The transition to fall marks a good time to reflect on our summer. Did we experience joy? Or are we stuck in a season dominated by sadness? This transition time can help us to think back on the last few months and start thinking about what we can do during the fall to help us find joy, experience emotional connection with others, and relieve our stress.

 

Think about some activities you engage in that bring you joy. Do you like sports? Art? Music? A great way to tap into these interests and engage with them further could be to look for live sporting events, art museums, or concerts that may be occurring near you. Going to live events gives your brain a break from daily worries, helps you to feel deep emotions through stories and art, and can bring you happiness and give you something to look forward to. It is also a great way to connect with others who have similar interests as you. Plus, it can be a bonding experience for those you are close with that you decide to bring along with you.

 

Remembering the things in life that bring you joy and purposefully deciding to immerse yourself in those experiences is important when we are grieving. Experiencing joy helps to ground us in the beauty that exists around us. You deserve to delight in the things in life that bring you joy!
 

— By Margaux Begehr