Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson

Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a licensed clinical psychologist and professor, dives deep into the world of narcissism. She differentiates between narcissistic personality disorder and typical narcissistic behavior, shedding light on their emotional impacts. Listeners learn practical strategies to navigate relationships with narcissists, emphasizing boundaries and self-compassion. Dr. Ramani also discusses the societal implications of narcissism today and advocates for empathy amidst cultural fragmentation, making for a thought-provoking and insightful conversation.

Delve into the complexities of depression, exploring its multifaceted causes from personal struggles to broader societal issues. Discover practical strategies like mindfulness and behavioral activation to foster positive experiences and combat feelings of hopelessness. The discussion emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and the role of social support in overcoming depressive slumps. Listeners will gain insights into building resilient habits and effective interventions that can empower those struggling with mental health challenges.

This discussion dives deep into understanding depression, distinguishing between fleeting sadness and clinical depression. It highlights the emotional toll of depression on individuals and their loved ones while addressing the prevalence of the condition. Key topics include the origins of depression, from hereditary factors to environmental influences, and the importance of tailored coping mechanisms. They also explore the nuances that differentiate various forms of depression, aiming to foster compassion and awareness around mental health.

Sometimes it's nice to have just one thing to focus on: a simple theme each week to reflect on and be inspired by. On this short episode, Roshi Joan Halifax shares the most important thing she does, each day, for her own well-being.Purchase Roshi Joan's most recent book Standing at the Edge: Finding Freedom Where Fear and Courage Meet here.We’d also like to let people know about the Upaya Institute’s general fund, which allows Upaya to provide a wide array of workshops, trainings, and retreats for thousands of people each year. If you would like to give to the fund, please follow this link.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Though there is no more human experience than death, it’s one of the most challenging topics to explore. Today we have the pleasure and privilege of learning from a true pioneer in the field of end-of-life care: Roshi Joan Halifax.As you may know, “roshi” is a title for the honored teacher of a Zen Buddhist community. Roshi Joan is a Buddhist teacher, Zen priest, and doctor of medical anthropology. She is Founder, Abbot, and Head Teacher of Upaya Institute and Zen Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico.She’s also the author of several classic books, including most recently publisehd Standing at the Edge: Finding Freedom Where Fear and Courage Meet.We’d also like to let people know about the Upaya Institute’s general fund, which allows Upaya to provide a wide array of workshops, trainings, and retreats for thousands of people each year. If you would like to give to the fund, please follow this link.Timestamps:2:09: Roshi Joan's childhood experience, and how it shaped her.4:42: How has your work with the dying informed the way that you’ve lived your life?8:17: In your experience of sitting with people who are going through the dying process, what have you found they particularly valued or regretted?10:14: Handling existential dread.11:48: We only have one "big" death, but we may have many "small" deaths throughout life. What lessons can we take from the "big" death and apply to those?18:18: Can we know our own true nature?20:56: Do you have any counsel for those who are grieving?26:43: A teaching from indigenous cultures.28:17: If you could go back in time and speak to yourself as a child or young adult, what would you say? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The hosts dive into self-criticism and how it affects personal identity, especially in light of life-changing diagnoses. They explore the journey towards self-acceptance while navigating neurodiversity. Practical strategies for overcoming social anxiety and asserting oneself in daily interactions are shared. The conversation highlights the importance of self-compassion and mindfulness in managing mood fluctuations. Listeners are encouraged to participate and reflect on their experiences with personal growth.

Sometimes it's nice to have just one thing to focus on: a simple theme each week to reflect on and be inspired by. On this short episode, professor Gaylon Ferguson shares the most important thing he does, each day, for his own happiness. Sign-up for Just One Thing from Dr. Rick Hanson here, and receive more simple practices for greater well-being. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we explore the rich topics of fear and fearlessness with professor Gaylon Ferguson.Professor Ferguson is a member of the faculty at Naropa University in Bolder, Colorado. He is a graduate of Exeter and Yale, and holds a doctorate in cultural anthropology from Stanford. He’s also a senior teacher in the Shambhala Buddhist lineage, and has been a teacher in residence at the San Francisco Zen Center and Spirit Rock Meditation Center in California.He is also the author of two books: Natural Bravery: Fear and Fearlessness as a Direct Path of Awakening, and Natural Wakefulness: Discovering the Wisdom We Were Born With.If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.Connect with the show: Visit us on the web Follow us on Instagram Follow Rick on Facebook Follow Forrest on Facebook Subscribe on iTunes Timestamps:00:58: When did you begin to explore fear and fearlessness?03:25: Why do you think that courage is our basic nature?05:57: How can someone experience innate courage?10:30: The "fear of ourselves."12:55: What are some of the best practices that people can use to address a feeling of emptiness?17:04: Becoming more comfortable with groundlessness.22:59: Handling acute, in the moment experiences of fear.29:03: Outside of self-awareness, are there certain tactics you have found that help move people into a stance of welcoming?32:07: If you could go back in time and talk to your younger self, what would you say? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today's mailbag episode we answer two questions related to our series on "Who Am I," with a general focus on helping people learn how to better manage their relationships with challenging family members.If you’d like to submit a question to be answered during a future mailbag, use the form on this page.If you would like to learn more about Dr. Hanson's new online program Neurodharma, follow this link! Use the code BEINGWELL for 10% off the purchase price.Timestamps:00:59: How can we help manage our reactions to, and even support, family members that we find challenging to be around?20:04: What are some key differences between Narcissism and Borderline Personality Disorder? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are so busy these days that it’s great to have just one thing to focus on: a simple theme each week to reflect on and be inspired by. On this short episode, Adam Markel shares the most important thing he does, each day, for his own happiness. Sign-up for Just One Thing from Dr. Rick Hanson here, and receive more simple practices for greater well-being. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices