How Exercise Helps Us Find Happiness, Hope, Connection and Courage with Dr Kelly McGonigal (Re-Release)

This week, I’ve decided to re-release an exceptional episode that first came out on this podcast over three years ago. My guest is Dr Kelly McGonigal. She’s a Stanford psychologist, award winning science writer and the author of multiple international best-selling books, including her most recent, The Joy of Movement: How Exercise Helps Us Find Happiness, Hope, Connection and Courage.

This conversation is all about movement; why movement is essential for our brains, our bodies, and our relationships. We’ve all heard how important movement is for our physical health but actually, in so many ways, I think we have undersold movement. Kelly shares some amazing insights and science about movement, which you may have never heard before.

Kelly and I talk about the importance of music for movement, and how moving with others can improve social connections and foster a sense of support and community. We discuss how going beyond what you think you’re capable of – whether that’s an endurance event, lifting heavy weights or taking on an epic hike in nature – can provide a spiritual experience that changes the brain in positive ways.

We also emphasise that movement does not have to be hard. Kelly explains how even the simplest of movements provide an immediate reset for your mood and brain chemistry. And she shares ground-breaking new research that shows how repeatedly contracting any muscles, through continuous exercise, releases antidepressant substances called myokines that scientists have dubbed ‘hope molecules’.

Whether you’re someone who wants to move more but isn’t sure where to start – or you’re already a confirmed fitness fanatic – I think you’ll find this conversation uplifting and inspiring. I hope you enjoy listening.

Disclaimer: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.*

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Connect with Kelly:

Website     Instagram     Twitter     Facebook   

Kelly McGonigal’s playlists on Spotify

Kelly’s Books:

The Joy of Movement †

The Upside of Stress: Why stress is good for you (and how to get good at it) †

Maximum Willpower: How to master the new science of self-control †

Related Feel Better Live More Episodes:

#79 How Running Can Transform Your Life with Sanjay Rawal

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*DISCLAIMER: Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

†Disclosure: All books marked with a † are hyperlinked to an affiliate program. We take part in Amazon’s affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon’s website. You are not charged any extra by using these links to purchase books.

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