We often lose ourselves in the 9 to 5 grind, be it at work or school, enslaved by our schedules, forgetting to enjoy the simple pleasures in life. The quickly-approaching holiday season made me think about the little things in life. Leading a busy life in a big city has become quite overwhelming and stressful lately, so I decided to focus on experiencing a few simple pleasures every day, that will brighten up the quotidian endeavours.

I put together a list of 10 simple pleasures that will brighten up your day with minimal effort on your end. Just relax and enjoy.

#1 Peeling an orange
What's better than the smell of citrus on a cold winter day?
Citrus is one of those fresh, yet pungent smells that has the magical power of making us feel energized. It's proven to be one of the scents that do wonders for our well-being. I'm a sucker for oranges and clementines in winter. I'll have a tall glass of fresh OJ every morning with my breakfast for a strong start of the day. The vitamin C is great for warding off colds and keeping you going all winter long.

Image by happy olks

#2 Wearing a really soft shirt
Cotton ftw! The fluff-induced happiness also applies to a pair of cozy socks, a scarf, a wrap (for the ladies) or a blanket. These are especially helpful if you're traveling or hanging on for dear life during first semester finals at the library.

#3 Eating a warm, fluffy croissant

What could possibly be better than freshly baked, plump dough? Be it with butter, cheese or plain, croissants have got to be bread's simplest, most sophisticated form. Having one is a full sensory experience, from texture to smell and taste.

Image by The Little Loaf

#4 Missing the metro

Let stress pass you buy with the crowd. I once read that the easiest way to de-stress is to miss the metro. At first, that sounded like the complete opposite - I mean, how would being late for work help me de-stress, are you crazy? But then I understood the point. Watching the train leave without the hassle of catching it actually provides a great mental liberation. It's like you leave your worries on it and continue with a more relaxed mind.

#5 Writing with a really crisp pen

Writing on paper is such a delight in a world full of keyboards and voice memos. Go old school.

#6 Jumping rope

Let your inner child play. Not only is jumping rope a ton of fun, but it can also put you in shape in the matter of weeks since it's a full-body workout combining both cardio and resistance training. I head to Barcelona's port with a rope in my bag every morning before work and jump for a half hour. It puts me in the best mood and it's improved my level of endurance tremendously. Give it a try.

Image by Drew Lipson

#7 Watching the sun rise by the water

Nothing like the morning rays and the gentle rolling of waves. Being alone for it too brings the utmost tranquility to begin the day with.

#8 Drinking hot cocoa

Hot cocoa is hands-down the best form of chocolate for the cold season. I like to sip on one at cozy cafes during my lunch break and people watch. Let worries melt away and chocolate boost your mood as it always does.

Image by David Bares

#9 Getting lost in your own city

How many times have you felt bored of your surroundings? Do you take the same route to work/ class every day? Shake things up a bit. That will give you a different perspective on your area and renew your love for the city. Don't worry about direction. Just take the street you've never been down before and see what you find.

Image byDayana Aleksandrova

#10 Handpick your produce

I've got a thing for cherry tomatoes - love picking, smelling and slicing them. Instead of buying packaged vegetables and fruit from the supermarket, I go to smaller shops instead (which Barcelona has plenty of), and pretty much touch every piece of produce that I will eat later. Connecting with your food is great for the senses and the appetite, plus it gives you extra motivation to cook.

There you have it - 10 easy little things that are guaranteed to brighten up your day. Now go have yourself a great week!