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: Get Comfortable: Find a quiet spot. Sit or stand in a relaxed position. Take a few deep breaths to settle your body and mind. 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? 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. 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? 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: https://tinyurl.com/2kr4fjz5 A Meditation on Original Love: https://tinyurl.com/5u298cv4 Wishing Others’ Well, With Anushka Fernandopulle: https://tinyurl.com/jrkewjs8 Related Science of Happiness episodes: Are You Remembering the Good Times: https://tinyurl.com/483bkk2h Why Friendships Matter More Than We Think: https://tinyurl.com/y99tc9nm Why We Should Seek Beauty: https://tinyurl.com/yn7ry59j Follow us on Instagram: @ScienceOfHappinessPod We’d love to hear about your experience with this practice! Share your thoughts at happinesspod@berkeley.edu or use the hashtag #happinesspod.  Find us on Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9h5aap Help us share Happiness Break! Leave a 5-star review and share this link: https://tinyurl.com/2p9h5aap Transcription: