Practicing Joy in Times of Crisis: Choosing Joy at DENA Heals

Community Gatherings that Restore & Renew

If you work in nonprofits or community spaces and have been holding the heartbreak of wildfires, political violence, and ongoing collective crises, this space is for you. Practicing Joy in Times of Crisis is a series of 10 community gatherings, five virtual and five in-person, designed to help you reconnect with joy and hope as intentional practices.

This series is presented in partnership with A Thousand Joys.

These gatherings are not about bypassing pain. Joy includes our grief. It includes our exhaustion. It includes our rage. Together, through movement, music, restorative practices, reflection, and community dialogue, we will reset our nervous systems and replenish our spirits. When we care for ourselves, we strengthen our capacity to show up for the people and communities who rely on us. Sustainable service requires sustainable self-care.

Choosing Joy (in person) at DENA Heals

Led by Felina Danalis & Hala Khouri 

When the world feels heavy, choosing joy is not denial,  it is a radical act.  In this session, we reclaim our right to joy, expression, and aliveness in community.

Together we’ll name what thoughts and feelings we’re holding on to, let some of that go, and then talk about what we actually want for our lives right now.

Expect movement practices designed to loosen perfectionism, invite spontaneity, and explore new ways of being that feel lighter and more alive. All movements can be done from a chair, seated or on the floor.

Your participation level is up to you: move fully, or sit and watch. Everyone is welcome.

We’ll close with intentional conversation, anchoring the experience in community and shared hope.

Please come in bright colors! Bring an instrument, a drum, or something meaningful to you that sparks your joy!