From The Group Hug: Embracing The Joy of Life
In our fast-moving world, joy can feel like a fleeting guest — something to chase or wait for. But for Athina Letica, joy is something to return to. Through daily rituals, mindful choices, and deep inner work, Athina shows us that joy often lives in the quiet, consistent moments we create for ourselves. We spoke to her about movement, mindset, and the art of embracing life — even in its most uncertain seasons.
Tell us a little about yourself.
I’m Athina — half Hungarian, half Croatian. I recently moved back to Budapest after seven years in Copenhagen. My journey with yoga and mindfulness started young, and over time, it’s led me deeper into understanding the connection between body, mind, and spirit. I now teach yoga and meditation, and I truly believe the way we care for ourselves on the inside shapes how we show up in the world.
What does a day in your life look like right now?
Life’s been in transition lately, so my days are a little unpredictable. But I always try to anchor myself with morning check-ins, nourishing food, movement, and time outdoors. Most days include a blend of teaching, creative work, and slowly building something meaningful.
What simple things bring you joy?
Movement — even just 15 minutes of yoga — instantly lifts my energy. I also find joy in sunlit mornings, nature walks, laughing with people I love, and witnessing beauty in small things like sunsets or good meals. Those little joys are everything.
What rituals help you reconnect with yourself?
Meditation, journaling, and affirmations help me quiet the noise and return to myself. Yoga is also a grounding practice — it brings me back to my body and the present moment. And when I’m feeling off, a long walk in nature helps reset everything.
What does “becoming your best self” mean to you right now?
Right now, it means trusting my intuition, letting go of needing all the answers, and softening into the unknown. I’m learning that “best” isn’t a fixed version of me — it’s an evolving process that’s more about honesty and alignment than perfection.
Has that meaning changed over time?
Definitely. A few weeks in the mountains of Bali reminded me that growth is ongoing. We’re never done, and that’s okay. Becoming your best self means being willing to keep showing up — layer by layer, moment by moment.
You’ve used The Self Hug journals. Which one is your favorite?
The Self-Reflection Journal really resonated with me. It helped me explore my thoughts and emotions in such a gentle, supportive way. I’m also excited to start The Goal Planner next.
How has journaling supported your personal growth?
Journaling gives me space to be honest with myself. It brings clarity, helps me understand my emotions, and adds calm structure to my days. Over time, it’s become a healing ritual — like having an ongoing, honest dialogue with myself.
Any prompts that felt especially impactful?
In The Self Discovery Journal, I love choosing three wellness areas to focus on each day. It acts like a quiet intention I carry with me, and in the evening, I reflect on how I supported them. It’s helped me notice what truly matters to me.
When things feel hard, how do you come back to hope?
I let myself feel first. I don’t try to rush past the discomfort. Then, I slowly return to grounding habits — journaling, moving my body, or simply slowing down. These small steps always help me find my way back.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to invite more joy and self-compassion into their life?
Start small. Be gentle. Trust your timing. Focus on gratitude and presence, and you’ll start to notice beauty in unexpected places. Joy doesn’t always arrive with big fireworks — it’s often already there, waiting in the everyday.
Do you have a personal mindset that helps you stay anchored?
I always remind myself: if something doesn’t happen, it wasn’t meant for me. That perspective helps me let go more easily and focus on the good. It keeps me connected to higher feelings — like joy, kindness, and trust.
What are you dreaming of or building right now?
After completing my meditation training, I’m dreaming of creating something meaningful — maybe workshops or guided meditations. I love dreaming big, but I love taking intentional steps even more. That’s where the joy is.
Final thoughts: What does embracing the joy of life mean to you?
It means being fully here — open to the moment, grateful for the small things, and trusting your path even when it’s unclear. Joy isn’t something I wait for anymore. It’s something I choose to return to, again and again.
Author’s Note — from The Self Hug
Athina reminds us that joy doesn’t always come loud or fast. Sometimes, it arrives quietly — through a morning stretch, a grounding breath, or a journal entry written just for you. We’re honored to be a part of her journey, and we hope her story inspires you to explore your own.
Try These Journaling Prompts — Inspired by Athina’s Practice
What three areas of your well-being do you want to nurture today?
(Physical, emotional, creative, relational, etc.)
What does your “best self” look or feel like lately? What does this version of you need today?
What’s something small that brought you joy this week? Describe it fully.
When was the last time you felt deeply grounded? What helped you feel that way?
Is there something in your life right now that requires more trust, not control?
How can you create a softer start or end to your day today?
About Our Author
Yanitrasari Widyastuti is a mental health therapist and wellness consultant with a background in psychology and counselling, dedicated to empowering others on their journey to well-being. She believes in the power of empathy to inspire self-discovery and growth. Based in Jakarta, Indonesia, she begins her day with a morning walk to her favourite spot for coffee, embracing small rituals that ground her in the present.
