Cultivating Joy: A Journey of Connection, Mindfulness, and Healing

Penni Feiner

What does joy mean to you? Is it a moment of laughter with loved ones? A deep breath in the middle of a busy day? Or is it something more—a steady presence, a feeling of being grounded no matter the circumstances?

For our founder, Penni Feiner, cultivating joy has been a lifelong journey—one shaped by recovery, community, and the practice of yoga and mindfulness. With 42 years of sobriety, she has come to understand that true joy is not about seeking external highs but about nurturing inner peace, embracing connection, and showing up fully for life—one day at a time.

The Early Struggles: Redefining Joy in Recovery

In the early days of addiction, feelings of joy were tied to the use of substances that provided an artificial sense of relief. But as the cycle of dependency deepened, joy became harder to reach. Instead, shame took its place.

The turning point came when Penni joined an outpatient rehab group, stepping into a space of community and shared healing. She quickly learned that recovery wasn’t just about quitting substances—it was about learning to cultivate joy without needing to escape.

The Power of Connection in Finding Joy

Penni found strength in group programs, where celebrating milestones together became a reminder that healing isn’t meant to be done alone. Whether it was a sober New Year’s Eve party or the simple act of showing up to a meeting, each moment reinforced that joy is built through shared experiences.

“Without community and connection, joy would be absent.” Penni shares.

But community isn’t just about recovery spaces—it’s about finding places that offer connection and purpose. For Penni, this meant practicing with her yoga community, engaging in kirtan (chanting), and making time for movement.

Movement and Mindfulness: Tools for Inner Peace

For those new to recovery or struggling with stress, mindfulness might feel intimidating. The idea of “sitting with emotions” can seem overwhelming, especially when past wounds feel too heavy to bear.

But Penni discovered that mindfulness isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence.

She describes it simply:

●      One day at a time, one breath at a time.

●      One moment of gratitude, no matter how small.

●      One movement—whether it’s yoga, walking, or dancing—to shift energy and quiet the inner critic.

Through practices like yoga and mindfulness, she found a way to reconnect with her body, mind, and spirit. These became her tools for self-compassion, allowing her to transform judgment into peace and gratitude.

Advice for Those Seeking Joy

For those struggling to cultivate joy or skeptical about the power of yoga and mindfulness practices in personal healing, Penni encourages you to start small.

●      Find your people. Healing happens in community. Seek out support groups, friendships, or spaces where you feel seen and heard.

●      Be present with yourself. Even if it’s just noticing your breath for a few moments each day.

●      Move in ways that feel good. Yoga, walking, stretching—anything that helps shift your energy.

●      Celebrate progress, not perfection. Joy is not about always feeling happy. It’s about learning to stay present, even when things feel hard.

Cultivating joy isn't a one-time event—it's a practice. It's about showing up, choosing gratitude, and allowing yourself to be supported.

For Penni, joy is no longer something she chases—it's something she builds, one connection, one breath, and one moment at a time. Her story serves as an inspiration to all those seeking to cultivate joy in their lives, reminding us that with determination, support, and the right tools, it's possible to build a life filled with purpose and happiness.