The pursuit of ananda is not limited to religious or spiritual traditions; it also has relevance in the realms of psychology and well-being. Positive psychology, a field of psychology focused on the study of human happiness and well-being, acknowledges the importance of experiencing ananda in one’s life. Researchers have explored the concept of “flow,” a state of optimal experience where individuals are completely immersed in an activity, leading to a sense of fulfillment and happiness. This state of flow can be considered a secular form of ananda, as it talks of the same blissful experience described in spiritual traditions.
The Vedas, Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita are replete with wisdom that highlights the importance of inner happiness. In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna advises Arjuna saying, “O Arjuna, find joy in the path of righteousness, for true happiness is the result of virtuous actions.” This echoes the essence of positive psychology, emphasizing that happiness is the outcome of positive emotions, such as joy, gratitude, and contentment, cultivated through virtuous deeds.
