Dr. Ellen Langer, a Harvard psychology professor and pioneer in mind-body research, discusses the profound link between our thoughts and physical health. She reveals how framing questions and perceptions can shape our longevity and healing processes. The impact of mindfulness versus mindlessness takes center stage, showing how awareness enriches experiences. Langer emphasizes the importance of adapting perspectives on aging, the power of playfulness in life, and how our mindset can dramatically influence overall well-being.

Dr. Ellen Langer, Harvard's first tenured female psychology professor and acclaimed "mother of mindfulness," shares insights from her latest work. She discusses how intentional awareness and humility can transform health and mindset. The conversation delves into the effects of time perception on aging and disease, and how reframing suffering through faith can empower us. Langer emphasizes the importance of directing attention intentionally to foster personal growth and tackle bureaucratic challenges in research. An inspiring exploration of mindfulness awaits!

Dr. Ellen Langer, Harvard's first tenured female psychology professor, shares her groundbreaking insights on mindfulness and the mind-body connection. She discusses how embracing uncertainty can lead to freedom and the role of thoughts in influencing health. Langer challenges traditional views of success and societal norms, emphasizing the importance of perspective and mindfulness in daily rituals. Her ideas encourage listeners to question their assumptions and foster self-awareness, ultimately reshaping how we navigate life.

Dr. Ellen Langer, a Harvard psychology professor and the 'mother of mindfulness,' shares her groundbreaking insights on how thoughts shape our physical health. She challenges traditional views on aging, suggesting it may stem from beliefs rather than biology. Langer advocates for 'work-life integration' over balance, emphasizing joy in daily tasks. She introduces powerful techniques for decision-making and managing chronic conditions, stressing that our mindset can profoundly influence well-being and relationships, ultimately empowering us to take control of our health.

Ellen Langer, a Harvard psychology professor and mindfulness pioneer, delves into the intricate relationship between mind and body. She discusses how mindfulness, more than just meditation, can alter perceptions and enhance health. With insights from her book, she reveals surprising health benefits linked to awareness and belief, including studies on aging and the placebo effect. Langer also encourages embracing uncertainty and the art of noticing to enrich everyday experiences and boost creativity.

If there’s one thing we might regret at the end of life, it’s that we missed out on moments that mattered—not because we weren’t physically there, but because our mind wandered off to some unknown place.In this episode of How to Build a Happy Life, we explore why it’s uniquely challenging to “live in the moment,” how we limit our own curiosity by assuming we know best, and why the illusion of stability pulls us from living every day fully, and in the moment. A conversation with Harvard University professor of psychology Dr. Ellen Langer helps us think through a daily struggle: How do I stay present?This episode was produced by Rebecca Rashid and is hosted by Arthur C. Brooks. Editing by A. C. Valdez. Fact-check by Ena Alvarado. Sound design by Michael Raphael.Be part of How to Build a Happy Life. Write to us at howtopodcast@theatlantic.com or leave us a voicemail at 925.967.2091.Music by Trevor Kowalski (“Lion’s Drift,” “This Valley of Ours,” “Una Noche De Luces”), Stationary Sign (“Loose in the Park”), and Spectacles Wallet and Watch (“Last Pieces”).Click here to listen to every full-length episode in the series. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cognitive scientist Daniel Kahneman, psychologist Ellen Langer, and philosopher Hilary Lawson discuss perception bias, decision-making, truth, variability in biases, openness vs. structure, expert guidance, AI surpassing human intelligence, and the role of AI in future discourse.

Dr. Ellen Langer, an award-winning social psychologist, shares her groundbreaking insights on mindfulness and the mind-body connection. She discusses fascinating studies that reveal how mindset can transform physical health. The conversation highlights the 'borderline effect' in medical diagnoses, suggesting that many perceived limitations may actually be flexible. Langer emphasizes the contagious nature of mindfulness and its powerful influence on our daily experiences, urging listeners to embrace variability and uncertainty for better health outcomes.

Dr. Ellen Langer, social psychologist and pioneering researcher, discusses the power of our thoughts and beliefs in shaping our health outcomes. Topics include perception affecting body and health, the mindful body, the connection between cognitive function and sleep, the influence of thoughts on healing, improving sleep quality, and the impact of perception on blood sugar levels.

Renowned as the 'mother of mindfulness', Ellen Langer discusses the power of 'because' and different forms of empathy. She emphasizes the importance of integrating mindfulness and psychology alongside medical advice. The impact of mindfulness on well-being and decision-making is explored, while also discussing the limitations of empathy.