How to find pleasure in uncertain times.

A practice.

Jan 24, 2025

How to Find Pleasure in Uncertain Times

When we feel like the world is crumbling around us, cultivating pleasure might not be at the top of our list. But pleasure comes in many different forms. Pleasure is our power.

Here are a few ways you can cultivate pleasure in tough times:

Go for a Walk with Intention

Pay special attention to your surroundings. Notice the plants and the clouds. Say hello to all the dogs. Be intentional—appreciate your neighborhood and find the color in it.
Tip: Take pictures of what you find. Look back on them later to see your surroundings through another lens. Zoom in and appreciate the details.

Volunteer Your Time

Monetary donations are great and incredibly necessary, but when you put thought into action, you witness firsthand how giving influences others. Is there a way, once a week or once a month, that you can give your time to others?
Tip: Find a space that aligns with your values. Are you an artist? Volunteer at an art center for youth. Are you passionate about reproductive justice? Volunteer at Planned Parenthood or a local organization. These are just a few ways to intentionally connect with your community.

Be in Community

Spend time with friends and loved ones. Those who’s values align with yours. Do something new together—or do nothing at all.
Tip: Explore your shared interests. Volunteer together, watch a movie and discuss it afterward, take a class, or go on a day trip.

Dance Therapy

Studies show that dancing is one of the best exercises for improving mood. Perhaps it’s the combination of music and movement—it’s cathartic. It’s also an activity you can enjoy alone or with a group.
Tip: Pick a record or album and dance to it from start to finish. Explore movement, try new things, and allow yourself to be silly.

Hug Your Loved Ones

Hug them deeply and hold them close. Try a 3-minute hug. And don’t forget to hug yourself.
Tip: Hugging yourself is incredibly healing. The act of a good self-hug is known to reduce stress and cortisol levels. Maybe you could implement this self hug into your dance exploration… (I do.)

Art for Release

Use painting, sketching, or sculpting to externalize your feelings. Try a new medium—working with your hands often feels grounding.
Tip: Practice blind drawing. Attempt to draw something (a still life, a face) without looking down at your drawing pad. It will likely look silly, but it’s an excellent creative detachment practice.

Joy Journaling

Write a gratitude list. Reflect on things that bring you joy and why they make you happy. Get into detail and imagine them vividly.
Tip: Focus on something you love wholeheartedly—perhaps your child (furry or human) or your significant other.

Pen Pal Practice

The act of writing love letters is one of my intentions for the year. Write letters to your friends without telling them—make it a little loving surprise. Your friends need you (some more than others right now), let them know you are always thinking of them.
Tip: Get creative by including artwork or doodles to accompany your love letter.

Go Somewhere New

Traveling often gives us fresh perspectives. Take a day trip, visit that museum you’ve been curious about, or plan something more elaborate. Dreaming becomes more tangible through action.
Tip: Start small—choose somewhere local or within driving distance. Small acts can have a big impact.

Plan a 777

Every 7 days, every 7 weeks, and every 7 months, put something on your calendar. It’s a great practice for having something to look forward to. Every 7 days, plan something small that brings you joy. Every 7 weeks, try something a bit more costly or time-intensive. Every 7 months, aim for something significant, like a trip overseas or a big financial goal.
Tip: This works well with significant others, like a weekly date night, but you can do this with anyone in any kind of relationship.

If all of these suggestions feel like too much, that’s okay. The art of rest is just as valuable. Pleasure will always be here waiting for you.

When you priortize your pleasure, you are stronger for it. And from there, you can truly make a difference.

How are you priotizing your pleasure?

Club BodyTalk

Discussion about this post

Ready for more?