35. God Inhabits the World Through our Community

With the isolation and depression of the pandemic, communities are trying different initiatives based on Shawn Anchor’s Happiness Advantage to improve the wellbeing of their members. Not all Christians are on board with these wellness initiatives, especially with the issues in current politics. In this episode, I interview my friend Julia Lines, Isanti County Administrator in Minnesota. She shares how she had some criticism of the wellness initiative from religious members. Hear how I respond that God is bigger than we think, is the originator of much research in the secular community and how God sees people who look and vote differently than us.

The summary of Shawn Anchor’s work is that “Small changes ripple outwards”. This is a kingdom principal! Caroline Leaf has her own research that is Biblical and mirrors what Shawn is talking about.

Shawn Anchor’s 5 steps for creating lasting positive change:

• 3 Gratitudes
• Journaling
• Exercise
• Meditation
• Random Acts of Kindness

Shawn Anchor “The Happiness Advantage: Linking Positive Brains to Performance” TED Talk: https://youtu.be/GXy__kBVq1M

Caroline Leaf “Science of Thought” TED Talk: https://youtu.be/yjhANyrKpv8

Isanti County Orange Frog Initiative: https://www.co.isanti.mn.us/779/Orange-Frog

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Find more: www.heidimortensonlmft.com

If you are in crisis, help is available by call or text 1-800-273-8255 24/7. You can also visit https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org. You are loved!