A universally sought-after feeling, happiness is a concept specific to each person. However, according to Indian philosophy, there are seven ways to feel happiness and inner fullness. Here are the ones.
The quest for happiness is a goal for everyone. But how can you feel this feeling of fulfillment deep within yourself? Here are seven ways to go about it, or at least to find that springboard that will propel you towards deep and lasting happiness according to Indian philosophy.
Adopt the art of acceptance
In Indian philosophy, acceptance is an art. But be careful: it is not just a matter of accepting a situation or resigning oneself, in a form of inevitability. No, it's more about taking a step back from life's events, as they come. Because it would be the fact of fighting against what is happening to us, which would ultimately harm us even more. By freeing ourselves from this, we learn to be at peace with the present moment, even if it is not perfect.
Discover the power of mindfulness
Mindfulness is precisely the fact of being connected to the present moment, here and now. This is one of the other aspects taught by Indian philosophy. It sounds simple enough, but in our fast-paced world, it's often easier said than done. The goal here is to enjoy every moment, and realize that happiness is right there, in reality, before our eyes.
Practice self-compassion
Self-compassion is giving ourselves the same empathy we would toward a close friend. This is an essential point in Indian philosophy. It allows us to evacuate this negative and guilty discourse that we hold to ourselves in the event of failure. Self-compassion allows you to accept the fact of being imperfect and human, quite simply.
Cultivate gratitude
Gratitude is not just saying thank you. It's about focusing on what we have, rather than noticing what we lack. It is important not to compare yourself to others, especially those who have more, as you risk being constantly dissatisfied. It is better, on the contrary, to observe those who have less, in order to be grateful for what we have. If you find yourself constantly comparing yourself to others, start a gratitude journal. This involves writing down three things every day that you are grateful for. Throughout the pages, you will see all the positive things in your life materialize before your eyes. And to understand that happiness is not always getting more, but appreciating what you have.
Understanding the concept of Dharma
Dharma, a complex and multifaceted concept in Indian philosophy, is often translated as “duty”, “ethics” or “right path”. This means that each of us has a unique purpose in life and achieving happiness involves recognizing and fulfilling that purpose. This therefore allows us to refocus on ourselves and on what matters to us, and not blindly follow the same objective as everyone else.
Adopt meditation
To anchor yourself in the present moment, calm down and seek inner peace, there is nothing like meditation. It helps manage anxiety and achieve inner serenity. The first step towards happiness, according to Indian philosophy.
Good in his body, good in his head!
To serve selflessly
Finally, Indian philosophy recommends the practice of selfless service. This consists, as its name suggests, of providing service to others, without expecting anything in return. Some scientific studies have shown that showing kindness allows the release of endorphins in our body, the hormones of well-being. Smiling and helping others, unconditionally, is perhaps one of the keys to happiness, ultimately.
