Feel Better, Live More with Dr Rangan Chatterjee

In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Fred Luskin, a seasoned clinical psychologist and director of the Stanford University Forgiveness Projects, shares groundbreaking insights on the transformative power of forgiveness. He reveals how letting go of past hurts can improve both mental and physical health, reducing anxiety and enhancing relationships. Fred emphasizes that forgiveness isn't about excusing actions but about liberating oneself from emotional burdens. Through practical strategies, he encourages listeners to embrace gratitude, fostering personal growth and deeper connections.

Dr. Howard Schubiner, Director of the Mind Body Medicine Center in Michigan and author of Unlearn Your Pain, dives into the fascinating link between chronic pain and brain function. He challenges the notion that pain is solely a physical ailment, revealing how our brains actually create the sensation of pain. Schubiner discusses the impact of emotional and psychological factors on pain perception and introduces techniques like mindfulness to aid healing. He emphasizes that understanding and addressing unresolved emotions can unlock pathways to relief from chronic pain.

Nihal Arthanayake, an acclaimed broadcaster and author of 'Let’s Talk: How To Have Better Conversations,' discusses the dwindling art of dialogue in today's digital world. He explores how meaningful conversations can combat loneliness and foster deeper connections, particularly among men who often struggle with vulnerability. They also delve into the significance of active listening and empathy, emphasizing that heartfelt exchanges can lead to transformative change and understanding in both friendships and romantic relationships.

Join best-selling author Robert Greene as he dives into the transformative power of meditation and self-awareness. He emphasizes the urgency of making lasting changes in our lives, encouraging listeners to embrace introspection. Greene highlights how recognizing our negative traits can foster empathy and strengthen relationships. With a focus on mindfulness, he discusses how being present helps us respond thoughtfully in challenging situations, ultimately guiding us towards personal growth and a broader perspective on life.

Join Dr. Charan Ranganath, a leading memory expert and Professor of Psychology at UC Davis, as he unpacks the surprising nature of human memory. He reveals that our brains are wired to forget, emphasizing how this selective memory shapes our identity and emotional well-being. Explore how experiences influence memory consolidation, the impact of environment and novelty on recall, and the therapeutic potential of journaling. Discover how to harness memory's unreliability to foster personal growth and understanding.

Max Lugavere, a science journalist and bestselling author, joins to discuss essential dietary changes for better brain health. He highlights the dangers of ultra-processed foods, which are linked to cognitive decline and diseases like Alzheimer’s. Max emphasizes the importance of quality oils, recommending extra virgin olive oil over refined alternatives. He also shares practical tips to enhance brain health, underscoring that small, daily dietary adjustments can significantly impact long-term cognitive well-being.

Dr. Kristin Neff, a psychology professor and co-founder of the Center for Mindful Self-Compassion, dives deep into the transformative power of self-compassion. She distinguishes it from self-esteem, emphasizing its importance for mental health. The discussion covers how self-compassion can combat emotional eating, enhance personal growth, and foster supportive inner dialogues. With practical exercises and insights, Neff highlights the need for kindness towards oneself, especially for caregivers and parents, making compassion a vital tool for overall well-being.

Join Professors Robert Waldinger and Marc Schulz, directors of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, as they reveal the surprising key to happiness: high-quality relationships. They discuss how strong connections can enhance both mental and physical well-being while sharing insights from an 85-year-long study. Discover the dangers of loneliness and the importance of diverse relationships. They also highlight the transformative power of generosity and curiosity in fostering deeper connections. It’s a heartfelt reminder to prioritize the bonds that truly matter!

Dr. Gabor Maté, a renowned physician and expert on trauma and addiction, shares transformative insights on life’s lessons from the dying. He discusses how aging can shift our perspectives toward authenticity and the importance of emotional expression. Gabor explores the regrets of neglecting personal connections and emphasizes the emotional costs of societal pressures. He advocates for curiosity and compassion as pathways to personal growth, highlighting that true happiness lies in balancing ambitions with meaningful relationships.

Anil Seth, a leading neuroscientist and Professor of Cognitive and Computational Science at the University of Sussex, challenges our understanding of reality. He argues that our brains create a controlled hallucination, shaping our perceptions rather than merely reading the world. The conversation explores how personal biases affect our interpretation of experiences, demonstrated through relatable examples. Seth also discusses the transformative effects of meditation on consciousness, highlighting its power to enhance self-awareness and shared understanding.