Joy Lab Podcast - podcast cover

Joy Lab Podcast

Henry Emmons, MD and Aimee Prasek, PhDwww.joylab.coach
Welcome to the Joy Lab Podcast! We're your hosts, Dr. Henry Emmons and Dr. Aimee Prasek, and we blend soulful insights with practical strategies to help you navigate mental health challenges like chronic stress, anxiety, and depression. In each episode, we dive deep into the art and science of joy, exploring how to build resilience and flourish, even in the face of life's overwhelming moments. You'll probably resonate and benefit most from joining us if any of the below resonate: * You feel caught in cycles of worry or anxiety. * You feel STRESSED and sick of the symptoms that go along with it (feeling tired, achy/tight in your body, tension headaches, and lots of irritation or nervousness). * You feel overwhelmed by the news of the world around you and it's impacting your mood and focus. * The grind of day-to-day life doesn't feel meaningful to you and you want something more. * Your mind feels ridiculously busy, full, and foggy. You may even be waking up in the middle of the night (3am, anyone?), with your mind racing over stuff you can't shake. * You feel depressed too often or even just stuck in a "meh" or "bleh" kind of state. You also really want to get out of that low mood rut, feel happy again, and live your life more fully. Did you sense a heaviness in your chest or belly that was like... "yeah, I'm feeling that." If so, then join us every Wednesday for a new episode. As hosts of this pod and fellow humans, we've had those thoughts and felt those feelings too. We know the struggle. We also know the relief and what it's like to go beyond just a baseline of feeling "not so bad" and into a more joyful and flourishing state. Maybe best of all, we know how to help others do that too. We've been in the mental health field and doing this work for a combined 50+ years. You can also trust that what we talk about and explore are solid mental health tools and practices grounded by modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), positive psychology, and the science of mindfulness. We'll also adventure beyond what can be measured to explore wisdom from our deepest selves or "soul." But, there's a warning there... even when we're working with that deeper stuff, this is not some woo-woo, new age kind of psychobabble. It's the practical, whole-person approach to mental health that is necessary for our complex human lives. It will challenge you to address all the bits of your being, even those uncertain/uncomfortable sides, to help you cultivate joy right now—no procrastinating for the "perfect" moment. So, if you’re ready to redefine your relationship with mental health and unlock the joy that’s already within you, simply choose an episode that speaks to you and press play. Each episode is your personal guide to building true resilience, embracing self-care that truly nourishes you, and reigniting a deep sense of connection. You’ll walk away with practical insights to help you navigate life’s challenges with more confidence—because joy isn’t something you have to chase, it’s something within you that's waiting for you to rediscover. The Joy Lab Podcast and Program are powered by Pathways North. ________ 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 [email protected]. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

Episodes

79. What's Depression... Really? (Depression and Anxiety Coping Skills)

Most definitions of depression make it sound like a universal, clear-cut state of "dysfunction." We don't think that's true. At Joy Lab, we believe in a holistic approach to mental health. We understand that the mind, body, and heart are interconnected, and we're here to empower you to address all aspects of your wellbeing. That means that this thing we call depression (and anxiety and stress) doesn't just show up in one domain or identically for every person. Depression is a dynamic, evolving e...

Oct 04, 202324 minEp. 79

78. Podcourse: Depression and Anxiety Coping Skills (introduction)

In this episode, we're introducing our podcourse! This course really covers the foundation of what Joy Lab and Natural Mental Health are built on. Expect to learn key coping skills for depression, anxiety, and chronic stress. However, "coping skills" aren't where we'll stop. We'll blend science with soul and dive into the key practices to not only cope with depression, chronic stress, and anxiety but to rise above them and embrace a life of flourishing. 📆 Mark your calendars because Joy Lab epi...

Sep 27, 202316 minEp. 78

77. A Bit About Joy Lab (recap and replay)

What the heck is Joy Lab? And what is joy? Good questions! We talked about these things a LONG time ago and thought it timely to share this episode again. This episode is a reminder of why we do what we do here at Joy Lab and, most of all, why it works. Key bits from this episode: Joy is not the opposite of depression. It is different from happiness and runs deeper than any feeling. Joy can be accessed anytime and anywhere. Joy is not just an emotion. It is a peaceful and natural state of being ...

Sep 20, 202319 minEp. 77

76. Five Lessons on Loving Well (replay!)

The theme of this episode is Love. Not the rom-com version of love, but the genuine deep connection that we all long for. And even though love is all around, it’s easy to close our hearts to love, in fear of becoming vulnerable and getting hurt. So how do we open ourselves again, and how do we keep our hearts open? Tune into this episode to learn the five lessons on loving well and how we can keep our hearts and minds open to love. Key bits from this episode: Love is always there. We just need t...

Sep 13, 202325 minEp. 76

75. You Belong and Are Connected (special meditation from Henry)

Are you feeling the weight of loneliness or disconnection and their impact on your mental health? Join in as Henry guides you through a powerful meditation that starts within – creating a blueprint for meaningful connections and a sense of belonging. Drawing inspiration from the wisdom of the soul, you'll tap into your creative imagination and your existing connectivity to build your "House of Belonging." Key bits: - The connection between loneliness and depression - How to hold the belief that ...

Sep 06, 202313 minEp. 75

74. Sometimes I Just Sits... (the power of solitude)

Are you ready to unlock the transformative magic of solitude? Join us in this episode as we dive deep into the surprising world of solitude and its incredible potential to rejuvenate your spirit and fuel your sense of fun. In our previous episode, we explored the darker sides of isolation and loneliness, but this time, we're shedding light on the positive power of being alone with yourself. So, imagine a space where you can recharge your energy, find your creative spark, and tap into what truly ...

Aug 30, 202325 minEp. 74

73. Lonely in crowded places (this isn't a country music song)

In this episode, we're diving into a crucial topic that affects so many of us: loneliness and isolation. We're here to guide you through the science, emotions, and strategies to break free from these barriers. You'll tap into the heart of human connection and come away with some tips on how to embrace the joy of meaningful interactions and relationships. Key bits from this episode include: Loneliness and isolation might feel like opposites of joy, but they can teach us a lot about ourselves and ...

Aug 23, 202326 minEp. 73

72. Blame-It, Overanalyze-It, Should-It, & Separate (BOSS Dominoes)

How'd I get so lonely? How'd I get to this place... feeling alone? These aren't uncommon questions that pop up. In this episode, Aimee highlights a common pathway for how we might fall into loneliness or a sense of disconnection or separation. Putting a light on this pathway can help us realize what can often go unseen, unconsciously for so long. And once we see it, we can do something about it. Links and Sources: Resilient Community Find lots of resources to support you and you'll join a crew o...

Aug 16, 202311 minEp. 72

71. Uncovering Your Playful Nature (guided meditation)

Are you feeling like the playful YOU that once existed has fallen away? Or maybe you've watched other people move through their day with a fun spirit that you wish you could tap into? You're not alone. When adult-ing gets tough, fun usually takes a back seat (like way in the back). Problem is, squashing that playful or fun aspect of yourself can also squash the creative, inspired, energetic, and curious elements of you as well. The truth is, your playful self is a surprisingly powerful element o...

Aug 09, 202312 minEp. 71

70. Update and Special [Super fun!] Replay

Fun rarely gets attention when it comes to mental health. And that’s a huge oversight, because fun (or play) is a really powerful concept when it comes to good mental health. And, when we’re dealing with something like depression, infusing more fun or play into our day can be a really potent support to help us feel a bit better. Of course, there are obstacles that can block our fun. In this episode, we're unearthing episode #5 for a bit of a primer on fun. We discuss what fun is, how fun can tak...

Aug 02, 202331 minEp. 70

69. Enlarging Your Life With Silence

In this episode, we’re exploring our seventh and final aspect of deep listening which is “silence.” Ironically, silence is a powerful practice to help open up more deep conversation. It's a surprising tool that can uncover wisdom and healing. It's a powerful aspect of deep listening that you can practice and use more skillfully in conversation with others and yourself. Links and Sources: Resilient Community Find lots of resources to support you and you'll join a crew of inspiring people who are ...

Jul 26, 202312 minEp. 69

68. Getting Out of Our Own Heads with the Aspect of Wonder

In this episode, we're exploring the sixth aspect of deep listening which is "wonder." As it relates to listening, this aspect helps us keep our curiosity and awe focused on the wellbeing of the person speaking. With this aspect, we can ask questions that help illuminate the truth for another. Using this aspect of deep listening in conversation is surprisingly powerful; for the speaker and the listener. We'll talk about the power of this aspect and how to practice it amidst some common obstacles...

Jul 19, 202315 minEp. 68

67. Allowing Space for Our Truths

In this episode, we’re exploring our element of awe alongside the fifth aspect of deep listening which is “allowing.” When it comes to listening, allowing reminds us that we can't be pressured into speaking our truth. We must be allowed to do so. We can do this for ourselves and for other by creating the space that feels safe, spacious, and unhurried. We'll get into some key obstacles that come with this and some simple steps to practice this aspect of "allowing." Links and Sources: Resilient Co...

Jul 12, 202314 minEp. 67

66. Seeing the Goodness in Others, Yourself, & The World

In this episode, we’re exploring our element of curiosity alongside the fourth aspect of deep listening which is “seeing the goodness in others.” And even though this aspect may sound subtle, the impact is profound. Not only does "seeing the goodness in others" support our own deep listening, but it feeds how we see ourselves, and the way we see the world. Links and Sources: Resilient Community Find lots of resources to support you and you'll join a crew of inspiring people who are building thei...

Jul 05, 202316 minEp. 66

65. Seeing Our Innocence & Listening Deeply

In this episode, we’re exploring our element of curiosity alongside the third aspect of deep listening which is “seeing the person’s innocence.” This can be a tough aspect considering what may be a more common tendency to listen with the lens of “seeing the other person’s problem” or “seeing the person’s solution.” Problem is, those lenses make it nearly impossible to listen well. We'll talk about the practices to overcome those obstacles and to help us listen with an intention that creates more...

Jun 28, 202315 minEp. 65

64. Taking Charge of Your Attention

We’re working on “Attention” in this episode, the second aspect of deep listening and also a skill that boosts our curiosity. So, how do attention, listening, curiosity, and mental health relate? Well, they're all skills and areas of our wellbeing that can be improved with practice. Listen in for how to direct your attention and curiosity where you want it and in ways that enhance your mood, calm anxious thoughts, and that also support your superpower of deep listening (to yourself and others). ...

Jun 21, 202320 minEp. 64

63. Being Present with Yourself and Others

In this episode, we're exploring our element of Curiosity and the power of presence. Presence is the first of those aspects of deep listening that we noted last episode. And we get it, "being present" can sometimes come off like a cliche, but it's really more than just a hashtag or a title of a self-help book. Tapping into your ability to be more present is a learnable skill that gives you a superpower... the power of choice. Present-moment attention also fuels curiosity, allowing you to see wha...

Jun 14, 202320 minEp. 63

62. Easing Anxiety with Curiosity & the Power of Deep Listening

In this episode, we're exploring our element Curiosity. We'll talk about using curiosity to reduce anxiety and at the same time how more curious folks can swing toward anxiety. That all may seem like a paradox, but there's a sweet spot in there where we can strengthen our curiosity in ways that feel nourishing and fuel our joy. We'll also touch on the seven aspects of deep listening that can be used to ignite curiosity (and ease anxiety). Links and Sources: Resilient Community Find lots of resou...

Jun 07, 202321 minEp. 62

61. Creating Deep Connections (introvert approved!)

In this episode, we're working on our element Hope... and resilience as well! We're still adventuring through The Roots of Resilience (laid out in one of Dr. Emmons book, The Chemistry of Calm ). We're talking about the seventh and final root, "Creating Deep Connections" and how those connections are essential for our resilience and hope. And fear not, introverts. This root doesn't mean you need to to make a boatload of friends. Instead, we're looking at how connection and belonging are essentia...

May 31, 202319 minEp. 61

60. Cultivating a Good Heart for Mental Health

In this episode, we're working on our element Hope... and resilience as well! We're still adventuring through The Roots of Resilience (laid out in one of Dr. Emmons book, The Chemistry of Calm ). We're talking about the sixth root, "Cultivating a Good Heart." What does this have to do with mental health?! A lot actually. We're not just a brain wandering around all alone. We're more than that. And this root opens up the rest of our body, and the world around us, so that we can not only improve ou...

May 24, 202323 minEp. 60

59. Turning Toward the [uncomfortable] Feelings

In this episode, we're working on our element Hope... and resilience as well! We're still adventuring through The Roots of Resilience (laid out in one of Dr. Emmons book, The Chemistry of Calm ). We're talking about the fifth root, "Turning Toward the Feeling." Specifically, those uncomfortable ones that we may want to run from or push down. Instead, if we want those feelings to move through us (and go on their way), then we need to turn toward them and give them the attention that they require....

May 17, 202321 minEp. 59

58. Calming the Mind & Building Resilience

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: He...

May 10, 202320 minEp. 58

57. Resilience, Hope, & Mental Health (pessimist approved!)

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. O...

May 03, 202315 minEp. 57

56. Aligning with Nature and Bio-Rhythms to Boost Mood & Resilience

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 gro...

Apr 26, 202328 minEp. 56

55. Energy Thieves & Managing Energy with Supplements, Diet, & Exercise

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 some "energy thieves" and ...

Apr 19, 202326 minEp. 55

54. Balancing Brain Chemistry with Supplements & Diet

In this episode, we're working on our element of Resilience and exploring the first "Root of Resilience" known as balancing brain chemistry. 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 use diet, supplements, and medications to balance brain chemistry. We'll also look at what "temperament" has to do with our behaviors and brain chemistry... and also how it doesn't have a...

Apr 12, 202328 minEp. 54

53. The Roots of Resilience (beginning of our Roots series)

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 this element. 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 a...

Apr 05, 202320 minEp. 53

52. Equanimity: Cleaning Up After the Storm with Self-Compassion (part 5)

In this episode, we're in the final part of our five-part series on equanimity. In this series, we've worked through this process of an emotional storm and how we can use equanimity to get us through with less suffering. In this episode, we’re walking out of our house to assess what may be some damage after the storm. This phase of the storm can be hard to face, but it can actually be the easiest phase to tap into equanimity. As we assess with self-compassion, we can tune into our equanimity to ...

Mar 29, 202317 minEp. 52

51. Equanimity: Emotional Reactivity and Damage Control (part 4)

In this episode, we're in the fourth part of our five-part series on equanimity. This episode is quite a bit different than the last two where we worked with the internal dynamics of an emotional storm and how equanimity can come in to tame the winds. Now, we’ll look at how this process can expand outside ourselves. We're probably all familiar with this phase as well: we say or do things out of surges of emotions that took us by surprise, negative thoughts that hung on, and story lines we told o...

Mar 22, 202316 minEp. 51

50. Equanimity: Seeing our Storylines and Changing Course (part 3)

In this episode, we're in the third part of our five-part series on equanimity. In last episode, we faced the beginning of an emotional storm. Now, the storm is whipping up more, enough to incite that common hurricane called “why me”… also known as getting caught up in our story line. The problem here is that the stories we tell ourselves are rarely helpful or accurate. Or as therapist Lori Gottlieb puts it succinctly: "If there's anything I've learned as a therapist, it's that we are all unreli...

Mar 15, 202312 minEp. 50
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