Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson

In this engaging conversation, Elizabeth Ferreira, a graduate of Somatic Psychology at CIIS and content creator on CPTSD, shares her personal journey with Complex PTSD. She candidly discusses the emotional landscape shaped by childhood trauma and the lingering effects it has on adult relationships. Elizabeth emphasizes the significance of creating safe spaces to process grief and repressed emotions, and the value of therapy in reconnecting with neglected parts of ourselves. Her insights provide a compassionate guide to navigating the challenges of CPTSD.

The hosts explore the intriguing relationship between attachment and suffering through Buddhist teachings. They differentiate between healthy and unhealthy attachments while discussing personal experiences. The conversation highlights the necessity of mindfulness and self-awareness in managing desires. Listeners learn how to embrace change and cultivate emotional awareness to foster healthier relationships. By accepting the transient nature of life, they discover paths to greater peace and joy.

In this engaging discussion, internationally recognized family therapist Terry Real shares insights on overcoming toxic individualism to foster genuine intimacy. He highlights the importance of balancing acceptance and agency in relationships and introduces the concepts of the Adaptive Child and Wise Adult. Real discusses effective communication strategies to express needs without a counselor’s help, advocating for collaboration over dominance. He emphasizes breaking generational trauma cycles to build healthier connections, urging listeners to shift from ‘me vs. you’ to a united ‘Us’.

Dr. Ronald Siegel, an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School and author, explores the pitfalls of social comparison and the myths surrounding extraordinary achievements. He shares insights on embracing our ordinary selves as a path to genuine self-acceptance. The discussion highlights how cultural pressures shape our self-worth, the healing power of social connection, and practical strategies to cultivate a balanced self-view. Siegel's wisdom invites listeners to find joy and fulfillment in their everyday experiences.

Anger is a complex emotion with both costs and benefits. The discussion highlights its biological roots and ethical implications, advocating for a deeper understanding of anger's role in our lives. Embracing anger can lead to personal growth when expressed in safe environments. The podcast also examines societal repression of anger and its historical context. By reframing anger as a source of energy and motivation, listeners are encouraged to manage it constructively, transforming it into a powerful force for positive change.

Self-awareness is a vital yet challenging skill to develop. The discussion delves into the different types of awareness and shares personal anecdotes about navigating internal and external self-discovery. There's emphasis on balancing self-acceptance with the fear of arrogance. The importance of reconnecting with positive aspects of ourselves and mindfulness as tools for growth are highlighted. Engaging strategies and reflective exercises guide listeners on their journey toward embracing their true selves.

Discover why our brains cling to unwanted habits and how to discern which thoughts deserve our attention. The discussion dives into improving sibling relationships through vulnerability and personal growth. Explore the intricacies of meditation and what to do with the positive emotions that arise. Learn about the psychological factors that aid meditation and why we often say "kind of." It's a treasure trove of insights on changing old patterns and fostering self-awareness.

Discover how to supercharge your motivation by understanding the dopamine system. The conversation distinguishes between motivation and discipline while exploring the nuances of 'liking' versus 'wanting.' Learn practical strategies for aligning your biological impulses with your goals, and how to navigate discomfort for long-term satisfaction. The speakers emphasize reclaiming self-agency in personal development, and share insights on enhancing motivation through mindful practices. Tune in for tips on staying engaged and fulfilled in your daily life!

Laura van Dernoot Lipsky, founder of The Trauma Stewardship Institute and a trailblazer in trauma exposure, shares her insights on managing secondary traumatic stress. She discusses the challenges of remaining compassionate without burning out and highlights the importance of self-care for those in supportive roles. Laura emphasizes the balance between empathy and personal well-being, offering practical strategies for resilience amidst societal challenges. Her engaging anecdotes reveal the necessity of fostering hope and emotional health in an overwhelming world.

Learn how to disrupt obsessive thoughts and navigate rumination with Dr. Rick and Forrest Hanson. They explore the origins of rumination, strategies to disengage from negative thought loops, and the power of thought acceptance. Discover ways to break free from rumination and promote self-compassion for a healthier mental state.