The Sauna of Happiness
"Happiness isn't found only in the heat of the sauna, but in embracing both the warmth and the coolness of life's full spectrum" CJB
Hey there, Happiness Hunters! π
Today, let's dive into an experience I cherish deeply β the sauna. I've always found an incredible sense of soul happiness in the heat of a sauna, but there's a lesson in there that extends far beyond the wooden walls and the warmth.
I love saunas, but here's the thing: I can't stay in that heat forever. If I did, I'd overheat, get uncomfortable, or even dehydrated. So, what does this tell us about life and happiness?
You might think, "Oh, CJB must be unhappy when he's not in the sauna," but that's missing the point entirely. Happiness isn't about being in one constant state; it's about embracing the whole spectrum of feelings and experiences.
In life, like in a sauna, we have moments of intense warmth and comfort, but we also have the cool-down periods where we step out, breathe the fresh air, and feel the contrast. This is where the concept of yin and yang comes into play. Just as you can't appreciate light without darkness, or joy without sorrow, you can't understand the depth of happiness without experiencing its opposite.
Happiness contains all kinds of feelings. It's not just about the peaks but also about navigating the valleys with grace. When I'm not in the sauna, I'm not waiting for the next session to feel happy again. Instead, I'm living, feeling, and appreciating the coolness of the world outside, knowing it's all part of the same beautiful dance of life.
So, what's the message here? You can be happy right now, in this very moment, even if you're not in the throes of a joyous event. Happiness is about acceptance β accepting all parts of your emotional self, the highs, the lows, and everything in between. It's about recognizing that these contrasts make life rich and full.
And yes, make sure you get into a sauna every now and again. Why? Because it's a reminder that happiness isn't just about enduring the highs but also about savoring the return to normalcy, the refreshment, and the peace that comes after. It's a physical metaphor for life's emotional journey β a cycle of heat and rest, intensity and tranquility.
So, next time you find yourself in a sauna, or even just thinking about one, remember this: you're not seeking happiness solely in those moments of warmth. You're embracing the entirety of your experience, understanding that each part of you, every emotion, every moment, contributes to your soul's happiness TODAY.
Live fully in each moment, embrace the contrasts, and find joy in the balance of life's heat and coolness.
Peace & Love,
CJB