When Florence Williams' 25-year marriage unexpectedly ends, she embarks on a journey to understand the science behind heartbreak. She travels to the frontiers of 'social pain' research, undergoes various experiments such as testing her blood for genetic markers of grief and experiencing electrical shocks while viewing pictures of her ex. Williams also explores the physiological impacts of heartbreak, including its effects on immune cells and overall health. Her journey includes nature getaways, canoeing and rafting trips, and even experimenting with psychedelic drugs. The book is a blend of personal narrative and scientific inquiry, offering insights into loneliness, health, and the complexities of love and heartbreak.
Florence Williams is a journalist, author, and podcaster. She is a contributing editor at Outside Magazine and a freelance writer for the New York Times, New York Times Magazine, National Geographic, The New York Review of Books, Slate, Mother Jones and numerous other publications.
In this episode, Eric and Florence discuss her new book, Heartbreak: A Personal and Scientific Journey.
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Florence Williams and I Discuss How to Heal From Heartbreak and…
- Her book, Heartbreak: A Personal and Scientific Journey
- Her experience of heartbreak when her marriage of 25 years ended
- How our bodies are physically affected by emotional pain
- How some personality types may be more severely affected by heartbreak
- The healing effects of being open to experiencing beauty and awe during difficult times
- Using A.W.E. (attention, wait, exhale) as a mindfulness practice
- Her 30 day journey in wilderness both with others and alone
- How she learned to be alone and also discovered the value of connection with other people
- The negative effects of loneliness
- How research shows that immune systems are stronger in those who feel like their lives have meaning
- The antidote to loneliness is beauty + connection + purpose
Florence Williams Links:
Florence’s Website
Twitter
Instagram
Facebook
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If you enjoyed this conversation with Florence Williams you might also enjoy these other episodes:
Florence Williams on Spending Time in Nature (2017)
The Art of Stopping with David Kuntz
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