Joy Lab Podcast

As you may know, we're still adventuring through The Roots of Resilience (laid out in one of Dr. Emmons book, The Chemistry of Calm). In this episode, we're working on our fourth root, "Calming the Mind." We'll hit on some key insights and strategies that include: Realizing we're thinking and that many of our thoughts are false, embracing the skill of learned optimism, stepping into the role of our observing self, and how we can get more comfortable venturing into our inner-world. And bonus: Head over to our NMH community for a Calm Mind Meditation to put this conversation into practice. 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 & Notes: Joy Lab ProgramNMH Community (like our Sleeping Well Workshop)Free Resilience Quiz and free Mini-CourseChemistry of CalmLearned Optimism Just think: The challenges of the disengaged mind Our partner store at Fullscript:Sign up for your free Fullscript account.Resilient Remedies:https://www.resilientremedies.com/ Subscribe to our Newsletter: resilience-boosting reads Full transcript available here. 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.

In this episode, we're working on our element Hope... and resilience as well! As you may know, we're still adventuring through The Roots of Resilience (laid out in one of Dr. Emmons book, The Chemistry of Calm). We’re adding this element of Hope because working on our resilience skills is something that can actually feed hope, which then boosts our resilience… which then fuels our hope. It’s the upward spiral we love here. And, just to be clear, you don't need to be an optimist to be hopeful. Or joyful. We'll discuss a bit more about that in this episode. One more reason why we like to talk about hope and resilience together: Working with these elements together creates more opportunities to tap into our resilient self, particularly if we're feeling at odds with our body (for whatever reason). We'll discuss how we can tap into our resilience and hope through our mind and heart space, and in a way that also nourishes the body. 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: Joy Lab ProgramNMH Community (like our Sleeping Well Workshop)Free Resilience Quiz and free Mini-CourseChemistry of CalmThe Effects of Mindfulness Meditation on Hope and Stress The role of Hope in subsequent health and well-being for older adults: An outcome-wide longitudinal approachOn the promotion of human flourishing Hopelessness and Risk of Mortality and Incidence of Myocardial Infarction and CancerOur partner store at Fullscript:hereResilient Remedies:Shop now. Subscribe to our Newsletter: Bookshop.org Full transcript available here 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.

In this episode, we're working on our element of Resilience and exploring the third "Root of Resilience" known as aligning with nature. The Roots of Resilience were laid out in one of Dr. Emmons book, "The Chemistry of Calm." This root builds on our last one ("managing energy") by embracing the cycles and rhythms that are part of a much bigger system. This may seem "woo-woo," but.. well, it's not. Like all mammals and really every other living thing, we are influenced by cycles around us. A growing field of study known as chronobiology is bringing more scientific understanding to these cycles (for example: seasonal affective disorder and seasonal mood shifts). We'll talk more about this root and how increasing awareness of your connection with nature and adding some simple skills in response to this connection can support your mood, energy, and resilience in really powerful ways. Key moments: 00:00 Welcome to Joy Lab 00:46 Introducing the Roots of Resilience Series 01:46 Aligning with Nature: The Third Root of Resilience 02:03 Exploring Bio Rhythms: A Key to Mental Health 04:39 Diving Deep into Ultradian Rhythms 10:39 Circadian Rhythms: The Impact of Sleep on Mental Health 22:32 Infradian Rhythms: The Examples of Menstruation and Seasonal Affective Disorder 26:44 Wrapping Up: The Power of Aligning with Nature 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: Joy Lab ProgramNMH Community(like our Sleeping Well Workshop) Free Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course Joy Lab Podcast #1 Chemistry of CalmOur partner store at Fullscript:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-startResilient Remedies:https://www.resilientremedies.com/Supplements Mentioned to support SAD and drops in mood during winter: TruAdapt NeuroMood Pure Pack Vitamin D The 20 Minute Break Linnaeus' Flower Clockin our blog here Natural Approaches for Seasonal Affective Disorder and Supporting Winter Mood Does Winter Get You Down? (video) What Causes Seasonal Affective Disorder? Seasonal Affective Disorder in the Summer A Light on Seasonal Affective Disorder: Definition, Treatment, & Prevention How does the brain deal with cumulative stress? A review with focus on developmental stress, HPA axis function and hippocampal structure in humans Cumulative Stress and Health Subscribe to our Newsletter:https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148589404 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.

In this episode, we're working on our element of Resilience and exploring the second Root of Resilience known as managing energy. The Roots of Resilience were laid out in one of Dr. Emmons book, "The Chemistry of Calm." We'll work through this foundational aspect of resilience, focusing on how we can keep our resilience tank more full by returning to our natural rhythms of rest and activity to help us feel more refreshed, engaged, and connected. We'll also learn about three "energy thieves" (oxidative stress, blood sugar dysregulation, and systemic inflammation) and how you can overcome those thieves to reclaim your natural energy cycles. The key strategies we'll focus on are: adopting a diet rich in whole foods, supplementing wisely with vitamins and antioxidants (if needed), and engaging in simple, enjoyable exercise like walking. Key moments: 00:00 Welcome to Joy Lab 00:46 Introducing the Element of Resilience 01:47 Unpacking the Energy Thieves- Thief #1: Oxidative Stress 06:08 Blood Sugar Dysregulation: The Second Energy Thief 09:52 Systemic Inflammation: The Third Energy Thief 11:15 Radically Sensible Eating: A Strategy to Reclaim Energy 17:13 Supplementing Wisely for Energy and Resilience 20:56 The Power of Exercise: Simple Steps to Boost Energy 25:11 Looking Ahead: Aligning with Nature 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: Joy Lab ProgramNMH Community(like our Sleeping Well Workshop) Free Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course Joy Lab Podcast #1 Chemistry of CalmOur partner store at Fullscript:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-startResilient Remedies:https://www.resilientremedies.com/Supplements/products referenced in this episode: Aimee noted: EGCG (capsules) Matcha Green Tea from Buddha TeasHenry noted: NeuroMood Pure Pack ResveratrolThe Mental Health Continuum: From Languishing to Flourishing in Life NY Times- There’s a Name for the Blah You’re Feeling: It’s Called LanguishingResilient CommunityBlue Zones Effects of a 12-week endurance training program on the physiological response to psychosocial stress in men: a randomized controlled trial No man is an island: social resources, stress and mental health at mid-life How does the brain deal with cumulative stress? A review with focus on developmental stress, HPA axis function and hippocampal structure in humans Cumulative Stress and Health Subscribe to our Newsletter:https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148586363 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.

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, we're exploring a more balanced approach to supporting brain chemistry. Understanding brain chemistry for mental health is really important... it's not everything, but it's important (we'll get into those other important areas later in this series). In this episode, we'll touch on dietary strategies, supplements, and foods to support mood and resilience. Key moments: 00:00 Welcome to Joy Lab 00:45 Introducing the Resilience and Hope Series 01:13 The Carrot, Egg, and Coffee Recap: Models of Resilience 02:06 Understanding Our Responses to Stress 02:47 The Role of Temperament in Mental Health 05:46 Brain Chemistry: A Dynamic Influence on Our Wellbeing 08:31 Medications and Mental Health: A Balanced View 11:50 Supplements and Nutrition: Strategies for Balancing Brain Chemistry 19:15 The Resilient Diet: Nourishing Body, Mind, and Soul 26:36 Closing Thoughts and Future Conversations 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: Joy Lab ProgramNMH Community(like our Sleeping Well Workshop) Free Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course Joy Lab Podcast #1 Chemistry of Calm The Coffee Bean: A Simple Lesson to Create Positive Change Our partner store at Fullscript:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-startResilient Remedies:https://www.resilientremedies.com/ Subscribe to our Newsletter:https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148586006 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.

In this episode, we're working on our element of Resilience. And even if you feel the opposite of resilient right now, we'll discuss more about how each of us is wired for resilience. We are naturally resilient and can uncover and build up this element--no matter what. This is also the first part of our "Roots of Resilience" series. The Roots of Resilience were laid out in one of Dr. Emmons book, "The Chemistry of Calm." We'll work through all the roots throughout our episodes on Resilience and Hope (nine episodes!). These roots are really the key aspects of resilience that are essential to be aware of and to strengthen. Stay with us for this full series to uncover and nourish your most rooted, resilient self. Key moments: 00:00 Welcome to Joy Lab 00:46 Diving Deep into Resilience 01:08 Understanding Resilience: Definitions and Personal Perspectives 02:03 The Inborn Quality of Resilience and Its Variability 03:59 Exploring the Roots of Resilience and Its Impact 05:46 The Resilience Container: A Visual Metaphor for Our Capacity 09:47 The Coffee Bean Story: A Metaphor for Stress Response 15:04 Brain Chemistry and Resilience: The Science Behind Our Responses 17:17 Looking Ahead: Building and Sustaining Resilience 19:01 Closing Thoughts and Next Steps to Build Your Resilience 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: Joy Lab ProgramNMH Community(like our Sleeping Well Workshop) Free Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course Joy Lab Podcast #1 Chemistry of CalmDr. Catherine Panter-Brick-Resilience definitions, theory, and challenges: interdisciplinary perspectivesAnnual Research Review: Positive adjustment to adversity -Trajectories of minimal-impact resilience and emergent resilience The Coffee Bean: A Simple Lesson to Create Positive Change Effects of a 12-week endurance training program on the physiological response to psychosocial stress in men: a randomized controlled trial No man is an island: social resources, stress and mental health at mid-life How does the brain deal with cumulative stress? A review with focus on developmental stress, HPA axis function and hippocampal structure in humans Just think: The challenges of the disengaged mindEmotion Suppression and Mortality Risk Over a 12-Year Follow-up Cumulative Stress and Health The Times of Our Lives: Interaction Among Different Biological Periodicities Our partner store at Fullscript:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-startResilient Remedies:https://www.resilientremedies.com/ Subscribe to our Newsletter:https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148582312 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.

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, we (Dr. Henry Emmons and Dr. Aimee Prasek) reintroduce our Roots of Resilience series, focusing on building resilience and uncovering joy by blending scientific and soulful approaches. And big news! Our Resilience Training program will be added to our NMH community this summer. In this series (and more so in the program) we'll explore foundational aspects of resilience within the three interrelated categories body, mind, and heart or soul. It's an empowering approach to resilience that emphasizes the importance of acknowledging our wholeness for a joyful and resilient life. Key Moments: 00:00 Welcome to Joy Lab 00:40 Introducing the Roots of Resilience Series 01:55 The Importance of Resilience in Building a Joyful Life 04:02 Exploring the Three Pillars of Resilience: Body, Mind, and Soul 06:03 Empowering Your Resilience and Joy Journey 06:39 Join the NMH Community for the Resilience Training Program 08:22 Closing Thoughts and Inspirational Wisdom Sources and Notes: may episode #78 Podcourse PageHowever Resilience Quiz and free Mini-CourseNMH Community(like our Sleeping Well Workshop)Joy Lab Program Subscribe to our Newsletter:https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreadsOur partner store at Fullscript:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-startResilient Remedies:https://www.resilientremedies.com/ Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148582289 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.

We recorded this early in our Joy Lab journey, but it's as true as it was then. Truth is, we’re all wired for resilience. It’s built into all living systems, from a single cell to dynamic global systems. And none of us would be here if we didn't have it. But, have you wondered why we all have different levels of resilience and how it can be boosted? In this episode, we explore what resilience means, how to protect your resilience, how to get it back if it's been depleted, and even how to grow it to a level you might not have thought you could get to. Key moments: 00:00 Introduction to Joy Lab Podcast 00:47 Understanding the Concept of Resilience 01:39 The Importance of Resilience in Today's World 02:53 How to Protect and Enhance Your Resilience 03:12 Defining Resilience and Its Importance 03:31 The Impact of Resilience on Mental Health 04:34 The Role of Resilience in Overcoming Challenges 05:44 The Depletion of Resilience Due to Continuous Stress 06:26 Understanding the Concept of Your Resilience Container 07:00 Factors Determining the Size of Your Resilience Container 11:02 The Concept of Ordinary Magic in Resilience 13:12 The Shortlist for Resilience 16:45 The Roots of Resilience 26:03 Cultivating a Good Heart for Resilience 27:36 Creating Deep Connections for Resilience 31:00 Conclusion and Invitation to Join Joy Lab Program 31:39 Podcast Closing Remarks and Disclaimers 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! Links Mentioned: Resilience Quiz and free Mini-CourseResilient Community(like our Sleeping Well Workshop) Joy Lab Program #6 Five Lessons on Loving Well #12 Five Pathways to Inner Calm Ordinary Magic, Resilience in Development Summary of the Project Competence Longitudinal Study Chemistry of Calm book Barbara Kingsolver (Author)Mind-Body Dualism: A Critique from a Health PerspectiveSources of human psychological differences: the Minnesota Study of Twins Reared Apart The Inheritance of Acquired Characteristics Leaving Your LamarckShel Silverstein (Author) Evidence and other poems by Mary Oliver Subscribe to our Newsletter:https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreadsOur partner store at Fullscript:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-startResilient Remedies:https://www.resilientremedies.com/ Full transcript available: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148072999 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.

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, hosts Dr. Henry Emmons and Dr. Aimee Prasek talk about the intricate relationships between sleep, stress, anxiety, and panic attacks, emphasizing the distinction between panic attacks and anxiety. They discuss the various factors contributing to panic attacks, including genetics, brain chemistry, and stress, and how these can intensify due to lack of sleep. They also discuss nocturnal panic attacks, which abruptly wake individuals from sleep, complicating the cycle of anxiety and sleep disturbance. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding these experiences for accurate diagnosis and treatment. The hosts encourage seeking professional help for panic attacks and stress management, offering a blend of science-based insights and practical advice to navigate these challenges. Key moments: 00:00 Welcome to Joy Lab 00:40 Diving Deep into Sleep, Anxiety, and Panic Attacks 01:45 Understanding the Intricacies of Panic Attacks 04:02 The Vicious Cycle: Sleep, Stress, and Panic Attacks 06:55 Nocturnal Panic Attacks: A Disturbing Awakening 08:45 Diagnosing and Treating Panic Attacks: Insights from Dr. Emmons 11:46 Closing Thoughts and Resources 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: Joy Lab ProgramNMH Community(like our Sleeping Well Workshop) Free Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course Anxiety Attack vs Panic AttackOur partner store at Fullscript:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-startResilient Remedies:https://www.resilientremedies.com/ Subscribe to our Newsletter:https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148576731 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.

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, we talk about our updated resilience quiz and the power of identifying your Resilience Type. The new quiz is more focused on innate strengths and is intended to provide insightful and relevant paths to consider as we foster more resilience and live more joyful lives. We'll also highlight the fluid nature ofResilience Types and caution against rigid categorization. It's a good reminder that we all possess a multitude of resilient qualities. Key moments: 00:00 Introduction to Joy Lab Podcast 00:39 Unveiling the Updated Resilience Quiz 01:33 The Importance of the Resilience Quiz 04:12 Understanding Different Patterns of Anxiety and Depression 08:27 The Evolution of the Resilience Quiz 10:25 The New Resilience Quiz: A More Insightful Approach 12:43 Using the Resilience Quiz for Personal Growth 14:54 Closing Thoughts and Next Steps 15:24 Disclaimer 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-CourseResilient Community(like our Sleeping Well Workshop) Joy Lab Program Subscribe to our Newsletter:https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreadsOur partner store at Fullscript:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-startResilient Remedies:https://www.resilientremedies.com/ Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148464778 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.

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, hosts Dr. Henry Emmons and Dr. Aimee Prasek announce the new NMH Mailbag and address a listener's question about the appropriate use of SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) lights, discussing optimal usage periods and considerations for adjusting use based on personal response. The discussion also touches on vitamin D supplementation during specific times of the year for those living in northern latitudes, emphasizing the balance between supplement use and natural sun exposure. Key moments: 00:00 Welcome to Joy Lab 00:39 Diving Into the Mailbag: Co-Creating Joyful Episodes 02:04 Shedding Light on SAD Lights: When to Use Them and Why 06:56 Embracing the Sun: The Natural Alternative to SAD Lights 08:10 Vitamin D and Seasonal Changes: Supplementing for Wellbeing 10:04 Wrapping Up: Co-Creation, Supplements, and a Quote 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: Joy Lab ProgramNMH Community(like our Sleeping Well Workshop) Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course The Spring-Time Mood Change to Know About (ep. 121) Seasonal Affective Disorder in the Summer What Causes Seasonal Affective Disorder? Does Winter Get You Down? A Light on Seasonal Affective Disorder: Definition, Treatment, & Prevention Natural Approaches for Seasonal Affective Disorder and Supporting Winter MoodSAD Light Therapy Vitamin D3 Benefits, Dosage, and Side Effects drumroll, please... Meet our Updated Joy Lab Program! Vitamin D3 NeuroMood Pure PackOur partner store at Fullscript:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-startResilient Remedies:https://www.resilientremedies.com/ Subscribe to our Newsletter:https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148568573 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 Joy Lab podcast, hosted by Dr. Henry Emmons and Dr. Aimee Prasek, aims to help listeners build resilience and discover joy by blending scientific methods with soulful practices. In this episode, we re-introduce the Joy Lab program, now part of the Natural Mental Health (NMH) community. We discuss the program's foundation on the four pillars of Joy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Positive Psychology, the Science of Mindfulness, and the Wisdom of the Soul, alongside the 12 elements essential for fostering joy such as hope, gratitude, and resilience. Tune in to learn how the experiments within the Program are designed to help you practice and integrate these elements into daily life, aiming for long-term mental health support and flourishing. Key moments: 00:00 Welcome to Joy Lab: Uncovering Joy Through Science and Soul 00:39 Introducing the Joy Lab Program: A Community of Joy and Resilience 02:59 The Four Pillars of Joy: Building a Joyful Life 05:33 Exploring the 12 Elements of Joy: A Yearly Cycle of Growth 07:15 The Origins and Power of the 12 Elements of Joy 13:24 Joy Lab's Unique Approach: Microdosing Meditation and More 19:02 Dialogue with the Soul: Deepening Our Inner Connection 22:11 The Courage to Face Inner Challenges: Closing Thoughts 23:28 Final Words and a Quote to Ponder 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: Joy Lab ProgramNMH Community(like our Sleeping Well Workshop) Resilience Quiz and free Mini-CourseLearned Optimism by Dr. Martin SeligmanFlourish by Dr. Martin SeligmaPositivity by Dr. Barbara FredricksonFull Catastrophe Living by Dr. Jon Kabat-ZinnOur partner store at Fullscript:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-startResilient Remedies:https://www.resilientremedies.com/ Subscribe to our Newsletter:https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148565801 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.

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, Dr. Aimee Prasek will guide you through a visualization exercise to tune into your body and observe the differences in sensations and emotions experienced during a day off of work compared to a typical workday. By stepping into the observing self, you'll watch a 'life movie' play out in two parts; one depicting a leisurely day without work obligations and the other, a busy workday. Throughout the visualization, the focus is on noticing bodily sensations, emotions, and the specific triggers of stress, constriction, or exhaustion. The aim is to cultivate awareness and identify possible contributors of stress along with opportunities for change. Key moments: 00:00 Welcome to Joy Lab: Unleashing Your Joy 00:26 Diving Into Visualization: Tuning Into Your Body 02:17 The Movie of Your Life: A Day Off Work 04:41 Intermission: A Moment to Savor 05:09 Back to Reality: A Day at Work 07:51 Reflecting on the Experience: Insights and Inner Freedom 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-CourseResilient Community(like our Sleeping Well Workshop) Joy Lab Program Subscribe to our Newsletter:https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreadsOur partner store at Fullscript:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-startResilient Remedies:https://www.resilientremedies.com/ Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148565810 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.

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, we're sharing a live chat we had in our Natural Mental Health Community. We tackled the topic of burnout, discussing its characteristics, causes, and how it differs from depression. After this episode, we'll share a burnout meditation you can use to illuminate your own possible experiences of burnout and depression. And stay tuned for our burnout series coming up in the next several months. In that series, we'll explore more contributors and antidotes to burnout. Key moments: 00:00 Welcome to Joy Lab: Uncovering Joy Through Science and Soul 00:39 Introducing the Burnout Series: Understanding and Overcoming Burnout 03:02 Personal Journey: Dr. Emmons' Battle with Early Burnout 07:30 The Rising Crisis of Burnout in Healthcare and Beyond 09:06 Burnout vs. Depression: Exploring the Distinctions 15:54 Addressing Burnout: Strategies and the Importance of Inner Work 17:42 Closing Thoughts and Resources 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-CourseResilient Community(like our Sleeping Well Workshop) Joy Lab Program Subscribe to our Newsletter:https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreadsOur partner store at Fullscript:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-startResilient Remedies:https://www.resilientremedies.com/ Full transcript and links mentioned available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148464777 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.

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, hosts Dr. Henry Emmons and Dr. Aimee Prasek talk about lithium orotate, a compound different from the commonly prescribed lithium carbonate used for bipolar disorder. They explore its potential advantages including better brain absorption and fewer side effects at lower doses, while also clarifying that although it should not replace prescribed medications, it may have valuable uses. The conversation also covers how lithium orotate may have a role in clinical practice for mood disorders and depression with a genetic component. The historical context of lithium's use and the repercussions of its bad PR in the past are also noted, alongside emerging research on its possible preventive role for conditions like Alzheimer's. Key moments: 00:00 Introduction to the Joy Lab Podcast 00:39 Unveiling the Topic: Lithium Orotate 00:57 Understanding the Different Types of Lithium 01:42 The Benefits and Precautions of Lithium Orotate 01:56 Exploring the Nature and Uses of Lithium 03:25 Lithium Orotate in Clinical Practice 09:32 The History and Perception of Lithium 14:12 Lithium's Role in Brain Detoxification and Prevention 16:31 Closing Thoughts and Future Prospects 17:45 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: Our partner store at Fullscript:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-startLithium orotate that we like: https://us.fullscript.com/u/catalog/product/U3ByZWU6OlByb2R1Y3QtNzEzMTgResilient Remedies:https://www.resilientremedies.com/ Resilience Quiz and free Mini-CourseResilient Community(like our Sleeping Well Workshop) Joy Lab Program Subscribe to our Newsletter:JAMA, 139 https://doi.org/10.1002/brb3.2262 New York Time's article about possible lithium chloride deaths. Time article about possible lithium chloride deaths.https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreads Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148536245 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.

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, hosts Dr. Henry Emmons and Dr. Aimee Prasek explore the concept of simplicity in creating change, focusing on the significance of a simple, joy-filled approach to self-care. They challenge the overly simplistic strategy of relying on a single solution for mental health issues, advocating instead for a multifaceted and gentle approach to self-care that combines science with soul. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance, community support, and engaging in simple, joyous activities that can lead to significant wellbeing gains. Key moments: 00:00 Introduction to Joy Lab Podcast 00:38 The Power of Simplicity in Creating Change 03:02 The Importance of Self-Care and Overcoming Resistance 04:45 The Concept of Self-Care as a Way of Being 05:48 The Power of Simple Activities in Boosting Wellbeing 06:18 The Power of Simplicity in Ancient Wisdom 09:30 The Role of Community in Self-Care 10:55 The Challenges of Changing Behaviors and Staying Motivated 11:56 The Metaphor of Companion Planting in Self-Care 13:02 Closing Thoughts 13:14 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-CourseResilient Community(like our Sleeping Well Workshop) Joy Lab Program Subscribe to our Newsletter:Our partner store at Fullscript:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-startResilient Remedies:https://www.resilientremedies.com/ Full transcript available at: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/podcasts/joy-lab-podcast/episodes/2148560855 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.

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-CourseResilient Community(like our Sleeping Well Workshop) Joy Lab Program Subscribe to our Newsletter: Mindful eating practice. https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreadsOur partner store at Fullscript:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-startResilient Remedies: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.

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: Sources and Notes: Resilience Quiz and free Mini-CourseResilient Community(like our Sleeping Well Workshop) Joy Lab Programhttps://gratefulness.org/resource/equanimity-the-fourth-abode/ https://pemachodronfoundation.org/product/working-directly-with-the-mind-audio-download/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5985305/ http://www.contemplativemind.org/enewsletter/2011_Spring/Mindfulness_and_Psychology-Mark_Williams.pdfhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4350240/#R148https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3410434/ Subscribe to our Newsletter:https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreadsOur partner store at Fullscript:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-startResilient Remedies:https://www.resilientremedies.com/ 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.

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-CourseResilient Community(like our Sleeping Well Workshop) Joy Lab ProgramAccess here. Access here.https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-start Immune Support Packets Ascorbic Acid capsules NeuroMood Pure Pack OmegAvail Hi-Po Omega 3 DHA Vegan UltraZin Zinc Immunitone Plus M/R/S Mushroom FormulaOur partner store at Fullscript:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-startResilient Remedies:https://www.resilientremedies.com/ Subscribe to our Newsletter: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.

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-CourseResilient Community (like our Sleeping Well Workshop)Joy Lab Program Subscribe to our Newsletter: 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.https://bookshop.org/shop/NMHreadsOur partner store at Fullscript:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/store-startResilient Remedies: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.