Joy

Joy . . . sometimes it comes easy and other times, not so much. In today’s world, there are a lot of voices, noise, chaos, differences, and more. Many of us are hunkered down due to a pandemic. Maybe you aren’t feeling very joyful about what’s taking place.

When I am having moments where joy isn’t on the forefront, there are a couple of practices that always seem to help bring joy.

• Focus on gratitude – make a list (either in your head, on paper or in an art journal). It helps you to look outside your circumstances.
• Unplug and enjoy nature. It brings a lot of peace and joy just taking some deep breaths.
• Reaching out to a neighbor or others in need. Again, it changes a focus.
• Remember your faith. My faith is so important in my life. It brings me joy like no other and includes reading, worship music, supporting my church family and community.
• Create. I find that even if it’s creating something small (it doesn’t have to be a big masterpiece), the act of using my hands brings joy and peace.
• Listening to music can bring joy. Depending on the music, if it is positive, music can evoke emotions that help promote endorphines (the feel good hormone). Music is powerful.

I created this page as a reminder that sometimes joy comes naturally, and sometimes you need to seek it.

Below is a list of what I used on this page and most all of it can be found HERE. Just search for what you’re curious about. Don’t forget to use the discount codes located on the top right corner for some crafty savings.

• Dina Wakley Media Journal
• Dina Wakley Collage Collectives
• Dina Wakley Washi Medium Tape
• Dina Wakley Gloss Spray (Lime, Turquoise)
• Dina Wakley White Gesso
• Dina Wakley Alpha Stencil and Masks
• Dina Wakley Stencil (You Choose Design)
• Tim Holtz Distress Oxide Spray (Scattered Straw)

Wishing you joy and warmest creative wishes,