Psychology historically focuses heavily on psychopathology, mental illness, and diagnosing weaknesses. But what happens when we shift our lens toward human strengths, emotional resilience, and flourishing? In this highly anticipated and engaging 71st masterclass, Psychotherapist and Ex-Banker Ms. Bhanumathi Das Sharma returns to explore the transformative world of Positive Psychology.This session bridges modern western psychological frameworks—specifically Martin Seligman’s PERMA Model (Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment)—with ancient Indian philosophical traditions (such as the 7 layers of human existence and Bhagavad Gita wisdom). It offers actionable tools for cultivating gratitude, building an "achievement portfolio," nurturing internal self-love (Intrapersonal Relationship), and reframing life's challenges.
🧠 Part 1: Foundations of Positive Psychology & The 7 Layers
[10:00] — Shifting the Focus: Moving away from a purely deficit-based medical model to exploring human potential, optimism, resilience, and innate mental strengths [11:36].
[09:15] — The 7 Layers of Existence: Understanding health through holistic layers (Physical Body, Breath, Mind, Intellect, Memory, Ego, and Soul/Self) as taught by spiritual frameworks, distinguishing between the emotional fluidity of the Mind and the rational discernment of the Intellect [17:25].
📋 Part 2: The PERMA Model of Well-Being
[15:16] — The 5 Pillars of Flourishing (PERMA):
Positive Emotion (P): Grounding happiness in the present moment through mindfulness and deep daily Gratitude [19:37].
Engagement (E): Entering a state of "flow," avoiding stagnation, and setting purposeful goals [25:22].
Relationships (R): Cultivating strong Intrapersonal relationships (self-love, self-acceptance, and self-forgiveness) as the foundation for healthy Interpersonal connections [32:00].
Meaning (M): Aligning goals with a deeper purpose and asking introspective questions like "How and by whom do I want to be remembered?" [28:13].
Accomplishment (A): Building a comprehensive lifetime Achievement Portfolio that moves beyond traditional financial markers to recognize developmental milestones, personal growth, and daily efforts [42:53].
🛡️ Part 3: Practical Tools & Emotional Resilience
[34:31] — Intrapersonal Bonding & Self-Love: Practical mirror work exercises ("I love you, you are awesome") to heal internal guilt and eliminate the need to beg for external validation [37:16].
[46:22] — The Achievement Portfolio Activity: Mapping out 10-year life blocks to write down and visually represent accomplishments (using creative formats like sunflowers or ice cream cones) to foster pride and boost well-being [43:22].
Individuals Seeking Personal Growth: Anyone looking to overcome stagnation, break free from complaint loops, and cultivate a daily practice of gratitude and positive emotion [13:00].
Counselors & Therapists: Practitioners wanting to incorporate strength-based positive psychology and the PERMA model into client sessions [11:36].
Watch the full masterclass video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5DunJfVNp20
📢 True flourishing begins from within! Shift from a deficit mindset to gratitude, cultivate deep self-love, and find your state of flow. Support scientific mental health awareness by clicking Like, Share, and Subscribe!