The Science of Happiness

Imagine if you had a magic wand to change the world! This thought-provoking discussion encourages listeners to reflect on their life purpose and how to make meaningful changes. Hear personal stories that highlight the importance of compassion and meaningful connections. Discover innovative practices, like the Magic Wand technique, to help you connect with your inner drive. Explore how a strong sense of purpose can enhance emotional well-being and positively impact health habits. Unleash your imagination to envision a better future!

Dr. Lyla June Johnston, an indigenous activist, artist, and scholar from the Diné Nation, explores the deep connection between individual happiness and the well-being of our environment. She guides listeners through a meditation that encourages mindfulness and appreciation of nature. Johnston emphasizes how humans can become givers, showcasing the creation of bird baths as a symbol of our commitment to the natural world. She shares insights on Indigenous ecosystem principles, urging us to contribute positively to our local ecosystems.

Tania Israel, a psychology professor at UC Santa Barbara, and Daryl Van Tongeren, a psychologist focused on fostering dialogue, explore how embracing diverse perspectives can enrich our understanding. They discuss the emotional challenges of political discourse, emphasizing intellectual humility as a path to respectful conversation. The conversation highlights how acknowledging our knowledge limits can bridge divides and enhance personal growth. Listeners are encouraged to confront their biases and engage with differing opinions for deeper insights.

In this captivating session, Dacher, a seasoned meditation guide with roots in ancient practices, introduces listeners to loving-kindness meditation, known as “metta.” He discusses how this technique nourishes emotional well-being and promotes empathy. The meditation involves visualizing someone who has your best interests at heart, allowing feelings of support and joy to blossom. Dacher emphasizes the importance of extending goodwill not only to ourselves but also to those who may need extra love, enhancing our connections and daily happiness.

Dive into the captivating world of lucid dreaming where awareness meets control in our sleep. Discover techniques like reality testing that enhance emotional insights and dream recollection. Personal stories reveal the transformative power of engaging with dreams. Explore the connection between lucid dreaming and consciousness, linking it to philosophical queries about awareness. Plus, learn how a study on eye movements in dreams sheds light on creativity and mood enhancement. Unlock the mysteries of your mind's playground!

Dacher Keltner guides listeners through a practice of looking at the sky to experience awe, creativity, and wonder. The episode explores the impact of nature on happiness and stress reduction, emphasizing the benefits of immersing oneself in nature. Taking time to observe the sky is a relaxing and reflective pause aimed at appreciating the beauty and vastness of the universe, leading to a new perspective.

Craig Foster shares his transformative experiences with ocean animals, emphasizing the benefits of connecting with wildlife for well-being and relationships. Environmental researcher Liz Lev discusses the positive effects of wild spaces on mental health and urban planning. The podcast explores the emotional connections humans have with wildlife, highlighting the importance of nurturing relationships with nature for personal growth and environmental stewardship.

Dacher, an expert in happiness and mindfulness, guides listeners through a 5-minute nature practice. They explore the benefits of connecting with nature for mental health and forming connections with others.

Ike Sriskandarajah, a producer for This American Life, shares how exploring new places in New York City can boost happiness. He discusses the benefits of variety, novelty, and awe in daily life for well-being. Neuroscientist Aaron Heller explains how exposure to novel places can make us happier. Break out of your routine and explore new environments for a happier life.

Indigenous scholar Dr. Yuria Celidwen leads a grounding practice in nature, connecting to the Earth. Topics covered include benefits of grounding, calming effects of nature, and enhancing feelings of restoration. Dr. Celidwen, of Nahua and Maya descent, also works at the United Nations to advance Indigenous peoples' rights and the Earth.