Happiness Break: Who Takes Care of You?

When we feel cared for, our cortisol levels drop, we feel safe, and we handle stress better. Dacher leads a meditation to help us focus on the people who make us feel supported.
How To Do This Practice:

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Get Comfortable: Find a quiet spot. Sit or stand in a relaxed position. Take a few deep breaths to settle your body and mind.

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Think of a Friend: Picture a friend who has supported you. Notice how it feels to remember their care. What have they given you? Kindness, courage, laughter?

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Think of a Family Member: Now think of someone in your family (or chosen family) who’s helped you. What moment comes to mind? How did they support you? Name what they gave you.

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Think of a Mentor: Bring to mind a mentor or guide—someone who’s taught or encouraged you. How did they help you grow? What gift did they offer? Wisdom, strength, direction?

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Feel the Support: Picture all three people around you. Let yourself feel supported and held. Breathe in that sense of connection.

Scroll down for a transcription of this episode.
Related Happiness Break episodes:
Take a Break With Our Loving-Kindness Meditation: tinyurl.com/2kr4fjz5
A Meditation on Original Love: tinyurl.com/5u298cv4
Wishing Others’ Well, With Anushka Fernandopulle: tinyurl.com/jrkewjs8
Related Science of Happiness episodes:
Are You Remembering the Good Times: tinyurl.com/483bkk2h
Why Friendships Matter More Than We Think: tinyurl.com/y99tc9nm
Why We Should Seek Beauty: tinyurl.com/yn7ry59j
Follow us on Instagram: @ScienceOfHappinessPod (instagram.com/scienceofhappinesspod)
We’d love to hear about your experience with this practice! Share your thoughts at happinesspod@berkeley.edu or use the hashtag #happinesspod.
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Transcription: tinyurl.com/5xmfkf73