Joy is a Superpower!
Joy makes us strong and resilient!
When I was chronically ill, struggling both physically and emotionally, I discovered the healing power of joy and it made a huge difference in my recovery. Now I’ve come to understand how helpful practicing joy can be for everyone.
When we experience joy, our brain produces beneficial neurotransmitters (chemicals) that flow through our mind and body, creating optimal conditions for physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Joy calms the survival brain, that ancient part of our brain responsible for identifying and reacting to threats. When we’re in a state of joy, our survival brain knows that everything is basically okay so it can relax and keep an eye out for any true emergencies, rather than getting preoccupied with all the little stuff.
Practicing joy means recognizing that life is an incredible gift, even with its challenges.
Practicing joy doesn’t mean we pretend everything in our lives or the world is perfect. It means recognizing and accepting everything in life, including all of the hard things - the painful conditions in the world and our lives, as well as our painful feelings. Recognizing the reality of what is, and choosing to do whatever we can to lift our mood and uplevel our thoughts to focus on the positive.
As we rewire our brains to stay increasingly in beneficial states such as joy, gratitude, and love for ourselves and others, our strength and resilience grows. We gain confidence that no matter what life brings, we can handle it. We can calmly, joyfully engage in addressing life’s challenges with openness and creativity.
Joy truly is a superpower!
Some of the most effective ways that help me create more joy in my life are: connecting in fun ways with loved ones, music and dance, being in nature (especially around trees and water), and laughter yoga.
How about you? What helps you feel more joyful? Send an email or message and let me know.
I’d love to hear from you! Send your comments, questions, and suggestions to liz@happybrainlife.com.
Big hugs,
Liz
