10% Happier with Dan Harris

Can You Really Trust Your Feelings? | Lisa Feldman Barrett & John Dunne

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Nov 9, 2022
In a thought-provoking discussion, Lisa Feldman Barrett, a leading psychologist, and John Dunne, a contemplative scholar, challenge the Western notion that emotions should be distrusted. They explore how emotions are constructed from personal experiences, argue for the integration of feelings and rational thought, and highlight the importance of emotional intelligence. The duo discusses the concept of a 'body budget' for managing well-being, emphasizing mindfulness and awareness as tools for navigating life’s complexities.
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INSIGHT

Emotions: Constructed, Not Pre-wired

  • Emotions are not pre-wired responses triggered by external stimuli.
  • They are constructed by the brain, interpreting sensory data through past experiences.
ANECDOTE

The Uncle's Chew: Constructing Anger

  • Dan Harris gives an example of his uncle chewing loudly, causing an unpleasant bodily response.
  • His brain interprets these sensations as anger, demonstrating how emotions are constructed.
INSIGHT

Buddhist Perspective: Emotions as Framing

  • In Buddhism, emotions are not a distinct category but rather how we experience sensations.
  • These experiences are framed by our desires and aversions.
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