The Science Of Happiness

Jeopardy! champion Amy Schneider tries a body scan meditation to sharpen her focus and calm her nerves as she prepares for the Tournament of Champions.Summary: Simple mindfulness practices, like a body scan, can help cultivate presence and reduce stress. By tuning into the body with curiosity and awareness, we can deepen our connection to ourselves and those we care for. The practice encourages a gentle shift from overthinking to embodied presence, fostering calm and resilience. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or simply seeking more ease in daily life, this episode offers a practical tool for grounding and self-care. Scroll down for a transcription of this episode. How to do this practice:  Get comfortable, sit or lie down in a quiet space, closing your eyes if you’d like. Focus on your breath, take slow, deep breaths, noticing the sensation without changing it. Scan your body, move your awareness from head to toe, observing sensations without judgment. Spend a few moments on each area before moving to

Take a break from ruminating with Lama Rod Owens as he leads you in a meditation to cultivate a sky-like mind. How to Do This Practice: Get Comfortable: Sit or lie down in a relaxed, balanced position. Settle into Your Body: Notice how your body feels and allow yourself to settle. Observe Your Thoughts: Watch thoughts and emotions rise and fall without judgment. Visualize the Sky: Imagine your mind as a vast sky and your thoughts as passing clouds. Detach from Thoughts: Say to yourself, “This is just an experience, passing through.” Return to the Present: Shift your attention back to your body and the support beneath you. Today’s Happiness Break host:LAMA ROD OWENS is a Buddhist teacher, author and activist passionate about creating engaging and inclusive healing spaces.   Learn more about Lama Rod Owens: https://www.lamarod.com/Follow Lama Rod Owens on Instagram: @lamarodofficial Follow Lama Rod Owens on Facebook: @lamarod Follow Lama Rod Owens on Twitter: @LamaRod1Related Happiness Break episodes:How

An art-form powerful enough to prescribe — from ancient traditions to modern neuroscience, we uncover how music, including lullabies, function as a form of medicine.Summary: Music has a unique ability to calm, heal, and bring people together, and lullabies are one of the earliest ways we experience this connection. In this episode, we explore how music affects the brain, reduces stress, and strengthens bonds between caregivers and children. Through science and personal stories, we reflect on the deep emotional power of lullabies and their role in both everyday life and moments of challenge. From ancient traditions to modern research, we uncover why lullabies remain a universal source of comfort.Scroll down for a transcription of this episode. Today’s Guests: ALEXIS CARIELLO is a social worker who was prescribed music to help manage her perinatal anxiety. DR. DANIEL LEVITIN is a neuroscientist, musician, and bestselling author of the books, Music as Medicine: How We Can Harness Its Therapeutic Power and I Hear

How to Do This Practice: Find a Comfortable Space: Choose a place where you feel comfortable moving and making noise. You can do this practice standing or seated, whatever feels best for you. Start with a Basic Clap: Clap your hands together lightly, palm to palm. Keep the pressure soft so it doesn’t hurt. Try a few claps, following a steady rhythm. Add Chest Percussion: After each clap, tap your sternum lightly with your right hand, then with your left hand. Repeat this rhythm several times. Incorporate Leg Taps: Extend the pattern by adding taps on your thighs. Repeat the Full Pattern: Put it all together in a continuous loop— clap, chest (right, left), legs (right, left). Maintain the rhythm and repeat without pauses. Focus on the sensation of movement and sound as a mindful practice. Scroll down for a transcription of this episode.Today’s Happiness Break host:KEITH TERRY is a percussionist and body musician who uses a variety of surfaces to create interesting rhythms.Learn more about Keith Terry: htt

In a world that emphasizes romantic relationships, we explore the science of friendships in humans and our primate relatives—how we make them and how they not only influence health and happiness, but our survival. Episode Summary: Romantic love gets plenty of attention, but what about the friendships that sustain us through life’s ups and downs? In this episode, we explore the science and significance of deep friendships, how they contribute to our mental and emotional health, and why they deserve just as much care as romantic relationships. We also discuss practical ways to strengthen friendships and rethink how we define meaningful connections.Scroll down for a transcription of this episode.This is part of our series The Science of Love, supported by The John Templeton Foundation.Sign up for The Science of Happiness podcast's 7-Day Love Challenge to receive these science-backed practices delivered directly to your inbox: tinyurl.com/7daylovechallengeToday’s Guests:DR. MARISA G FRANCO is a psychologist and p

Experience the physical sensations of love through this guided meditation that nurtures connection, relaxation, and emotional awareness.How To Do This Practice:  Sit or lie down in a relaxed posture. Close your eyes or soften your gaze. Take a deep breath in, then slowly exhale. Notice the weight of your body and release any tension in your shoulders, jaw, or hands. Recall a time when you felt deeply loved and cared for—whether from a person, pet, or a meaningful experience. Instead of focusing on the memory itself, notice where love manifests in your body—warmth in your chest, a tingling in your hands, a soft smile, or gentle relaxation. With each inhale, visualize love spreading through your body like a warm light or soft energy, filling your heart, arms, and entire being. Allow yourself to fully experience this embodied sense of love, knowing it is always within you. When ready, bring awareness back to your surroundings, wiggle your fingers and toes, and take a final deep breath before opening your eyes. S

Scroll down for a transcription of this episode.Can a simple set of 36 questions build love and intimacy? We explore the science behind how the questions we ask and the way we listen shape our closest relationships.Episode summary:  In this episode of The Science of Happiness, we break down the science behind a practice designed to deepen connection—whether in romantic relationships or friendships. We’re joined by Amber and Ben Wallin, the hilarious and heartfelt couple who’ve shared their marriage and parenting journey with millions on TikTok. They put these 36 questions to the test. Later, we’ll dive into the power of listening and how it shapes our relationships with Yale psychologist Jieni Zhou.This is part of our series The Science of Love, supported by The John Templeton Foundation.Sign up for The Science of Happiness podcast's 7-Day Love Challenge to receive these science-backed practices delivered directly to your inbox: tinyurl.com/7daylovechallengeToday’s Guests:AMBER WALLIN is an LA-based comedian,

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 are part of a vast, shared experience. You are connected not only to other humans but to all living beings. Sense the loving quality in this awareness—an unconditional, foundational love that is always present. If continuing, remain in stillness and deepen your awareness. When finished, bring small movements into your body, breathe deeply, and return to your surroundings with a sense of connection and calm. Today’s Happines

Scroll down for a transcription of this episodeFrom daily check-ins to meaningful compliments and planned dates nights, we explore a 7-day love challenge to help couples strengthen their relationships. 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 romance or strengthen your partnership, the 7-day love challenge provides practical tools to bring more love and connection into your life.Sign up for The Science of Happiness podcast's 7-Day Love Challenge to receive these science-backed practices delivered directly to your inbox at greatergood.berkeley.edu/7daylovechallengeThis is part of our series The Science of Love.Day 1: Do a 10-minute check-in. This is great to do at the beginning or

Scroll down for a transcription of this episodeCultivate 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 is experiencing happiness or success. Picture them in their joyful state. In your mind, say to them, “May your joy and happiness increase.” Or, “I’m happy for your happiness. May your happiness continue.” Remind yourself that joy is limitless, like the stars in the universe. Celebrating the joy of others enhances your own happiness. Today’s Happiness Break Guide:Spring Washam, is a meditation teacher based in Oakland, Cali

We explore how embracing awe can uplift caregivers, providing tools to nurture themselves while nurturing others.Sign up for our Caring for Caregivers Newsletter!Join our newsletter community by providing your information below and we'll send you 4 research-backed podcast episodes and articles on how to nurture well-being and build stronger caregiver-child relationships over the next year… For free!  Summary: 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 Van Leer Foundation, an independent Dutch organisation working globally to foster inclusive societies where all children and c

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, imagine the growth of a budding plant, reaching for the light. Focus on a recent moment of awe that touched you. Notice how it feels in your body and let the sensations linger. When ready, gently open your eyes and carry this renewed sense of wonder into your day. Today’s Happiness Break Host:Dacher Keltner is the host of The Science of Happiness podcast and is a co-instructor of the Greater Good Science Center’s popular online

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. Dr. Bronwyn Tarr, an expert on the science of dance, also reveals how synchronized movement not only enhances mood and reduces stress but also raises our pain threshold by triggering the release of endorphins.Transcript: https://tinyurl.com/5t4ssxy4Guests: Lori Arnett, Associate Director for Digital Transformation for the Aerosciences Evaluation and Test Capabilities (AETC) within the Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate (AR

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 He

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 connections and community building.This episode is sponsored by The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations.Scroll down for a transcription of this episode.Today’s Guests:JACKIE JUSTICE, M.A.E.T., is an English and humanities professor at Mid Michigan College, where she teaches courses in writing, literature, culture, and compassion studies. Read Justice’s article about how learning to bridge differences can help students succeed: https:

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 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.***Today’s Happiness Break host:Dan Harris the host of 10% Happier, a pod

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 Summary: We explore walking meditation, a powerful practice for feeling more centered and grounded. Dan Harris, host of the award-winning 10% Happier podcast, shares how walking meditation helps him manage the residual stress and anxiety from years of war reporting and high-pressure TV anchoring. Then, Dr. Paul Kelly from the University of Edinburgh dives into the science, explaining how walking meditation can reduce stress,

Psychologist Dacher Keltner guides you through a practice to help you see the good things in your life that you might otherwise overlook.How to Do This Practice:1. Sit or lay down somewhere comfortable. You may close your eyes if you wish, and take a slow, deep breath in to ground into the present moment. Then, scan your body from head to toe, noticing how you’re feeling in this moment. Let worries and plans clear from your mind.2. Start by thinking about all the things that make your life comfortable: Clean water on tap, light at the flip of a switch, a roof over your head to protect you from the weather, warmth, and comfort when it gets windy, rainy, or cold.3. Let your mind wander to all the millions of people who have worked hard to make your life more comfortable: Those who plant and harvest the food you eat, who bring it to markets, people who ensure the water we drink is clean, delivery drivers, teachers, all the people who create art and music and books and films and all the things that can bring us s

One way to feel more thankful for things is to imagine life without them. We explore a practice shown to help you see the bright side, even when you feel down.We know gratitude is good for us, but what if we’re struggling to feel it? This week’s guest, author and podcast producer Stephanie Foo, finds herself missing her close-knit “chosen family” in California since moving to New York. Foo tries a practice called mental subtraction, where she imagines her life without New York. Later, gratitude researcher Ernst Bohlmeijer  shares how gratitude practices can reshape our emotions and possibly our whole outlook, and how the Mental Subtraction of Positive Events practice can be antidote to taking things for granted.Practice: Take a moment to think about a positive event in your life. It could be a career or educational achievement or a special trip you took. Imagine yourself back in the time of this event. Think about the circumstances that made it possible.  Ponder on the ways in which this event may never have

Indigenous scholar Dr. Yuria Celidwen guides us in a reflection on our interconnection with water, encouraging us to see it as more than just a vital resource, but as kin. How to Do This Practice:Last week we explored the scientifically backed healing qualities of water, focusing on how connecting with water through sound, sight, and touch can support our well being. This week, indigenous scholar Dr. Yuria Celidwen guides us in a reflection on our interconnection with water, encouraging us to see it as more than just a vital resource, but as kin.   Find a quiet space where you can engage with water— a nearby river, ocean, or even the faucet at home. Focus on the sound of water. Whether it’s the gentle drip from a faucet or the sound of waves, listen deeply to how water calls to you. Contemplate how water transforms between solid, liquid, and gas. Let this remind you of your own potential for transformation. Imagine the water flow, guiding you to feel its presence within and around you, awakening memories, ima