Explore Joy Therapy: The Latest Wellness Trend You Must Experience

Everything to know about joy therapy, plus the best retreats and spa breaks for seeking joy in 2023

28 March 2023

If you had to sum up 2022 in just one word, which would you choose? Sad? Depressing? Recession, maybe? Whatever it is, I bet it’s not ‘joyful’. Why? Because according to the Office for National Statistics, 2022 was the saddest year since records began. Set against a backdrop of successive national lockdowns – which plunged thousands into loneliness – now we’re stumbling through a cost-of-living crisis. Consequently, the impact isn’t just affecting our bank balances, but our mental health, too.

However, amidst the doom and gloom, there seems to be a growing trend for prioritising positivity and, yes, even joy. This is evidenced by Fearne Cotton’s Happy Place podcast, Dr. Rangan Chatterjee’s self-help initiatives, and joy-seeking celebrities on social media such as Drew Barrymore.

Sophie Cliff, a positive psychology practitioner, qualified coach, and author, asserts that joy and positivity are crucial for leading a satisfying and healthy life. “We don’t only exercise when we’re injured and we don’t wait until we’re ill to eat fruit and vegetables,” she explains. “Do proactive things to improve health; research supports that prioritising positivity and rest enhances our health, relationships, and even work success.”

But how can you coach someone through therapy to be joyful? “The biggest predictor of joy is connection,” Cliff says. “Research reveals that we need to feel connected to experience joy; it’s an essential part of our humanity.” Therefore, joy therapy may involve examining where one might lack connection in life and exploring ways to foster that.

Additionally, gratitude plays a significant role. Focusing on existing positivity can help shift attention from negative aspects to joy-inducing elements of life. However, Cliff cautions against a toxic positivity mindset. “Negative emotions are important to process things healthily. True happiness isn’t conditional upon future milestones; instead, appreciating current goodness is a faster route to joy.”

Joy Is Unique

Of course, joy manifests differently for everyone. For some, that initial sip of piping hot coffee ignites joy, while others find joy through nature, exercise, or cherished time with loved ones. Understanding what brings you happiness is vital. If you’re feeling mentally or physically exhausted from past uncertainties, joy therapy could illuminate what makes you genuinely happy. Alternatively, retreats and wellness spas provide tranquil environments for relaxation and joy-seeking.

The Best Retreats and Spas That Spark Joy

The Conscious Living Retreat, Portugal

This five-day retreat in Ericeira focuses on personal transformation, encompassing workshops on emotional intelligence, goal-setting, and life values. Participants learn how living a more conscious life can foster joy, complemented by surfing activities.

BXR Retreat at Daios Cove, Crete

This retreat caters to fitness enthusiasts. If working out energises you, the BXR retreat at Daios Cove offers a week-long agenda centred on healthy eating and fitness activities. Expect hiking, mountain biking, paddle boarding, yoga, and restorative massages along with wellness treatments to rejuvenate.

Recharge in Ibiza

This Ibiza retreat invites participants to pause, recharge, and rediscover joy. Through yoga, sound healing, and nourishing local food, attendees gain space to unplug and cultivate joy.

Wild and Free, Surf and Yoga Retreat, Cornwall

Escape the daily grind and immerse yourself in Cornwall’s surf and yoga retreat. Experience luxury yurts, organic vegetarian meals, and wave riding at Mawgan Porth to discover your inner surfer. Sun, sea, and beautiful landscapes create an ideal atmosphere for rejuvenating joy.

Curious House, East Sussex

If creativity ignites joy, consider exploring creative courses at Curious House, offering everything from painting to pottery and more. Accommodation at The Bell in Ticehurst allows participants to feel inspired and unleash their creative potential.