In 'The Art of Gathering', Priya Parker argues that many gatherings are lackluster and unproductive, but they don't have to be. Drawing on her expertise as a facilitator of various types of gatherings, Parker offers a human-centered approach to create meaningful experiences. She explores a wide array of gatherings, including conferences, meetings, and social events, and provides practical advice on how simple changes can invigorate any group experience. The book emphasizes the importance of knowing the purpose of a gathering, selecting the right venue, and ensuring the event is unique and effective for all attendees.
In 'The Willpower Instinct,' Kelly McGonigal explains the science behind self-control and provides practical strategies to enhance willpower. The book is based on her 10-week course at Stanford University and covers topics such as the physiology of self-control, the role of stress and dopamine, and techniques like meditation and breathing exercises to improve willpower. McGonigal breaks down willpower into three categories: 'I will' (doing things that improve your life), 'I won’t' (avoiding things that undermine your health and happiness), and 'I want' (focusing on long-term goals). The book offers experiments and challenges to help readers apply the theories in their daily lives and improve their overall health, happiness, and productivity.
In 'The Joy of Movement,' Kelly McGonigal draws on insights from neuroscience, psychology, anthropology, and evolutionary biology to show how movement is intertwined with basic human joys such as self-expression, social connection, and mastery. The book highlights stories of people who have found fulfillment and belonging through various forms of exercise, from running and walking to dancing and weightlifting. It illustrates how movement can create happiness, meaning, and connection, and serves as a powerful antidote to modern mental health issues. McGonigal also explores topics like the runner's high, exercise addiction, the impact of music on workouts, and the benefits of exercising outdoors, emphasizing the role of movement in our happiness and humanity.
Dr. Kelly McGonigal is a health psychologist and lecturer at Stanford University. As a pioneer in the field of science help, her mission is to translate insights from psychology and neuroscience into practical strategies that support personal wellbeing and strengthen communities. Kelly is the author of several books, including the international bestseller, The Willpower Instinct, and The Upside of Stress and her newest book is The Joy of Movement.
In this week’s episode, we explore the latest research on why movement – not just exercise – is so important for our wellbeing and the simple, joyful ways we can get moving more.
Connect with Kelly McGonigal:
You’ll Learn:
- [02:17] - Kelly shares the latest research findings on why movement is so important for our wellbeing.
- [05:23] - Kelly explains why we don’t have to exercise in order to enjoy the wellbeing benefits that come from moving.
- [11:30] - Kelly shares some of the latest research on how high-intensity movement – like running – helps to fuel endocannabinoids which improve our ability for social connection.
- [15:49] - Kelly explains how long-term regular exercise helps to build hope molecules that help us recover from trauma or depression and improves our levels of resilience.
- [15:49] - Kelly helps us understand how calm synchronized movements, even when we’re sitting down, can increase our pain tolerance and improve our sense of connection.
- [15:49] - Kelly offers some tips for how workplaces can help their workers to move more.
- [22:48] - Kelly completes the Lightning Round.
Your Resources:
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Until next time, take care! Thank you Kelly!
Making Positive Psychology Work 
