Finding Happiness During Times of Adversity…
The International Day of Happiness 2020
This Friday, March 20th is the International Day of Happiness and this year’s theme is Happier Together. During these worrying times, when we are being advised to socially distance and self-isolate, this may sound rather ironic, but the purpose of this year’s theme is for us to focus on what we have in common, rather than what divides us.
International Happiness Day was something we had planned to celebrate here at OMGTea for a while but given the circumstances and particularly some of the latest measures introduced in the UK this week, we took a step back to question if it was still appropriate to do so. However, it didn’t take us very long to decide that yes it’s something we need now more than ever.
This is a time to come together, even if not possible to do so physically, and support one another, focus on the positives, take care of both ourselves and those around us, where possible.
Enjoy the Simple Things
Maybe now the simple things in life are the things we will take the time to appreciate more. Things like spending time with family, playing games, cooking nourishing and tasty meals all whilst reconnecting with those closest to us. Or perhaps this is an opportunity to connect with new people in new and unexpected ways. Surely this is the silver lining of these worrying times? Over the coming weeks, there may be times we need to dig deep to find some positives, but I am sure they will be there.
Connect with Others
Who hasn’t been moved by the videos circulating on the news and social media of the Italians all singing together from their balconies? They are heart-warming and beautiful, bringing happiness to not only those involved, but also to those of us who have had the pleasure to watch them. This is certainly an example of Happier Together.
Similarly, the Spanish aerobic instructor keeping his fellow neighbours active by conducting a class on a rooftop in his apartment complex. Exercise and fresh air are key for lifting the spirits at any time but during quarantine, his kind actions will be helping people not only stay fit but also stay connected with one another.
I have also been encouraged by the kindness in my own neighbourhood in Brighton, where overnight, a new community WhatsApp group was set up and already has 26 members and counting. All of whom are offering to help one another in any way needed, now or in the future, and with people already knocking on the doors of the elderly and more vulnerable amongst us to ensure they are okay and have what they need. People have commented that they feel calmer in the knowledge that we are here for one another, happy to have connected with their fellow neighbours, during what they are finding a very stressful time.
Taking Positive Action in Response to a Negative Situation
OMGTea is a brand that was born out of adversity. Katherine’s mum was diagnosed with a serious life-threatening illness in 2010 and watching her fight the disease made Katherine realise that the most important things in life are family, friends and health.
She decided she wanted to do something positive to help and became involved in supporting some ground- breaking research, which amongst other things, highlighted the benefits of antioxidants in our diets. Katherine knew that green tea was known for its high level of antioxidants, but she tasked herself with finding the best green tea available and organic matcha green tea was that tea. She and her mum started drinking it immediately and felt great physically and mentally. After that Katherine felt so passionate about matcha that she wanted to spread the word. She and her mum still drink matcha daily.
Human Acts of Kindness
Adverse situations have a way of highlighting our common humanity and whilst they inevitably bring about tragedy, they can also bring out the best in people. Human acts of kindness in any shape or form, bring us together and they are what creates happiness in society. And it is this that we are going to try to focus on over the coming weeks. The path ahead will not be without its’ hardships but together we will get through to the other side, possibly with a new perspective on life and even stronger relationships.