Happiness Break: A Meditation For Connecting In Polarized Times

Having a curious approach to life can improve our mood, creativity and relationships. Scott Shigeoka leads a visualization exercise to help you approach someone you might disagree with with an open and curious mind. How To Do This Practice: Ground Yourself: Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and take three slow, deep breaths, noticing the sensation of each inhale and exhale. Let your body begin to settle. Picture the Conversation: Bring to mind an upcoming interaction that may feel challenging and visualize where it’s happening and what the setting looks like. See yourself arriving there. Lead with Curiosity: Imagine yourself speaking with a calm, open tone and asking thoughtful, genuine questions. Picture your body language expressing interest and care. See It Going Well: Visualize the other person responding positively—softening, engaging, or opening up. Notice how connection feels in your body. Rehearse the Hard Moment: Imagine a tense moment arising and observe what happens inside you without reacting. See yourself choosing a curious question instead of a defensive response. Close with Intention: Picture the conversation ending with appreciation and mutual respect. Take three more slow breaths, then gently open your eyes. Scroll down for a transcription of this episode. Today’s Happiness Break Guide: SCOTT SHIGEOKA is an author and storyteller who focuses on themes of curiosity and well-being. Learn More About Scott’s work here: Related Happiness Break episodes: Loving Kindness Meditation: Embodying Resilience: A Meditation for When You Feel Uneasy: Related Science of Happiness episodes: Make Uncertainty Part of the Process: How To Show Up For Yourself: How Holding Yourself Can Reduce Stress:

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Happiness Break: A Meditation For Connecting In Polarized Times is an episode from The Science of Happiness by PRX and Greater Good Science Center.

This episode is 08:32 long.

This episode was published on Mar 5, 2026.

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