Practice loving-kindness
This practice can enhance feelings of joy and reduce depressive symptoms.
What You'll Do
Spend 2 minutes focusing on sending kind thoughts to someone you care about.
Scientific Basis
Practicing 9 weeks of LKM, with six weekly training sessions and daily home practice, increased joy, contentment, and hope over control while reducing depressive symptoms (~15% less), fostering long-term positive mood.
Fredrickson, B. L., Cohn, M. A., Coffey, K. A., Pek, J., & Finkel, S. M. (2008). Open hearts build lives: Positive emotions induced through loving-kindness meditation build consequential personal resources. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 95(5), 1045–1062.The Science of Impact
Sustained LKM practice fosters long-term emotional wellbeing, enhancing resilience and positive emotions.
Participants reported improved mindfulness and social support, contributing to overall quality of life.
The study highlights the potential of LKM as an accessible intervention for reducing depressive symptoms.
Pro Tips
Engage in LKM for 20 minutes daily to cultivate positive emotions.
Attend a weekly group session for guided practice and community support.
Incorporate LKM into your morning routine for enhanced mood throughout the day.