How to be happy: 'High-five'

California poppy.
Also known as the California poppy.
The flower language is 'success'.

The way it blooms facing the sun
seems to show
a straightforward joy in small achievements.

There is a way to share that 'success' instead of keeping it to yourself.
It's a high-five.

Communicating 'I did it' with your palms

There are many moments in daily life
to high-five with children.

When they succeed at something.
When they take on a challenge.
When they muster a little courage.

Just by clapping hands while saying 'Great job',
that moment becomes something truly special.

Physical contact creates a sense of security and trust.
It conveys affirmation
that words alone might not fully reach.

Why it becomes distant as we grow up

On the other hand, we don't see high-fives between adults
very often.

The only time it comes to mind is in sports.
In places where there is an 'atmosphere where it's okay to do it',
it's a natural action.

In daily life, we think a little about the distance.

Shyness or hesitation.
The relationship with the other person.
Consideration for physical contact.

Because we know that even the same action
can be perceived differently,
we become cautious.

Even if the form changes, the sentiment remains the same

There is no need to force physical contact.

What is important is 'to rejoice together'.

Just raising your hand slightly is fine.
Just nodding with a smile is fine.
Just adding a few short words is fine.

That alone is enough to convey your feelings.

Yet, physical contact has power

High-fives, handshakes, and hugs with someone you trust
do indeed have power.

For example,
when a child finishes a test or a lesson.
Clapping hands while saying 'You did your best'.

Continuing to walk or exercise with a friend,
and exchanging a light fist bump saying 'We did it today too'.

Or, the moment you hug family or friends you haven't seen in a while
before saying a word.

It is only a fleeting moment of contact, but
it creates a realization of
'It's okay', 'We're in this together', 'I'm happy'.

This kind of contact
complements the feelings that words alone cannot fully reach.

Finally

The flower language of the California poppy is 'success'.

Even if it's not a major achievement,
there are many small successes in daily life.

Share each one of them with someone.

It can be a high-five, words, or just a look.

That moment turns a simple event into
a 'success' that remains in your heart.

I believe that by sharing today's small success
with someone,
you can become happy.

Books that influenced the writing of this article

The Healing Power of Hands

There is more meaning in people touching each other
than we think.
There are things conveyed not just by words, but from the palms of our hands.
This is a book that gave me that perspective.

I have compiled other 'ways to be happy' flowers
at the link below.
Please take as many as you need 🍀

Thank you for reading until the end.
I hope to see you in another article.
🍀 May you be happy 🍀