DeepSummary
In this podcast episode, Dan Harris introduces a meditation practice led by Jay Michaelson, focusing on exploring the concept of happiness. Michaelson guides listeners through a meditation where they imagine something they truly desire and the feeling of attaining it. He suggests that happiness is not just a fleeting emotion, but a state of inner ease and contentment that can coexist with other feelings.
Michaelson explains that happiness doesn't necessarily mean feeling joyful all the time, as that would be unnatural. Instead, he proposes that true happiness is a sense of being at home with oneself, even amidst sadness or difficulties. The meditation encourages participants to observe their thoughts and sensations while resting in the present moment.
Towards the end, Michaelson invites listeners to open their eyes and check if they can access a sense of peace and presence, emphasizing that this kind of happiness is always available, regardless of external circumstances.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Happiness is not just a fleeting emotion, but a state of inner ease and contentment that can coexist with other feelings.
- True happiness is about being at home with oneself, even amidst challenges or difficulties.
- Connecting with others and sharing one's worries is important for well-being and happiness.
- Mindfulness and present-moment awareness can help cultivate a sense of inner peace and contentment.
- Investigating and exploring the nature of happiness through meditation can provide valuable insights.
- Happiness is not about feeling joyful all the time, but rather a sense of inner acceptance and presence.
- Attaining desires or goals may not necessarily lead to lasting happiness, which comes from within.
- Happiness is a skill that can be cultivated through practice and exploration.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “Never worry alone.“ by Robert Waldinger
- “Well begin by settling the mind resting in the body, coming to rest in the present moment.“ by Jay Michaelson
- “This kind of happiness isn't a feeling that comes and goes. It's the ease of the mind at home with itself.“ by Jay Michaelson
- “See if you can explore this a little bit.“ by Jay Michaelson
- “Is it now? Is it here?“ by Jay Michaelson
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Episode Information
Ten Percent Happier with Dan Harris
Ten Percent Happier
5/12/24
What is happiness? Investigate how happiness is created, what it’s really like, and learn to access the simple happiness of right now.
About Jay Michaelson:
Rabbi Dr. Jay Michaelson is the author of ten books, including his newest, The Secret That Is Not A Secret: Ten Heretical Tales. In his “other career,” Jay is a columnist for The Daily Beast, and was a professional LGBTQ activist for ten years. Jay is an ordained rabbi and has taught meditation in secular, Buddhist, and Jewish context for eighteen years.
To find this meditation in the Ten Percent Happier app, you can search for “What Is Happiness.”
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