#285 What’s the Point of Joy Right Now? | James Baraz

In my opinion, purveyors of joy can come off as oily and unctious, even in the best of times. Like walking impersonations of Rainbow Brite. But in hard times, arguing for joy can seem pollyanna-ish or downright clueless. Our guest today reframes joy as supremely relevant and eminently doable. His name is James Baraz. He is the co-founder of Spirit Rock Meditation Center in California, and author of the book Awakening Joy. We talk about: why joy gets a bad rap; why it’s not a feel-good project, but instead a “feel-everything” project; and the role of meditation in taking on pressing issues such as climate and race. Also, stay tuned for a cameo from our producer, Marissa, who weighs in with a personal question. 

Where to find James Baraz online: 

Website: https://www.awakeningjoy.info/

Social Media:

• Twitter
• Facebook
• YouTube

Books:

• Awakening Joy: 10 Steps to Happiness by James Baraz and Shoshana Alexander
• Awakening Joy for Kids by James Baraz and Michele Lilyanna

James Baraz leads the Awakening Joy course each year which people take from all over the world. You can go to awakeningjoy.info for more information.

Other Resources Mentioned:

• A sorority of mothers in Mexico search mass graves in hopes of finding missing children's bodies
• EAARTH by Bill McKibben
• Dianne Bondy
• Why mindfulness matters during a pandemic

Additional Resources:

• Ten Percent Happier Live: https://tenpercent.com/live
• Coronavirus Sanity Guide: https://www.tenpercent.com/coronavirussanityguide
• Free App access for Frontline Workers: https://tenpercent.com/care