Do a 360-degree scan

It’s easy to get so wrapped up in your own little world that you forget to look around. That’s a shame, because just looking around can have a huge impact on your happiness and your general outlook! To take advantage of this simple truth, try a 360-degree scan.

Wherever you are sitting or standing right now, make some space so you can turn in a complete circle. Stay where you are for now and take some time to get into a mindful state. Close your eyes, take three slow deep breaths, and practice being present and staying in the moment.

When you feel ready, open your eyes and continue to practice staying mindful and aware. Turn to one side slowly and purposefully, scanning your surroundings as you do so. Keep turning and observing what is around you until you reach your starting point.

Now, back to your original position, think about all the things you saw that wouldn’t have seen otherwise. Thank yourself for taking a moment to look up and appreciate the beauty of the world around you.

Excerpted from 5-Minute Bliss by Courtney E. Ackerman. Copyright © 2019 by Simon & Schuster, Inc. Used with permission of the publisher, Adams Media, a division of Simon & Schuster. All rights reserved.