Deeper Dive - Mudita (Joy & Gratitude)

In today's episode, I'm introducing the next Deeper Dive theme, which will be Mudita for May. Mudita is the practice of joy and gratitude, and an important way to cultivate balance in the mind. I will describe how to cultivate gladness, joy, and celebration for others and their good fortunes, as well as gratitude for your own blessings. But, first you'll hear about why we need such a deliberate way of practicing joy - because of the negativity bias that our brains evolved to help us survive dangers. We will also touch on some of the challenges that often get in the way of joy/gratitude, especially "comparing mind." And, we'll contemplate the question of "Is it even ok to feel joy in the midst of so much suffering in the world?" After listening, I hope you will feel inspired to be more mindful of what's good and beautiful around you, and to take in all the moments of joy that are available to you. -- As mentioned at the beginning of the episode, to receive the Deeper Dive worksheet on this month's theme of Mudita, you can sign up for the MTM email newsletter here. The worksheet is designed to support your personal, creative exploration of this theme, and it's coming out the first week of May! P.S. If you missed the newsletter because you're listening to this later, you can still get the worksheet. All you need to do is email me at [email protected] and ask. :)  I also mentioned that there is a limited-time special on 6-month memberships to the Moved To Meditate Class Library! It's a really good deal, and a great way to explore practices that align with all that we talk about on the MTM podcast. Info on the Class Library is here. To connect further with me (Addie), check out my website movedtomeditate.yoga. And, I'm on Instagram at @addie_movedtomeditate (for mindfulness, movement, yoga, and pictures of PNW nature and my adorable kitten, Mustache).