Many psychologists talk about “being present in the moment”, and that’s a big part of it.

But so is opening our senses in order to fully recognise joy, contentment and gratitude while it’s happening.

I know there are days when nothing strikes us as being nice at all.

But for most of us there are high spots that delight us at least some of the time. And the trick is to ensure we notice and appreciate them.

Naturally, when something exceptionally good happens, it’s easy to feel as if we are replete with gladness.

Sporting events offer that kind of exhilaration. When your football team gains promotion, or the player you wanted to win Wimbledon does so, it’s an ecstatic feeling.

Many folk also feel utterly blissful at the birth of a grandchild. And of course, falling in love probably eclipses everything.

I was in the hairdressers the other day and a woman there was talking about how, at 55, and very unexpectedly, she was in a romantic relationship again after years of being alone. She was glowing with excitement.

When something wonderful like this occurs, we’re in a bubble of delicious emotion – and may well think........

© Eastern Daily Press