In this book, Dr. Tara Swart, a neuroscientist and Senior Lecturer at MIT, reveals the surprising science that supports the Law of Attraction as an effective tool for self-discovery. She guides readers through the latest breakthroughs in neuroscience and behavioral psychology, including lessons in neuroplasticity, magnetism, emotional and logical thinking, hydration, self-care, and relaxation. The book also describes her personal journey from skeptic to believer and how these ancient tools of manifestation and visualization can free readers from self-limiting behaviors and propel them toward their truest, most authentic selves.
In 'Clear Thinking', Shane Parrish provides a comprehensive manual for improving decision-making and personal growth. The book highlights how most people operate on autopilot, driven by behavioral defaults shaped by biology, evolution, and culture. Parrish offers strategies to recognize and capitalize on pivotal moments between stimulus and response, using stories, mental models, and a 4-stage decision process (define, explore, evaluate, execute). The book aims to help readers build self-knowledge, self-control, and self-confidence, and to make better decisions by balancing emotions with rational thinking and gathering high-quality information.
In this book, Dr. Bessel van der Kolk uses recent scientific advances to show how trauma reshapes both the body and brain, compromising sufferers’ capacities for pleasure, engagement, self-control, and trust. He explores various treatments, including neurofeedback, meditation, sports, drama, and yoga, which activate the brain’s natural neuroplasticity to aid in recovery. The book emphasizes the power of relationships in both causing and healing trauma and offers hope through descriptions of novel approaches to treatment. It is based on Dr. van der Kolk’s own research and that of other leading specialists in the field[1][2][5].
In this book, Dr. Rangan Chatterjee reveals how to make positive change that actually lasts. He identifies nine hidden ways day-to-day life causes soothing habits and provides simple techniques for responding to them consciously. By blending ancient philosophy with a deep understanding of health, Chatterjee offers a personalized approach to reduce reliance on the chaotic outside world, helping readers unlock true, long-lasting health and happiness.
In 'Awe', Dacher Keltner presents a sweeping investigation and deeply personal inquiry into the elusive feeling of awe. The book reveals new research alongside an examination of awe across history, culture, and within Keltner's own life. It shows how awe transforms thoughts of self, one’s relationship to the world, and physical reactions to it. Keltner also explores how awe has propelled human evolution, is beneficial to mental and physical health, and can heal grief, build communal bonds, and humble us by making us feel part of something larger than ourselves.
For today’s episode, I’m pleased to welcome back the wonderful Dr Tara Swart. Tara is a neuroscientist, a former medical doctor & psychiatrist, a lecturer at MIT, an executive coach and author of the bestselling book, The Source. She also hosts the podcast Reinvent Yourself with Dr Tara.
If you’ve listened to my previous episodes with Tara, you’ll remember her unique talent for using neuroscience and behavioural psychology to probe ideas, theories, and practices that many believe work, but we’re not sure why.
This insightful and often unusual episode takes a deep and meaningful look at stress - what exactly it is, what impact it has on health and how it predisposes us to storing fat. We also discuss the most effective ways to manage stress, the best ways to build resilience and the benefits of practices like journalling.
We really do cover a whole variety of different topics today including metacognition, the definition of spirituality, what exactly intuition and interoception are, and how we can use them to get to know our minds and bodies more intimately. We talk about rituals, the incredible power of creativity, beauty, and time spent in nature. And finally, we ask some big questions around the topic of death and consciousness, which Tara is increasingly drawn to studying.
If you’re someone who’s interested in alternative thinking and new ideas, but likes the reassurance of scientific backing, Tara’s warmth and wisdom will tick all your boxes. If you’re a sceptic - well, this conversation might just open your mind.
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Show notes https://drchatterjee.com/516
DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.
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