When he returned home from covering the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, Harris was so depressed he could barely get out of bed. He’s said quite publicly that he coped by turning to drugs like cocaine and ecstasy, which he later learned contributed to his televised freakout. After the panic attack, Harris discovered meditation through self-help gurus and brain scientists—and learned ways to finally understand and rein in the voice in his head. His findings inspired his book, 10 Percent Happier, which is like your cool uncle’s guide to meditation—all the facts, none of the “bullshit” (his word, not ours). Harris is the first to admit that meditation can’t solve all of your problems—but his tips for how it can make you a tiny bit happier are certainly a start. Get all his tips at Well+Good.
