Everyday Indulgence: Why Life’s Little Pleasures Deserve the Spotlight

 

Why do we save the fancy candle and the good china? 

When I was a little girl my Grandma had a big fancy china cabinet and it was full of gorgeous dishes. It had silver that she made sure shines and a fancy tea set. But we never ever used any of it. We were always saving it for a special future occasion. But that occasion never came. When I think about that I feel sad, and when my partner and I were gifted nice wedding china we decided we wouldn’t save our china for a special occasion. We would use it. And *gasp* we would put it in the dishwasher. There are so many things we can relate this to – fancy candles, expensive skincare, beautiful clothes. Things that just go unused. But what if life’s little pleasures deserve the spotlight? I’ve learned is that small everyday pleasures transform my mindset. Life’s little pleasures make life feel more joyful and fulfilling now.

 

I think life is too short to save the nice things. We should embrace them now.

 

If You Save Nice Things You’re Not Alone. 

Most of the people I know are saving their nice things for a special occasion. Most of the people I know aren’t gardening in a pretty dress they’re gardening in clothes that can “get ruined” I’ve done that for most of my life. The thing is that clothes that can get ruined just don’t feel that nice on me. There are a lot of reasons for saving nice things. A scarcity mindset, fear, guilt around self-indulgence, religious trauma, etc. But what if we could put those thing to the side and just ask ourselves: What if today is special enough? 

 

The Power of Little Pleasures

Did you know that a small act of indulgence can lift your mood and reduce stress? Something as simple as drinking your water out of a fancy glass or lighting the candle that’s been decorative for far too long! I think prioritizing pleasure is not only an act of resistance but an act of self care and of mindfulness. Enjoying the little things now helps me stay present and value my everyday life.

 

Everyday Indulgence in Action

I am the type of person that needs examples, so here are some of my favorite  small pleasures in my daily life:

• 1. Use your favorite dishware for every meal. I’ve found dishware at thrift stores for different seasons!
  2. Use a facial steamer (with distilled water) when you wash your face! It feels like an at home facial. I also use these little cleansing pads and water cuffs for a really nice experience washing my face!
  3. Wear your “special” outfit just because. I’ve never gotten more compliments in my life than when I wore a Selkie dress to Barnes and Nobel!
  4. Drink your daily beverage out of a cute glass!
  5. Set the table for lunch – it doesn’t have to be a special occasion to use a charger!
  6. I light my taper candles and let them burn all the way down to nubs.

I bet if you look around you have at least one “nice thing” you’ve been saving. What if you used it today? Would that be fun?

 

Life’s Little Pleasures that are not Material Things Also Deserve the Spotlight

A lot of times indulgences feel like they need to be things. But indulgences can also just be giving yourself permission to open the windows and slow down!

1. Mindful Breathing: Take a few moments throughout the day to focus on your breath. Deep, slow breaths can reset your nervous system and provide a moment of peace and pleasure, no external “thing” required.
2. Sunshine Moments: Step outside, even if it’s just for a few minutes, and bask in the sunlight. Close your eyes and let the warmth of the sun recharge you.
3. Dancing in the Kitchen: Put on your favorite song and dance around the house while doing chores or cooking—movement and music can lift your mood instantly.
4. Stretching Breaks: Take a 5-minute stretch break at any point during the day. Focus on how your body feels as you stretch, paying attention to any areas of tension and releasing them.
5. Gratitude Pause: Pause for 30 seconds during your day to list three things you’re grateful for, no material things needed—just the beauty in the moment.
6. Savoring Silence: Enjoy a few minutes of complete silence, away from distractions and noise. This small, quiet moment can be grounding and offer an instant sense of calm.

 

The Ripple Effect of Indulgence

Once I started prioritizing small pleasures there was a ripple effect in my life. I’m having more fun. I’m enjoying things more. I’m more present when I do use something. I’m more confident when I’m wearing nice clothes. The whole idea is just romanticizing our lives and enjoying the present moment! So don’t wait for a “perfect moment” enjoy it now! I would love to know what indulgence you’ll embrace today!

 

 

And just as an extra bonus here’s a list of 20 quick tips and tricks for centering pleasure, self-care, and wellness because life’s little pleasures deserve the spotlight.

 

1. Morning Magic: Start your day with a 5-minute gratitude practice—list three things that bring you joy.
2. Hydration Habit: Treat yourself to a cute water bottle and aim to drink more water than you do right now.
3. Nature Nurture: Spend 10 minutes outdoors every day, even if it’s just sitting on your porch.
4. Spa Vibes at Home: Add eucalyptus to your showerhead for a soothing aromatherapy experience.
5. Skin Love: Invest in a gua sha tool and take 2 minutes for a quick facial massage.
6. Digital Detox: Set an hour each day to unplug from screens and engage in an analog activity.
7. Stretch It Out: Do a quick 5-minute stretch session first thing in the morning or before bed.
8. Snack Upgrade: Keep fresh fruit or nuts on hand for a nourishing, feel-good snack. I like Pistachios.
9. Book Bliss: Dedicate 15 minutes to reading a book that uplifts you. I have a list of 5 great romance novels here! 
10. Cozy Moments: Light a favorite candle or diffuse essential oils to elevate your space.
11. Midday Reset: Take a mini-break to do a breathing exercise—inhale for 4 counts, hold for 7, exhale for 8.
12. Mini Indulgence: Treat yourself to a small luxury like a fancy coffee or a decadent chocolate.
13. Sensory Joy: Keep a soft blanket or a plush robe nearby for instant comfort.
14. Movement that Feels Good: Dance, walk, or do Pilates—choose what makes you feel alive.
15. DIY Bliss: Create your own body scrub with sugar, coconut oil, and a few drops of your favorite essential oil.
16. Gratitude Journal: Write down one “win” or joyful moment from your day before going to bed.
17. Bath Time Ritual: Add some bath salts and a playlist to your evening soak.
18. Mindful Meals: Set your table, even if it’s just for you, and eat without distractions.
19. Quick Declutter: Tidy up one small area (like a bedside table) to create a serene environment.
20. Compliment Yourself: Look in the mirror and say one kind thing to yourself each morning.