40 Simple Pleasures Every Queen Over 40 Will Appreciate

One of the many lessons we can take away from living through a pandemic is to enjoy the little things. When lockdowns disrupted our routines, what remained were the small acts and ordinary experiences we often take for granted. If we let go, live in the moment and act with intention, these rituals often shift from basic to blissful. Here are the many ways Black women told us they claim moments of happiness. Plus: inspiration (collected via various content sources) from famous sisters who know that luxury doesn’t always require loot.

A summertime shower

Jamie Wright, 41, Houston, opens her Juliet balcony to watch the rain. “Being present to the way it sounds, looks and smells. I love, love, love doing that!”

Real estate reverie

“I love looking at houses on Trulia and Zillow and then driving past them,” says Nikeya Young, 40, who lives outside Chicago.

A slow Sunday morning

“It's the stillness. The quiet. Sitting on my patio with a cup of coffee and looking at the lake,” says Deena Pierott, 62, Seattle.

An energizing workout

Got endorphins? Try one of these free cardio and body-sculpting videos.

Getting lost in a good book

Here’s your next favorite read.

The heady perfume of a fresh bouquet 

Queen, get your flowers. Literally!

The warm glow of a compliment  

“When someone who loves and cares about me compliments me, I feel more glamorous than when the flashbulbs are going off on the red carpet.” –Gabrielle Union, 48

Eggs benedict, cheese grits, mimosas and gossip

A good brunch with friends just warms the soul.

A fragrant, steamy shower

Find little luxuries that turn your shower into a sanctuary.

A spa pedicure with a sassy shade

The foot massage is a must, Queen!

A stroll with someone special

Jill Scott sang it best: “Let’s take a long walk around the park after dark…”.

Getting outside in nature — and outside your head

“Nothing thrills me more than to walk along the creek. To sit in the yard and enjoy the birds, bunnies, trees and boulders is calming, refreshing and joyful,” says Kimberli Fancher, 50, Waxhaw, North Carolina.

Calling off work

What rituals of fulfillment, grace and self-care will you enjoy today?