This tree is one of my Joy Seeds.  I try to park in front of it whenever I work at the office. The first time I parked in front of it was when I went for my interview. I remember thinking the tree looked friendly, like it was welcoming me to the space. 

I remember parking there again on my first day of work and how it became a connection to that environment, and I think it helped ease my way as a new hire.

The tree has changed over the years – its bark slowly breaking away and new holes have been dug into the exposed trunk. 

I still look for it when I park. It has become a ritual of hospitality, memory, and the passage of time.

I wonder how many of us have small moments of ritual like this in our lives – reminders of who we are and where we come from. I call these moments Joy Seeds. 

To me, Joy Seeds are simple, positive psychology practices in our daily lives that build our resilience and increase our joy. Joy Seeds are moments when I pause, practice noticing my body and environment with my senses, slow down and bring an awareness to my breath, feelings, thoughts, and ground with intention. 

Here is a sensory environment scan you might try as a Joy Seed: 

First, the pause – slow down and take a deep breath and then another. Where is your body connecting with the ground?  Are your feet on the floor?  Are you standing on your feet?  See if you can make yourself heavier for a moment. Let yourself sink into this space for a few moments. Notice your hands – try to really feel them.  Are your fingers hot or cold?  Stretch them out. Give yourself a small hand massage.  Rub the muscles at the base of your thumbs.  

Next, look around – notice textures, shapes, and colors.  What do you see?  Pause again and this time listen to space you are in – is there a hum?  Can you hear birds outside?  What does your space smell like?  Maybe you have a candle or lotion near you.  Smell it.  Does it bring a memory with it? If you’re feeling brave, notice the taste in your mouth.  Maybe there’s some leftover coffee.  Do you have water nearby?  Take a sip. Feel the way it moves in your mouth, down your throat. Sit here for a few moments.  Is there something in this scan that brought you joy? 

What do Joy Seeds look like in your day?