Cultivating Emotional Balance
with The Johnston Group
What is Cultivating Emotional Balance?
Cultivating Emotional Balance (CEB) is an evidence-based and secular framework that combines neuroscientific research on emotions and well-being with Buddhist contemplative and meditative practices. The ultimate goal of CEB is development of lasting well-being through the cultivation of attentional, cognitive, conation (or intention/choice), and emotional balance.
Participants have reported improvement or development of the following:
Better emotional self-awareness
Understanding how emotions can affect our actions
Regaining or retaining agency in emotional situations
Strengthening of coping and resilience skills with lessened emotional reactivity to stressful events
Decrease in depressive, anxious and hostile states
Increasing ability to relate to others' emotional states
Cultivating better attentional skills
Increased genuine happiness and satisfaction
FAQs
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The Cultivating Emotional Balance (CEB) program is a transformational training program that aims to empower individuals through the cultivation of emotional intelligence, resilience, and well-being. It draws from a combination of Eastern contemplative practices and Western scientific research on emotions and well-being.
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CEB emerged from a profound meeting at the Mind and Life Conference in Dharamsala in 2000, where renowned psychologist Dr. Paul Ekman had the opportunity to present his research on "The Evolution of Human Emotion" to a distinguished audience that included His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
During the conference, various scientists delved into the psychobiology of destructive emotions, explored cultural and developmental neuroplasticity, and discussed the potential application of these insights in modern education. This historic meeting was eloquently described in the book "Destructive Emotions" by Daniel Goleman. It was at this gathering that His Holiness the Dalai Lama called for action to implement ideas for improving emotional well-being, sparking the dedication of Dr. Paul Ekman and Dr. Alan Wallace to take up the challenge.
In 2002, the first CEB curriculum was born, thanks to the collaborative efforts of Paul Ekman, Alan Wallace, and valuable input from Richard Davidson, Mark Greenberg, and Matthieu Ricard. Paul Ekman focused on incorporating psychological materials, while Alan Wallace expertly wove in contemplative practices. Their combined expertise shaped a comprehensive secular program aimed at nurturing emotional balance and resilience.
The effectiveness of CEB was further reinforced through a scientific study designed by Paul Ekman and carried out by his colleague, Kemeny. This study, rooted in rigorous scientific inquiry, provided empirical evidence supporting the benefits of CEB practices. It highlighted the profound impact of cultivating emotional balance on individuals' emotional lives and overall well-being.
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CEB in and of itself is not therapy, though it has been said by participants that healing does take place.
Throughout the courses and events, concepts and experiences around emotion are explored, but CEB is not a therapeutic modality, but rather an educational one. The content of CEB is not meant as a replacement for traditional therapy., however many participants have reported that the skills gained from CEB complement and support other therapies.
The teachers of this material are not licensed healthcare professionals and as such do not provide diagnoses of any kind.
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All CEB related material and courses are taught by Tom Johnston. A lifelong learner and certified life coach, Tom has spent many years studying emotions and their effects on our lives.
As Wisconsin’s only CEB certified teacher, Tom also holds degrees in Philosophy and Linguistics, as well as an expert-level certification in facial micro-expression training from Paul Ekman Group. He brings a deep understanding of human behavior and emotions to his courses, seminars, coaching session and retreats.
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The next CEB courses will be held online on August 8 and 10 and will be shorter, foundational classes. See all classes at our events page.
If you are interested in participating in a future CEB course please join the waitlist at this link. You will be notified of any CEB related events as they are announced.
Alternatively, if you have a group or organization that you are looking for a private course to be held, please reach out via the contact form below.
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Training and Education
CEB courses taught online or in-person by Wisconsin’s only CEB certified teacher, Tom Johnston
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Contemplative Support
Meditation and contemplative practice resources and support through group and individual meditation sessions
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CEB Coaching
Working one-on-one applying CEB directly to real world scenarios and situations
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Retreats
Weekend and week-long retreats allowing the solitude and focus to deeply explore Cultivating Emotional Balance
What People Are Saying
“Tom broke everything down very well and delivered it in a way that made it easy to digest and understand. He tapped into things I had never thought of and helped me shed new light on my emotions, the power of them (positive or negative), and how to stop and take time to assess them in order to better myself and my experience.”
— Foundations of Cultivating Emotional Balance Participant
“Tom’s class on the Foundations of Emotional Balance was a very good introduction to the topics of emotions, emotional timelines, mindfulness meditation, and the four balances. I feel invigorated and empowered to continue my personal journey of self-discovery and growth with these skills.”
— Foundations of Cultivating Emotional Balance Participant
“The tools and techniques I learned in the CEB course have become my go-to in managing my anxiety and dealing with significant life changes. I now feel like I can maintain my emotional well-being and cope whenever the need appears.”
