Rewiring Your Brain: Dr. Rick Hanson’s Guide to Positivity
We can grow those things inside, which, for me, is incredibly hopeful.
Brains are incredible, aren’t they? In this episode of The Beyond Addiction Show, Dr. Josh King chats with Dr. Rick Hanson, a psychologist and author known for his work on the brain and behavior. They dive into how our actions can physically change our brain's structure and, consequently, our lives. Dr. Hanson explains how negative experiences tend to stick in our minds due to the brain's natural negativity bias—a survival mechanism from our ancestors.
But don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom! He shares how mindfulness, self-compassion, and focusing on positive experiences can help us rewire our brains for better mental health. Dr. Hanson offers practical advice on overcoming negative thinking patterns. He emphasizes the importance of being kind to ourselves, noting that many of us are our own worst critics. By practicing self-compassion, we can break free from harmful thought cycles and start nurturing positive neural pathways.
Mindfulness is another powerful tool in this process. Dr. Hanson describes it as paying attention to the present moment without judgment. By doing so, we can amplify positive experiences and foster growth in our brains. This episode is packed with actionable strategies for anyone looking to improve their mental well-being. Whether you’re struggling with negative thoughts or just curious about how your brain works, Dr. Hanson’s insights offer a hopeful and encouraging path forward.
Tune in to learn how you can take control of your brain’s wiring and cultivate a more positive outlook on life.