The Hidden Power of Knowing Where You Come From

Discover how writing about our ancestors can strengthen our sense of identity, deepen gratitude, and help us find meaning in our own lives.

Summary: What happens when we take time to imagine the lives of the people who came before us? We hear from artist Mi’Jan Celie Tho-Biaz about a writing practice that helped her feel closer to her ancestors and discover new perspectives on her own life, dreams, and independence. Then, psychologist Susan Moore shares the research on how exploring our family history can deepen self-understanding, strengthen our sense of connection, and give us a greater sense of meaning.

How To Do This Practice:

1. Choose an Ancestor: Think of a parent, grandparent, or someone from generations past.
2. Set Aside Five Minutes: Find a quiet place and begin writing freely about this person.
3. Imagine Their Life: Write about what they looked like, where they lived, and what their daily life might have been like.
4. Get Curious: Imagine their relationships, challenges, joys, and experiences beyond what you already know.
5. Imagine Their Advice: Write about what they might say to you today, including any wisdom, encouragement, or guidance.
6. Reflect on Your Life: Consider what you discovered and how their story might shape the way you see yourself and your future.

Scroll down for a transcription of this episode.

Today’s Guests:

MI’JAN CELIE THO-BIAZ is an artist, documentarian and oral historian.

https://www.mijancelie.com/

SUSAN MOORE is a psychology professor at the Swinburne University of Technology.

Related Science of Happiness episodes:

What If Thinking About Death Could Make Us Feel More Alive?: https://tinyurl.com/292whwh4

How Rituals Keep Us Connected: https://tinyurl.com/4unkssnd

Who’s Always There For You: https://tinyurl.com/2p9p934w

Related Happiness Breaks:

A Meditation on Love and Interconnectedness: https://tinyurl.com/3jsjvxtv

A Guided Meditation on Embodied Love: https://tinyurl.com/5brfa93x

A Meditation to Connect With Your Roots: https://tinyurl.com/bd6cmeym

Tell us about your experience with this practice. Email us at [email protected] or follow on Instagram @HappinessPod.

Help us share The Science of Happiness! Leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and share this link with someone who might like the show: https://tinyurl.com/2p9h5aap

Transcription: https://tinyurl.com/2kj6ywu3