Rick Hanson, a psychologist and author, talks about building a happier brain. He says happiness is more than a feel-good moment, and describes it as something that may support physical health, a longer life, and effectiveness at work, among other things.
A note from Sean
Before I ask people to focus, I like to invite some gladness first: something we’re grateful for, someone we love, a moment of goodness. It helps the mind settle and feel safe enough to focus. I borrow the phrase from Rick Hanson: gladden the mind.
Try this today. Notice one small good moment today, like a warm drink, a kind message, or sunlight on a wall. Stay with it for five slow breaths. Feel where it lands in your body, maybe warmth in the chest or ease in the shoulders.
Keep going: Hardwiring Happiness and Gladdening the Mind.
This suits anyone who tends to notice what’s wrong first. If good moments are hard to find, or joy brings up sadness, go gently. Stop when you need to.
