
Unlocking Joy in our Changing Climate
Overview
How can we navigate stress, overwhelm, and grief while staying committed to taking action?
Here's what we know: You can't force joy. You can't schedule it between "update the climate action plan" and "plan lobby meeting." But you CAN create space for it—and that makes all the difference in our ability to find the balance between the weight of what we're facing and the energy we need to keep going.
Who this is for
Anyone who feels deeply concerned about climate change and is committed to doing something significant about it. Maybe you're working in renewable energy, leading a nonprofit, advocating for policy, or organizing in your local community. Maybe you're a foundation program officer, a college sustainability director, or someone in climate tech designing solutions at scale.
Ultimately, you feel the weight of this work, and you're looking for ways to show up as your most effective, resilient self. Allowing for joy can help you do that.
What we'll do together
- Explore the paradox of joy in the climate space, and the tension of opposites: gravity and joy, stress and creativity, overwhelm and possibility
- Learn practical tools for emotional regulation that actually work when you're in the thick of climate work
- Practice together through observation, intentional breathing, body awareness and play
- Build community through small and large group activities, and discussion - because none of us can, or should, do this work alone
What you'll leave with
Real tools & perspectives for accessing joy, play, and curiosity in your climate work and beyond – not because you're supposed to be happy all the time, but because these qualities are actually essential for the long-term, meaningful change we're all working toward.
About the facilitator
Tamara Staton is an Integral Master Coach®, educator, and facilitator passionate about equipping individuals with the emotional tools they need to thrive in the face of adversity. She blends positive psychology, mindfulness, and leadership training to help people build sustainable engagement strategies that prevent overwhelm and foster wellbeing. With over 20 years of experience in human development, wilderness leadership, and community building, and a passion for neuroscience and Buddhist principles, Tamara incorporates nature-based and somatic practices whenever possible.
Through her company, Lighter Side of Climate, Tamara brings lightness to people who carry the weight of planetary responsibility, with a focus on integrating joy and deepening personal resilience as the foundation for sustainable action.
Ready to make more space for joy in your climate work?
Space is limited - register soon to reserve your spot.
Suggested donation of $20-$30 at the door to cover facility rental & programming.
Questions? See FAQ for additional details or reach out to tamara@lightersideofclimate.com if you have questions or specific accessibility needs. I'd love to hear from you.
Good to know
Highlights
- 2 hours
- ages 16+
- In person
- Free parking
- Doors at 5:15 PM
Location
McMenamins Kennedy School
5736 Northeast 33rd Avenue
Portland, OR 97211
How do you want to get there?
Frequently asked questions
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