The Science of Happiness

Amber and Ben Wallin, a dynamic LA-based couple known for their relatable family and relationship humor on social media, discuss the potential of 36 questions to deepen love and connection. They share how these inquiries range from light-hearted to intensely personal, enhancing emotional intimacy. The duo reflects on their own dating journey and humorous communication mishaps, while emphasizing the crucial role of authentic listening and intentional conversations in fostering strong relationships.

Join Henry Shukman, a poet and mindfulness teacher, as he guides listeners through the transformative concept of original love and interconnectedness. He emphasizes how recognizing our shared experience fosters joy, safety, and belonging. Through a calming meditation, he encourages embracing the loving awareness that binds us to all living beings. Shukman also discusses the importance of strong relationships and the neurochemical bonding that enhances our emotional well-being, inviting everyone to explore their inner connection.

Jenny Wendell shares her journey of navigating communication and intimacy in relationships, emphasizing the transformative power of a seven-day love challenge. She discusses how small, intentional gestures can reignite romance and strengthen bonds. The conversation covers daily practices like meaningful check-ins and heartfelt compliments, and the importance of physical touch. Wendell highlights the challenge's role in alleviating stress and fostering connection, making it a practical tool for couples looking to deepen their relationship.

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.

Discover how moments of awe can uplift caregivers and enhance family bonds. The discussion highlights practical ways for parents to intentionally incorporate awe through nature and music. Heartfelt anecdotes reveal how shared experiences relieve stress and nurture emotional well-being. Explore the transformative power of intention in parenting and the deeper connections it fosters among family members. The power of awe can cultivate a sense of identity and belonging, enriching both caregiving and personal experiences.

Experience a guided meditation focused on cultivating awe and welcoming new beginnings. Reflect on the beauty of budding plants, intriguing new friendships, and memorable moments that inspire wonder. Engage your senses as you connect with the present, allowing feelings of curiosity and awe to enhance your well-being. This practice encourages you to carry that sense of wonder throughout your day, uplifting your spirit as you embrace all that’s new.

Lori Arnett, Associate Director for Digital Transformation at NASA, shares her insights on the joys of dance that transcended her work and home life. She recounts how a month of dance practice deepened her connection with her daughters and colleagues. Alongside Dr. Bronwyn Tarr, an expert in dance science, they discuss how rhythmic movement boosts mood, releases endorphins, and strengthens community ties. The duo emphasizes dance as a healing practice that enhances well-being while combating isolation and stress.

Feeling burned out? Join Dr. Kristen Neff as she guides us through a calming practice to bring kindness and support to ourselves during tough times.How to Do This Practice: Sit in a quiet, comfortable space, close your eyes if you wish, and take deep breaths to center yourself. Observe how you’re feeling—physically and emotionally—without judgment. Acknowledge your struggle: This is hard. Burnout is a natural human response to stress. Offer yourself kindness. Imagine a compassionate voice saying: I’m here for you, you’re doing your best, you’re loved just as you are. Let these words fill you with warmth and calm. When ready, open your eyes and bring this renewed energy into your day. Today’s Happiness Break Guide:Dr. Kristin Neff is an associate professor in the University of Texas at Austin's department of educational psychology. She's also the co-author of 'Mindful Self-Compassion for Burnout,' which offers tools to help individuals heal and recharge from burnout.More Happiness Breaks like this one:The Healing Power of Your Own Touch: https://tinyurl.com/y4ze59h8Take a Break With Our Loving-Kindness Meditation: https://tinyurl.com/2kr4fjz5We’d love to hear about your experience with this practice! Share your thoughts at happinesspod@berkeley.edu or use the hashtag #happinesspod.Find us on Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9h5aapHelp us share Happiness Break! Leave a 5-star review and share this link: https://tinyurl.com/2p9h5aapTranscription: https://tinyurl.com/485y3b4y

Jackie Justice, a professor at Mid Michigan College, and Jamil Zaki, a Stanford psychology professor, dive into the contagious power of compassion. They discuss how compassionate dialogue can bridge divides and foster belonging, even in a polarized environment. Justice shares her journey of teaching compassion amidst personal challenges, while Zaki highlights the neuroscience behind empathy. Together, they unpack practical ways to create safe spaces for discussion, encouraging listeners to embrace tough conversations and build community connections.

Explore the art of mindful walking in a refreshing meditation guided by Dan Harris. Discover how simply being aware of your surroundings can enhance your wellbeing. Learn about the profound benefits of combining movement with mindfulness, including reduced anxiety and increased joy. Dive into the practice of cultivating self-compassion and detaching from the autopilot mode of daily life. Embrace each step as a celebration of the present moment, heightening your sensory awareness and reconnecting with your environment.