Most of us live our lives according to established patterns, in which every day looks the same, and we perform routine activities and duties almost mechanically, without thinking about what we are doing. In such an 'autopilot' mode, we are not fully aware of our own experiences and - in most cases - we do not take pleasure in what we do.

It is in this context that it is worth remembering the saying: "enjoy the journey, not the destination itself", which speaks of nothing more than the ability to notice what is around us and appreciate the small moments - such as the aroma of our morning coffee, the smile of a loved one or a few minutes of silence just for ourselves. It is these small moments that create the quality of our lives and make them more complete.

ENJOY THE LITTLE THINGS

On a day-to-day basis, many of us focus on the big things, creating in our minds an 'ideal scenario' in which happiness will appear when we achieve something spectacular: buying a house, getting a promotion, having the perfect wedding. As a result, while waiting for that special moment, we forget about the small pleasures that accompany us every day.

So are we able to be happy, even if nothing particularly exciting or unusual is happening in our lives?

At Cremini, we believe in the joy of the everyday and in finding value in the smallest things. This means that you don't have to experience extraordinary things to feel good about yourself and find a sense of fulfilment. Discovering joy in the small things not only has short-term benefits, but, as research shows, can also be an investment in a long-term sense of wellbeing that sustains us in both good and more difficult moments.

On a physiological level, engaging in so-called 'micro-joy' stimulates the vagus nerve, which is responsible for biological processes such as heart rate, digestion and respiration. This nerve is also linked to mood and stress regulation, so the more often it is stimulated, the more beneficial it is for our health.

This all sounds great, but - as is usually the case - the real challenge is to translate theory into practice. How do you do it? Here are some ways to help you find happiness in your everyday life.

DISCLAIMER

Slow down and stop focusing solely on what is yet to come. Too often we are so caught up in thinking about the future or the past that we forget about the present and about enjoying the present moment.

When was the last time you did something by focusing solely on one activity instead of doing several things at once?

Any activity, even the simplest, can become more rewarding if you fully engage in it. Therefore, we encourage you to direct your attention to only one activity at a time.

Switch on all your senses: what do you hear, feel, see, taste? Take at least a few minutes during the day to stop and think about it. This practice will allow you to notice the small elements of everyday life that usually escape your attention.

BE GRATEFUL FOR SOMETHING EVERY DAY

Every day, write down (or say out loud) one thing you are grateful for. Try to choose something new each time and you will quickly notice how many little things deserve gratitude and attention.

Practising gratitude regularly makes us happier. Research shows that it has a positive impact on both physical and mental health - increasing happiness hormones, lowering stress levels and improving sleep quality.

BE KIND TO OTHERS (AND TO YOURSELF)

Neurobiologists have discovered that showing kindness and compassion has a stimulating effect on the pleasure and reward centres of the brain. But we don't really need scientific evidence to know that helping others is good for us and makes us feel happier. A simple gesture - a smile, a kind word, support in everyday matters - can improve the day not only for someone else, but also for ourselves.

Practising kindness to ourselves is just as important as being kind to others, and sometimes even more difficult. We are our own harshest critics, making demands that are impossible to fulfil. However, it is worth learning to be forgiving to ourselves, to give ourselves permission to relax and to appreciate small successes. When we live in harmony with ourselves and are at our best, not only do we feel better, but we also find it easier to share our energy and good mood with others.

STRENGTHEN THE RELATIONSHIP

Find time for moments together - even a short meeting, a video call or just being fully present for the other person can be very beneficial and strengthen the bond.

Remember, too, that positive interactions and conversations raise levels of oxytocin - the happiness hormone - which ultimately helps to lower stress levels. Dozens of studies have shown that people who have satisfying relationships are happier, less likely to experience health problems and live longer.