Psychotherapists highlight that happiness isn’t just a mindset or about the weather, but a simple daily practice that can help you navigate life more peacefully. One word that many genuinely happy individuals repeat each day significantly shifts their emotional state. The word is “savour.” This mental habit helps individuals pause and absorb positive moments throughout their day, no matter how brief they may be. By doing so, they can create a sense of emotional balance and contentment, which in turn boosts overall well-being.
What Does “Savouring” Really Mean?
The concept of “savouring” isn’t about pretending everything is perfect or forcing a constant smile. Instead, it’s a conscious act of appreciating the positive experiences that come your way. Psychologists define “savouring” as the practice of deliberately prolonging positive moments, allowing them to leave a more lasting impression. This might involve something as simple as savoring the warmth of your coffee or appreciating a quiet moment on your walk. Rather than rushing through your day, you focus on small moments that bring peace or joy, giving your brain a chance to register these feelings and strengthen emotional resilience. Savouring helps break the cycle of negativity and encourages the brain to focus on what’s going well, even in stressful times.
How “Savouring” Affects Your Mood
One of the key reasons “savouring” is so effective is that it actively works against feelings of stress and anxiety, especially during challenging seasons like autumn and winter. In these months, many people experience low energy, irritability, and a general sense of heaviness. By incorporating “savouring” into their routine, people can buffer themselves from the negative impacts of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or the winter blues. Rather than getting stuck in rumination or worry, individuals can deliberately focus on the small moments that bring relief or comfort. This simple practice not only boosts mood but also helps to foster a more grateful and optimistic outlook. Positive psychology studies suggest that regularly practising “savouring” increases life satisfaction, helping individuals build emotional resilience for the long term.
Summary: Building Emotional Resilience with “Savour”
By incorporating “savouring” into daily life, individuals can significantly improve their emotional well-being. Whether it’s appreciating a quiet moment or reflecting on past experiences, this practice helps to turn ordinary moments into sources of comfort. Over time, it builds an “emotional reservoir” that people can draw from during stressful periods, helping them navigate life’s ups and downs with greater ease. It’s important to note that “savouring” is not a substitute for professional mental health care but can serve as a useful tool in maintaining mental balance. The goal is not perfection, but a more mindful, peaceful way of interacting with the world.
| Method | How it works |
|---|---|
| Joy journal | Write one or two brief lines each day about something that felt good, no matter how minor. |
| Photo moments | Save a small album on your phone with images tied to warm memories, not just events. |
| Story sharing | Retell a happy or funny memory with someone who was there, noticing details you had forgotten. |
| Audio notes | Record short voice memos about a moment you want to remember, including how your body felt. |
