About this episode
A simple smile, a friendly gesture or an offer of help and friendship, could help us all live longer, healthier lives. International Day of Happiness (March 20) is celebrated by the United Nations as a way to recognize the importance of happiness in the lives of people around the world. There is scientific data that suggests people who embrace the benefits of a positive attitude, are rewarded with a greater sense of well-being. Catherine Sanderson is a psychologist and professor in Life Sciences at Amherst College in Massachusetts. In her book, The Positive Shift: Mastering Mindset to Improve Happiness, Health, and Longevity, Dr. Sanderson explores the science behind our mindset, and how, she says, anyone can learn to adopt a more positive outlook. In this LLAMA podcast interview, with Peter Bowes, Dr. Sanderson explains how kindness, gratitude and genuine friendships can help promote better physical and mental health.
Connect with Dr. Sanderson: Website | Book: The Positive Shift | Facebook | Twitter
In the episode we cover:
- Why someone who is not “naturally happy” has written a book about happiness?
- What does it mean to be happy?
- Are we genetically programmed to be either happy or more melancholy in our demeanor?
- Does having stress and adversity in life help, ultimately, promote happiness?
- What if bad things happen?
- What does MRI data showing levels of “brain activation” tell us?
- Why do our brains react differently when we’re surrounded by nature?
- How much control do we have over our mindset?
- Do we spend too little time thinking about and practicing happiness?
- How powerful is a smile?
- How a positive attitude can make us feel better and better tolerate adverse experiences.
- Why are so many people keeping gratitude journals?
- Bedtime rituals to help us sleep better.
- Does social media make us feel less happy?
DISCOUNTS & AFFILIATION DISCLOSURES
This podcast is supported by affiliate arrangements with a select number of companies. We have arranged discounts on certain products and receive a small commission on sales. The income helps to cover production costs and ensures that our interviews, sharing information about human longevity, remain free for all to listen. See our SHOP for more details.
- SiPhox Health at home blood testing – get a 20% discount with code LLAMA at checkout
- EnergyBits – 20% discount on algae snacks | Use code LLAMA | Learn more
- Timeline Nutrition – 10% discount on Mitopure, highly pure Urolithin A. Use code LLAMA | Learn more
- Flexbeam – click here for latest offer on wearable red light therapy device | Learn more
- DoNotAge 10% discount on targeted supplementation | Use code LLAMA | Learn more
- Hampton Fitness – Movement & resistance training have long been associated with living a long, healthy life – along with a balanced diet and good sleep. For a 15% discount on essential workout gear use code: llamapodcast15 at checkout
Audio-only platforms
The Live Long podcast, a HealthSpan Media LLC production, shares ideas but does not offer medical advice. If you have health concerns of any kind, or you are considering adopting a new diet or exercise regime, you should consult your doctor.
