Dr. Ju, an incredible expert in happiness and fulfillment, discusses the common things that steal fulfillment and joy from your life. They dive into the misconception of happiness and propose increasing moments of joy. They also discuss affect labeling, trauma response, numbing, and embracing emotions for overall happiness.
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Quick takeaways
Focusing on small moments of joy throughout the day can retrain feelings to come back online and provide a sense of fulfillment and overall happiness.
Acknowledging and processing collective trauma is crucial in creating space for joy and meaningful experiences in life.
Using the five, four, three, two, one grounding method can bring back feelings of joy and presence by actively engaging all the senses and being present in the moment.
Deep dives
The Importance of Increasing Points of Joy
In this episode, Dr. Judith Joseph discusses the significance of increasing points of joy in life. She explains that chasing the idea of happiness is unattainable and unrealistic, leading to feelings of emptiness and numbness. Instead, she suggests focusing on small moments of joy throughout the day, such as savoring a sip of water or taking a few minutes to play with a child or pet. By actively engaging the senses and being present in these moments, individuals can retrain their feelings to come back online, providing a sense of fulfillment and overall happiness.
The Impact of Collective Trauma
Dr. Judith Joseph highlights the impact of collective trauma on individuals' ability to access joy. She acknowledges the sustained uncertainty and trauma experienced over the past few years, including the pandemic, political turmoil, and social unrest. The lack of processing and inability to catch a breath has led many to feel empty and disconnected. She emphasizes the need to validate these feelings and take the time to feel and process the trauma. By doing so, individuals create space for joy and meaningful experiences in their lives.
The Power of Grounding Techniques
Dr. Judith Joseph introduces the five, four, three, two, one grounding method as a tool to bring back feelings of joy and presence. By engaging all five senses and describing what is seen, felt, heard, smelled, and tasted in one's surroundings, individuals can bring their focus back to the present moment and activate their feelings. This simple technique encourages individuals to take notice of small moments of joy throughout the day, promoting a sense of fulfillment and happiness.
Anhedonia and the Importance of Finding Joy in Daily Life
Anhedonia, the inability to find small points of joy in daily life, is a common experience that many people are currently facing. The podcast discusses how anhedonia can stem from trauma and the overwhelming experiences of the past few years. The guest highlights the importance of validating these feelings and acknowledging that everyone has gone through some level of anhedonia. To counteract this, the podcast suggests simple ways to increase points of joy in everyday life, such as focusing on biological factors like eating mood-boosting foods and taking care of physical health. Psychological factors like acknowledging and processing trauma are also crucial. The podcast emphasizes the need to slow down, enjoy simple pleasures, and focus on being happier in the present moment.
The Link Between Happiness and Processing Trauma
The podcast episode explores the connection between happiness and the ability to process trauma. It acknowledges that the last few years have been overwhelming for many people, leading to a sense of numbness and feeling stuck. The guest validates these experiences and offers simple exercises to reconnect with oneself and bring feelings back online. Slowing down, appreciating small joys, and practicing self-care are key steps in increasing overall happiness. The podcast highlights the importance of validating one's own trauma and focusing on the present moment to enhance points of joy in daily life.
Did you know that there are common things that steal fulfillment and joy from your life?
Today, Mel is diving into the 3 research-backed habits that can make your life better. Because happiness is not only possible; it is an option for you.
This conversation is not only comforting and impactful; it is also packed with practical and proven tools that can be put to work in your life immediately.
Mel is thrilled to introduce you to the incredible Dr. Judith Joseph, MD.
Dr. Joseph is a renowned double-board-certified psychiatrist who trained at and is affiliated with Columbia University and New York University. Dr. Joseph is also a pioneering researcher and the founder and principal investigator of her research institute, Manhattan Behavioral Medicine, where she has conducted over 60 clinical research trials, and today she is sharing her innovative work with you.
This interview took a surprising turn. In this hour-long conversation, Mel goes deeper than ever, discussing her struggle with the lingering feeling of “blah” she’s had for the past couple of years.
In this episode, you’ll also learn:
Why you need to throw your idea of what happiness is out the window.
The ONE thing you need to know if you want to achieve a happier life.
What “anhedonia” is and what are the signs of struggling with it are.
Learn if you have anhedonia (and Mel’s shocking results to Dr. Joseph’s quiz).
Dr. Joseph’s ONE recommendation for anyone who wants more daily enjoyment in life.
How long it will take you to be happier with Dr. Joseph's techniques.
3 simple steps to taking better care of yourself this year.
The real reason the lack of joy is so common right now.
Why you don’t remember as much anymore.
The common mistakes you might be making that block joy.
The connection between slowing down and increased meaning and happiness.
The ONE thing Dr. Joseph will NEVER do to keep joy and happiness in her life.
For more resources, including links to Dr. Joseph’s work, studies, and quizzes to find out if you have anhedonia, click here for the podcast episode page.