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How to Create an Exercise Habit Without Driving Yourself Nuts | Kelly McGonigal

Aug 17, 2022

In this engaging discussion, Kelly McGonigal, a health psychologist and lecturer at Stanford University, shares insights from her book, The Joy of Movement. She explains the science behind the runner’s high and how exercise can release 'hope molecules' that boost our mood. Kelly emphasizes shifting the conversation around movement from obligation to joy and the importance of self-compassion in forming lasting habits. Listeners learn practical strategies for building healthy routines and the value of celebrating small wins in their fitness journey.

01:04:57

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Episode guests

Kelly McGonigal

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Setting an Intention Determines the Quality of Your Life

00:38

The Power of Movement

01:56

Tuning into Joy and Changing Your Environment for Habit Change

01:33

Intro

5min

Journey Through Pain and Meditation

17min

Exploring the Runner's High and Hope Molecules

2min

The Joy of Movement

16min

Harnessing Joy to Build Lasting Exercise Habits

4min

Celebrating Small Wins for Lasting Habits

11min

The Power of Self-Compassion in Habit Change

13min

Embracing Change and Engaging with the Audience

3min

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In this episode from our archives, psychologist Kelly McGonigal dives into her book The Joy of Movement and practical steps on how to develop healthy habits.

Kelly McGonigal, PhD, is a health psychologist and lecturer at Stanford University, and a leading expert in the new field of “science-help.” She is passionate about translating cutting-edge research from psychology, neuroscience, and medicine into practical strategies for health, happiness, and personal success. She is the author of The Joy of Movement, The Willpower Instinct, and The Upside of Stress.

In this conversation we talk about:

Why her book is a love letter to movement and human nature
The science behind the runner’s high
Why she wants to change the conversation around movement
Why shame and self-criticism is disempowering and not motivating
The value of setting intentions
How Kelly has used psychology and meditation to relieve her own pain and suffering
And what Tonglen meditation is — and its impact on her life

Full Shownotes: https://www.tenpercent.com/podcast-episode/kelly-mcgonigal-rerun