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Written By: DiveThru Team

Reviewed By: Natalie Asayag MSW, LCSW

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Feeling Content: A Guide to Your Emotions

PUBLISHED May 17th, 2021 & UPDATED ON Nov 21st, 2022

Feeling content. It’s not really an emotion we talk about that much, right? Buuut maybe that’s because it’s not a feeling we acknowledge very often. Think about it. When was the last time you took a pause and thought to yourself, I’m perfectly happy with how things are right now? If you DO feel that way on the reg, hey that’s great! Even when there are shitty days, you might take it in stride because you know that overall you’re feeling pretty good. For some people though, contentment might not come so easily. There can be so many different reasons for that, but…don’t worry. We’ll get into it!

Let’s dive thru feeling content, how it shows up and some ways to embrace this feeling to the fullest. 

A Deeper Look at Feeling Content

Okay, sooo what does it mean to feel content? Cambridge Dictionary defines feeling content as being: “adj. pleased with your situation and not hoping for change or improvement.” Basically, you’re super chill with your current state of being. Isn’t this what we all strive for?! It’s safe to say, we all want to feel content and truly happy. 

Sometimes though, it can be hard for us to feel content with ourselves and our lives. ‘Cause let’s face it — humans have a knack for always seeking out the capital B ‘BEST’ thing. We’ve all heard the saying. “The grass is always greener on the other side.”

How much time do we spend comparing ourselves to others, or daydreaming about things we wish would happen for us? Maybe we equate our own worth to how much money we make, what our grades are, the state of our romantic relationships, or how we think other people see us. We might even put conditions on our happiness too. I’ll be happy when I finally graduate and earn my degree. Or, when I land that promotion at my job. Maybe I’ll be happy when I find that special someone.

Of course, it’s not bad to want those things or to have goals. But feeling content is all about appreciating the present. It’s accepting who you are, where you are, at this moment. So when you do feel content, it’s a very freeing feeling! It reminds us that no matter what comes our way we’re at peace with it. We wanna live in the moment and enjoy ourselves. It doesn’t mean we can’t be ambitious or shoot for the damn stars! It means that we can enjoy the ride too.

How Feeling Content Shows Up Mentally

Fun fact — your mental wellbeing improves when you’re content. *gasp* Who would’ve guessed?! I mean, when we’re content, it’s not like we’re gonna fixate on all our problems or be in a lousy mood. Nope. It’s all good here, baby! Check out some of these mental benefits of feeling content, ‘cause they’re pretty great:

  • Lift in your mood
  • Reduced stress and anxiety
  • Increased attentiveness and focus
  • Boost in productivity
  • Spark of creativity
  • Improved analytical skills
  • Good thoughts
  • Increased motivation

When you feel content, your brain releases neurotransmitters called dopamine and serotonin throughout your body. Basically, they’re happy hormones and they’re pretty great. They make you feel on top of the world! Like things are so good, you don’t have to worry about the little things that normally get to you. You’re content AF to be here.

How Feeling Content Shows Up Physically

Again, content = at peace. When we’re feeling peaceful, we also feel happy. And the physical benefits are off the charts! It’s like our brains are telling our bodies, Hey, everything’s all good here! Relax and enjoy the ride! Here are some of the physical signs you might notice when you’re feeling content, in case you were wondering (we know you were):

  • Reduced cortisol levels
  • Lower blood pressure
  • Strengthened immune system
  • Better sleep
  • Improved digestion
  • Reduced pain
  • Longer lifespan

No stress, no worries, no probllama. When your mind is at ease, guess what? Your body follows suit! There are no stress hormones coursing through your veins. Just those happy hormones that we mentioned! So it turns out, feeling content is great for your physical health because it keeps your body regulated. Ahhhh-mazing, if you ask us!

5 Ways to Embrace Feeling Content

How do you embrace feeling content? Great question, friend. If you wanna explore this emotion even further, try some of these practices. They’re simple, yet super effective! Check ‘em out for yourself…

1. Journal

Journaling is one of our all-time fave practices for exploring our feels. So, try writing out exactly how you’re feeling and what made you feel this way! Maybe you’re just really content with your personal relationships right now, or how your professional life is going. Expressing your feelings can give you clarity and feels really great, so jot it all down in detail so you can look back at it all the next time you’re feeling down.

2. Meditate

Meditation relieves stress and improves mental clarity. This practice allows us to slowww down and shift our mindset, which is great when you’re feeling crummy. Even when you DO feel content…guess what? Meditation is still a great option! It’s versatile like that.

3. Engage in Something Soothing/Comforting

Because, why not? Spend time with your pet by cuddling them or taking them on a walk. Touch something comforting like your fave cozy blanket. Brew some tea or your drink of choice. Find whichever method or activity is right for you in the moment that makes you feel oh so content and peaceful.

4. Practice Gratitude

Gratitude is simply taking notice of the good things in life and showing them appreciation. That might involve writing a list of things that bring you joy, volunteering in your community, or showing acts of kindness to the people who make your life better. Spread that joy around!

5. Engage in Something Creative

Getting creative is a great method for unwinding and channelling our emotions. Try your hand at clay or painting, writing a poem, playing an instrument, or singing and dancing! There are so many ways to get creative, so do whatever brings you joy and contentment. Sooo worth it!

Well…that’s all for now! Thanks for diving thru this emotion with us. It’s our fave thing to do and we’re so glad you stopped by!

 

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