The Simple Science of Happiness: Discovering True Joy
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Chapter 1: The Nature of Happiness
Happiness is inherently our natural state.
What often obstructs our ability to experience joy is the expansion of our ego over time, which distorts our perception of reality. As we become increasingly absorbed in the image crafted by our ego, we lose sight of the world around us. The instant we transcend this ego, happiness floods back into our lives. This transformative moment, often referred to as ego-death, can elicit a range of responses—joyful laughter, tears, exuberant movements, or simply a broad smile.
We harbor a fear that relinquishing our inflated sense of self, even momentarily, might lead to our demise. However, when our self-concept fades, we often find ourselves surprised to discover that we are still very much alive. The truth is, we are not our ego; we are something much more profound.
This experience mirrors the thrilling relief of finishing a roller coaster ride—it’s a combination of relief and elation. Our constructed self is merely a narrative that we must continuously dismantle, hour by hour, day by day.
The first video titled "The Science of Happiness - with Bruce Hood" delves into the psychological aspects of happiness, revealing insights on how we can achieve a joyful state of being.
Section 1.1: Why Aren't You Happy Right Now?
If you find yourself reflecting on a lack of happiness today, consider posing a different question: Why are you not happy?
We often get caught up in the web of self-referential pronouns—me, you, and we—allowing our egos to inflate and obscure our understanding of reality. To break this cycle, there are two straightforward techniques you can employ to clear the clutter from your mind. The first is akin to a mental cleanse.
In a post-ego state, we can liken the brain to the intestine; both are designed to process information. Picture all the misinformation trapped in your mind being expelled through countless tiny openings in your skull, disappearing into the ether. This mental decluttering serves as a brain "bowel movement."
Once your mind is cleared, you can proceed to the technique I call the "braingasm." To initiate this, focus on your lower spine and activate nerves linked to pleasure centers in your brain. You don’t need physical stimulation; instead, you need intense concentration and the sensation of being on the verge of a thrilling experience. This heightened state will illuminate your mind with pleasure—a return to your natural state of happiness.
The joy of an orgasm is unparalleled; it’s hard to feel discontent when engulfed in such ecstasy. The braingasm, unlike a fleeting sexual experience, can be sustained and repeated endlessly. I strive for a thousand braingasms each morning to ensure I start my day in a post-ego mindset.
The second video titled "Positive Psychology: The Science of Happiness" explores the foundational principles of happiness, reinforcing the notion that a joyful existence is within reach.
Section 1.2: Embracing the Adventure of Life
The essence of happiness is to embrace life fully, not merely survive it. Being alive means being completely present—there's no such thing as “less alive.” If you feel anything less than fully alive, you might as well be existing in a state of unawareness.
The only barrier to your complete aliveness is the ego, which falsely masquerades as your ally. Don't fear the absence of your ego; it will return, and you won’t transform into a mindless creature.
Life should be viewed as a playful game, filled with lightness rather than heaviness. Rebirth yourself in every moment, experiencing the magic of existence without being trapped in a rigid personality.
Ultimately, happiness is simple: stop identifying with your ego and start living authentically.
Happiness
by Clem Samson and the New Heretics
Happiness at last
Since embracing the truth, I've found joy unsurpassed
All my worries faded on that day
When my unfounded belief in my ego simply slipped away
Happiness, welcome back
It's wonderful to have you on this track
I thought I was dreaming, but indeed
It’s simply what we refer to as happiness
Happiness caught me unaware
I looked up from my downward stare
Like a long shot coming through
My smile emerged to claim the view
Happiness, welcome back
I never knew it could be this exact
Delicious and profound…
I thought I was lost in the depths of despair
Then I caught the scent of something rare
I followed that aroma
And awoke from my coma
Came out of the shadows and saw the light
That illuminated my life, making everything right
I realized it wasn’t my reality
But merely a shadowy parody
Standing by the flickering flame
I beheld the trickster, feeling no shame
The illusion had tied me in its cave
And I watched life slip away, feeling enslaved
I had forgotten how to feel or cry
Lost in the art of pretending, asking why
The trickster knew he had been caught
Like a fading echo, he became naught
Happiness at last
Since embracing the truth, I've found joy unsurpassed
All my worries faded on that day
When my unfounded belief in my ego simply slipped away
Happiness, welcome back
Where you came from, I have no lack
I was falling into the abyss
When I stumbled upon bliss
Just what we call happiness.