The Science of Happiness

Abby Wambach, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and bestselling author, opens up about the emotional complexities of a celebrated sports career. She explores the disconnect between external achievements and internal fulfillment, discussing her battles with addiction and shame. Abby emphasizes the importance of self-love and resilience as she navigates her journey of self-acceptance. She also encourages listeners to embrace their vulnerabilities and prioritize genuine connections over societal expectations, sharing powerful insights from her personal experiences.

Explore the transformative power of embracing stillness and uncertainty. Through poetic reflection, the discussion highlights how moments of doubt can be fertile ground for growth. Listeners are encouraged to acknowledge their feelings without rushing to find solutions. Silence is not just an absence but a space filled with meaning. The idea of self-love during challenging times is beautifully captured with the reminder to nurture oneself. Finally, there's comfort in understanding that many share this journey of uncertainty.

Yrsa Daley-Ward, an award-winning poet and author, joins Susan Magsamen, a Professor of Neurology at Johns Hopkins, to explore the profound impact of poetry on our mental health. They discuss how poetry can calm nerves, aid in emotional processing, and enhance self-esteem. The conversation highlights the brain's transformation through poetic engagement, reducing stress and reshaping memories. Listeners are encouraged to embrace poetry as a therapeutic tool that nurtures creativity and connection, fostering personal identity and resilience.

Spring Washam, a meditation teacher and author, shares transformative visualization techniques to awaken creative energy. She guides listeners in a gentle meditation that invites inspiration and joy. By connecting to a light channel running from the spine to the crown of the head, participants are encouraged to fill their bodies with possibility. Focusing on the heart, Washam emphasizes trusting one's inner creativity, leaving listeners feeling grounded and ready to express their artistic selves.

Shabnam Piryaei, an award-winning writer, filmmaker, and teacher, discusses the unique healing power of art. She shares how creating visual art can ground us and foster emotional resilience during life's challenges. Shabnam highlights personal stories illustrating the therapeutic benefits of art-making, even in caregiving contexts. The conversation explores the joy of creative surrender, emphasizing connection and self-discovery through shared artistic experiences. Overall, it paints a vivid picture of art as a vital tool for emotional well-being.

Join Alex Elle for a brief yet transformative meditation focused on making space for clarity and ease in your life. Embrace deep breathing to release fears and stress, promoting a sense of inner peace. Discover the power of self-compassion as you reflect on what truly matters. Choose a meaningful phrase from the practice to keep your intentions alive throughout the day. Remember, making space takes time and patience, so offer yourself grace on this journey.

Suzanne Simard, a professor of Forest Ecology at the University of British Columbia, shares her groundbreaking insights into tree communication. She reveals that trees are not just in competition but actively support one another, forming intricate networks of cooperation. Simard discusses the essential role of 'mother trees' in ecosystems and how connecting with nature can foster a sense of belonging. She also highlights the importance of gratitude towards trees, inviting listeners to embrace the healing power of forests in their lives.

Discover how feeling cared for reduces stress and enhances well-being. A guided meditation invites you to reflect on the support from friends, family, and mentors. You'll explore the gifts they've given you—kindness, wisdom, and laughter. Learn to embrace these connections and visualize the support around you for a deeper sense of security and happiness. Plus, uncover the importance of experiencing awe in everyday life for greater fulfillment.

Adam Becker, an astrophysicist and author, teams up with psychologist Jean Twenge, who studies the effects of the digital world on generations. They discuss how our dependence on screens is reshaping happiness and connection. The conversation highlights the alarming impact of social media on youth mental health, suggesting a digital detox could revitalize personal interactions. They explore the benefits of immersing in nature and reducing screen time to revive focus, creativity, and overall well-being.

Criss Cuervo, a mindfulness teacher and author, dives into the beauty of our unique voices and accents. He leads a self-compassion meditation that helps listeners celebrate their histories and cultural backgrounds. By reflecting on the stories carried in our voices, Criss promotes self-acceptance and resilience. Affirmations like 'my accent makes me unique' encourage deeper connections to ancestry and identity, wrapping up the session with a heartfelt moment of gratitude.