In this episode, Wendy speaks with social psychologist and contemplative researcher David Creswell. David has been studying the effects of meditation on stress and resilience for over a decade, and has conducted some of the most rigorous studies to date investigating which aspects of mindfulness interventions bring benefit. This conversation covers many topics, including: integrating psychology and Buddhism since high school; understanding stress and resilience; acceptance and equanimity in mindfulness; bringing scientific rigor to the study of mindfulness through dismantling trials; effects of equanimity on the stress response and positive emotions; how contemplative skills spill over from the cushion into daily life; how practice changes the brain and why those changes matter; a risky study with a president's daughter; the promise of apps to deliver mindfulness; how acceptance differs from passive resignation; and viewing biology and psychology as two sides of the same coin. Full show notes and resources

Clinical psychologist Natalie Dattilo-Ryan and neuroscience professor David Creswell share insights on the transformative power of affirmations. Dattilo-Ryan provides effective techniques for creating personalized affirmations that enhance self-worth. Creswell discusses how these positive statements can trigger the brain's reward system, helping to manage stress and boost resilience. Together, they explore the critical link between affirmations and personal values, revealing how self-discovery can reshape beliefs and foster emotional strength.

Natalie Dattilo-Ryan, a clinical psychologist, shares her insights on effective affirmations to boost confidence and reduce stress. David Creswell, a psychology professor at Carnegie Mellon, explores how affirmations can activate our brain's reward system. They discuss practical tips for incorporating affirmations into daily life, emphasizing the importance of personalized 'I am' statements and self-reflection. The conversation reveals the neurological benefits of affirmations, showcasing their potential to improve emotional health and lower stress levels.