Have you ever thought, I’ll feel more joy when life finally calms down? What if joy isn’t something you have to wait for?

In today’s episode of Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast, Bonnie explores the science of joy—and how choosing joy can actually lift your own well-being too. Bonnie shares a personal story about following a gentle prompting she really resisted initially — and the surprising joy she experienced in her own life after taking action.

You’ll also discover how knowing you are deeply seen and known by God can become a source of joy—and how the joy and love you’ve received from Him can overflow into someone else’s life.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why joy doesn’t have to wait until your stressful circumstances change
- How knowing you are seen, known, and heard by God can lift your heart
- What Hannah’s story teaches us about joy in times of suffering
- What research says about helping positive emotions multiply
- Two simple ways to choose joy to reap the wellness benefits and grow closer to God

Scripture
“In your presence there is fullness of joy.” Psalm 16:11
“You formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb.” Psalm 139:13

Breath Prayer
Inhale: In Your presence…
Exhale: There is fullness of joy.

Resources & Studies Mentioned
"Acts of Kindness & Well-Being" https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022103117303451

"Sharing Positive Experiences & Well-Being"
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15301629
Henri Nouwen on Choosing Joy:
“Joy does not simply happen to us. We have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day.” by Henri Nouwen in his book "Here and Now: Living in the Spirit"
https://link.amazon/B07FPEBYr

→ Read Whispers of Rest: 40 Days to Revitalize Your Soul with God's Love, by Bonnie:
https://amzn.to/3NpVYQd

→ Join Bonnie on Instagram @thebonniegray

→ Eucalyptus Shower Steamers for instant calm at Bonnie's Soul Care Store

Watch YouTube Devotionals:
https://youtube.com/thebonniegray

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