real mood booster. Just like Amélie’s quirky fashion sense, dressing for dopamine is about embracing your individuality and finding joy in the little things, like the clothes that make you feel like the best version of yourself.
5. Indulging in a Face Mask
Using a skincare face mask is one of those little luxuries that doesn’t require much time but can have a big impact on how you feel. In just 10 to 20 minutes, you can transform your skin and your mood. There’s something incredibly soothing about the process—applying the mask, relaxing while it works its magic, and then rinsing it off to reveal refreshed, glowing skin.
Face masks are a form of self-care that’s easy to incorporate into your routine. Whether it’s a hydrating sheet mask, a detoxifying clay mask, or a rejuvenating gel mask, this simple act can leave you feeling pampered and revitalized. It’s a small investment of time for a significant return on how you feel about yourself.
6. Painting Your Nails
Painting your nails is another small pleasure that can bring a surprising amount of joy. There’s something about choosing a fun color, carefully applying the polish, and watching your nails transform that feels wonderfully satisfying. It’s a little act of creativity and self-expression that can brighten your day.
Using a vibrant or unusual nail varnish can also be a great mood booster. Every time you catch a glimpse of your colorful nails, it’s a reminder of the little bit of fun you added to your day.
7. Listening to Your Favorite Song
Music has the power to lift our spirits like nothing else. Listening to your favorite song, whether it’s an upbeat pop tune, a soulful ballad, or a classic rock anthem, can be a source of immense joy. And if you take it a step further by singing aloud or dancing around your room, the experience becomes even more exhilarating.
There’s a simple pleasure in letting go, allowing the music to take over, and enjoying the moment without a care in the world. It’s a way to connect with your emotions, to celebrate the moment, and to feel truly alive.
8. Hugging Your Loved Ones
There’s a reason why hugs are so comforting—they release oxytocin, the so-called “love hormone,” which helps reduce stress and increase feelings of happiness. Hugging a loved one, whether it’s a partner, a child, a friend, or even a pet, is one of the simplest yet most profound sources of joy.
In a world that often feels disconnected, taking the time to hug the people you care about is a reminder of what truly matters.
9. Doing Your Hair Differently
Changing up your hairstyle, even in a small way, can be a source of simple pleasure. Whether it’s trying a new braid, adding a hair accessory, or just styling it differently than usual, these small changes can make you feel refreshed and a little more confident.
It’s a reminder that even small changes can bring a fresh perspective and a boost to your mood.
10. Taking on Coloring
Coloring isn’t just for kids; it’s a simple pleasure that can bring a lot of joy to adults as well. Whether it’s an intricate adult coloring book or a simple doodle, the act of coloring allows you to relax and focus on something creative. It’s a meditative activity that can help you unwind and de-stress.
Incorporating these little joys into your daily routine is more than just a way to pass the time; it’s a way to self-regulate, to find balance in a world that often feels overwhelming. By focusing on these simple pleasures, you can create moments of peace and happiness that help you navigate the ups and downs of life. Just like Amélie, who finds joy in the smallest of things, we too can learn to appreciate the little moments that make life truly special.
*contributed post*
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