'Connect with your...': Harvard psychologist explains how you can practise Virat Kohli's advice to PV Sindhu that helped the badminton star to bounce back

When PV Sindhu revealed that one conversation with Virat Kohli helped her rediscover the joy of competing, it resonated with athletes and fans alike. While the details of their discussion remain private, the badminton star said the biggest lesson she took away was the importance of "finding your joy again." Interestingly, modern neuroscience suggests there is strong science behind that advice.

The conversation that changed Sindhu's perspective

According to Rediff, Sindhu, accompanied by her husband Venkata Datta Sai, spent hours speaking with former India captain Virat Kohli in Bengaluru. Reflecting on the meeting, Sindhu said she would always be grateful that Kohli was there when she needed guidance. She added that the details of the conversation would remain private, but every word stayed with both her and her husband.

She also described it as one of those conversations that changes the way a person sees things. The biggest takeaway, according to Sindhu, was rediscovering joy. She later shared that she now understands why she wakes up every day for her 5:30 am training sessions. Her motivation, she explained, no longer comes from chasing trophies or victories but from something much deeper.

Why joy matters, according to science

An article published by Harvard Health Publishing titled How can you find joy or at least peace during difficult times? explains that joy is closely linked to several key neurotransmitters in the brain. Although the neurobiology of joy is complex, four chemicals play especially important roles: dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin and endorphins.


According to the article, these neurotransmitters help promote positive emotions and emotional well-being. The encouraging part is that everyday habits can naturally increase their levels. For example, aerobic exercise can trigger a "runner's high" through the release of endorphins, while spending time with a baby increases oxytocin, often referred to as the "cuddle hormone" because it strengthens feelings of connection.

How to increase joy during difficult times

Harvard Health Publishing suggests that when life becomes challenging, deliberately creating opportunities for joy becomes even more important. The article recommends several practical habits.

Exercise regularly
Regular aerobic physical activity boosts mood by releasing neurotransmitters that continue working long after the workout ends.

Help others
Activities such as volunteering often create greater happiness than focusing solely on personal goals because helping others builds stronger emotional well-being.

Connect with your spiritual side
Meditation, gratitude and spiritual practices can help people feel connected to something larger than themselves while encouraging compassion and inner peace.

Learn something new
Trying a new hobby or developing a fresh skill introduces novelty, something the human brain naturally enjoys.

Allow yourself moments of happiness
Even during stressful periods, giving yourself permission to enjoy small pleasures can improve emotional resilience.

Focus on positive experiences
Harvard recommends practising the "three good things" exercise, which involves noticing positive moments throughout the day to gradually build a more joyful mindset.

Limit negativity
The article also advises reducing exposure to consistently negative influences, whether they come from difficult relationships, workplace gossip or habitual complaining.

Find meaning beyond money

Focusing on activities that provide purpose and meaning rather than purely financial rewards can contribute to lasting happiness.