For our second episode on emotions, we are focusing on the intricate relationship between joy and sadness. If you missed the first episode of the month, I recommend listening to that first.
Emotions are a fundamental part of the human experience, and it’s important to give space to all of your feelings. Today I want to talk about joy and sadness, which are more connected than you may think, especially because you can’t appreciate joy without experiencing sadness.
Joy:
- Joy and gratitude are deeply connected.
- Joy is an intense emotion that can appear unexpectedly.
- It can be fleeting but is often linked to connections with others, nature, or a higher spirit.
- Joy makes us feel vulnerable as it opens us up to the possibility of loss.
- It enriches our emotional life, bringing fulfillment, meaning, and a deep appreciation of life.
Cultivating More Joy:
- Practice gratitude journaling.
- Share your joy with others through connection.
- Engage in daily mindfulness practices.
Sadness:
- Sadness is an emotional response to situations that create feelings of disappointment, loss, or helplessness.
- It is a common and normal emotion to feel, that is usually temporary.
- Often triggered by minor events but can also be caused by major events.
Dealing with Sadness:
- Have someone sit with you and witness the feeling.
- Move your body more slowly.
- Connect with yourself.
Practical Exercises to Embrace All Emotions:
- Give yourself space to process and feel your emotions.
- Allow your emotions to move through you.
- Journal about your emotions and ask what they are trying to tell you.
- Talk to someone; don't be alone with your emotions.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Brene Brown’s book Atlas of the Heart
HBO Special of Atlas of the Heart
Children’s book: The Grand Hotel of Feelings
The How We Feel app
Connect with Brittny:
Instagram: @brittnyking_
Website: www.brittnyking.com
Email: hello@brittnyking.com
