Mindfulness Monday: Joy

 Join us as we discuss the topic of Joy with Dr. Laura Smallwood. Joy, and specifically Sympathetic Joy, is the third of the four heart virtues and involves rejoicing in the happiness and good fortune of someone else. We discuss how true happiness is a skill that we can cultivate in ourselves, but why pursuit of happiness that is dependent on external circumstances is counterproductive. When we are able to cultivate true happiness, it becomes a superpower, and it is then much easier to engage in sympathetic joy. We can learn to take the time to fully enjoy what we find
pleasurable and partner that enjoyment with gratitude. We can take the time to notice the little things with curiosity and wonder. We can practice contentment, share our joy with others, and share in the joy of others. Let's see if we can all spread more joy throughout this holiday season.

Resources:

Hardwiring Happiness - Rick Hanson

Loving Kindness: The Revolutionary Art of Happiness - Sharon Salzberg

The Craving Mind - Judson Brewer

The Stress Prescription - Elissa Epel

Atlanta Mindfulness - Dr. Smallwood's organization which offers online and in-person mindfulness-based training

Dr. Smallwood will also be teaching a Mindfulness and Stress Resilience Course for Veterinarians, available through the Georgia Veterinary Medical Association

East Coast Mindfulness - more opportunities for courses and community