Yale’s Popular “Happiness” Class Is Available Online for Free

People may be lonelier than ever, especially while practicing social isolation during the coronavirus crisis. However, there are at-home resources for your mental well-being, including Yale University’s massively popular “happiness” course. Taught by psychology professor Laurie Santos, the “Science of Well Being” is available for free on Coursera.

Though most people think we need to change our circumstances for greater happiness, Santos says “what plays a much bigger role are our simple practices, simple acts like making a social connection, or taking time for gratitude, or taking time to be in the present moment.” Happiness seems to stem from healthy practices and reorienting perceptions, according to Santos.

Her happiness course is the most popular in Yale’s 300-year history.