The beautiful paradox I've discovered is that by having these pressure-free creative spaces in my life, I've become more resilient and innovative in other aspects of my life. It's as if these joy buffers create a psychological safety net, allowing me to take bigger risks and stay grounded even when life gets unpredictable or chaotic.

Several of my coworkers invited me to alpaca yoga at Eagle Eye Farm — a lovely expanse of green grass, white picket fences, friendly staff and the cutest little farm animals. I had a smile on my face the whole time, whether I was releasing muscle tension through down dog or petting Pearl, one of many alpacas on the farm.