Who doesn’t want to feel more joyful at home? Whether you’re facing the winter doldrums or simply wishing for spring to arrive, the darker, colder months can be tough. The good news is there are practical, uplifting things you can do to improve how you feel at home throughout the year.
As part of “My Year of Dwelling Well,” we’re launching a helpful three-step mini-series titled How to Find Joy at Home. This first post focuses on creating a happy morning routine—small changes that can make your days feel lighter and more intentional.
I’ve written books about the importance of the home and how it affects our wellbeing. If you’d like to explore these ideas further, consider my book Dwelling and the Dwelling Well Journal to help you develop routines and habits that support a more joyful life at home.
How to Find Joy at Home (A Simple Guide)
Create Your Happy Morning Routine
Start with Intentional Morning Solitude:
Author Alexandra Stoddard calls her favorite daily practice “Morning Solitude,” and she isn’t alone—many of us feel our best when we don’t rush into the demands of the world the moment we wake. Even a few quiet minutes can set a positive tone for the entire day.
If possible, wake a few minutes earlier to sit in silence, pray, meditate, or simply breathe and notice what you’re grateful for. Avoid immediately reaching for your phone, scrolling the internet, or turning on the TV. Starting the day focused on gratitude and calm will often improve your outlook and mindset.
Surround Yourself With Happy Morning Sights, Sounds and Scents
Treat your morning routine as a daily self-care practice by engaging multiple senses. A small, thoughtful effort can make mornings feel more joyful and intentional.
A happy sight
Whether it’s a tidy bathroom, a polished kitchen sink, or fresh flowers on the table, a pleasing visual first thing in the morning can lift your mood. Prepare at least one welcoming sight before bedtime so you wake to something that inspires you.
A happy sound
Music has an immediate and powerful effect on mood. Curate an uplifting morning playlist to play while you get ready. Choose songs that energize and inspire you in your current season of life.
A happy scent
Scents and plants influence wellbeing. Many people enjoy using essential oils as part of morning routines; certain aromas can promote calm, focus, or energy. If you use a diffuser, experiment with blends that make your home smell fresh and welcoming.
Three diffuser blends recommended for a happy morning:
Cheerful Wake Up: 3 drops peppermint, 3 drops Stress Away, 2 drops lemon
Healthy Home: 4 drops Thieves, 3 drops Citrus Fresh
No Worries: 3 drops Valor, 3 drops Stress Away
How do you start your day—do you have a routine?
Design a morning ritual that suits you and see how small changes can bring more joy into your home. Share how it goes and which sights, sounds, or scents lift your spirits.
Tomorrow in this series we’ll focus on Three Intentions to Set a Joyful Daily Mindset.
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Joyful Action Steps:
1. Create and practice your happy morning rituals—start small and adjust as needed.
2. Capture and share photos of your morning routines and favorite details at home for inspiration.
3. If you’re exploring scents or natural products, research options that align with your values and wellbeing goals; choose what feels right for your family and home.
Small rituals support sleep, mood, focus, and a pleasant atmosphere—simple tools to help your household feel healthier and happier. Find what works for you and make it part of your everyday routine.
Join a community or group focused on wellbeing if you want accountability and ideas—sharing routines and favorite morning blends can spark fresh inspiration.
If you already have favorite routines or diffuser blends, post them where you connect with others who care about creating a joyful home.
