
The Science of Happiness
1,673 FOLLOWERS
Learn research-tested strategies for a happier, more meaningful life, drawing on the science of compassion, gratitude, mindfulness, and awe. Hosted by award-winning psychologist Dacher Keltner. Co-produced by PRX and UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center.
The Science of Happiness
6d ago
Scroll down for a transcription of this episode.
Cultivate a sense of original love — a universal connection that nurtures joy, safety, and belonging — with meditation teacher Henry Shukman.
How to Do This Practice:
Find a comfortable position, either seated with a balanced, unsupported spine or resting back into support.
Sense the solidity of your body resting on the earth, recognizing your deep connection with it.
Observe the sounds around you, the sensations in your body, and any passing thoughts.
Remember that you are not separate. Your nervous system, your emotions, and even your breath ..read more
The Science of Happiness
2w ago
Scroll down for a transcription of this episode
From daily check-ins to meaningful compliments and planned dates nights, we explore a 7-day love challenge to help couples strengthen their relationships.
Summary: Developed by renowned psychologists Julie and John Gottman. Based on decades of research, this week-long practice offers simple, actionable steps to deepen connection and nurture relationships. From meaningful check-ins and heartfelt compliments to the importance of touch, we uncover how small, intentional actions can create lasting bonds. Whether you're looking to reignite roman ..read more
The Science of Happiness
2w ago
Scroll down for a transcription of this episode
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 ..read more
The Science of Happiness
1M ago
We explore how embracing awe can uplift caregivers, providing tools to nurture themselves while nurturing others.
This week on The Science of Happiness, we explore how moments of awe can transform caregiving. By incorporating awe through music, nature, and shared experiences, Noam Osband and Devora Keller found ways to refresh themselves and foster connection within their two young children. Their stories illuminate the impact of awe on parenting and caretaking, and the importance of intentionally cultivating wonder to enhance caregiving and strengthen bonds.
This episode was supported by the ..read more
The Science of Happiness
1M ago
A meditation to cultivate a sense of awe by focusing on new beginnings -- whether it’s a budding plant, a new friendship, or a recent moment of wonder.
How to Do This Practice:
Find a quiet, comfortable space. Sit or lie down, close your eyes if you wish, and take deep breaths to center yourself.
Bring your awareness to the present moment—notice your breath, body sensations, and surroundings without judgment.
Reflect on new beginnings in your life. Picture meeting someone new and feeling curiosity about their stories, recall a moment of awe, like hearing a piece of music that moved you, imagi ..read more
The Science of Happiness
1M ago
Dance, one of humanity's oldest art forms, traces its roots back over 10,000 years. Its rhythmic movements are known to release endorphins, strengthen connections, and even increase our pain tolerance.
Summary: This week on The Science of Happiness, we explore how dancing connects us, enhances well-being, and fosters community. Lori Arnett, a NASA engineer, shares how a month-long dance practice brought her closer to her daughters and colleagues, offering moments of calm and joy. She reflected on how dancing parallels her work at NASA, where teamwork enables extraordinary achievements.
D ..read more
The Science of Happiness
1M ago
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 ..read more
The Science of Happiness
1M ago
Compassionate dialogue isn’t just about talking and listening—it's a meaningful way to bridge divides, cultivate belonging, and reimagine education as a space for connection.
Summary: In this episode of The Science of Happiness, we explore the role of compassion in education and connecting across differences. We explore the bravery it takes to have tough conversations, how to create spaces where everyone feels they belong, and the profound impact of addressing marginalization in the classroom. Plus, we uncover practical ways to turn these classroom lessons into meaningful, real-world con ..read more
The Science of Happiness
1M ago
Trouble sitting still? Learn to practice meditating by simply walking in this practice guided by 10% Happier host Dan Harris.
Scroll down for a transcript of this episode.
How to Do This Practice:
Begin walking.
Bring your awareness to the present moment, noticing sights and sounds around you. When your mind wanders to worries or other thoughts, gently bring yourself back to what you notice around you.
See if you can notice the sensations in your leg as you take each step.
Continue walking this way as long as you wish.
***
The Science of Happiness is committed to sharing stories and re ..read more
The Science of Happiness
1M ago
Mindful walking isn’t just a stroll—it’s a science-backed way to reduce, improve concentration, and soak in the beauty of your surroundings at the same time.
***
The Science of Happiness is committed to sharing stories and research that inspire resilience, compassion, and connection. As we reflect on the past few years, these values feel more essential than ever. Help us continue to provide this free resource and expand its reach.
Through December 31, your donation will be matched dollar-for-dollar. Visit GGSC.Berkeley.edu/donate to support the show and make an even bigger impact.
***
Episode ..read more