Happiness Break: A Loving-Kindness Practice for Yourself

Happiness Break: A Loving-Kindness Practice for Yourself

From The Science of Happiness by PRX and Greater Good Science Center

April 16, 2026 · 9 min

About this episode

Kristin Neff guides a loving-kindness practice aimed at extending care and goodwill towards oneself.

In this gentle practice, psychologist Kristin Neff helps us extend loving kindness inward, offering ourselves the same care and goodwill we naturally give to others. How To Do This Practice: Settle into your body: Sit comfortably, close your eyes if you’d like, and take a few natural breaths while noticing the weight of your body in the chair and your feet on the floor. Bring to mind someone you love easily: Think of a person or pet you care about deeply and picture their face. Notice the natural warmth and goodwill you feel toward them. Offer them wishes for well-being: Silently repeat phrases such as: May you be safe. May you be peaceful. May you be healthy. May you be free from suffering. Include yourself in the circle of kindness: Imagine yourself beside this loved one and extend the same wishes to both of you: May we be safe. May we be peaceful. May we be healthy. May we be free from suffering. Turn the kindness fully toward yourself: Let the image of your loved one fade and focus on yourself. If it feels comfortable, place a hand on your heart or hold your hands together, repeating: May I be safe. May I be peaceful. May I be healthy. May I be free from suffering. Rest in…

People in this episode

Guest: Kristin Neff

Topics covered

  • loving-kindness
  • self-care
  • mindfulness
  • psychology
  • well-being

Keywords

  • loving-kindness
  • self-compassion
  • mindfulness practice
  • psychology
  • well-being

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