How to Awaken Joy, with Spring Washam | Happiness Break

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Jan 23, 2025

Spring Washam, a meditation teacher and author of 'The Spirit of Harriet Tubman,' shares insightful practices to cultivate joy. She emphasizes the importance of reflecting on joyful moments and allowing positive emotions to flourish. The discussion highlights 'sympathetic joy,' urging listeners to celebrate the successes of others to amplify their own happiness. Spring's guided meditation enhances mindfulness and gratitude, fostering a belief that joy is limitless, like the stars. It's a delightful call to connection and shared happiness.

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ADVICE

Focus on the Positive

Focus on the positive aspects of your life daily, even small ones.
This mindset shift helps cultivate joy and counteracts negativity bias.

ADVICE

Reflect on Joyful Moments

Reflect on a specific activity or moment that brings you joy, even if infrequent.
Immerse yourself in the sensations and emotions associated with that joyful memory.

ADVICE

Affirm Joyful Growth

While reflecting on your joyful experience, repeat the mantra: "May my joy and my happiness increase."
Let this intention amplify the positive emotions and cultivate a sense of growth.

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Cultivate more joy in your life with this practice led by meditation teacher and author Spring Washam.

How to Do This Practice:

Reflect on an area of your life that brings you joy—whether it’s a small moment, an activity, or a connection.
Imagine experiencing that joyful moment. Feel the smiles, peace, and lightness it brings. Let yourself fully connect with the positive emotions.
As you reflect, silently say to yourself, “May my joy and my happiness increase.” Allow this intention to sink into your heart.
Bring to mind someone in your life who is experiencing happiness or success. Picture them in their joyful state.
In your mind, say to them, “May your joy and happiness increase.” Or, “I’m happy for your happiness. May your happiness continue.”
Remind yourself that joy is limitless, like the stars in the universe. Celebrating the joy of others enhances your own happiness.

Today’s Happiness Break Guide:

Spring Washam, is a meditation teacher based in Oakland, California. She is also the author of the book, The Spirit of Harriet Tubman: Awakening from the Underground.Learn more about Spring and her new book: https://www.springwasham.com/
Follow Spring on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/springwasham/
Check out Spring’s YouTube channel: https://tinyurl.com/22njyd29

Related Happiness Break episodes:

Tap into the Joy That Surrounds You: https://tinyurl.com/2pb8ye9x
Wishing Others’ Well, With Anushka Fernandopulle: https://tinyurl.com/jrkewjs8

Related Science of Happiness episodes:

Where to Look for Joy: https://tinyurl.com/5n7thrh4
Are You Remembering the Good Times: https://tinyurl.com/483bkk2h
Why We Should Seek Beauty: https://tinyurl.com/yn7ry59j

Follow us on Instagram: @ScienceOfHappinessPod

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Transcription: https://tinyurl.com/a6shdsae