The FDIP
Season 1
Reclaiming Joy After Chronic Stress
New Faculty Orientation - Special Episode
by Faculty Development and Innovation Center
This episode explores how long-term stress reshapes the nervous system and gently narrows our capacity for pleasure, ease, and connection. Dr. Misty Rhoads offers a compassionate, nervous-system–informed approach to rediscovering joy through small, realistic shifts in awareness and daily life, supporting a sense of aliveness that feels safe, sustainable, and real.
A special episode for our New Faculty Orientation Participants, make sure to listen and email your podcast episodes and classroom ideas to mgillespie@eiu.edu
Introducing the FDIP
In this episode of Mindful Moments, Dr. Misty Rhoads, Kim Ervin, Instructional Designer, and Dr. Andrew Kerins explore how spending time in nature - even briefly - can support nervous system regulation and overall well-being. They share practical approaches like tech-free walks, sensory awareness, and simple outdoor pauses that fit into a busy day. The episode also includes a guided mindful moment to help listeners slow down, reconnect, and experience the quiet support that nature offers.