The Mindful Body: How Mindset and Health Can Transform Your Life | Ellen Langer

Do Good To Lead Well with Craig Dowden

Can your thoughts truly influence your physical health? Listen as we unravel this intriguing question with pioneering psychologist and Harvard professor Ellen Langer, whose insights on mindfulness and mind-body unity challenge traditional beliefs. Ellen shares personal anecdotes and research from her book, "Mindful Body: Thinking Our Way to Chronic Health," inviting us to reconsider how our mindset impacts well-being. From transforming cancer battles to redefining work as exercise, Ellen reveals how shifting perceptions can lead to remarkable health benefits.

Ellen’s insights extend beyond personal health, touching on the broader implications of mindfulness in relationships, leadership, and innovation. Understand how recognizing and cultivating positive traits can transform interactions and reduce judgment. Through stories about chambermaids and wound healing, we explore the untapped potential of our minds and learn practical tips for integrating mindfulness into everyday life. Ellen highlights the power of flexibility and awareness, encouraging us to embrace uncertainty and open-mindedness to boost creativity and adaptability.

We close our conversation by exploring the exciting world of mindful living, where mistakes become opportunities and empathy deepens our understanding of others. Ellen Langer's stories and studies illuminate the path to a more present, attentive mindset, whether in parenting, professional settings, or personal interactions. This episode offers valuable strategies to unlock greater creativity, adaptability, and well-being, challenging you to rethink your approach to health, relationships, and leadership. Whether you're new to mindfulness or a seasoned practitioner, Ellen’s insights promise to inspire and transform your perspective.

What You’ll Learn:

• The transformative power of mindfulness on health and well-being.

• Captivating stories and groundbreaking research that reveal the unity of mind and body.

• How shifting our mindset can profoundly impact our lives.

• The power of empathy in parenting and beyond.

• The benefits of embracing uncertainty.

• How keenly noticing the new can enhance personal and professional growth.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - Mind-Body Unity and Well-Being

(07:28) - The Power of Mindful Living

(22:40) - Recognizing and Cultivating Positive Traits

(27:57) - Benefits of Mindful Leadership and Innovation

(39:28) - Embracing Mistakes and Practicing Mindful Innovation

(46:30) - Understanding Empathy and Mindful Parenting

(54:02) – Final Thoughts on the (Surprising) Science of Being Mindful

More of Ellen:

Dr. Ellen Langer, Ph.D., is a renowned social psychologist and Harvard’s first tenured woman in psychology. Known as the “mother of mindfulness,” she has authored 12 books, including The Mindful Body (2023). Her groundbreaking research on mindfulness, aging, and decision-making has earned over 200 publications and numerous awards. Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, she continues to inspire new perspectives on health and creativity.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellenjlanger/

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Mindfulness, Mind-Body Connection, Mindful Living, Mindful Leadership, Mindful Communication, Well-Being, Empathy, Resilience, Positive Change, Adaptability, Mindful Relationships, Mindful Health, Mindful Potential, Personal Transformation, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/