Learn how to respond to challenges from the “green zone” of the brain rather than reacting instinctively from the “red zone.” Dr. Hanson and Forrest explore the biology behind these two systems, the role of mindfulness in moving from one to the other, and how to combat the brain’s evolved negativity bias.

Sponsor Message: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.

If you'd like to start making real, positive changes to your brain and your life, but you don't have a lot of extra time, then you may want to check out Rick Hanson's new program: Just One Minute. Use the code BEINGWELL at checkout for 10% off the purchase price.

Connect with the show:

The material in this podcast comes in large part from our book Resilient: How to Grow an Unshakable Core of Calm, Strength, and Happiness. If you like the podcast, you'll love the book!

Timestamps:

0:45: The difference between “responding” and “reacting”

3:05: Responding vs. reacting in practice

6:45: The biology behind responding and reacting

9:10: The negative cycle of reacting

10:20: If reacting is stressful, why do we have that system?

12:40: Mindfulness and our reactions

13:25: What makes people respond rather than react?

16:20: The “quantity” vs. “quality” effect of green and red zone experiences

20:40: The cumulative effect of negative experiences

21:45: How to limit the impact of negative experiences

23:05: The positive spiral of taking in good experiences

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices