
Embracing the Art of Gentle Living: Finding Happiness in Simplicity
Imagine embracing each day with a heart full of peace and a life full of joy. In “Embracing the Art of Gentle Living: Finding Happiness in Simplicity,” I’ll walk you through the gentle art of living a fulfilled life. Discover the magic of slowing down and tuning into the simple pleasures that bring happiness. From mindfulness to self-care, we’ll explore ways to nurture your spirit, find balance, and build meaningful relationships. Ready to transform your days into soft, happy experiences?
Key Takeaways:
- A soft life is about choosing peace over pressure, balancing responsibility with joy, and prioritizing well-being over burnout.
- Gentle living involves listening to one’s body, setting boundaries, and engaging in activities that nourish the soul.
- Slowing down and being intentional reduces stress, improves health, and fosters happiness.
- To simplify life, curate meaningful possessions and experiences, declutter spaces (physical and digital), and focus on gratitude.
- Self-awareness and positive mindset practices like journaling and gratitude can lead to personal growth and enhanced happiness.
- Incorporate small self-care activities that fit into daily routines, recognizing the balance between productivity and rest.
- Mindfulness, such as breathing exercises and meditative practices, aids in stress reduction and enjoying present moments.
This summary and the original blog content may have been enhanced by AI to ensure clarity and quality.
The Impact of Simplification on Mental Clarity
Exploring the Philosophy of a Soft Life
A soft life means moving through the world with ease, choosing peace, and rejecting unnecessary struggles. It’s about shifting priorities from stress to joy. This does not mean avoiding responsibility—it means choosing balance over burnout. When I embraced this way of living, I found that joy came more naturally.
Defining What It Means to Live Gently
Living gently means listening to your body, setting boundaries, and filling your days with what nourishes you. It’s saying no to stress and unnecessary obligations. A soft life focuses on slowing down, savoring moments, and being intentional with time.
Benefits of a Slower, More Intentional Lifestyle
When I slowed down, I noticed small joys I once ignored—warm coffee, laughter with a friend, fresh air on my face. A slower lifestyle reduces stress, improves health, and strengthens relationships. Studies show that intentional living increases happiness and decreases anxiety (Verywell Mind).
Core Principles of Achieving Happiness Through Simplification
A happy life isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what matters. These principles guide me:
- Prioritize rest: Sleep, breaks, and downtime are necessary.
- Limit distractions: Less screen time, more real-life connection.
- Choose quality over quantity: Fewer but meaningful purchases, friendships, and activities.
- Live within your values: Make choices that align with your inner truth.
Practical Steps to Start Living a Soft Life
- Wake up slowly: Give yourself time to stretch, breathe, and set a calm tone.
- Plan peaceful pauses: Take moments to step outside, sip tea, or journal.
- Declutter stress: Remove obligations that don’t serve you.
- Say yes to joy: Listen to music, read, or do something that soothes you.
- Create safe spaces: Your home and relationships should bring peace, not tension.

Understanding the Concept of a Fulfilled Life
Feeling fulfilled means waking up excited and going to bed grateful. A fulfilled life aligns with your purpose, passions, and well-being. Instead of chasing what society expects, focus on what makes your heart feel light.
“Happiness is not a goal; it is a by-product.” — Eleanor Roosevelt
Incorporating Mindfulness to Complement a Gentle Approach
Mindfulness helps you stay present, appreciate small joys, and reduce stress. Practices like deep breathing, meditation, and mindful eating bring balance to daily life. Research links mindfulness to lower anxiety and increased happiness. When I started being present instead of rushing, my life felt softer, lighter, and more meaningful.
Tip: Prioritize rest and intentional living by scheduling moments of relaxation, reducing screen time, and focusing on activities that truly nourish your mind and body. Create a routine that includes pauses throughout the day to reset and recharge, and surround yourself with environments and relationships that foster peace and calm.
Tools for Enhancing Self-Awareness Effectively
Living a soft life means choosing peace over pressure. It’s about slowing down, savoring moments, and letting go of stress. Many think a soft life means avoiding responsibility, but it actually means prioritizing well-being. You still work, care for others, and handle challenges, but with more ease and joy.
Daily Mindfulness Exercises for Living Softly
Mindfulness helps create a soft, happy life. Start simple:
- Take deep breaths before responding to stress.
- Notice small joys, like the warmth of the sun or the sound of laughter.
- Eat slowly, tasting every bite.
Mindfulness isn’t about perfection. It’s about being present. You don’t need an hour of meditation—just a few mindful moments each day.
How Mindfulness Reduces Stress and Enhances Living Gently
Mindfulness rewires the brain to handle stress better. Research shows it lowers cortisol, the stress hormone, and increases serotonin, which boosts mood. When you practice being present, you stop worrying about what’s next. You feel lighter.
Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn, creator of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, says, “You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.” Mindfulness doesn’t erase stress, but it helps you ride through it with ease.
Simple Stress-Relief Techniques to Incorporate Daily
You don’t need big changes. Try these:
- Body scans: Notice where you feel tension and relax those muscles.
- Gratitude moments: List three things you love about today.
- Tech breaks: Put your phone down for an hour and enjoy real life.
These tiny habits add up. Over time, stress fades, and peace takes its place.
Balancing Calmness with Productivity for a Stress-Free Life
Living soft doesn’t mean doing nothing. It means working with purpose and resting without guilt. Use the Pomodoro Technique—work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. Stretch, breathe, or look outside. You’ll get more done and feel refreshed.
Integrating Mindfulness into Routine Activities
Mindfulness fits into daily tasks. Wash dishes slowly, paying attention to the water and soap. Walk without looking at your phone. Listen fully when someone speaks. Every moment becomes richer.
Overcoming Common Barriers to Practicing Mindfulness
Many struggle with mindfulness because they feel too busy, think they have to be perfect, or get frustrated when thoughts wander. The key? Gentle persistence. Start with one mindful breath. Then two. Build up over time.
The Science Behind Mindfulness and Stress Reduction
Studies from the American Psychological Association confirm mindfulness lowers anxiety and improves mood. Brain scans show it strengthens the prefrontal cortex, improving focus and emotional control.
When you live mindfully, life feels softer. You react less, enjoy more, and find happiness in small moments.
“Slow down and everything you are chasing will come around.” — John De Paola
Tip: Find small, consistent ways to bring mindfulness into your daily routine. Start with just a few minutes of deep breathing or body scans, incorporate gratitude into your mornings, and take intentional tech breaks throughout the day. These simple practices add up to create a more peaceful and intentional life over time.
Applying Gratitude as the Foundation of a Soft and Happy Life
Gratitude is the foundation of a soft and happy life. It shifts your focus from what is missing to what is already present. Studies show that practicing gratitude improves mood, strengthens relationships, and even boosts overall well-being (Emmons & McCullough, 2003).
One simple way to start is by keeping a gratitude journal. Every morning or night, write down three things you are grateful for. These can be small or big—a warm cup of tea, a kind word from a friend, or your own strength in hard times. Seeing these written down reminds you of the good in your life.
Expressing appreciation to others builds strong connections. A heartfelt “thank you” can make someone’s day and deepen your bond with them. Try leaving a note of appreciation for a coworker or sending a quick text to a loved one telling them what they mean to you.
Nurturing relationships is just as important. Make time for the people who uplift and support you. Check in on friends, have deep conversations, and listen without judgment. Good relationships create a sense of belonging and make life feel less heavy.
Compassionate communication strengthens these connections. Instead of reacting in anger, pause and consider the other person’s feelings. Using “I” statements—like “I feel hurt when this happens”—helps avoid blame and keeps the conversation open.

Gratitude also has the power to transform mental health. People who regularly practice it report lower stress levels and higher satisfaction with life. When challenges arise, shifting focus to what is still good can provide strength.
If you’d like to dive deeper into how gratitude leads to happiness, check out this research-backed article from Verywell Mind.
Tip: Start and end your day with gratitude by writing down three things you’re thankful for and sharing your appreciation with someone. This practice fosters happiness, strengthens relationships, and reduces stress, helping you embrace a more mindful and fulfilled life.
Balancing Self-Care with Responsibilities
Designing Effective Self-Care Routines
A good self-care routine helps me stay balanced and happy. I focus on small daily habits that bring comfort and peace. A routine does not have to be elaborate. It simply needs to be consistent and personal. Morning stretches, a warm cup of tea, or reading before bed can make each day feel soft and intentional.
Self-care is different for everyone. For some, it might be journaling or meditation. For others, it could be taking a short walk outside. The goal is to create routines that nourish the body and mind. When life feels busy, I remind myself that even five minutes of deep breathing is enough to reset my energy.
Balancing Self-Care with Responsibilities
Taking care of myself should not feel like another task on my to-do list. I weave self-care into my daily responsibilities instead of separating the two. For example, I turn cooking dinner into a calming experience by playing soothing music. I also set boundaries to protect my energy. Saying no to things that drain me is as important as saying yes to things that bring joy.
Impact of Self-Care on Emotional Well-Being and Happiness
Caring for myself improves my emotional well-being. When I prioritize self-care, I feel more patient, less stressed, and more present in my relationships. According to Verywell Mind, happiness comes in different forms, including emotional fulfillment and daily contentment. A soft life isn’t about avoiding challenges but handling them with a calm and steady mindset.
Self-Care Tips for Introverts and Extroverts
Self-care looks different depending on personality. As an introvert, I might unwind by spending quiet time alone. Journaling, reading, or nature walks help me recharge. Extroverts, on the other hand, might feel refreshed by socializing. Calling a close friend or engaging in a fun group activity can be their form of self-care.
Self-Care Activities | Introverts | Extroverts |
---|---|---|
Journaling | ✅ | ❌ |
Group activities | ❌ | ✅ |
Deep conversations | ✅ | ✅ |
Meditation | ✅ | ❌ |
Listening to music | ✅ | ✅ |
The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Maintaining a Soft Life
Emotional intelligence helps me manage stress and build strong relationships. It allows me to understand my feelings and respond to challenges with a clear mind. Practicing self-awareness, empathy, and self-regulation creates a sense of peace and control in daily life.
Self-Compassion as a Self-Care Component
I treat myself with the same kindness I give to others. Being gentle with myself when I make mistakes helps me develop self-trust and confidence. Self-compassion is key to a soft and happy life. Instead of harsh self-criticism, I practice words of encouragement. It makes a difference in how I feel and how I handle difficult moments.

Tools and Resources for Developing Personalized Self-Care Habits
Finding the right self-care tools has changed my life. Meditation apps, guided journals, and wellness podcasts have helped me build lasting habits. One of my favorite resources is The Everygirl’s guide to a soft life. It provides actionable tips for creating a peaceful and fulfilling life.
Living softly starts with small, daily choices. Self-care is not selfish; it’s essential. By making space for my well-being, I live with more joy, ease, and balance every day.
Strategies for Achieving a Balanced Work-Life Integration
Balance starts with knowing what truly matters. Work pays the bills, but life happens in between. I set clear work hours and stick to them. No checking emails at the dinner table. I also create boundaries with co-workers. When work ends, I focus on my personal time without guilt.
A good balance also means knowing my energy levels. I schedule heavy tasks when I feel sharp and leave lighter work for later. When I need a break, I take it. A short walk or deep breath resets my mind. Without balance, burnout creeps in fast.
Techniques to prevent burnout while living softly
Burnout sneaks up when stress stays for too long. I prevent it by listening to my body and mind. One key way is rest—real rest. Sleep, quiet moments, and even doing nothing can restore energy.
I also avoid overcommitting. Saying no is not rude; it protects my peace. Instead of overloading my schedule, I choose tasks that bring value. I also celebrate small wins. Every little success matters, and noticing them keeps me motivated.
Aligning personal values with professional goals for contentment
Work feels smoother when it aligns with personal values. I ask myself, “Does this job match what I believe in?” If not, I adjust. Finding purpose in work makes it less draining. Sometimes, that means shifting roles or setting new goals.
If my job does not bring meaning, I create it outside of work. Volunteering, side projects, or hobbies fill that gap. Work is just one piece of a happy life. My values guide the rest.
Creating flexible work environments to support a soft life
Rigid jobs create stress. That’s why I build flexibility into my work life where I can. Remote work, flexible hours, or even taking breaks when needed make a big difference. Companies that offer these options help employees feel more in control.
If my job lacks flexibility, I find ways to make it easier. Maybe it’s asking for schedule adjustments or setting up a workspace that feels peaceful. Small changes improve work-life harmony.
Key principles of achieving contentment and peace
Contentment is about being happy with what I have. That does not mean I stop growing, but I stop chasing things that do not bring real joy. Comparison is the enemy of peace, so I focus on my own journey.
Gratitude plays a huge role. Even on tough days, writing down three good things can shift my mood. Contentment also comes from simple living. More stuff, more problems. A decluttered life often leads to a calmer mind.
Innovative work arrangement examples promoting a balanced lifestyle
Many successful people find ways to work differently. Some companies use a four-day workweek. Others allow employees to set their schedules. These models improve happiness and productivity.
I know people who take “focus hours” at work—no meetings, just deep work. Some switch to freelance to control their time. The key is finding what works and making changes where possible.
“No job is worth losing yourself over.” — James
Real-life stories of achieving balance and contentment
A friend of mine, Sarah, felt like work drained her. She switched to part-time, started a side business, and now has more time for herself. She earns less, but her happiness is worth it.
Another example is James, who worked 80-hour weeks. His health suffered, so he made boundaries. Now, he works reasonable hours and enjoys weekends with family. He says, “No job is worth losing yourself over.”
Balance and happiness are choices. I make them every day.
Tip: Schedule moments of rest and gratitude as diligently as you schedule work. Your well-being deserves the same attention.
Resources for Sustainable Decluttering Practices
The Benefits of Simplifying Life for Happiness
A cluttered life can feel heavy. When we simplify, we make space for peace. Less physical and mental clutter leads to more clarity, less stress, and greater happiness. A study in Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin found that people with cluttered homes had higher levels of cortisol, the stress hormone (Saxbe & Repetti, 2010). When we clear out what we don’t need, we create an environment that supports calmness.
How to Start Decluttering Your Physical Space
Start small. Choose one drawer, one shelf, or one room. Keep only what you use, need, or love. The rest? Donate, recycle, or throw it away. If letting go feels hard, ask: “Does this item add value to my life?” If not, it’s time to say goodbye. A minimalist space doesn’t just look good—it helps clear your mind too.
Minimalistic Lifestyle Transitions for Inner Peace
Living with less doesn’t mean living without joy. It means choosing what truly matters. Transitioning to a minimalist lifestyle starts with shifting your mindset. Buy with purpose, not impulse. Focus on experiences over things. Identify what brings fulfillment beyond possessions. This approach fosters inner peace and long-term happiness.
Digital Decluttering: Purging Virtual Spaces
Our devices hold unnecessary clutter too. Old emails, unused apps, and social media overload can feel like a mental weight. Set aside time to clean up your digital world. Unsubscribe from emails you never read. Limit social media usage if it drains you. A tidy digital space leads to clearer thinking and reduced anxiety.
Setting Priorities to Facilitate a Simplified Lifestyle
A simple life isn’t about having less; it’s about making room for what matters. Define your values. What brings you the most joy? What drains your energy? Set priorities based on your answers. Say no to what doesn’t serve your well-being. Focus on what enriches your life.
The Impact of Simplification on Mental Clarity
Simplifying life removes distractions. It helps the mind stay present. When we own less, we clean less. When we schedule less, we stress less. A clear space leads to a clear mind. This allows focus on meaningful activities, leading to a more intentional and joyful life.
Resources for Sustainable Decluttering Practices
If decluttering feels overwhelming, seek guidance. Books like The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo offer step-by-step methods. Online resources provide tips for maintaining a clutter-free space. Websites like The Everygirl share advice on creating a soft and intentional life. Sustainable decluttering means letting go with purpose and maintaining simplicity over time.
Tip: To live a soft and happy life, incorporate daily decluttering into your routine. Spend a few minutes each morning or evening organizing your space and mind, letting go of what no longer serves you. This practice fosters inner calm and creates room for joy.
Self-Awareness as a Cornerstone of Living Gently
To live a soft and happy life, you need to know yourself. Self-awareness helps you understand what brings you peace, what drains you, and what truly matters. When you are aware of your thoughts, emotions, and reactions, you can make thoughtful choices that lead to happiness. Without it, you may find yourself stuck in habits or relationships that make life harder than it needs to be.
Tools for Enhancing Self-Awareness Effectively
Journaling is a great way to reflect on your thoughts and feelings. Writing down daily experiences helps you see patterns in emotions and behavior. Meditation is another tool that builds awareness by focusing your mind on the present. Practices like deep breathing and body scanning can connect you to your emotions better. Another way is to ask trusted friends for feedback. Sometimes, others notice things about us that we don’t.
Techniques for Cultivating a Consistently Positive Mindset
Your mindset shapes your happiness. One powerful technique is reframing negative thoughts. Instead of thinking, “I always fail at this,” shift to “I’m learning how to improve.” Another method is gratitude. Taking time each day to appreciate small joys can completely transform how you view life. Surrounding yourself with positive influences—whether through books, people, or uplifting activities—also helps.
Inspirational Quotes to Reinforce Positive Thinking
Words have power. Quotes can remind you to keep a gentle and joyful mindset. One to remember is, “Happiness depends upon ourselves.” —Aristotle. This means your joy is in your hands, not in outside circumstances. Another good one is, “The only limit to our realization of tomorrow is our doubts of today.” —Franklin D. Roosevelt. Letting go of doubt can open the door to a more peaceful life.
Influencing Happiness Through Mental Conditioning
Happiness isn’t just luck—it’s something you train your mind to achieve. If you practice seeing the good in situations, your brain starts doing it naturally. That’s the power of mental conditioning. Visualization is one way to do this. Picture yourself feeling peaceful and happy each morning before starting your day. Another method is using affirmations. Saying phrases like, “I deserve peace and happiness,” can reinforce positivity in your mind.
Challenges in Developing Self-Awareness and How to Overcome Them
Self-awareness isn’t always easy. Sometimes, it’s uncomfortable to face our thoughts and emotions. One challenge is self-judgment—being too hard on yourself for past mistakes. Overcome this by practicing self-compassion. Remind yourself that growth takes time. Another challenge is distraction. In a world full of noise, it’s hard to reflect. Creating quiet moments for yourself—free from social media or obligations—can help deepen self-awareness.
Success Stories of Mindset Transformation Leading to Happiness
Many people have completely changed their lives by shifting their mindsets. A woman I once met struggled with constant stress from work. She started practicing gratitude each morning and set small, realistic goals for joy. Within months, her entire outlook changed. Another person overcame negative self-talk by using affirmations daily, turning doubt into confidence. These changes didn’t happen overnight, but with practice, they created lasting happiness.
Building self-awareness and a positive mindset takes effort, but the rewards are worth it.
Harnessing Positive Energy for a Peaceful Life
To live a soft life, you must protect your energy. Negative thoughts and stress drain you. Positive energy lifts and comforts you. Surround yourself with things and people that bring peace. A relaxed mind allows you to enjoy life’s gentle moments. Keep a gratitude journal, listen to uplifting music, or spend time in nature. These small shifts help you feel lighter.
A great way to boost positive energy is through deep breathing. When you feel tense, stop and take slow, full breaths. Breathe in through your nose, hold for a few seconds, then exhale through your mouth. Breathing exercises calm your nervous system and bring instant relief. Even a few minutes can help.
Relaxation Techniques for a Softer Life
Resting is not laziness. It is how you restore strength. Set aside moments in your day for stillness. Stretch in the morning, sip tea without rushing, or take a quiet walk. These actions reset your mind. Meditation and mindfulness practices also help you stay present. If you struggle with stress, simple relaxation techniques like progressive muscle relaxation or guided imagery can ease tension.
Soft living is about balance. Work when needed, but make rest a priority. At night, create a bedtime routine. Dim the lights, turn off screens, and read or listen to calming sounds. Your body and mind need sleep to stay peaceful.
Breathing Exercises to Support a Calm Life
Your breath controls your energy. When life feels heavy, controlled breathing can help. Try box breathing: inhale for four counts, hold for four, exhale for four, and repeat. This slows your heart rate and brings focus.
Another helpful exercise is the 4-7-8 technique. Inhale for four seconds, hold for seven, and exhale slowly for eight. This relaxes your body and prepares it for rest. Breathwork is a simple tool that you can use anywhere.
Real-Life Examples of Soft Living
Soft living is not about avoiding all effort. It is about choosing what brings ease and joy. Some couples embrace this by setting healthy boundaries. Instead of overworking, they focus on meaningful moments together. They cook slow meals, take long walks, and support each other emotionally.
At home, creating a cozy space makes a difference. Soft lighting, gentle music, and comfortable surroundings create a peaceful mood. Choosing simplicity in daily life leads to more happiness and less stress.
The Connection Between Relaxation and Energy Levels
Relaxation refuels your energy. When you are constantly rushing, your body stays in stress mode. This drains you. By choosing to slow down, you build up positive energy. Soft living means listening to when you need rest and when to move. Balance is key to daily happiness.
The Art of Finding Joy in Everyday Moments
Happiness hides in the little things. A warm cup of tea, a walk in the sun, or laughter with a friend can shift the day’s mood. Noticing these moments takes practice. Start by pausing. Breathe in deeply and observe what’s around you. The smell of fresh bread, the sound of birds, or the comfort of a cozy blanket can bring joy.
A daily gratitude list helps, too. Write three good things from your day, no matter how small. Over time, this retrains the mind to seek light in ordinary moments. Studies show that gratitude improves overall well-being and builds resilience against stress.
Engaging with Hobbies as a Path to Happiness
Hobbies bring life color. They offer an escape, a challenge, or a way to unwind. Whether painting, gardening, or playing an instrument, hobbies create space for creativity and peace. Research suggests that activities that fully engage the mind boost happiness and reduce anxiety.
If time feels tight, start small. Dedicate just ten minutes a day. A puzzle, a short story, or a few stitches in a knitting project can make a difference. When choosing a new hobby, focus on joy rather than skill. Let curiosity lead.
Discovering New Interests to Enrich Your Life
Exploring new interests keeps life fresh. A cooking class, learning a language, or trying yoga can spark excitement and growth. Engaging in novel activities releases dopamine, the brain’s “feel good” chemical.
Not sure where to start? Make a list of things you’ve always wanted to try. Visit local workshops, browse online classes, or join a community group. Surrounding yourself with people who share your interests boosts motivation.
The Mental Health Benefits of Pursuing Hobbies
Hobbies provide a mental break. They lower stress, enhance focus, and improve mood. Activities like gardening or knitting induce a meditative state, calming an anxious mind. Expressive hobbies, such as journaling or music, help process emotions.
Doing something just for fun, without a goal, teaches patience and self-kindness. Productivity isn’t the aim—enjoyment is.
Balancing Time for Hobbies with Life’s Demands
Busy schedules make hobbies seem impossible, but small moments add up. Morning routines, lunch breaks, or evenings can hold time for joyful activities. Planning ahead helps. Mark hobby time in a calendar, just as you would an important meeting.
Eliminate unnecessary tasks to free space. A slower, more intentional approach to life makes room for what matters.
Tips on Choosing Hobbies Aligned with a Soft Life
Not all hobbies bring peace. Competitive or high-pressure activities may cause stress. Instead, look for those that provide relaxation or flow. Examples include:
Soft Life Hobby | Benefit It Brings |
---|---|
Reading | Mental escape, builds imagination |
Gardening | Connection with nature, mindfulness |
Pottery | Stress relief, hands-on creativity |
Playing an instrument | Cognitive boost, emotional expression |
Cooking | Joy in creation, sensory engagement |
Walking | Physical health, clears the mind |
Journaling | Self-reflection, emotional processing |
Meditation | Inner calm, mental clarity |
Painting | Creativity, self-expression |
Puzzles | Focus, problem-solving skills |
Choose activities that match your energy levels. If you crave movement, dance or nature walks may fit. If solitude soothes, try drawing or writing.
Stories of Transformation Through Simple, Joyful Activities
Many have found peace by embracing simple joys. A friend once struggled with stress and burnout. She picked up watercolor painting, not to create masterpieces, but to relax. Over time, she found herself calmer and more present. What started as a hobby became a healing ritual.
Everyday joy is built, not found. It comes from choosing softness, favoring peace, and making time for what truly feeds the soul.
Conclusion
Living a soft life means choosing calm, purpose, and joy. Embrace mindfulness and gratitude to see real changes in your everyday experiences. Build self-care routines and find balance in work and life. Simplify your surroundings and let go of the excess. Choose hobbies that bring you happiness and nurture positive connections. These steps lead to a more fulfilling life. You can find peace and contentment by living gently with intention. Happiness comes from the choices you make each day.