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Why You're Feeling So Stressed Right Now & How To Regain Control Of Your Life | Dr. Ellen Langer
Apr 5, 2025
Dr. Ellen Langer, a Harvard Psychology Professor and 'mother of mindfulness', dives into the stress of modern life and how our perceptions shape our experiences. She discusses reframing adversity and the importance of self-talk in managing stress. Mindfulness doesn't require meditation, she explains, and can transform how we navigate challenges. Langer emphasizes that our thoughts can significantly impact our health, urging listeners to embrace uncertainty and redefine personal success for a more fulfilling life.
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Quick takeaways
- Stress stems more from our interpretations of events than from the events themselves, emphasizing the importance of perspective in emotional responses.
- Practicing mindfulness empowers individuals to recognize their thoughts as choices, which can significantly improve emotional well-being and relationships.
Deep dives
Impact of Negative Thinking on Health
Negative thoughts and emotions can significantly impact overall health, as they influence the mind-body connection. Dr. Langer emphasizes that negative thinking not only leads to emotional misery but may also contribute to various health issues. Through research, it is evident that psychological stress, particularly linked to negative perceptions of events, is a primary threat to health. Langer’s experiments, including the counterclockwise study, illustrate how shifting one's mindset can result in physical improvements, such as enhanced memory and appearance, reinforcing the idea that the mind and body operate as a unified entity.
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