Season 4, Episode 10: Wisdom for the New Year

Climate Change and Happiness

image credit | Serge Taeymans

Season 4, Episode 10: Wisdom for the New Year

Thomas and Panu had a mindful dialog about the end of the year to new year’s transition. Looking back on 2024, they noted the significance of Panu’s climate emotions wheel for people new to expressing feelings about climate and environmental issues, the challenges of being seen as an expert, and the importance of taking regular breaks to appreciate our efforts and accomplishments (or what Thomas calls a “behavioral sabbath”). Looking ahead, they shared the embodied activities they each do like cross country skiing as ways to recreate and restore themselves, and taking on new creative past times like training in Butoh theater (for Panu) and drumming (for Thomas). Ultimately, they emphasized the need for seeking joy and gratitude in the face of sorrows of the world, and the importance of giving oneself and others permission to feel happiness.

Links

• Episode Quotes:

• “Don't just glance at your life, stare at what you got.”

• “Retreat, hell. I’m just attacking in another direction.”

• “We must have the stubbornness to accept our gladness in the ruthless furnace of this world.”

• from A Brief for the Defense, by Jack Gilbert

• CCH Season 3, Episode 5: The Climate Emotions Wheel