It's hard to always show compassion -- even to the people we love, but Robert Thurman asks that we develop compassion for our enemies. He prescribes a seven-step meditation exercise to extend compassion beyond our inner circle.
Was 2017 really the "worst year ever," as some would have us believe? In his analysis of recent data on homicide, war, poverty, pollution and more, psychologist Steven Pinker finds that we're doing better now in every one of them when compared with 30 years ago. But progress isn't inevitable, and it doesn't mean everything gets better for everyo...
When game designer Jane McGonigal found herself bedridden and suicidal following a severe concussion, she had a fascinating idea for how to get better. She dove into the scientific research and created the healing game, SuperBetter. In this moving talk, McGonigal explains how a game can boost resilience -- and promises to add 7.5 minutes to your...
In life and work, we have a hard time changing course. When we wind up in a miserable job, a failing project, or a floundering romantic relationship, we rationalize, make excuses, and stick with our bad decisions—even when the writing's on the wall. Why? Usually we assume the driving force is sunk costs: we don't want to admit we've wasted that ...
In 1943, chemist Albert Hofmann accidentally exposed himself to a drug he derived from ergot fungus and recorded its unexpected, mind-altering effects. The drug, lysergic acid diethylamide— or LSD— was soon heralded for its psychiatric potential. But how do LSD and other psychedelic drugs affect the body? And can they actually be medicinal? Anee...
What is happiness, and how can we all get some? Biochemist turned Buddhist monk Matthieu Ricard says we can train our minds in habits of well-being, to generate a true sense of serenity and fulfillment.
When a psychologist who studies well-being ends up with a brain tumor, what happens when she puts her own research into practice? Christina Costa goes beyond the "fight" narrative of cancer -- or any formidable personal journey -- to highlight the brain benefits of an empowering alternative to fostering resilience in the face of unexpected chall...
As COVID-19 continues to spread, the world is facing two existential threats at once: a public health emergency and an economic crisis. Political theorist Danielle Allen describes how we can ethically and democratically address both problems by scaling up "smart testing," which would track positive cases with peer-to-peer software on people's ce...
Martin Seligman talks about psychology -- as a field of study and as it works one-on-one with each patient and each practitioner. As it moves beyond a focus on disease, what can modern psychology help us to become?
expressing gratitude is often touted as a key ingredient for happiness. However, it’s not just about showing ...
There’s not enough research to demonstrate that cold plunging has clear health benefits. But this Homer group has found peace, community and confidence through the practice.
3. Daily Journal. Journaling decreases stress and anxiety, per research published in the Permanente Journal in 2021 shows. Emily Anhalt, PhD, a clinical psychologist in the San Francisco Bay area ...
How do we practice gratitude during a time of financial and political upheaval? ... How to find gratitude in times of stress: The Conversation. Updated: Apr. 30, 2025, 4:24 p.m.
How expressing gratitude can transform your work and life ... Other proponents say expressing and receiving appreciation can help reduce stress, as well as improve a person’s mood and outlook.
Ayurvedic Herbs for Anxiety and Stress Relief. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers a wealth of natural herbs that can help calm the mind, reduce anxiety, ...
Video games have long been seen as a source of fun and excitement, but their purpose is rapidly evolving. Today, a growing ...
Gratitude boosts mental health and workplace morale. Experts say even small habits can reduce stress and improve relationships at work and beyond.
Workplace stress is rising, but proactive strategies like mindfulness, micro-practices, and leadership training can improve ...
Weston says “avoiding screens and stimulants in the hours before bedtime, and ensuring your bedroom is quiet, dark and around ...
Hey there, Ray here! 👋 I recently had the immense pleasure of hosting Samantha Glass from the incredible Jess Rousey Honoring Heroes Foundation on my podcast. If you're looking for a dose of inspiration and a testament to community impact, you're going to want to read on! Samantha's journey to founding this amazing non-profit is truly heartwarming. Born from a desire to honor her late father, the foundation naturally merged with her long-standing commitment to public safety. The Jess Rousey Ho