Have you taken your “Happiness Pill” today?

Introduction

Modern living has become extremely complex.  This complexity has snatched from people one very important aspect of human life: happiness.  Happiness has become a premium commodity rather than a simple, natural way of life.  Moreover, the complexity of living in this modern world has also brought an abundance of stress.  To counter the varied stresses of life what we require is a “happiness pill”.  This “happiness pill” which has been highly efficacious in bringing the joy in people’s life has been made available through guided meditation/yog nidra.  Does this “happiness pill” really work, and promote emotional well-being, reduces stress, and cultivate a sense of inner peace?  Let us explore this a little further.

The Science Behind The Working of the “Happiness Pill”

Scientific research has repeatedly shown that meditation has a deep impact on mental and emotional well-being.  It has been proved that the body and the mind are interconnected and if one is sick then the other follows suit.  When you practice guided meditation/yog nidra regularly, there is an increase in the production of ‘dopamine, known as the “happiness hormone”.   During meditation, research has put the increase in dopamine production by 65%.  This wonder hormone is the body’s own “happiness booster” that helps to stabilize mood, promote a sense of contentment, and reduce stress levels.  All you need to do to activate it is guided meditation/yog nidra.  The more you practice guided meditation, the more your happiness quotient increases.  No more crazy therapies or expensive trips to the psychiatrist to help you unwind.  You can do this from within your home.  How wonderful is that?

Benefits and effects of the “happiness pill”

Stress Reduction:   Yog nidra/guided meditation for the uninitiated utilizes a facilitator in the form of a skilled yog nidra practitioner or a recording and verbally guides the individual through a series of relaxation techniques.   You are encouraged to focus on the “now” and the mind is filled with positive thoughts as well as vivid imagery that is symbolic of positivity and tranquility.  This results in a significant reduction in stress and anxiety.

Enhanced Self-Awareness:   The more aware you are aware about yourself and your thoughts the happier you tend to be.  Yog nidra/guided meditation helps bring self awareness.  Meditation encourages self-awareness through exploration of your feelings, actions, and behavior without judgment.  This introspection helps to identify sources of unhappiness and work towards resolving them with an open mind.

Positive Neuroplasticity:   Neuoplasticity is the brain's ability to adapt and rewire itself and can be harnessed through guided meditation.  The brain as an organ does not understand what is positive and what is negative.  So what you sow is what you reap.  In a yog nidra/guided meditation session, you are helped by the facilitator to focus on positive affirmations and emotions.  This can rewire your brain to be more receptive to happiness-inducing stimuli, gradually moving away from a negative state of mind towards positivity.

Improved Emotional Regulation:   Research on Emotional Intelligence (E.Q.) has helped people to understand its impact on social relationships and its role in being happy.  The ability of people to be happy has been seen to be affected by regulation of emotions.  People with high E.Q. have been found to live more fulfilling and happier lives.  In a yog nidra/guided meditation session an individual can be repeatedly taken through positive emotions and imagery.  This leads to changes in the emotional state with an improved “Happiness quotient”.

Mindfulness and Living in the Present:   Individuals who are too much focused on either the past or the future usually do not appear to be happy souls.  Happiness often eludes them as their minds are fixated on “past regrets” or “future worries”.  Yog nidra/guided meditation helps to instill mindfulness, the practice of being completely present in the moment.  Such mindfulness can help us enjoy each moment to the fullest.  Moreover, it also brings a deep sense of contentment in our lives.

Techniques of Guided Meditation

Breathing Exercises:  Every meditation session has some form of focused breathing incorporated in it as it is the cornerstone of guided meditation.  Breathing serves as an anchor to focus your mind and helps to get rid of negative, intrusive, unhappy thoughts and be in the present moment.

Visualizations:  This is a wonderful brain hack.  We all are aware of the power of visualization in athletes.  Similarly, yog nidra/guided meditation often uses vivid visualizations to transport you to beautiful landscapes or situations.  This helps to engage your imagination, evoking positive emotions and a sense of happiness.

Affirmations:  Positive self-suggestions or affirmations can play a great role in reshaping your mindset.  During yog nidra/guided meditation practice, affirmations are repeated to reinforce positivity, self-love, and happiness.

Body Scan:  Another technique which I really love for its effectiveness involves directing my session participants’ attention to different parts of your body.  This promotes relaxation and awareness.  The physical tension in every part of the body is released.  This relaxing feeling gives way to contentment and happy living.

Making Guided Meditation a Part of Your Life

A Set Time for guided meditation:  

Like everything in life, consistency is the key to harness the benefits of yog nidra/guided meditation.  Make sure you set aside a specific time in the morning or before going to bed or any other time that suites you.  The more consistent you are, the more will you be surprised by the benefits of this practice.

Create a Relaxing Space:  

Like all meditating practices, you will need to find a quiet, comfortable place where you will not be disturbed.  You could use ambient lighting, light some candles, play classical or calming music to create a soothing ambience.

Be Patient:   

There is no doubt meditation works, especially yog nidra/guided meditation but progress may seem like at a snail’s pace.  Rest assured, if you remain patient, you will be surprised what you find on the other side.  You will be rewarded by the world’s greatest gift to mankind, “happiness”.

Conclusion

The quest for happiness has lead many to become Indiana Jones, fighting their way towards happiness.  They fail to realize that happiness cannot be achieved by fighting to get top dollars but by simple techniques of yog nidra/guided meditation.  This is that potent elixir that holds the key to unlock the door to your emotional wellbeing.  Meditation is a scientifically proven method that empowers you to cultivate happiness from within.  Once you get hooked, you will never let it go.  It is the only wonder drug that is without any side effects other than making you more peaceful, content, and happy.  So, have you taken your “happiness pill” today?