Joy doesn’t have to be big, loud, or saved for the weekends.
Sometimes, it shows up in the smallest of rituals—a 2 minute-breathing exercise in the morning or a short gratitude practice before bedtime. At Feels Like July, we believe these small moments are where the magic happens.
Here are five simple rituals you can weave into your day to spark more joy, presence, and calm — and we’ve included a few of our favorite picks to help you get started.
1. Start your day with a beautiful scent
Instead of jolting into the day, ease into it with scent. Lighting a candle or burning incense can be a gentle cue to slow down and enter the morning with presence. Don't have the time to? Even just keeping a candle or box of incense close to you can have the same effect. A scent you love can transform your mood before you even leave the house.
🕯️ Our Pick: Natural incense sticks with Rose, Musk Aloeswood + Knot incense holder – a calm, grounding ritual to anchor your day.
•••
2. Make Time for Play (Yes, Even as an Adult)
Joy doesn’t have an age limit. Taking a few minutes to play—whether it’s solving a puzzle, trying a new recipe, or dancing around your kitchen—can shift your whole mood.
🧩 Our Pick: Good Morning 100 piece puzzle – a playful, screen-free way to unwind, reset, or reconnect.
•••
3. Romanticize the Everyday
Use the “good” dishes. Arrange your fruit in a pretty bowl. Add fresh flowers to your bathroom. Elevating the ordinary isn’t about doing more—it’s about noticing more.
Joy is in the details.
🌼 Our Pick: Mini double gourd vase + Lark preserved flower bouquet
•••
4. Practice Gratitude by Sending a Little Joy
One of the quickest ways to boost your own mood? Make someone else smile. Take a moment to think of someone you’re grateful for—then actually tell them.
A handwritten note, a small surprise, or a thoughtful message can ripple joy in both directions.
💌 Our Pick: Thanks a Bunch postcard puzzle – a playful, heartfelt way to say thanks. They’ll receive a puzzle they can piece together to reveal your message—and trust us, it’ll make their day.
•••
5. End the Day With Intention
Before bed, light incense, rub a calming balm into your hands, or make a cup of herbal tea. Let your nighttime routine be a soft landing instead of a crash.
🌙 Our Pick: Cobalt Cara coffee cup
•••
Your Joy Is Worth Making Time For
You don’t need a new life to feel more joy—just a few tiny rituals that remind you that your time, energy, and space matter. That’s what Feels Like July is all about.
So go ahead. Romanticize your Tuesday. Make your morning feel like a mini-vacation. Savor the small stuff—it’s where joy lives.
