Joy in ‘ginormous’ proportions
Imagine what can happen when we notice joy as much as frustration, sadness and anger?
Being present to the goodness that already exists in life opens up boundless opportunities to experience joy—to truly feel joyful.
At an empathetic joy practice during one of our Ferguson Library programs last month, Community Mindfulness Project facilitator Zoe kept repeating: "Your Happiness is My Happiness." I still find myself repeating it today.
Life will always present challenges, but I’ve appreciated the reminder to pause and savor the good moments.
Like this morning, when my 4-year-old ran to my 1-year-old to give her a ginormous hug.
Or last week, when I squealed with delight after one of our frontline worker outdoor workshops and told Erika, "I love that my hair smells like fresh air."
There were many hard parts about that day —there are many days— and yet, in that moment, the scent reminded me of childhood afternoons on the playground. I could feel how happy Erika was thinking about that smell. And I felt happy she was happy. You see the pattern?
Think about the power when you say "I'm happy you're happy." in your head to those in your life (or out-loud - to each their own!) .
To your loved ones, of course...
💛"I'm happy you're happy."
To your neighbor...
💛"I'm happy you're happy."
To your colleague...
💛"I'm happy you're happy."
To strangers you may encounter at the gym or school drop-off...
🤔"I'm happy you're happy."
and even—🙊— to people that may feel challenging in your life..
💛"I'm happy you're happy."
Your happiness is my happiness.
Joy is a revolutionary act. And noticing it seems too 🍌 to some. Let's change that, together.
Ella Saunders Crivello
Executive Director
5 spots left! Intro to Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction
April 2nd - May 7th - Virtual
7-830pm EST
Join CMP expert facilitator Lisa for the Intro to the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program created at UMass Medical School by Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn in 1979.
➡️➡️➡️ Learn more and register to secure your spot today!
Participants have shared:
"This course was a life altering for me. I feel that I am on an even keel. And, I have so many tools to reach for when stress arises."
"This program was absolutely fantastic and could not have come at a better time for me. I signed up because I needed structure for my own self-care, I walked away with so much more. The content and instruction were fantastic. The 90-minute sessions were just the right amount of time and a perfect way to end my day. Thank you for providing this opportunity. I highly recommend this program"
"This course has helped me get back on track with mindfulness after losing my way for too long. Thank you Lisa for sharing your experiences, insight and wisdom. It’s very much appreciated. "
"A big note of thanks for a wonderful 6 weeks. I came in a complete newbie and learned so much and look forward to continue practicing. I so appreciate Lisa’s passion and her expertise. "
"This six-week mindfulness-based stress reduction program has been transformative in helping me develop greater awareness and equanimity in my daily life.
The program introduced a wide range of techniques to better manage stress and maintain emotional balance...this program has given me practical tools and a deeper understanding of mindfulness, making it easier to handle stress and navigate life’s ups and downs with more grace and composure."
No previous experience is necessary to participate in this 6-week Intro to MBSR program. All are welcome.
😁😁😁 Learn more and register to secure your spot today!