I have been painting and writing about Joy for over six years--last week officially marked the anniversary of my walk with Mory where (on seeing a gorgeous sunset after a hard day) the question, "What 3 Colors Bring You Joy?" bubbled up--leading to this journey.

What I didn't know then was that Joy is vital and available at all times, even (especially) during hard times. Here are three of my favorite tips to find Joy...right now.

Pro Tip #1: Stop and look (1 minute)

Stop what you are doing and sit, stand, or lie down--whatever is most comfortable for you. Look around--find something to focus on and spend one minute looking at that item and really thinking about it. A cup of water? Think about water and what it feels like to drink when you are thirsty or walk by a lake or river. A pair of shoes? Think about how it feels to put on your favorite pair of shoes, whether they are high art, deep comfort, or the first step of an adventure. A favorite work of art? Get lost in the colors and brushstrokes, the story of the piece, and how you felt when you first saw it.

Pro Tip #2: Dance (3 minutes)

Turning on music and moving our bodies connects us to art and Joy kinesthetically. You do not have to be good at dancing to do this. You don't even have to stand. You can dance sitting, even lying down. Just put your favorite song on and move.

Pro Tip #3: Make something (5 minutes)

It doesn't have to be a Masterpiece, but take 5 minutes and make something. What can you make in 5 minutes? A a doodle, a short poem, a few lines of a story, a dance, a letter, a journal entry are a few ideas.

I would love to hear how these Pro Tips of using art and the world around you brings you Joy. Comment below or message me.