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    Joy Lab Podcast

    Welcome to the Joy Lab Podcast, a podcast that goes beyond your ears, working to help you uncover and foster your most joyful self. Hosts, Drs. Henry Emmons and Aimee Prasek, bring you the ideal mix of soulful and scientifically sound tools to help you not only create resilience in mind and body, but bring more joy back into your life. New episodes drop every Wednesday and Saturday. Each is fully-focused on helping you take simple actions that fuel your resilience and joy. Joy Lab’s unique and powerful program integrates concepts of positive psychology, cognitive behavioral techniques, the science of mindfulness, and the wisdom of one's soul. It’s a surprisingly real-world relevant approach to not only support your mood and calm anxiousness, but to help you uncover and nurture your joy while reconnecting with your deepest self. Be sure to subscribe for your weekly infusion of joy and then head over to JoyLab.coach to learn more about the full Joy Lab program. The Joy Lab Podcast and Program are part of Natural Mental Health. ________ This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.
    enHenry Emmons and Aimee Prasek125 Episodes

    Episodes (125)

    Mindful Eating & the Cephalic Phase of Digestion (really, it's a thing!) [ep. 125]

    Mindful Eating & the Cephalic Phase of Digestion (really, it's a thing!) [ep. 125]

    In this episode of the Joy Lab Podcast, hosts Dr. Henry Emmons and Dr. Aimee Prasek talk about the cephalic phase of digestion and how mindful eating can promote better digestion. What's the cephalic phase of digestion? Glad you asked! The cephalic (head) phase of digestion is triggered by the sight and smell of food, continues on as you taste and savor your food, and here's the kicker: it can influence about 30 to 40% of the total digestive response. Mindful eating practices are perfect to support this phase of digestion. Tune in for some strategies to help you eat more mindfully and support this important aspect of digestion.

     

    Key moments:

    00:00 Introduction to Joy Lab Podcast
    00:39 The Impact of Food on Mood
    01:31 The Cephalic Phase of Digestion
    03:02 The Importance of Mindful Eating
    03:19 The Evolutionary Perspective on Savoring Food and Mindful Eating
    06:56 The Role of Stress in Digestion
    08:29 The Practice of Mindful Eating
    12:01 The Benefits of Family Meals
    14:36 Closing Thoughts and Tips for Mindful Eating
    15:40 Outro and Medical Disclaimer

     

    Joy Lab and Natural Mental Health are community-supported. When you buy through the links below, we may earn a commission. That support helps keeps the Joy Lab podcast free for all!  

    Sources and Notes:

    • Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course: Based on decades of clinical experience, we've created a model of resilience that is both helpful and practical. True to our approach at Natural Mental Health, we start with strengths. You'll identify these strengths in your Resilience Type. Your Resilience Type highlights your unique strengths, what fuels your joy, what keeps you in balance, and the lifestyle practices that most nourish you. After you find your Resilience Type, sign up for your free mini-course to receive tailored lifestyle practices (e.g., foods to eat more of, ideal forms of exercise, supplements, and mindfulness activities) that can support your mood, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
    • Resilient Community: Access lots of extra resilience-boosting resources (like our Sleeping Well Workshop) AND you'll join a group of inspiring folks who play an integral role in keeping this podcast going... which means powerful resources stay accessible to everyone.  
    • Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at NaturalMentalHealth.com for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
    • Mindful eating practice. 
    • Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads
    • Where to shop:
      • Our partner store at Fullscript: This is where you can find high-quality supplements and wellness products. Except for our CBD Gummies, any product links mentioned in the show notes below will require an account. Sign up for your free Fullscript account here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-start
      • Resilient Remedies: This is where you can find our line of trusted, high-quality CBD gummies: https://www.resilientremedies.com/

     

    Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148536759

     

    Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.

    Please see our terms for more information.

    If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

     

    Equanimity, Mental Health, & The Five Pathways to Inner Calm (special replay) [ep. 124]

    Equanimity, Mental Health, & The Five Pathways to Inner Calm (special replay) [ep. 124]

    Feeling stressed lately? Our stress responses are being activated by a lot of stressors floating around lately. That's why we wanted to replay this episode that digs more into stress and reclaiming balance. As we'll get into, stress is generally fine as long as it recedes in a reasonable amount of time. If that doesn’t happen, we can lock ourselves into a chronic state of stress. That's where equanimity can come in. In this episode, we explore equanimity (we also like to call it inner calm), the science behind it, and how it has been sought after throughout human history. We share some learnings from those quests and five pathways to experiment with to help ease our stress responses and bring more equanimity back into our lives–even after just a single equanimity practice. 

     

    IN THIS EPISODE:

    00:00 Introduction to Joy Lab Podcast

    00:43 Understanding the Concept of Equanimity

    02:12 Historical Perspectives on Equanimity

    03:50 Personal Experiences with Equanimity

    10:12 The Neuroscience of Equanimity

    13:38 The Science of Equanimity

    19:21 Pathways to Inner Calm and Equanimity

    27:33 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

     

    KEY TAKEAWAYS:

    • Equanimity is defined as an even-minded mental state where clear action can come from. It is not the same as indifference or apathy.
    • Stress is not a bad thing, it is a normal and healthy reaction. But it is essential that we learn to respond to it in more healthy ways. 
    • Individuals taught practices that helped them cultivate equanimity respond more calmly to a stressor and rebound more quickly compared to individuals who have not engaged in an equanimity practice.

     

    Sources and Notes:

     

    Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148560136

     

    Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.

    Please see our terms for more information.

    If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

    Colds, Viruses, & Depression [ep. 123]

    Colds, Viruses, & Depression  [ep. 123]

    In this episode, we're talking about the relationship between viruses and depression. We'll cover how viral illnesses can negatively impact mood, how this process is completely natural, and how it can go awry. We'll hit on the role of inflammation, and how mood-regulating chemicals in the brain such as serotonin and dopamine can get disrupted. And of course, we'll cover some strategies to help restore our system after clearing a virus (i.e., rest, hydration, a nutrient-rich diet, and supportive supplements).

     

    KEY MOMENTS:

    00:00 Introduction to Joy Lab Podcast

    00:38 Understanding Viruses and Mental Health

    01:32 Personal Experience with Viral Illness

    02:10 The Science Behind Viral Illness and Mood

    04:39 The Role of the Immune System in Mood Regulation

    07:44 Understanding Postviral Fatigue and Syndrome

    10:40 Strategies for Mood Support After Clearing a Virus

    11:57 The Role of Nutrition and Supplements in Recovery

    15:11 Closing Thoughts and Quote

    15:57 Disclaimer and Conclusion

     

    Joy Lab and Natural Mental Health are community-supported. When you buy through the links below, we may earn a commission. That support helps keeps the Joy Lab podcast free for all!  

    Sources and Notes:

    • Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course: Based on decades of clinical experience, we've created a model of resilience that is both helpful and practical. True to our approach at Natural Mental Health, we start with strengths. You'll identify these strengths in your Resilience Type. Your Resilience Type highlights your unique strengths, what fuels your joy, what keeps you in balance, and the lifestyle practices that most nourish you. After you find your Resilience Type, sign up for your free mini-course to receive tailored lifestyle practices (e.g., foods to eat more of, ideal forms of exercise, supplements, and mindfulness activities) that can support your mood, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
    • Resilient Community: Access lots of extra resilience-boosting resources (like our Sleeping Well Workshop) AND you'll join a group of inspiring folks who play an integral role in keeping this podcast going... which means powerful resources stay accessible to everyone.  
    • Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
    • Dantzer R. (2006). Cytokine, sickness behavior, and depression. Neurologic clinics, 24(3), 441–460. Access here.
    • Dantzer, R., O'Connor, J. C., Freund, G. G., Johnson, R. W., & Kelley, K. W. (2008). From inflammation to sickness and depression: when the immune system subjugates the brain. Nature reviews. Neuroscience, 9(1), 46–56. Access here.
    • Supplements noted (to shop, sign up for your free Fullscript account here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-start):
    • Where to shop:
      • Our partner store at Fullscript: This is where you can find high-quality supplements and wellness products. Except for our CBD Gummies, any product links mentioned in the show notes below will require an account. Sign up for your free Fullscript account here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-start
      • Resilient Remedies: This is where you can find our line of trusted, high-quality CBD gummies: https://www.resilientremedies.com/
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at NaturalMentalHealth.com for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
    • Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads

     

    Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148560676

     

    Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.

    Please see our terms for more information.

    If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

      

    Social Media: Moving Out of Social Comparison & Into Social Savoring [ep. 122]

    Social Media: Moving Out of Social Comparison & Into Social Savoring [ep. 122]

    In this episode, we discuss the impact of social media on mental health, focusing on the concepts of social comparison and social savoring. One route that social media can take to tank our mood has to do with social comparison, where we evaluate our own worth based on others. However, the negative impacts of this can be reduced through the practice of social savoring, which aims at deriving joy from other's experiences. We'll talk about how this approach can help us shift our personal story-telling in such a way that actually boosts our mood. 

     

    Key moments:

    00:00 Introduction to Joy Lab Podcast
    00:39 The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
    02:41 Understanding Social Comparison and Social Savoring
    06:56 The Role of Social Media in Social Comparisons
    10:39 The Power of Changing Our Social Media Narratives
    16:50 The Role of the Prefrontal Cortex in Managing Emotions
    19:26 Closing Thoughts and Wisdom from Thich Nhat Hanh
    19:54 Outro and Disclaimer

     

    Joy Lab and Natural Mental Health are community-supported. When you buy through the links below, we may earn a commission. That support helps keeps the Joy Lab podcast free for all!  

    Sources and Notes:

    • Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course: Based on decades of clinical experience, we've created a model of resilience that is both helpful and practical. True to our approach at Natural Mental Health, we start with strengths. You'll identify these strengths in your Resilience Type. Your Resilience Type highlights your unique strengths, what fuels your joy, what keeps you in balance, and the lifestyle practices that most nourish you. After you find your Resilience Type, sign up for your free mini-course to receive tailored lifestyle practices (e.g., foods to eat more of, ideal forms of exercise, supplements, and mindfulness activities) that can support your mood, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
    • Resilient Community: Access lots of extra resilience-boosting resources (like our Sleeping Well Workshop) AND you'll join a group of inspiring folks who play an integral role in keeping this podcast going... which means powerful resources stay accessible to everyone.  
    • Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at NaturalMentalHealth.com for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
    • Fardouly J., Pinkus R., & Vartanian L. (2017). The impact of appearance comparisons made through social media, traditional media, and in-person in women's everyday lives. Access here.
    • Corning, A., Krumm A., & Smitham, L. (2006). Differential social comparison processes in women with and without eating disorder symptoms. Access here.
    • Pinkasavage E., Arigo D., & Schumacher L. (2015). Social comparison, negative body image, and disordered eating behavior: the moderating role of coping style. Access here. 
    • Myers, T. & Crowther, J. (2009). Social comparison as a predictor of body dissatisfaction: a meta-analytic review. Access here.
    • Seabrook, E., Kern, M., & Rickard, N. (2016). Social networking sites, depression, and anxiety: a systematic review. Access here. 
    • Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads
    • Where to shop:
      • Our partner store at Fullscript: This is where you can find high-quality supplements and wellness products. Except for our CBD Gummies, any product links mentioned in the show notes below will require an account. Sign up for your free Fullscript account here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-start
      • Resilient Remedies: This is where you can find our line of trusted, high-quality CBD gummies: https://www.resilientremedies.com/

     

    Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.

    Please see our terms for more information.

    If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

     

    The Spring-Time Mood Change to Know About [ep. 121]

    The Spring-Time Mood Change to Know About [ep. 121]

    In this episode, we discuss the variations of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and mood shifts that surface in different seasons... particularly the less-talked-about shift that can happen between mid-February and April. This is a time when individuals might feel more agitated and overactive compared to typical winter depression. We'll talk about some key strategies to consider such as awareness and wait-it-out, light adjustment, focusing on sleep, physical movement, dietary changes, and certain supplements. Remember, this is a natural transition and, at the same time, it's always a good idea to work with a medical professional if symptoms persist.

     

    Key moments:

    00:00 Introduction to the Joy Lab Podcast
    00:38 Understanding Seasonal Mood Changes
    04:04 Strategies for Managing Seasonal Mood Shifts
    11:40 Natural Therapies for Seasonal Mood Shifts
    13:45 Closing Thoughts and Whitman Quote
    14:23 Outro and Disclaimer

     

    Joy Lab and Natural Mental Health are community-supported. When you buy through the links below, we may earn a commission. That support helps keeps the Joy Lab podcast free for all!  

     

    Sources and Notes:

    • Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course: Based on decades of clinical experience, we've created a model of resilience that is both helpful and practical. True to our approach at Natural Mental Health, we start with strengths. You'll identify these strengths in your Resilience Type. Your Resilience Type highlights your unique strengths, what fuels your joy, what keeps you in balance, and the lifestyle practices that most nourish you. After you find your Resilience Type, sign up for your free mini-course to receive tailored lifestyle practices (e.g., foods to eat more of, ideal forms of exercise, supplements, and mindfulness activities) that can support your mood, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
    • Soothing Diet: Focus on the Resilient Diet and consider the food list from your Resilience Type mini-course
    • Supplements Discussed and Where to Shop: 
    • Resilient Community: Access lots of extra resilience-boosting resources (like our Sleeping Well Workshop) AND you'll join a group of inspiring folks who play an integral role in keeping this podcast going... which means powerful resources stay accessible to everyone.  
    • Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at NaturalMentalHealth.com for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
    • Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads

     

    Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148464779

     

    Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.

    Please see our terms for more information.

    If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

     

    Our Tendency to Dwell on Negative Info + Self-Acceptance Meditation (special LIVE replay) [ep. 120]

    Our Tendency to Dwell on Negative Info + Self-Acceptance Meditation (special LIVE replay) [ep. 120]

    In this episode, we're replaying a special LIVE chat from our Natural Mental Health Resilient Community. In this chat, we briefly talk about what resilience is and how self-acceptance and connection are critical factors in building resilience. We also highlight a very common obstacle known as the 'positive-negative asymmetry effect' or our human tendency to dwell on negative information more than positive information. This can be an obstacle to self-acceptance and it's important to call out. This chat also ends with a guided practice led by Dr. Henry Emmons, focusing on self-acceptance and the practice of letting go of self-judgement.

     

    Key moments:

     00:00 Introduction to the Joy Lab Podcast
    00:32 Understanding Resilience
    02:33 Key Aspects of Resilience: Self Acceptance and Connection
    03:35 The Role of Self Acceptance in Resilience
    04:13 The Power of Connection in Building Resilience
    04:20 Overcoming Obstacles to Self Acceptance
    05:18 Understanding the Positive Negative Asymmetry Effect
    07:36 Practical Exercise for Self Acceptance
    22:08 Closing Remarks and Appreciation
    23:21 Important Disclaimers and Terms

     

    Joy Lab and Natural Mental Health are community-supported. When you buy through the links below, we may earn a commission. That support helps keeps the Joy Lab podcast free for all!  

     

    Sources and Notes:

    • Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course: Based on decades of clinical experience, we've created a model of resilience that is both helpful and practical. True to our approach at Natural Mental Health, we start with strengths. You'll identify these strengths in your Resilience Type. Your Resilience Type highlights your unique strengths, what fuels your joy, what keeps you in balance, and the lifestyle practices that most nourish you. After you find your Resilience Type, sign up for your free mini-course to receive tailored lifestyle practices (e.g., foods to eat more of, ideal forms of exercise, supplements, and mindfulness activities) that can support your mood, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
    • Resilient Community: Access lots of extra resilience-boosting resources (like our Sleeping Well Workshop) AND you'll join a group of inspiring folks who play an integral role in keeping this podcast going... which means powerful resources stay accessible to everyone.  
    • Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at NaturalMentalHealth.com for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
    • Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads
    • Where to shop:
      • Our partner store at Fullscript: This is where you can find high-quality supplements and wellness products. Except for our CBD Gummies, any product links mentioned in the show notes below will require an account. Sign up for your free Fullscript account here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-start
      • Resilient Remedies: This is where you can find our line of trusted, high-quality CBD gummies: https://www.resilientremedies.com/

     

    Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148541330

     

    Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.

    Please see our terms for more information.

    If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

     

    Food: What to Add vs What to Take Away [ep. 119]

    Food: What to Add vs What to Take Away [ep. 119]

    Fad diets generally focus on foods to ban from your plate. It's an approach that can lead to an effect we get into in this episode called the "what the hell effect." And it's spot-on. So, how can that effect be avoided? We'll highlight an approach that focuses not just on foods to add, but paying attention to how those foods add to your mental health. Be sure to take our Resilience Quiz and sign up for your free mini-course for ideas of foods to add. 

     

    Key moments:

    00:00 Introduction to Joy Lab Podcast
    00:42 The Importance of Nourishing Food
    01:25 The Problem with Restrictive Diets
    02:03 Personal Journey and Philosophy on Nutrition
    03:28 The Impact of Modern Food Choices
    04:17 The Importance of Variety in Diet
    06:02 The Psychology of Eating and Dieting
    08:41 The Power of Positive Eating Habits
    11:27 The Role of Diet in Mental Health
    15:40 Key Factors in a Mood-Boosting Diet
    17:35 Closing Thoughts and Future Topics
    18:20 Podcast Wrap-up and Disclaimer

     

    Joy Lab and Natural Mental Health are community-supported. When you buy through the links below, we may earn a commission. That support helps keeps the Joy Lab podcast free for all! 

     

    Sources and Notes:

    • Polivy, J., & Herman, C. P. (2020). Overeating in Restrained and Unrestrained Eaters. Frontiers in nutrition, 7, 30. Access here. 
    • Crum, A. J., Corbin, W. R., Brownell, K. D., & Salovey, P. (2011). Mind over milkshakes: mindsets, not just nutrients, determine ghrelin response. Health psychology : official journal of the Division of Health Psychology, American Psychological Association, 30(4), 424–431. Access here.
    • Related Joy Lab podcast episode: Your Unique Diet for Mental Health (Depression and Anxiety Coping Skills Podcourse)
    • Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course: Based on decades of clinical experience, we've created a model of resilience that is both helpful and practical. True to our approach at Natural Mental Health, we start with strengths. You'll identify these strengths in your Resilience Type. Your Resilience Type highlights your unique strengths, what fuels your joy, what keeps you in balance, and the lifestyle practices that most nourish you. After you find your Resilience Type, sign up for your free mini-course to receive tailored lifestyle practices (e.g., foods to eat more of, ideal forms of exercise, supplements, and mindfulness activities) that can support your mood, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
    • Resilient Community: Access lots of extra resilience-boosting resources (like our Sleeping Well Workshop) AND you'll join a group of inspiring folks who play an integral role in keeping this podcast going... which means powerful resources stay accessible to everyone.  
    • Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at NaturalMentalHealth.com for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
    • Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads
    • Where to shop:
      • Our partner store at Fullscript: This is where you can find high-quality supplements and wellness products. Except for our CBD Gummies, any product links mentioned in the show notes below will require an account. Sign up for your free Fullscript account here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-start
      • Resilient Remedies: This is where you can find our line of trusted, high-quality CBD gummies: https://www.resilientremedies.com/

     

    Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148464775

     

    Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.

     

    Please see our terms for more information.

     

    If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

    How to Savor Uncertainty [ep. 118]

    How to Savor Uncertainty [ep. 118]

    In this episode, we're talking about the relationship of joy and uncertainty. Uncertainty usually gets a bad rap, but we're wired to navigate uncertainty far more elegantly than we might believe. We'll highlight how initially, uncertainty can lead to discomfort. However, the next step in this process is often a draw to be present, savor something, and connect with others. 

     

    Key moments:

    00:00 Introduction to Joy Lab Podcast
    00:38 Exploring the Element of Savoring
    01:22 The Joy of Certainty...Really?!
    02:00 The Role of Uncertainty in Joy
    02:32 The Surprising Strategy to Boost Savoring
    05:38 The Impact of Uncertainty on Savoring: A Study
    08:17 Understanding the Human Response to Uncertainty
    10:00 The Power of Savoring in the Face of Uncertainty
    13:33 The Role of Awareness in Embracing Uncertainty
    14:54 Closing Thoughts and Wisdom from Pierre de Ronsard
    15:09 Outro and Disclaimer

     

    Joy Lab and Natural Mental Health are community-supported. When you buy through the links below, we may earn a commission. That support helps keeps the Joy Lab podcast free for all!

      

    Sources and Notes:

    • Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course: Based on decades of clinical experience, we've created a model of resilience that is both helpful and practical. True to our approach at Natural Mental Health, we start with strengths. You'll identify these strengths in your Resilience Type. Your Resilience Type highlights your unique strengths, what fuels your joy, what keeps you in balance, and the lifestyle practices that most nourish you. After you find your Resilience Type, sign up for your free mini-course to receive tailored lifestyle practices (e.g., foods to eat more of, ideal forms of exercise, supplements, and mindfulness activities) that can support your mood, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
    • Resilient Community: Access lots of extra resilience-boosting resources (like our Sleeping Well Workshop) AND you'll join a group of inspiring folks who play an integral role in keeping this podcast going... which means powerful resources stay accessible to everyone.  
    • Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
    • Gregory, A. L., Quoidbach, J., Haase, C. M., & Piff, P. K. (2023). Be here now: Perceptions of uncertainty enhance savoring. Emotion, 23(1), 30–40. Access here.
    • Dr. Lucy Hone's website, "Coping with Loss"
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at NaturalMentalHealth.com for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
    • Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads
    • Where to shop:
      • Our partner store at Fullscript: This is where you can find high-quality supplements and wellness products. Except for our CBD Gummies, any product links mentioned in the show notes below will require an account. Sign up for your free Fullscript account here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-start
      • Resilient Remedies: This is where you can find our line of trusted, high-quality CBD gummies: https://www.resilientremedies.com/

     

    Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148464617

     

    Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.

    Please see our terms for more information.

    If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

     

    Movement and Exercise for Mental Health [ep. 117]

    Movement and Exercise for Mental Health [ep. 117]

    In this episode, we explore the power of movement and how it differs from exercise. Why distinguish between the two? Because movement can offer unique benefits for mental health and overall wellbeing. Drawing from personal experiences as well as relevant research, we'll highlight ways to embrace simple, daily movements that can support mood, memory, sleep, and overall wellbeing. 

     

    Key moments:

    00:00 Introduction to Joy Lab Podcast

    00:38 The Importance of Movement vs Exercise

    04:02 Personal Experiences and Insights on Movement

    06:10 The Science Behind Movement and Exercise

    08:47 The Role of Exercise in Stress Management

    12:45 Practical Strategies for Incorporating More Movement

    16:55 Closing Thoughts and Resources

    18:10 Disclaimer and Conclusion

     

    Joy Lab and Natural Mental Health are community-supported. When you buy through the links below, we may earn a commission. That support helps keeps the Joy Lab podcast free for all!  

     

    Sources and Notes:

    • Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course: Based on decades of clinical experience, we've created a model of resilience that is both helpful and practical. True to our approach at Natural Mental Health, we start with strengths. You'll identify these strengths in your Resilience Type. Your Resilience Type highlights your unique strengths, what fuels your joy, what keeps you in balance, and the lifestyle practices that most nourish you. After you find your Resilience Type, sign up for your free mini-course to receive tailored lifestyle practices (e.g., foods to eat more of, ideal forms of exercise, supplements, and mindfulness activities) that can support your mood, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
    • Resilient Community: Access lots of extra resilience-boosting resources (like our Sleeping Well Workshop) AND you'll join a group of inspiring folks who play an integral role in keeping this podcast going... which means powerful resources stay accessible to everyone.  
    • Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at NaturalMentalHealth.com for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
    • Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads
    • Where to shop:
      • Our partner store at Fullscript: This is where you can find high-quality supplements and wellness products. Except for our CBD Gummies, any product links mentioned in the show notes below will require an account. Sign up for your free Fullscript account here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-start
      • Resilient Remedies: This is where you can find our line of trusted, high-quality CBD gummies: https://www.resilientremedies.com/

     

    Transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148464616

     

    Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.

     

    Please see our terms for more information.

     

    If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

     

    The Practice of Savoring (special replay of the best dopamine hit) [ep. 116]

    The Practice of Savoring (special replay of the best dopamine hit) [ep. 116]

    n this episode, we dive deep into the concept of 'savoring,' an often-dismissed element of joy, packed with transformative potentsial. We'll highlight how savoring is an essential aspect of emotional regulation, a skill we can improve with practice, and a powerful tool to tap into and even recalibrate our dopamine system. 

     

    Key moments:

    00:00 Introduction to the Joy Lab Podcast

    00:36 Exploring the Element of Savoring

    01:28 The Science Behind Savoring

    02:24 The Power of Savoring in Daily Life

    07:26 Savoring and the Dopamine System

    15:14 The Role of Savoring in Emotional Regulation

    20:45 Personal Experiences with Savoring

    25:08 The Many Ways to Savor

    25:50 Closing Thoughts and Invitation to the Joy Lab Program

     

    Joy Lab and Natural Mental Health are community-supported. When you buy through the links below, we may earn a commission. That support helps keeps the Joy Lab podcast free for all! 

     

    Sources and Notes:

    • Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course: Based on decades of clinical experience, we've created a model of resilience that is both helpful and practical. True to our approach at Natural Mental Health, we start with strengths. You'll identify these strengths in your Resilience Type. Your Resilience Type highlights your unique strengths, what fuels your joy, what keeps you in balance, and the lifestyle practices that most nourish you. After you find your Resilience Type, sign up for your free mini-course to receive tailored lifestyle practices (e.g., foods to eat more of, ideal forms of exercise, supplements, and mindfulness activities) that can support your mood, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
    • Resilient Community: Access lots of extra resilience-boosting resources (like our Sleeping Well Workshop) AND you'll join a group of inspiring folks who play an integral role in keeping this podcast going... which means powerful resources stay accessible to everyone.  
    • Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
    • Bryant, F. B. (2021). Current Progress and Future Directions for Theory and Research on Savoring. Frontiers in Psychology, 12. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.771698.
    • Parker-Pope, T. (January 3, 2022). Diets Make You Feel Bad. Try Training Your Brain Instead. The New York Times.
    • Wilson, K. A., & MacNamara, A. (2021). Savor the moment: Willful increase in positive emotion and the persistence of this effect across time. Psychophysiology, 58. doi: 10.1111/psyp.13754
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at NaturalMentalHealth.com for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
    • Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads
    • Where to shop:
      • Our partner store at Fullscript: This is where you can find high-quality supplements and wellness products. Except for our CBD Gummies, any product links mentioned in the show notes below will require an account. Sign up for your free Fullscript account here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-start
      • Resilient Remedies: This is where you can find our line of trusted, high-quality CBD gummies: https://www.resilientremedies.com/

     

    Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148464615

     

    Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.

    Please see our terms for more information.

    If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

    Four Factors for Better Sleep [ep. 115]

    Four Factors for Better Sleep [ep. 115]

    In this episode, we discuss the importance of sleep for good mental health. We'll dig into the psychobiological model of sleep to help identify some tailored strategies you can use to improve your sleep. The factors we focus on are cognitive de-arousal (calm your mind), physiological de-arousal (calm your body), daytime facilitation of nighttime sleep (calm an over-active stress response), and sleep stimulus control (bedtime rituals!). See the show notes below for more information on the strategies noted in this episode.

      

    Key moments:

    00:00 Introduction to the Joy Lab Podcast

    00:39 The Importance of Sleep for Mental Health

    03:41 The Psychobiological Model for Sleep

    04:55 Strategies for Cognitive De Arousal

    07:15 Physiological De Arousal and Its Impact on Sleep

    12:38 Daytime Facilitation of Nighttime Sleep

    15:18 Sleep Stimulus Control and Its Importance

    19:47 Closing Thoughts and a Lullaby

    20:32 Outro and Disclaimer

     

    Joy Lab and Natural Mental Health are community-supported. When you buy through the links below, we may earn a commission. That support helps keeps the Joy Lab podcast free for all!

     

    Sources and Notes:

    • Shop our partner store at Fullscript: This is where you can find high-quality supplements and wellness products. Except for our CBD Gummies, any product links mentioned in the show notes below will require an account. Sign up for your free Fullscript account here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-start
    • Aromatherapy massage oils to support sleep (use day or night):
    • Aromatherapy morning routine (ideal for grounded and mindful types): During your morning shower, rub the area around your kidneys (your lower back is close enough). After a bit of massage in that area, turn your back away from the water and then massage a few drops of diluted rosemary or spruce oil in the same area. Massage and breathe deeply as the aroma fills your shower. Both of these oils mimic adrenal hormones and can help stimulate the adrenal cortex, giving a natural energy boost to your morning when you're having a rough time waking up. 
    • Aromatherapy Evening routine (ideal for enthusiastic, passionate, creative, and determined): Try a warm bath or warm forehead compress with a few diluted essential oils to calm and soothe your system and cue your relaxation response. Try essential oils like lavender, ylang ylang, frankincense or rose. Another great option is using an aromatherapy inhaler. 
    • Important note about aromatherapy: don’t apply oils “neat” to your skin. “Neat” refers to oils that have not been diluted with something like a carrier oil. Neat application is only advised in very specific circumstances and under the watch of your primary physician or a specialist. No matter how you use them, be sure you purchase a trusted brand that offers the highest quality oils and recommends safe application. Talk to your doctor before use if you are taking any medications or may have an allergy or sensitivity to an oil.
    • Our favorite magnesium products to support sleep:
    • Resilient Remedies: This is where you can find our line of trusted, high-quality CBD gummies: https://www.resilientremedies.com/
    • Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course: Based on decades of clinical experience, we've created a model of resilience that is both helpful and practical. True to our approach at Natural Mental Health, we start with strengths. You'll identify these strengths in your Resilience Type. Your Resilience Type highlights your unique strengths, what fuels your joy, what keeps you in balance, and the lifestyle practices that most nourish you. After you find your Resilience Type, sign up for your free mini-course to receive tailored lifestyle practices (e.g., foods to eat more of, ideal forms of exercise, supplements, and mindfulness activities) that can support your mood, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
    • Resilient Community: Access lots of extra resilience-boosting resources (like our Sleeping Well Workshop) AND you'll join a group of inspiring folks who play an integral role in keeping this podcast going... which means powerful resources stay accessible to everyone.  
    • Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at NaturalMentalHealth.com for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
    • Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads 

     

    Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148464613

     

    Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.

     

    Please see our terms for more information.

     

    If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

     

    Tap Into Your Inspiration (special replay) [ep. 114]

    Tap Into Your Inspiration (special replay) [ep. 114]

    In this episode, we're revisiting an older episode on the power of inspiration. Inspiration is a powerful aspect of personal growth and mental health and there are ways we can nurture the inner-aspects of this element so it's more likely to show up in our lives. Inspiration is also a key factor in achieving goals and resolutions... as are the fallow periods when inspiration seems to b running dry. Those periods can offer the rest and renewal that is essential for inspiration to rise out of.

     

    Key moments:

    00:00 Introduction to the Joy Lab Podcast

    00:36 Revisiting Inspiration 101

    01:33 Understanding the Element of Inspiration

    03:36 The Role of Inspiration in Task Completion

    05:03 Personal Experiences with Inspiration

    08:13 The Importance of Inspiration in Daily Life

    09:27 The Role of Inspiration in Personal Growth

    14:55 Understanding the Qualities of Inspiration

    26:36 Conclusion: Cultivating Inspiration in Your Life

      

    Joy Lab and Natural Mental Health are community-supported. When you buy through the links below, we may earn a commission. That support helps keeps the Joy Lab podcast free for all!

    Sources and Notes:

    • Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course: Based on decades of clinical experience, we've created a model of resilience that is both helpful and practical. True to our approach at Natural Mental Health, we start with strengths. You'll identify these strengths in your Resilience Type. Your Resilience Type highlights your unique strengths, what fuels your joy, what keeps you in balance, and the lifestyle practices that most nourish you. After you find your Resilience Type, sign up for your free mini-course to receive tailored lifestyle practices (e.g., foods to eat more of, ideal forms of exercise, supplements, and mindfulness activities) that can support your mood, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
    • Resilient Community: Access lots of extra resilience-boosting resources (like our Sleeping Well Workshop) AND you'll join a group of inspiring folks who play an integral role in keeping this podcast going... which means powerful resources stay accessible to everyone.  
    • Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at NaturalMentalHealth.com for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
    • Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads
    • Where to shop:
      • Our partner store at Fullscript: This is where you can find high-quality supplements and wellness products. Except for our CBD Gummies, any product links mentioned in the show notes below will require an account. Sign up for your free Fullscript account here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-start
      • Resilient Remedies: This is where you can find our line of trusted, high-quality CBD gummies: https://www.resilientremedies.com/

     

    Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/

    The Downsides of Self-Care [ep. 113]

    The Downsides of Self-Care [ep. 113]

    In this episode, we explore some downsides of self-care. This knowledge is key because self-care is often marketed as a luxury, while distracting from our most basic needs. We'll talk more about the problems of hyper-focusing on ourselves, the external factors that defeat self-care, and the essential factor of community when it comes to self-care (ironic, but true!). 

     

    Key moments:

    00:00 Introduction to the Joy Lab Podcast

    00:40 The Downside of Self-Care Culture

    03:23 Self-Care in Marketing

    04:45 The Importance of Basic Needs in Self-Care

    06:58 The Role of Self-Care in Personal Growth

    11:51 The Impact of External Factors on Self-Care

    15:07 The Importance of Love and Belonging in Self-Care

    17:17 Closing Thoughts and the Resilient Community

    18:33 Outro and Disclaimer

     

    Joy Lab and Natural Mental Health are community-supported. When you buy through the links below, we may earn a commission. That support helps keeps the Joy Lab podcast free for all!

    Sources and Notes:

    • Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course: Based on decades of clinical experience, we've created a model of resilience that is both helpful and practical. True to our approach at Natural Mental Health, we start with strengths. You'll identify these strengths in your Resilience Type. Your Resilience Type highlights your unique strengths, what fuels your joy, what keeps you in balance, and the lifestyle practices that most nourish you. After you find your Resilience Type, sign up for your free mini-course to receive tailored lifestyle practices (e.g., foods to eat more of, ideal forms of exercise, supplements, and mindfulness activities) that can support your mood, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
    • Resilient Community: Access lots of extra resilience-boosting resources (like our Sleeping Well Workshop) AND you'll join a group of inspiring folks who play an integral role in keeping this podcast going... which means powerful resources stay accessible to everyone.  
    • Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
    • Work of Joan Chittister
    • The Art of the Commonplace: The Agrarian Essays of Wendell Berry
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at NaturalMentalHealth.com for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
    • Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads
    • Where to shop:
      • Our partner store at Fullscript: This is where you can find high-quality supplements and wellness products. Except for our CBD Gummies, any product links mentioned in the show notes below will require an account. Sign up for your free Fullscript account here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-start
      • Resilient Remedies: This is where you can find our line of trusted, high-quality CBD gummies: https://www.resilientremedies.com/

     

    Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148464611

     

    Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.

    Please see our terms for more information.

    If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

    Build Better Goals & Resolutions With Your Resilience Type [ep. 112]

    Build Better Goals & Resolutions With Your Resilience Type [ep. 112]

    In this episode, we discuss how to use your resilience type to achieve your goals and resolutions more successfully. We'll offer in-depth strategies for our six different resilience types which include the creative and enthusiastic types, the passionate and determined types, and the grounded and mindful types. Be sure to take our Resilience Quiz to find your Type! 

     

    Key moments:

    00:00 Introduction to the Joy Lab Podcast

    00:32 The Importance of Building Resilience for Joy

    00:39 Strategies for Successful Resolutions

    01:43 Understanding Your Resilience Type

    02:08 Goal Setting Based on Resilience Types

    03:59 Resolutions for Creative and Enthusiastic Types

    06:37 Resolutions for Passionate and Determined Types

    14:23 Resolutions for Grounded and Mindful Types

    19:42 Final Thoughts and Wisdom from Frida Kahlo

    20:36 Closing Remarks and Disclaimer

      

    Sources and Notes:

    • Healing the Rejected Self Meditation
      • Note: Those of you in the Resilient Community have a version of this meditation in your Meditations area. Your version removes the intro so you can settle right in.
    • Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course: Based on decades of clinical experience, we've created a model of resilience that is both helpful and practical. True to our approach at Natural Mental Health, we start with strengths. You'll identify these strengths in your Resilience Type. Your Resilience Type highlights your unique strengths, what fuels your joy, what keeps you in balance, and the lifestyle practices that most nourish you. After you find your Resilience Type, sign up for your free mini-course to receive tailored lifestyle practices (e.g., foods to eat more of, ideal forms of exercise, supplements, and mindfulness activities) that can support your mood, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
    • Better Gift Coach
    • Resilient Community: Access lots of extra resilience-boosting resources (like our Sleeping Well Workshop) AND you'll join a group of inspiring folks who play an integral role in keeping this podcast going... which means powerful resources stay accessible to everyone.  
    • Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at NaturalMentalHealth.com for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
    • Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads
    • Where to shop:
      • Our partner store at Fullscript: This is where you can find high-quality supplements and wellness products. Except for our CBD Gummies, any product links mentioned in the show notes below will require an account. Sign up for your free Fullscript account here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-start
      • Resilient Remedies: This is where you can find our line of trusted, high-quality CBD gummies: https://www.resilientremedies.com/

    Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148426594

     

    Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.

    Please see our terms for more information.

    If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

    Anxiety Attack vs Panic Attack [ep. 111]

    Anxiety Attack vs Panic Attack [ep. 111]

    In this episode, we'll talk about two terms that are often used interchangeably: anxiety attacks and panic attacks. We'll distinguish between the two and talk about the nature of stress-related anxiety (and surges of anxiety) and seemingly un-triggered panic attacks. The good news is that understanding and distinguishing between these experiences can help lead to effective care and treatment for them.

     

    Key moments:

    00:00 Introduction to the Joy Lab Podcast

    00:38 Resilience and our Saturday podcasts

    01:16 Distinguishing Between Anxiety and Panic Attacks

    02:10 Exploring the Origins of Anxiety and Panic Attacks

    07:16 Personal Experiences with Panic Attacks

    13:04 Understanding the Normalcy of Anxiety and Panic Attacks

    14:59 Developing Skills to Manage Anxiety and Panic Attacks

    15:51 Closing Thoughts and Wisdom

    16:24 Outro and Disclaimer

      

    Sources and Notes:

    • Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course: Based on decades of clinical experience, we've created a model of resilience that is both helpful and practical. True to our approach at Natural Mental Health, we start with strengths. You'll identify these strengths in your Resilience Type. Your Resilience Type highlights your unique strengths, what fuels your joy, what keeps you in balance, and the lifestyle practices that most nourish you. After you find your Resilience Type, sign up for your free mini-course to receive tailored lifestyle practices (e.g., foods to eat more of, ideal forms of exercise, supplements, and mindfulness activities) that can support your mood, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
    • Resilient Community: Access lots of extra resilience-boosting resources (like our Sleeping Well Workshop) AND you'll join a group of inspiring folks who play an integral role in keeping this podcast going... which means powerful resources stay accessible to everyone.  
    • Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at NaturalMentalHealth.com for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
    • Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads
    • Where to shop:
      • Our partner store at Fullscript: This is where you can find high-quality supplements and wellness products. Except for our CBD Gummies, any product links mentioned in the show notes below will require an account. Sign up for your free Fullscript account here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-start
      • Resilient Remedies: This is where you can find our line of trusted, high-quality CBD gummies: https://www.resilientremedies.com/

     

    Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148378951

     

    Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.

    Please see our terms for more information.

    If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

     

    Resolutions With a Healthier Twist [ep. 110]

    Resolutions With a Healthier Twist [ep. 110]

    Resolutions can often feel a bit too... heavy. Let's take a fresh perspective on resolutions and goal-setting. In this episode, we'll talk about leveraging the 'Fresh Start Effect' with a more empowering and effective frame for establishing new habits.     

      

    Key moments:

    00:00 Introduction to Joy Lab Podcast

    00:40 The Science and Soul of Resolutions

    04:04 The Fresh Start Effect and Temporal Milestones

    05:03 The Psychology of Past and Current Selves

    06:54 The Role of Self-Compassion and Self-Acceptance in Goal Setting

    12:01 The Neuroscience of Approach-Oriented Goals

    18:00 The Pitfalls of Overly Rigid Goal Setting

    19:47 The 51 Percent Rule: A New Approach to Success

    20:56 Closing Thoughts and A Blessing for Courage

    22:07 Outro and Disclaimer

      

    Sources and Notes:

    • Dai, H., Milkman, K., & Riis, J. (2014). The Fresh Start Effect: Temporal Landmarks Motivate Aspirational Behavior

      Koestner, R., Lekes, N., Powers, T. A., & Chicoine, E. (2002). Attaining personal goals: Self-concordance plus implementation intentions equals success. 
    • Douglas Adams: The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
    • Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course: Based on decades of clinical experience, we've created a model of resilience that is both helpful and practical. True to our approach at Natural Mental Health, we start with strengths. You'll identify these strengths in your Resilience Type. Your Resilience Type highlights your unique strengths, what fuels your joy, what keeps you in balance, and the lifestyle practices that most nourish you. After you find your Resilience Type, sign up for your free mini-course to receive tailored lifestyle practices (e.g., foods to eat more of, ideal forms of exercise, supplements, and mindfulness activities) that can support your mood, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
    • Resilient Community: Access lots of extra resilience-boosting resources (like our Sleeping Well Workshop) AND you'll join a group of inspiring folks who play an integral role in keeping this podcast going... which means powerful resources stay accessible to everyone.  
    • Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at NaturalMentalHealth.com for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
    • Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads
    • Where to shop:
      • Our partner store at Fullscript: This is where you can find high-quality supplements and wellness products. Except for our CBD Gummies, any product links mentioned in the show notes below will require an account. Sign up for your free Fullscript account here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-start
      • Resilient Remedies: This is where you can find our line of trusted, high-quality CBD gummies: https://www.resilientremedies.com/

     

    Full transcript available at:  https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148378950

     

    Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.

    Please see our terms for more information.

    If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

    Coming Every Saturday... Resilience Lab! [ep. 109]

    Coming Every Saturday... Resilience Lab! [ep. 109]

    Joy Lab is back with an exciting new schedule that includes Wednesday Joy Lab episodes and Saturday Resilience Lab episodes! The latter will focus on common mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, offering tools and knowledge to help in overcoming these challenges. Looking forward to being with you all more often! 

      

    Sources and Notes:

    • Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course: Based on decades of clinical experience, we've created a model of resilience that is both helpful and practical. True to our approach at Natural Mental Health, we start with strengths. You'll identify these strengths in your Resilience Type. Your Resilience Type highlights your unique strengths, what fuels your joy, what keeps you in balance, and the lifestyle practices that most nourish you. After you find your Resilience Type, sign up for your free mini-course to receive tailored lifestyle practices (e.g., foods to eat more of, ideal forms of exercise, supplements, and mindfulness activities) that can support your mood, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
    • Resilient Community: Access lots of extra resilience-boosting resources (like our Sleeping Well Workshop) AND you'll join a group of inspiring folks who play an integral role in keeping this podcast going... which means powerful resources stay accessible to everyone.  
    • Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at NaturalMentalHealth.com for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
    • Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads
    • Where to shop:
      • Our partner store at Fullscript: This is where you can find high-quality supplements and wellness products. Except for our CBD Gummies, any product links mentioned in the show notes below will require an account. Sign up for your free Fullscript account here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-start
      • Resilient Remedies: This is where you can find our line of trusted, high-quality CBD gummies: https://www.resilientremedies.com/

     

    Key Moments:

    00:00 Introduction to the Joy Lab Podcast 

    00:40 Reconnecting with Listeners 

    01:25 Feedback on the Podcourse Series 

    02:10 Announcement of New Podcast Schedule 

    02:36 Introduction to Resilience Lab 

    04:00 Invitation to Join the Conversation 

    04:22 Closing Remarks and Disclaimer

     

    Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148378949

     

    Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.

    Please see our terms for more information.

     

    Dialogue with Your Soul Meditation + Journaling (Depression and Anxiety Coping Skills Podcourse) [ep. 108]

    Dialogue with Your Soul Meditation + Journaling (Depression and Anxiety Coping Skills Podcourse) [ep. 108]

    In this episode of Joy Lab Podcast, Dr. Henry Emmons guides us through a powerful guided meditation and journaling practice that we like to call: Dialogue With Your soul. 

      

    Sources and Notes:

    • This episode is part of our Podcourse! To get the most of the course, you may want to follow along in order, beginning with episode #78 and you can visit the Podcourse Page to find all the episodes. However, these episodes can be listened to in any order and you can take action with any strategy that you feel connected to. 
    • Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course: Based on decades of clinical experience, we've created a model of resilience that is both helpful and practical. True to our approach at Natural Mental Health, we start with strengths. You'll identify these strengths in your Resilience Type. Your Resilience Type highlights your unique strengths, what fuels your joy, what keeps you in balance, and the lifestyle practices that most nourish you. After you find your Resilience Type, sign up for your free mini-course to receive tailored lifestyle practices (e.g., foods to eat more of, ideal forms of exercise, supplements, and mindfulness activities) that can support your mood, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
    • Resilient Community: Access lots of extra resilience-boosting resources (like our Sleeping Well Workshop) AND you'll join a group of inspiring folks who play an integral role in keeping this podcast going... which means powerful resources (like this podcourse) stay accessible to everyone.  
    • Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at NaturalMentalHealth.com for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
    • Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads
    • Where to shop:
      • Our partner store at Fullscript: This is where you can find high-quality supplements and wellness products. Except for our CBD Gummies, any product links mentioned in the show notes below will require an account. Sign up for your free Fullscript account here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-start
      • Resilient Remedies: This is where you can find our line of trusted, high-quality CBD gummies: https://www.resilientremedies.com/

     

    Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148269943

     

    Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.

    Please see our terms for more information.

     

    If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org

    Depression as a Sacred Experience (Depression and Anxiety Coping Skills Podcast) [ep. 107]

    Depression as a Sacred Experience (Depression and Anxiety Coping Skills Podcast) [ep. 107]

    In this episode of JoyLab Podcast, Dr. Henry Emmons touches on the exploration of depression as a sacred experience that can serve as a vehicle for growth. 

       

    Sources and Notes:

    • This episode is part of our Podcourse! To get the most of the course, you may want to follow along in order, beginning with episode #78 and you can visit the Podcourse Page to find all the episodes. However, these episodes can be listened to in any order and you can take action with any strategy that you feel connected to. 
    • Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course: Based on decades of clinical experience, we've created a model of resilience that is both helpful and practical. True to our approach at Natural Mental Health, we start with strengths. You'll identify these strengths in your Resilience Type. Your Resilience Type highlights your unique strengths, what fuels your joy, what keeps you in balance, and the lifestyle practices that most nourish you. After you find your Resilience Type, sign up for your free mini-course to receive tailored lifestyle practices (e.g., foods to eat more of, ideal forms of exercise, supplements, and mindfulness activities) that can support your mood, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
    • Resilient Community: Access lots of extra resilience-boosting resources (like our Sleeping Well Workshop) AND you'll join a group of inspiring folks who play an integral role in keeping this podcast going... which means powerful resources (like this podcourse) stay accessible to everyone.  
    • Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at NaturalMentalHealth.com for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
    • Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads
    • Where to shop:
      • Our partner store at Fullscript: This is where you can find high-quality supplements and wellness products. Except for our CBD Gummies, any product links mentioned in the show notes below will require an account. Sign up for your free Fullscript account here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-start
      • Resilient Remedies: This is where you can find our line of trusted, high-quality CBD gummies: https://www.resilientremedies.com/

     

    Key Moments:

    00:54 The Power of Meditation and Self-Acceptance
    02:16 Depression as a Sacred Experience
    03:53 The Concept of Soul and Attention
    04:35 Depression as a Message and a Call
    05:27 The Concept of Thin Place
    05:57 Personal Experience with Grief and Loss
    08:45 The Practice of Journaling for Inner Voice
    11:05 Practices for Recovery and Self-Compassion
    12:49 A Blessing

     

    Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148269420

     

    Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.

    Please see our terms for more information.

    The Practice of Sympathetic Joy (Depression and Anxiety Coping Skills Podcourse: bonus lesson!) [ep. 106]

    The Practice of Sympathetic Joy (Depression and Anxiety Coping Skills Podcourse: bonus lesson!) [ep. 106]

    In this quick bonus episode, Dr. Henry Emmons will describe the simple way to practice sympathetic joy in daily life.

    Sources and Notes:

    • This episode is part of our Podcourse! To get the most of the course, you may want to follow along in order, beginning with episode #78 and you can visit the Podcourse Page to find all the episodes. However, these episodes can be listened to in any order and you can take action with any strategy that you feel connected to. 
    • Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course: Based on decades of clinical experience, we've created a model of resilience that is both helpful and practical. True to our approach at Natural Mental Health, we start with strengths. You'll identify these strengths in your Resilience Type. Your Resilience Type highlights your unique strengths, what fuels your joy, what keeps you in balance, and the lifestyle practices that most nourish you. After you find your Resilience Type, sign up for your free mini-course to receive tailored lifestyle practices (e.g., foods to eat more of, ideal forms of exercise, supplements, and mindfulness activities) that can support your mood, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
    • Resilient Community: Access lots of extra resilience-boosting resources (like our Sleeping Well Workshop) AND you'll join a group of inspiring folks who play an integral role in keeping this podcast going... which means powerful resources (like this podcourse) stay accessible to everyone.  
    • Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at NaturalMentalHealth.com for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
    • Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads
    • Where to shop:
      • Our partner store at Fullscript: This is where you can find high-quality supplements and wellness products. Except for our CBD Gummies, any product links mentioned in the show notes below will require an account. Sign up for your free Fullscript account here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-start
      • Resilient Remedies: This is where you can find our line of trusted, high-quality CBD gummies: https://www.resilientremedies.com/

    Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148269286

    Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.

    Please see our terms for more information.