Not long ago I shared my thoughts with you on learning to be Happy For No Reason.
I’m checking back in with you to see how you are doing in your journey of self-discovery and perhaps add some additional insight.
I recently learned a technique called savoring.
Fred Bryant in his book, Savoring explains that “Through your thoughts and behavior, you extend and intensify a good experience, extracting every morsel from it.”
Psychologists define this skill as fully absorbing the beautiful moments of life.
It’s an ability that makes the most of pleasant experiences, which not only increases satisfaction with that particular situation, but also increases overall happiness and a host of other benefits.
Such as:
- decreasing blood pressure
- reversing the stress response
- improving creativity and problem-solving skills
- balancing blood sugar levels
- supporting greater longevity
Great benefits, wouldn’t you agree?
Now that we know the benefits from savoring, how do we go about developing this skill?
First of all, recognize that it is a learned skill.
The secret: look for and be aware of the pleasant things that happen during your day.
* Notice
* Pause
* Soak up the moment
Using all your senses to soak up the moment creates a deeper, longer lasting experience and, an increased sense of peace and well-being.
I wonder if too often we may have a pleasant experience and think, “Oh, wasn’t that nice” and then rush on mentally, emotionally or physically, to the next thing, not allowing ourselves to fully enjoy the experience.
It may not be natural to linger, breathe and pay attention to pleasant emotions, but the more we do it, the better we get. And the more fulfillment, happiness and joy we will experience.
My challenge for you is to extend your pleasant encounters as long as possible, even for a few minutes or seconds. Allow yourself to delight in each experience as completely as possible.
Not only is this Christmas season the perfect time to practice but it’s something we can improve upon all year!
Keep practicing and savoring to the fullest!
With love,
