Summary
Here are (mostly free) resources that you can use right away to experience more well-being.
Podcast (FREE)
The Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley recently announced that their acclaimed podcast, “The Science of Happiness,” won a 2019 bronze medal in the Health Podcast category from New York Festivals Radio Awards.
I loved Episode #43: How to Keep Love Alive … for the practical tips, the science, as well as the personal story.
Videos (FREE)
Positive Psychology
The University of Pennsylvania Positive Psychology Center recommends these Videos by Leading Scholars.
The Center is led by Martin E. P. Seligman, the father of positive psychology, the best teacher I’ve ever had. He is worth a listen. In his recent video, Dr. Seligman explains his ideas for how to create well-being – he calls PERMA.
Mindfulness
One of the first skills to acquire to improve well-being, is ‘mindfulness’ … watch videos to learn how to do it.
Questionnaires (FREE)
You can assess your top Signature Strengths (VIA Survey of Character Strengths) among other numerous other free assessments at U Penn’s ‘Authentic Happiness’ site. For more about strengths, see my post.
Online Courses (FREE)
UC Berkeley: The Science of Happiness
This course is the first MOOC to teach the roots of – as well as the practical exercises for – a happy and meaningful life.
The course’s co-instructors, Dacher Keltner and Emiliana Simon-Thomas, are not only leading authorities on positive psychology but also gifted UC Berkeley teachers skilled at making science fun and personal. They’ll be joined by world-renowned experts discussing themes like empathy, mindfulness, and gratitude—experts including Barbara Fredrickson, Paul Ekman, Sonja Lyubomirsky, and Jon Kabat-Zinn.
Yale: The Science of Well-Being
I binged this course … but it’s better to take it weekly to do the practice! Professor Laurie Santos reveals misconceptions about happiness, annoying features of the mind that lead us to think the way we do, and the research that can help us change. You will ultimately be prepared to successfully incorporate a specific wellness activity into your life.
Online Course (fee-based)
Rick Hanson: The Foundations of Well-Being
I’ve taken this course – Foundations of Well-Being. It’s for anyone who’d like to improve their well-being … not just reduce anxiety or depression. The Foundations of Well-Being: A year of Growing Good in Your Brain and In Your Life. Go here to learn more about this terrific online course.
For free, get a sense of Rick from watching his YouTube channel videos.
Published Aug. 12, 2014 By Rick Hanson
