Creating a More Joyful Family Life

By Lisa Payne

November is here, and it’s likely over the next many weeks we will be spending more time with family, both extended and immediate. This can create stress for some people, and immense happiness for others. No matter where your emotions stand, there is always room to create more joy and harmony with those we love.

I love the podcast called “Feel Good Podcast,” by Kimberly Snyder. I met her during my Chopra retreat last year and her energy is magnetic. She has done the research and studied many different practices on spirituality, health, and wellness. One episode I listened to recently talked about creating a more harmonious family life. Her messages resonated with me, and this topic in particular is one that can be extra meaningful this time of year.

Here are some tips that you can incorporate to create a solid home foundation. When there is more love and acceptance in your home environment, that positive energy is carried out into the world. And the whole world could use some more love. Pick one of these to work on and see if your home life starts to shift in a more positive way.

Eat meals together. We all do the best we can between all the activities. The meal can be breakfast, or an after-school snack, or a late-night dinner. Find time to have as many meals without screens so that you can connect and create a ritual that kids thrive within.

Create memorable experiences together. Every single week (or more!) play games, take a walk, have a family picnic, go sledding, do crafts. Anything that creates family time with a lasting memory; no screens. It’s also proven that spending time in nature lowers stress no matter your age, so perhaps some nature walks and hikes could become routine.

A big one here for parents – spend more alone time together. Do a weekly date night, go for walks, run errands together, sneak in some local overnights or send the kids to the grandparents’ house. If you and your spouse are solid and deeply connected, it creates a safe, secure, and calm environment for the kids.

Address arguments. Negative interactions can happen and tensions build. When feelings aren’t validated and bitterness builds at home, a big disconnect happens for everyone. It is important to get grievances out in the open, express your needs calmly without pointing the finger, and listen to what the other person is saying. Preferably before bed.

Incorporate more touch. Whether it’s cuddling, hugging or massaging each other’s feet, touch is healing and rejuvenating for your body. I still hug my teens even if from behind while they are walking out the door. I will never stop being affectionate no matter how old they get.

Be more playful. Life is stressful and serious at times. Laughter and play can be medicine for the soul. It will literally get rid of your stagnant energy and you will feel so much lighter.

My wish for you this holiday season is to have more joyful interactions with your family, be extra light and playful, and in turn feel more internal happiness and calm.

Lisa Payne writes about home, food, and family. You can reach her at paynefam6@gmail.com.