Best Aimee Prasek Podcasts (2024)

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

2h 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

1d 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

5d 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

13d 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

12d 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

15d 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

24d 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

27d 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

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

4M 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

4M 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

4M 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

4M 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

4M 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

4M 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 …

1
Social Media: Moving Out of Social Comparison & Into Social Savoring [ep. 122] 20:31

4M 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

5M 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

5M 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

5M 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…

1
The Practice of Savoring (special replay of the best dopamine hit) [ep. 116] 26:53

5M ago26:53

26:53

n this episode, we dive deep into the concept of 'savoring,' an often-dismissed element of joy, packed with transformative potentsial. We'll highlight how savoring is an essential aspect of emotional regulation, a skill we can improve with practice, and a powerful tool to tap into and even recalibrate our dopamine system. Key moments: 00:00 Introdu…

1
Four Factors for Better Sleep [ep. 115] 21:09

5M ago21:09

21:09

In this episode, we discuss the importance of sleep for good mental health. We'll dig into the psychobiological model of sleep to help identify some tailored strategies you can use to improve your sleep. The factors we focus on are cognitive de-arousal (calm your mind), physiological de-arousal (calm your body), daytime facilitation of nighttime sl…

1
Tap Into Your Inspiration (special replay) [ep. 114] 27:40

5M ago27:40

27:40

In this episode, we're revisiting an older episode on the power of inspiration. Inspiration is a powerful aspect of personal growth and mental health and there are ways we can nurture the inner-aspects of this element so it's more likely to show up in our lives. Inspiration is also a key factor in achieving goals and resolutions... as are the fallo…

1
The Downsides of Self-Care [ep. 113] 19:10

5M ago19:10

19:10

In this episode, we explore some downsides of self-care. This knowledge is key because self-care is often marketed as a luxury, while distracting from our most basic needs. We'll talk more about the problems of hyper-focusing on ourselves, the external factors that defeat self-care, and the essential factor of community when it comes to self-care (…

1
Build Better Goals & Resolutions With Your Resilience Type [ep. 112] 21:14

6M ago21:14

21:14

In this episode, we discuss how to use your resilience type to achieve your goals and resolutions more successfully. We'll offer in-depth strategies for our six different resilience types which include the creative and enthusiastic types, the passionate and determined types, and the grounded and mindful types. Be sure to take our Resilience Quiz to…

1
Anxiety Attack vs Panic Attack [ep. 111] 17:01

6M ago17:01

17:01

In this episode, we'll talk about two terms that are often used interchangeably: anxiety attacks and panic attacks. We'll distinguish between the two and talk about the nature of stress-related anxiety (and surges of anxiety) and seemingly un-triggered panic attacks. The good news is that understanding and distinguishing between these experiences c…

1
Resolutions With a Healthier Twist [ep. 110] 22:44

6M ago22:44

22:44

Resolutions can often feel a bit too... heavy. Let's take a fresh perspective on resolutions and goal-setting. In this episode, we'll talk about leveraging the 'Fresh Start Effect' with a more empowering and effective frame for establishing new habits. Key moments: 00:00 Introduction to Joy Lab Podcast 00:40 The Science and Soul of Resolutions 04:0…

1
Coming Every Saturday... Resilience Lab! [ep. 109] 5:00

6M ago5:00

5:00

Joy Lab is back with an exciting new schedule that includes Wednesday Joy Lab episodes and Saturday Resilience Lab episodes! The latter will focus on common mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, offering tools and knowledge to help in overcoming these challenges. Looking forward to being with you all more often! Sources and Notes: Re…

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Aimee Prasek Podcasts

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