Rabbi Rick Schechter (he/him) is the spiritual leader of Temple Sinai of Glendale in Glendale, CA. He has studied the science of well-being extensively since 2003, completed 240 hours of training and certification in applied positive psychology, and teaches classes in Judaism and positive psychology for adults and teens.
We may want to experience only life's peaks, but there’s another valuable direction in life, too – into the valleys. Our upward movement is balanced by a downward movement, like the angels in Jacob’s dream. We need to embrace both.
Positive psychology has from its inception been unabashedly influenced by ancient philosophical and religious wisdom, embracing teachings and values found in Judaism.