Dear {{first_name|happiness bringer}},

We are asking you these things because today we tease out the mystery of happiness, in order to get to the heart of what really creates a happier life. We look at the key ingredients and share some ways to help you feel happier every day. We look at the yogic path and happiness, the difference between pleasure and happiness, how to avoid thieves of happiness and share some ways to re-center yourself from your heart. We are also giving away FREE daily and weekly planners for all subscribers! Click the link at the end of the post to find your happy heart planner waiting for you. ❤️

Happiness is not just about seeking pleasure. Pleasure is often fleeting and tied to something conditional or external like buying a new car, taking substances, or booking a holiday. Of course it’s possible to do things which bring us pleasure without other people and to feel a sense of enjoyment, but often this is short lived and if done to excess, can be damaging. (Think going to a bingo night out with friends versus playing for hours online at home alone).

Happiness on the other hand is more ethereal and long-lasting and can never be taken to excess. Imagine being too happy - not a thing! Activities which bring us enjoyment are magnified when they are shared with others. The communal joy which arises from shared experience sometimes called ‘collective effervescence’ strengthens bonds and community. When you reach the top of a mountain with your family (see below for evidence!), complete a tough project with your coworkers, do a cold plunge with your partner, or attend a festival with your friends, it deepens the connection you have with those people.

But even this relies on external circumstances. So, what’s the missing piece?

Many people have sought to find the key to happiness over the years but ancient yogic philosophy offers timeless wisdom. One of the texts we find most impactful in our own practice and our teaching is The Bhagavad Gita. It provides the most accessible and practical wisdom for spiritual seekers who want to lead a purposeful and passionate life in the real world (i.e without monastic seclusion!) The text addresses the fundamental question of the source of human suffering, emphasizing that it largely relates to internal states. It also explores the concept of Dharma, detailing how to live fully in alignment with one's purpose through the practice of yoga. 

The yogic path guides us to find true happiness and contentment by living authentically from our heart. This means aligning with our true nature. Our heart voice is sometimes overpowered by the loud voices from our head, creating an internal conflict. But, our heart shows us the deeper truths that bring us lasting happiness and peace. With every Breathe and Flow offering, we teach and encourage people to find their way back to who they are, to live fully from their heart space and recognize the signs from the universe, which are guiding them along their own pathway. Flo’s guided meditation on Heart Centeredness is a great way to set this intention for the day and remind you to honor your true nature. Happiness comes from knowing who you really are, and this knowledge tells you how to act. This means you are able to realize your purpose(s) and apply yourself with all your passion and energy to it. Once you are living a more integrated life without internal conflict, feeling happier and fulfilled comes more easily.

Yoga also reminds us of the impermanence of external circumstances and the importance of finding inner peace with what is. ‘Happy’ is not a goal nor destination and cannot be ‘achieved’ by fulfilling a checklist so you can enjoy that accomplishment for the rest of your days! Like most things in life, consistent habits and daily practice results in the greatest impact. So, there are things we can all do on a daily basis to choose to be happier. Read on for some habits for happiness which align with the yogic path and invite you to live happier, from your heart. 

It’s easy to compare ourselves to others, seeing people who seem more successful, happier, or more put together. While comparison can sometimes provide helpful feedback and motivation, too much of it leads to discontent and jealousy.

Oubaitori (桜梅桃李) is an ancient Japanese idiom derived from the kanji for four spring-blooming trees: cherry blossoms, plum, peach, and apricot. Each tree blooms at a different time but every species produces perfect flowers. It reminds us that everyone blooms at their own pace and to embrace our unique journeys. Instead of comparing ourselves to others, we should focus on our growth and celebrate our individuality. 🌸

Let's choose happiness every day, dear friends, and create a life that fills our hearts with joy. May you find happiness in the present moment and create a life that lights you up from within.

Enjoy your FREE daily and weekly planners here and focus on having a good day…day, after day, and eventually you’ll realize that you have a good life. ✨

With love and light,

If you’re a podcast fan, check out Arthur C Brooks here: How to ACTUALLY Get Happier: The Science of Fulfillment | Arthur Brooks x Rich Roll

Shawn Achor's TED Talk reveals the power of positive psychology, aligning with the yogic belief in cultivating a Sattvic (pure and harmonious) state of mind.

Yep there is an actual World Happiness Summit. The World Happiness Summit® (WOHASU®) brings together the world’s leading experts in the science behind happiness to explore practical tools to increase wellbeing in all areas of life. Cool huh?

Hey you, how’s your body feeling right now? ♥️