Best Aimee Prasek Podcasts (2024)

1
The Mental Health Benefits of Dad Jokes (seriously) [ep. 167] 8:24

6h ago8:24

8:24

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, we're talking about the mental health benefits of dad jokes. We're serious. We'll get into an article by humor researcher Marc Hye-Knudsen, highlighting how dad jokes can build resilience, teach impulse control, and improve emotional regulation in children. So, dads (and all of us), please take care of yourse…

1
The Impact of Anxiety & Depression on Decision Making [ep. 166] 14:13

3h ago14:13

14:13

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, we talk about how anxiety and depression can influence our decision-making processes. We hope this becomes a more talked about issue because it's a common struggle. We'll get into how anxiety can narrow our options and make us more risk-averse, while depression can lead to more pessimistic choices and lower e…

1
Three Questions for You... [ep. 165] 1:08

4h ago1:08

1:08

Our goal is to help you build resilience and joy. Our website and podcast exist for that goal. If you use any of those tools, then we want to know what's working, what you want to see more of, and what we can do better. This survey should take less than 3 minutes to complete. Here it is: https://www.naturalmentalhealth.com/assessments/2148238359 Mo…

1
Stuck In Judgment Or Self-Criticism? Here's How to Break Free [ep. 164] 15:38

2h ago15:38

15:38

Does your mind feel like a constant sea of judgment? Do thoughts popcorn day and night about how you're flawed or how someone else has it all wrong? You're not alone. Those kind of thoughts are common, but they can also be pretty destructive. There's clear evidence that the more we sit in judgment, the higher our risk for depression and anxiety. We…

1
Are You a Short Sleeper? [ep. 163] 11:50

5h ago11:50

11:50

Are four hours of sleep enough to function well? How about six? In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, we'll dig into how much sleep most folks need, and the importance of sleep with a focus on 'short sleepers.' We'll laser in on the detrimental effects of sleep deprivation on mental health, particularly in late teens and twenties, and explore som…

1
Getting Comfy w/ Not Knowing [ep. 162] 18:15

3h ago18:15

18:15

"I don't know." Do those three words make you feel a bit uncomfortable? Yeah, you're not alone. In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, we highlight the concepts of awe and intellectual humility and how they can help us embrace more curiosity, avoid rigid thinking, and help us to stay more connected to the world around us (yes, even amidst politica…

1
Magnesium for Anxiety & Depression [ep. 161] 15:02

5d ago15:02

15:02

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, we talk about the use of magnesium for anxiety and depression. There's good evidence to support its use, but it can be confusing. We get into the overall power of magnesium (its importance for nerve and muscle function, gut health, and neurotransmitter production) and why it's vital for mental health, particu…

1
No Need to Hurry, No Need to Sparkle, No Need to Be Anybody But Yourself [ep. 160] 10:54

3d ago10:54

10:54

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, we explore a powerful quote by Virginia Woolf: "No need to hurry. No need to sparkle. No need to be anybody but one’s self." It's radically simple wisdom that can be hard in practice. We'll talk about the societal pressures of striving for greatness and the importance of embracing one's authentic self while a…

1
It's OK to Check Out (as long as you check back in) [ep. 159] 17:25

7d ago17:25

17:25

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, we explore the phenomenon of dissociation or what is sometimes called "going offline." We want to highlight that this can be a very natural survival mechanism in response to stress and trauma. It's not all bad. We'll talk about the pros and cons of going offline; share some personal experiences of how dissoci…

1
See Your Inner Light With Awe (encore) [ep. 158] 25:10

1M ago25:10

25:10

Awe is a powerful element of joy and a powerful contributor to good mental health. And it isn't just something to experience when magical, mysterious, or rare events surprise us. Awe is something we can practice daily. But... how?! We'll talk about some cognitive barriers that may hinder it, such as overgeneralization and filtering. We'll also offe…

1
Mental Health & The Male Hubris, Female Humility Effect [ep. 157] 15:49

1M ago15:49

15:49

There's something called the "male hubris, female humility effect." And it's really a thing. It means that men tend to rate themselves higher on self-reported intelligence compared to women. How does this impact mental health? There's a lot to consider here. We'll talk about this effect and its relationship to intellectual humility and imposter syn…

1
How Do I Know If I'm Thriving? (special community talk share + short practice) [ep. 156] 25:40

1M ago25:40

25:40

How do you know if you're thriving? That's a question we received from one of our NMH Community members. We'll talk about this concept of thriving through the lens of positive psychology, leaning on Dr. Martin Seligman's PERMA model which includes Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment. Most of all, we'll focus on …

1
Sad Music... For A Mood Boost? [ep. 155] 12:11

1M ago12:11

12:11

Does sad music make you feel a little better? You're not alone. In this episode, we're exploring the intriguing topic of how sad music can influence mood and foster resilience. A recent study revealed some reason why we are drawn to sad music and the diverse emotions it evokes, including nostalgia, peacefulness, and empathy. The study also found fo…

1
Flow & The Art of Non-Doing [ep. 154] 13:58

2M ago13:58

13:58

We're talking about the concept of 'flow' and how to tap into that state of deep absorption in our activities. Interestingly, flow usually requires a bit of prep work. We have to feel comfortable with the challenge and have some confidence in our abilities before the art of letting go can occur. Tune in for some tips on how to shake overthinking so…

1
To All The Dads With Depression And Anxiety... [ep. 153] 17:23

2M ago17:23

17:23

Read this carefully: children of fathers with mild depressive symptoms or anxiety tend to have fewer behavioral difficulties and higher IQs. Yup. We'll talk a bit about the research here, but we want to emphasize the huge benefits of acknowledging and sharing mental health struggles with those close to us. Yes, that means emotional openness is a pa…

1
Getting Unstuck With Curiosity (encore) [ep. 152] 21:29

2M ago21:29

21:29

In this episode, we explore the element of curiosity and how it can work to reshape our brains. We become what we think, and by changing the way we think we can reframe how we see things. Curiosity can help us see things in different, positive ways that help us reprogram our neural pathways. Tune in to this episode to explore the element of curiosi…

1
The Shocking Correlation Between Dandruff & Depression [ep. 151] 11:37

2M ago11:37

11:37

What do dandruff and depression have in common? Well, they are two of the most over-diagnosed/pathologized experiences of our human journey. They also shine a light on how judgment and stigma can hinder self-care. We'll talk about how we can look beyond the surface and address the real issues impacting mood and wellbeing, amidst the understanding t…

1
Accept Yourself Just As You Are & Then You Can Change [ep. 150] 21:56

2M ago21:56

21:56

In this episode, we explore Carl Rogers' 'Curious Paradox'—the concept that true change comes from self-acceptance. We'll talk about the historical context of Rogers' humanistic psychology and his focus on unconditional positive regard and person-centered therapy. The big takeaway is the profound impact self-acceptance and self-compassion have on b…

1
Antidepressant Withdrawal & Coming Off Antidepressants With Less Side Effects [ep. 149] 21:06

2M ago21:06

21:06

In this episode, we talk about the experience of coming off antidepressants. It's important to note that there is a serious lack of attention and research on antidepressant withdrawal compared to starting these medications. We'll talk about the challenges of withdrawal symptoms, the importance of patient voices in healthcare research, and best prac…

1
Which Do You Usually Grab - The Handle of Hope or the Handle of Fear? (special replay) [ep. 148] 24:35

2M ago24:35

24:35

We wanted to share this replay from several years ago, because it covers the concept of hope and its relationship with mental health really well. In this episode, we'll share how hope work with the help of traditional wisdom, neuroscience, and personal experiences. We'll also highlight what we call the "enemies of joy." These include brain imbalanc…

1
5-Hydroxytryptophan Side Effects & Benefits [ep. 147] 20:05

2M ago20:05

20:05

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, we're diving into the science and soul of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), a supplement known for supporting mood through its role in serotonin production. We'll cover the basics of 5-HTP and its role in depression and anxiety along with the complex nature of depression and how 5-HTP might play a role in supporti…

1
Feel Hopeless? Hope's Out There (and in you too) [ep. 146] 20:19

2M ago20:19

20:19

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast we explore the concept of hope as a crucial element of joy. We're offering an 'outside in' approach to hope in this episode, suggesting that by fostering hope for the world around us, we can boost our own hope, resilience, and personal growth. There are lots of nuggets to take away from this episode as we dig …

1
How to Change: External vs Internal Motivators [ep. 145] 17:45

3M ago17:45

17:45

It can be hard to make healthy changes. And there's no shortage of advice on what to change and how to change. In this episode, we dig into why change can be hard and how to make the process a bit easier. We'll talk about the nuances of external and internal motivators in behavior change, distinguishing between external (extrinsic) motivators, whic…

1
You Are Not Alone: Building Your Awareness of Unity & Belonging (encore) [ep. 144] 18:59

3M ago18:59

18:59

In this episode, we're working on our element Hope... and resilience as well! We're still adventuring through The Roots of Resilience (laid out in one of Dr. Emmons book, The Chemistry of Calm). We're talking about the seventh and final root, "Creating Deep Connections" and how those connections are essential for our resilience and hope. And fear n…

1
Building Resilience And An Open Heart With Your Heart-Brain (encore) [ep. 143] 22:42

3M ago22:42

22:42

In this episode, we're working on our element Hope… and resilience as well! We're still adventuring through The Roots of Resilience (laid out in one of Dr. Emmons books, The Chemistry of Calm). We're talking about the sixth root, "Cultivating a Good Heart." What does this have to do with mental health?! A lot actually. We're not just a brain wander…

1
Working Through Uncomfortable Feelings & Building Your Emotional Immune System (encore) [ep. 142] 20:58

3M ago20:58

20:58

In this episode, we're working on our element Hope... and resilience as well! We're still adventuring through The Roots of Resilience (laid out in one of Dr. Emmons book, The Chemistry of Calm). We're talking about the fifth root, "Turning Toward the Feeling." Specifically, those uncomfortable ones that we may want to run from or push down. Instead…

1
The Truth Behind Your Thoughts And How to Calm Your Mind (encore) [ep. 141] 19:53

3M ago19:53

19:53

As you may know, we're still adventuring through The Roots of Resilience (laid out in one of Dr. Emmons book, The Chemistry of Calm). In this episode, we're working on our fourth root, "Calming the Mind." We'll hit on some key insights and strategies that include: Realizing we're thinking and that many of our thoughts are false, embracing the skill…

1
Resilience, Hope, and Mental Health (encore) [ep. 140] 15:42

3M ago15:42

15:42

In this episode, we're working on our element Hope... and resilience as well! As you may know, we're still adventuring through The Roots of Resilience (laid out in one of Dr. Emmons book, The Chemistry of Calm). We’re adding this element of Hope because working on our resilience skills is something that can actually feed hope, which then boosts our…

1
Align With Nature & Your Rhythms (ultradian, circadian, & infradian) [encore] [ep. 139] 27:54

3M ago27:54

27:54

In this episode, we're working on our element of Resilience and exploring the third "Root of Resilience" known as aligning with nature. The Roots of Resilience were laid out in one of Dr. Emmons book, "The Chemistry of Calm." This root builds on our last one ("managing energy") by embracing the cycles and rhythms that are part of a much bigger syst…

1
Overcoming the Energy Thieves and Managing Energy to Feel More Refreshed, Engaged, & Connected (encore) | Joy Lab Podcast [ep. 138] 26:11

3M ago26:11

26:11

In this episode, we're working on our element of Resilience and exploring the second Root of Resilience known as managing energy. The Roots of Resilience were laid out in one of Dr. Emmons book, "The Chemistry of Calm." We'll work through this foundational aspect of resilience, focusing on how we can keep our resilience tank more full by returning …

1
A Balanced Approach to Medications, Supplements, and Nutrition to Support Mood (encore) [ep. 137] 27:49

4M ago27:49

27:49

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, we're exploring a more balanced approach to supporting brain chemistry. Understanding brain chemistry for mental health is really important... it's not everything, but it's important (we'll get into those other important areas later in this series). In this episode, we'll touch on dietary strategies, suppleme…

1
Refilling Your Resilience Tank (encore) [ep. 136] 19:55

4M ago19:55

19:55

In this episode, we're working on our element of Resilience. And even if you feel the opposite of resilient right now, we'll discuss more about how each of us is wired for resilience. We are naturally resilient and can uncover and build up this element--no matter what. This is also the first part of our "Roots of Resilience" series. The Roots of Re…

1
Resilience Training + Our Roots of Resilience Series [ep. 135] 9:27

4M ago9:27

9:27

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, we (Dr. Henry Emmons and Dr. Aimee Prasek) reintroduce our Roots of Resilience series, focusing on building resilience and uncovering joy by blending scientific and soulful approaches. And big news! Our Resilience Training program will be added to our NMH community this summer. In this series (and more so in …

1
You're Wired for Resilience (special replay) [ep. 134] 32:17

4M ago32:17

32:17

We recorded this early in our Joy Lab journey, but it's as true as it was then. Truth is, we’re all wired for resilience. It’s built into all living systems, from a single cell to dynamic global systems. And none of us would be here if we didn't have it. But, have you wondered why we all have different levels of resilience and how it can be boosted…

1
Lack of Sleep, Anxiety, and Panic Attacks [ep. 133] 12:24

4M ago12:24

12:24

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, hosts Dr. Henry Emmons and Dr. Aimee Prasek talk about the intricate relationships between sleep, stress, anxiety, and panic attacks, emphasizing the distinction between panic attacks and anxiety. They discuss the various factors contributing to panic attacks, including genetics, brain chemistry, and stress, …

1
Discovering Your Resilience Type (+ Our Updated Resilience Quiz) [ep. 132] 15:47

4M ago15:47

15:47

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, we talk about our updated resilience quiz and the power of identifying your Resilience Type. The new quiz is more focused on innate strengths and is intended to provide insightful and relevant paths to consider as we foster more resilience and live more joyful lives. We'll also highlight the fluid nature ofRe…

1
New Mail Bag & When To Turn Off the SAD Light [ep. 131] 11:52

4M ago11:52

11:52

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, hosts Dr. Henry Emmons and Dr. Aimee Prasek announce the new NMH Mailbag and address a listener's question about the appropriate use of SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) lights, discussing optimal usage periods and considerations for adjusting use based on personal response. The discussion also touches on vit…

1
drumroll, please... Meet our Updated Joy Lab Program! [ep. 130] 24:56

4M ago24:56

24:56

The Joy Lab podcast, hosted by Dr. Henry Emmons and Dr. Aimee Prasek, aims to help listeners build resilience and discover joy by blending scientific methods with soulful practices. In this episode, we re-introduce the Joy Lab program, now part of the Natural Mental Health (NMH) community. We discuss the program's foundation on the four pillars of …

1
Meditation for Burnout [ep. 129] 9:01

4M ago9:01

9:01

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, Dr. Aimee Prasek will guide you through a visualization exercise to tune into your body and observe the differences in sensations and emotions experienced during a day off of work compared to a typical workday. By stepping into the observing self, you'll watch a 'life movie' play out in two parts; one depicti…

1
Is It Burnout or Depression? [ep. 128] 18:19

5M ago18:19

18:19

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, we're sharing a live chat we had in our Natural Mental Health Community. We tackled the topic of burnout, discussing its characteristics, causes, and how it differs from depression. After this episode, we'll share a burnout meditation you can use to illuminate your own possible experiences of burnout and depr…

1
Lithium Orotate & Lithium Carbonate [ep. 127] 18:22

5M ago18:22

18:22

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, hosts Dr. Henry Emmons and Dr. Aimee Prasek talk about lithium orotate, a compound different from the commonly prescribed lithium carbonate used for bipolar disorder. They explore its potential advantages including better brain absorption and fewer side effects at lower doses, while also clarifying that altho…

1
Self-Care Ideas & Simple Joy Challenges [ep. 126] 13:51

5M ago13:51

13:51

In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, hosts Dr. Henry Emmons and Dr. Aimee Prasek explore the concept of simplicity in creating change, focusing on the significance of a simple, joy-filled approach to self-care. They challenge the overly simplistic strategy of relying on a single solution for mental health issues, advocating instead for a multifa…

1
Mindful Eating & the Cephalic Phase of Digestion (really, it's a thing!) [ep. 125] 16:17

5M ago16:17

16:17

In this episode of the Joy Lab Podcast, hosts Dr. Henry Emmons and Dr. Aimee Prasek talk about the cephalic phase of digestion and how mindful eating can promote better digestion. What's the cephalic phase of digestion? Glad you asked! The cephalic (head) phase of digestion is triggered by the sight and smell of food, continues on as you taste and …

1
Equanimity, Mental Health, & The Five Pathways to Inner Calm (special replay) [ep. 124] 28:10

5M ago28:10

28:10

Feeling stressed lately? Our stress responses are being activated by a lot of stressors floating around lately. That's why we wanted to replay this episode that digs more into stress and reclaiming balance. As we'll get into, stress is generally fine as long as it recedes in a reasonable amount of time. If that doesn’t happen, we can lock ourselves…

1
Colds, Viruses, & Depression [ep. 123] 16:21

5M ago16:21

16:21

In this episode, we're talking about the relationship between viruses and depression. We'll cover how viral illnesses can negatively impact mood, how this process is completely natural, and how it can go awry. We'll hit on the role of inflammation, and how mood-regulating chemicals in the brain such as serotonin and dopamine can get disrupted. And …

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Social Media: Moving Out of Social Comparison & Into Social Savoring [ep. 122] 20:31

5M ago20:31

20:31

In this episode, we discuss the impact of social media on mental health, focusing on the concepts of social comparison and social savoring. One route that social media can take to tank our mood has to do with social comparison, where we evaluate our own worth based on others. However, the negative impacts of this can be reduced through the practice…

1
The Spring-Time Mood Change to Know About [ep. 121] 15:00

5M ago15:00

15:00

In this episode, we discuss the variations of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and mood shifts that surface in different seasons... particularly the less-talked-about shift that can happen between mid-February and April. This is a time when individuals might feel more agitated and overactive compared to typical winter depression. We'll talk about …

1
Food: What to Add vs What to Take Away [ep. 119] 18:57

6M ago18:57

18:57

Fad diets generally focus on foods to ban from your plate. It's an approach that can lead to an effect we get into in this episode called the "what the hell effect." And it's spot-on. So, how can that effect be avoided? We'll highlight an approach that focuses not just on foods to add, but paying attention to how those foods add to your mental heal…

1
How to Savor Uncertainty [ep. 118] 15:47

6M ago15:47

15:47

In this episode, we're talking about the relationship of joy and uncertainty. Uncertainty usually gets a bad rap, but we're wired to navigate uncertainty far more elegantly than we might believe. We'll highlight how initially, uncertainty can lead to discomfort. However, the next step in this process is often a draw to be present, savor something, …

1
Movement and Exercise for Mental Health [ep. 117] 18:47

6M ago18:47

18:47

In this episode, we explore the power of movement and how it differs from exercise. Why distinguish between the two? Because movement can offer unique benefits for mental health and overall wellbeing. Drawing from personal experiences as well as relevant research, we'll highlight ways to embrace simple, daily movements that can support mood, memory…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Aimee Prasek Podcasts

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