Finding Joy in Dark Times

This is an intimate episode with Melanie sharing an essay from the scientist, activist, humanitarian and writer Barry Lopez. The essay is from his last book, “Embrace Fearlessly the Burning World,” published posthumously.

 

Lopez makes a poignant plea to not fall into despair and hopelessness at the state of the world.

Building on the foundation of Lopez’s essay, Melanie shares several suggestions for how to find joy in dark times. The focus is on simple ways to help reset your nervous system in challenging times.

 

For instance, did you know that trying to resist painful emotions increases psychological suffering? 

 

Or that helping other people or a cause that’s important to you has been proven over and over again to helps get you out of your little mind and ego and into something more important? It helps manage the non-stop ruminating monkey mind thing.

 

Also,  nature is a powerful healer! Hanging out in nature can help elicit joy and happiness.

 

She also shares several pieces of writing from the poets David Whyte and Mary Oliver, educational visionary Maria Montessori, and the Zen Buddhist teacher and writer Thich Nhat Hanh.

 

Dr. Melanie Harth’s website here: https://thesantafetherapist.com/