Buddhist psychology and the Western oriented field of positive psychology agree: How we pay attention determines whether we live primarily in fear and judgment, or happiness and peace. This two-part series explores the teachings, practices and attitudes that enable us to live a meaningful life with a heart that is “happy for no reason.”

In this talk, Tara explores:

• how cultivating a grateful, devoted heart opens us to presence, peace, and joy beyond circumstance.
• the "infinite field of possibility"—our capacity to incline the mind toward hope, love, and inner freedom.
• how mindfulness and compassionate action form a virtuous cycle that nurtures deep well-being and belonging.
• ways that serving others and savoring beauty reconnect us with the sacredness of life and the fullness of who we are.
• awakening from the trance of unworthiness through practices like metta, gratitude, and receiving love with an open heart.

This guided meditation, grounded in the practice of Metta, invites us to awaken the heart by softening the body and quieting the mind. We begin with the simple image of a smile—opening to warmth, ease, and presence.

With a tender attention, we rest with breath, sensations, and sound—gently returning when the mind drifts. As we offer loving phrases like “May I feel happy” and “May I be free,” we nourish a deep sense of well-being and connection, embracing this life with compassion and an open heart.

Buddhist psychology and the Western oriented field of positive psychology agree: How we pay attention determines whether we live primarily in fear and judgment, or happiness and peace. This two part series explores the teachings, practices and attitudes that enable us to live a meaningful life with a heart that is “happy for no reason.”

In this talk, Tara explores:

• the essential role of happiness in times of crisis—how choosing joy becomes a radical act of resilience and healing.
• the trance of negativity and how mindfulness helps awaken our innate capacity for presence, gratitude, and inner freedom.
• how positive psychology and Buddhist teachings together point us toward “happiness for no reason”—a deep sense of belonging and well-being.
• the power of intention—how consciously choosing to flourish shifts us from survival mode into love, connection, and aliveness.
• daily practices like gratitude and loving-kindness as pathways to true well-being and a heart ready for anything.