Beginning Nov. 18, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., and continuing for six consecutive Tuesday evenings, Chabad’s  Jewish Learning Institute (JLI) will present “How Happiness Thinks: Jewish Perspectives on Positive Psychology” at the Jewish Community Center Arts & Education Building, 2 Millstone Campus Drive in Creve Coeur. The course was developed by Chabad’s Rohr Jewish Learning Institute and is offered by Chabad of Greater St. Louis in partnership with the JCC. Rabbi Yosef Landa, director of Chabad of Greater St. Louis, will conduct the six-session course.

While drawing on 3,000 years of Jewish wisdom on happiness, the course, which was prepared by JLI in partnership with the Washington School of Psychiatry, builds on the latest observations and discoveries in the field of positive psychology. The course offers participants the opportunity to earn up to 15 continuing education credits from the American Psychological Association, American Council for Continuing Medical Education and the National Board of Certified Counselors. 

“How Happiness Thinks brings together modern research and ancient Jewish wisdom,” said Prof. Ben-Shahar, an expert in the field. “This marriage between theology and science can bring about significant positive change in individuals and communities.”  The course explores to what degree surroundings and circumstances affect one’s overall happiness, potential challenges to living a joyous life and whether God cares if people are happy or not. 

JLI’s programs are designed to appeal to people at all levels of Jewish knowledge, including those without any prior experience or background in Jewish learning. All JLI courses are open to the public, and attendees need not be affiliated with a particular house of worship.

Interested students may call Chabad at 314-725-0400 or visit myJLI.com to register or for more information.