In this episode of Jump Start Your Joy, I'm diving into something we all need right now: gentle, accessible ways to reconnect with joy during difficult times. I open with a powerful quote from Michelle Obama about planning for joy, especially for those of us who are caretakers, empaths, or sensitive types who can easily get burnt out.

I explore three distinct types of joy that can serve as doorways back to ourselves: comfort joy (the soothing, familiar things that help us exhale), connecting joy (the vital relationships that remind us we're not alone), and meaningful joy (the deeper pursuits that connect us to something bigger than ourselves).

Read the full show notes on my website.

In this episode, we cover:

• Michelle Obama's wisdom on planning for joy as a vital practice for caretakers
• Comfort joy: soothing, familiar practices that help reset your nervous system
• Connecting joy: the importance of reaching out to friends and building meaningful relationships
• Meaningful joy: exploring what's deeply significant to you, from spiritual practices to creative pursuits
• How to schedule one gentle joy this week without striving for perfection
• My 2026 goals: music, podcasting, home projects, and labyrinth work
• The concept of "well planned and loosely held" when setting intentions

Resources:

• Michelle Obama on "plan your joy" (fall 2020)
• Tia Weston's YouTube channel (abandoned house series)
• Ram Dass recordings
• Cynthia Bourgeault's writings on Christianity (The Wisdom Jesus)
• Previous episode: "How to Plan Your 2026" (includes free download)
• Lauren Artress interview episode on labyrinth work
• Email: JumpstartYourJoy @ gmail.com

Keywords: joy, self-care, gentle living, Michelle Obama, planning for joy, comfort practices, meaningful connection, burnout prevention, empaths, sensitive people, nervous system reset, intentional living, small joys, caretaker wellness, 2026 goals, labyrinth work, creative renewal, podcast for introverts, finding center, slow living, jumpstart your joy