How do you deal with your doldrums? Yup. We’re still in a pandemic and it looks like we will be for quite a bit longer. In this episode, Ted and Lisa take stock of that fact and look to transform their feeling a bit down…by acknowledging that they feel down. Ted starts things off with a check-in about some health-related news and rumination (2:57). Lisa wonders if coronavirus times are real life—or are they just fantasy? (8:04) Lisa shares what she’s thinking about most these days (hint: it’s a shift in joy and it’s white privilege) (11:22) which prompts Ted to share Denise Levertov’s thoughts on guilt and responsibility (15:12). Ted weighs in on his world—how teaching provides a lifeline and how he’s learning to let go of more (17:14). The pair note how emotions seem particularly amplified these days (23:16) and discuss ways they’re leaning on mindfulness to help—or not (28:12). Improv practice provides some perspective, as usual (31:15) and Lisa offers reassurance for her “desiccated husk” (35:04). They discuss how nature helps and how we may be recalibrating our sensitivities (36:37) and Lisa muses about the comforting value of having one’s own circle (40:24). The pair closes the episode by noting we won’t feel this way forever (43:23) and by posing the question “what will your future self thank you for?” (44:48). The Outro offers a few reflective thoughts post-episode (42:13). If there’s something in the episode that brings you particular joy—or raises a question—feel free to write us at [email protected]. To subscribe so you receive immediate notice of future Monster Baby releases, head over to: http://monsterbabypodcast.com. And lastly, if you’re needing some inspiring Monster-Baby based words to get you through these tough times, order a copy of Ted’s Monster-Baby-inspired book, Playful Mindfulness from www.playfulmindfulness.info. (Ted will surely sign it for you if you like!)