Inspirational TED Talks for a mid-year boost: Part 1 of 3

COVID-19 has been a global disaster but, for many people, it’s also been a chance to slow down:

What can you hear in silence? In this exploration of sound, host of the podcast "Twenty Thousand Hertz" Dallas Taylor tells the story of arguably the most debated musical composition in recent history -- composer John Cage's iconic piece 4'33" -- and invites you to take notice of the soundscape around you. 

The pandemic has also given people a chance to appreciate what they have.

As the coronavirus pandemic raged in her native Sri Lanka, monk JayaShri Maathaa had a thought: two magical words that planted something beautiful in her mind and blossomed into a whole new way of being. She shares how this mantra transformed her life -- and the surprising ways gratitude can invite bliss, joy and harmony between yourself and all that surrounds you.

Most importantly, it’s been a reminder to cherish our relationships and the things we hold dear.

In a series of visual, animated love letters, designer Debbie Millman reflects on the things she's grateful for by exploring the wonders of her garden, New York City, travel and storytelling. "As we navigate through this crisis, I'm hopeful we will find some solace together," she says.

So, even though there you might be feeling overwhelmed, know that your emotions are healthy.

Crying isn't something to be afraid or ashamed of. Exploring the science behind the mood-boosting power of crying, childbirth and lactation educator Kathy Mendias shows how tears can enhance your physical and mental well-being and deepen your relationship to yourself and others.

And even though you might be unsure of the future, you can’t let that hold you back.

When your future is uncertain, how do you keep moving forward? In this courageous talk, oncologist and cancer survivor Shekinah Elmore shares how she embraced life after a rare genetic diagnosis and explains why she believes doctors have a duty to help their patients learn to live with radical uncertainty.

Instead, take comfort in the fact that we’ll get through this if we stick together and stay strong.

Do you need some help? It's OK to ask, says YeYoon Kim, a former kindergarten teacher who learned from her students how powerful and courageous it can be to reach out for support. Sharing the story of one of the most difficult periods in her life, Kim explores the happiness and joy that can come from leaning on those you love in times of need and encourages the rest of us to start asking for help more often.

All it takes is small steps, day after day, to lead to better results.

You know how resolutions often go: you set a goal and start strong but then the motivation runs out and feelings of frustration and shame creep in. The struggle is real but what if it doesn't have to be? Sociologist Christine Carter shares a simple step to shift your mindset and keep you on track to achieving your grandest ambitions.

(I’ll be moving this newsletter over to my blog at www.eugeneyiga.com. No need to do anything different on your side!)