Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson

Dive into the fascinating world of psychological skills as joy and humor take center stage. Explore cognitive restructuring to combat negativity and embrace the wild spirit within. Discover the art of reshaping your personal narrative and finding meaning amidst life’s absurdities. The conversation also touches on navigating nihilism and crafting a fulfilling philosophy of life. Join in on a journey that celebrates personal growth and the strength found in laughter.

Listen as the hosts dive into five crucial skills for a fulfilling life: benevolence, patience, curiosity, self-regulation, and grit. They share personal anecdotes and insights on how these strengths can foster resilience and personal growth. Explore the power of asking questions and the importance of waiting, along with practical strategies for self-regulation. The discussion highlights how these skills can enhance our experiences and help us navigate life's challenges effectively.

Dr. Diane Poole Heller, a seasoned therapist and authority on attachment theory, dives deep into the nuances of attachment styles and their impact on relationships. She explains secure, avoidant, ambivalent, and disorganized attachments, shedding light on how childhood experiences shape adult connections. Dr. Heller discusses somatic approaches to healing trauma, emphasizing the significance of body awareness. Listeners will discover practical techniques for enhancing emotional expression, navigating triggers, and fostering deeper, more fulfilling relationships.

Discover the complexities of self-relationship and why self-acceptance is crucial for well-being. The discussion tackles societal pressures that breed self-criticism while emphasizing the path to self-likeability. Explore motivations driven by fear versus self-worth, and the importance of nurturing an inner dialogue that fosters compassion. Learn how childhood experiences shape self-perception and the significance of forgiving oneself. Practical strategies for personal growth and cultivating a kinder relationship with yourself are highlighted throughout.

Explore the keys to lasting relationships with insights from 35+ years of couples counseling. Discover how to navigate common issues, make vulnerable communications, and embrace change together. Understand the balance between liking and loving, and learn practical skills that enhance connection. Dive into the importance of emotional intelligence, accountability, and trust in fostering healthy interactions. With tips on addressing relationship red flags, you’ll find ways to deepen your bond and enjoy a fulfilling partnership.

Dr. Jud Brewer, a psychiatrist, neuroscientist, and author focused on mindfulness for addiction and anxiety, dives into the fascinating link between habits and anxiety. He explains how anxiety can become a reinforced habit, presents innovative mindfulness techniques for healing, and discusses the neurobiological basis of cravings. Listeners will learn about the cycle of worry, the impact of anxiety on performance, and practical practices to alleviate anxiety—all while drawing insights from the brains of seasoned meditators.

This discussion dives into the myths surrounding self-help, challenging the notion that personal change isn't possible and debunking the idea of 'no pain, no gain.' It highlights hedonic adaptation's role in happiness and urges a broader view of meditation beyond just sitting still. The hosts emphasize the importance of considering diverse therapeutic methods and the power of community support in personal growth. They advocate for questioning popular self-help narratives and recognizing the value of professional guidance in the healing process.

Explore the intriguing misconceptions surrounding therapy and personal growth. Discover why individual well-being is crucial for community health, and how self-care isn't selfish but essential for resilience. Unpack the transformative power of therapy as a collaborative journey, addressing fears while promoting self-awareness. Delve into the complexities of trauma, emphasizing the importance of context and empathy in understanding stress. Challenge societal perceptions of personal growth and learn how it intersects with social responsibility.

In this engaging conversation, Elizabeth Ferreira, a graduate student in somatic psychology, shares her journey with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). She sheds light on the severity of PMDD, differentiating it from typical PMS, and emphasizes the often invisible struggles faced by many women. The discussion highlights effective coping mechanisms, including mindfulness and community support, while exploring the importance of self-awareness and validation in managing emotional challenges. Elizabeth also reflects on transforming PMDD's limitations into opportunities for personal growth.

Delve into the world of avoidant behavior and discover its many forms, from procrastination to emotional avoidance. Learn how these behaviors impact our lives and the costs they impose on our well-being. Emphasizing the importance of confronting challenges, the discussion highlights practical strategies for personal growth and resilience. Explore the dual nature of avoidance, alongside tools for emotional coping, and embrace a proactive mindset to combat worry. This enlightening dialogue encourages self-awareness and the pursuit of meaningful change.