Joy and Sadness

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: [email protected]