In this episode, we're talking about turning toward those uncomfortable feelings that we may want to run from or push down. Instead, if we want those feelings to move through us (and go on their way), then we need to turn toward them and give them the attention that they require. This can be a really hard practice to start, but we'll discuss a three-step process that is super effective at helping us face and move through these uncomfortable feelings. And, like any other skill, we'll get better and better at facing them every time we practice.

This series leans on the "Roots of Resilience" laid out in one of Dr. Emmons book, The Chemistry of Calm.

About: The Joy Lab Podcast is an Ambie-nominated podcast that blends science and soul to help you cope better with stress, anxiety, and depression. It's hosted by integrative psychiatrist Dr. Henry Emmons and holistic mental health researcher Dr. Aimee Prasek.

The podcast is best paired with the Joy Lab App.

Bonus: spread some joy and keep this podcast ad-free by donating (Joy Lab is powered by the nonprofit Pathways North and your donations are tax-deductible).

Listen & follow the Joy Lab Podcast on your favorite listening app:

Spotify | Apple | YouTube

Links and Sources Mentioned:

• Chemistry of Calm (Dr. Emmons' book referenced in this series)
• Dr. Edward Hallowell (psychiatrist focusing on ADHD)
• Learned Optimism (Seligman book)
• Resilience definitions, theory, and challenges: interdisciplinary perspectives
• Annual Research Review: Positive adjustment to adversity -Trajectories of minimal-impact resilience and emergent resilience
• The Effects of Mindfulness Meditation on Hope and Stress
• The role of Hope in subsequent health and well-being for older adults: An outcome-wide longitudinal approach
• On the promotion of human flourishing (VanderWeele article)
• Hopelessness and Risk of Mortality and Incidence of Myocardial Infarction and Cancer
• Just think: The challenges of the disengaged mind (this is the study of people shocking themselves out of boredom)
• Emotion Suppression and Mortality Risk Over a 12-Year Follow-up
• Cumulative Stress and Health
• Henri Nouwen Society

Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.

Please see our terms for more information.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at [email protected].

Visit NAMI for more.

You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org