Pursuit of Happiness

Abstract

The purpose of life is to remain happy and peaceful and make others happy and peaceful. Happiness is a journey,
not a destination. There is no better time to be happy than now! Depending on mental and spiritual states of the
person, there can be three levels of happiness i.e. pleasure, joy and bliss. In pleasure, happiness is sought from
outer world, its short lived and physiological. Joy is mixed as it brings happiness from inner and outer world, its
longer lasting and psychological, e.g. service to mankind & success. Bliss is where mind ceases and consciousness
gets identified with universal consciousness, achieved by spiritual practices, yogic ascent and meditation.
All of these mental states, have different neurochemical & neurobiological imprints on brain. Main substrates here
are endorphins, GABA and endocanabinoids. These three levels are Satvik, Rajasik & tamasik. Happiness can be
measured with neuropsychological testing, advanced EEG, fMRI and PET scan. Different components of happiness
are found in different areas of brain e.g. laughter responses are generated in pre-frontal cortex. Good events
activate rostral anterior cingulate and amygdala etc. Determinants of happiness are genes (20%), circumstances
(10%), money (20%), morality and spirituality (50%).
The keys to happiness are physical, moral, religious and spiritual. To remain happy, health is vital so eat right, do
exercise, and get enough sleep. We need to work on relationships. We have to love and appreciate people,
encourage them, forgive them and express gratitude. Wisdom & courage are important and so are hobbies &
creative activities.
Control on negative emotions, emotional attachment, anger and ego, helps. Positive emotions, positive attitude,
ethical conduct, enables meaningful & joyful life. All these measures have limitations & depend on external world to
some extent. While our ethics, our religious path & specifically spiritual practices make our lives blissful.
Meditation is important and any of the methods of mindful, sound, breathing or thought meditation are helpful.
Contemplation or transcendence meditation is equally good. Meditation teaches us to remain in present tense &
also makes us calm, quiet, attentive and equanimous.