Our last community wellness session covered the topic of Cultivating Happiness, and it was a peaceful and introspective experience. The event began with a rounding exercise, inviting everyone to sit or stand comfortably and breathe deeply, in for five counts, out for five counts. This simple pause helped participants slow down and be in the moment.
We were guided through a short visualisation, imagining a peaceful garden filled with flowers that represented people, moments, or things we are grateful for. Participants were encouraged to notice three that felt especially meaningful. This exercise set the tone for the rest of the session: intentional, personal, and grounding.
The conversation explored what happiness really means. Rather than seeing it as constant excitement, material success, or a problem-free life, happiness was presented as something more realistic and sustainable. It was described as a balance between enjoyment in everyday life and having a sense of purpose. We learnt that happiness looks different for everyone and is built through small, daily choices.
Using the garden as a metaphor, the facilitator explained how happiness grows. Uprooting the weeds symbolises letting go of negative thoughts and habits. Pollinators remind us of the importance of healthy relationships and community. Seasons and harvests represented resilience, patience, and gratitude, even during difficult times.
The session ended with a reflective activity where participants mapped out their own “happiness garden”, identifying what nourishes their wellbeing.
