The Science of Happiness

← The Science of Happiness3 Sept · 5 min

Happiness Break: Tap into the Joy That Surrounds You

Happiness Break: Tap into the Joy That Surrounds You3 Sept5 min

Buddhist meditation teacher, Anushka Fernandopulle, guides us through a practice of Mudita, or appreciative joy, to help us share in the happiness of others.

How To Do This Practice:

Get comfortable and ground yourself: Sit comfortably, close your eyes if you’d like, and take a few deep breaths.

Relax your body: As you exhale, release tension in your face, jaw, shoulders, and anywhere else you feel it.

Think of someone whose happiness is easy to celebrate: Bring to mind a friend, child, pet, or anyone who is experiencing joy.

Connect with their happiness: Imagine their joy and allow yourself to feel uplifted by their happiness.

Offer them joyful wishes: Silently repeat: “May you always be happy. May your happiness increase. May your happiness continue. I’m happy for your happiness.”

Expand your joy outward: Think of a group of people experiencing happiness, and practice sharing in their joy. Carry this mindset with you, noticing others’ happiness throughout your day instead of comparing or feeling jealous.

Scroll down for a transcription of this episode.

Today’s Happiness Break Guide:

Anushka Fernandopulle is a Buddhist meditation teacher and leadership coach.

Learn More about Anushka: https://www.anushkaf.org