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Dr. Rick Hanson

Rick Hanson

Author / Psychologist

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Expertise

Biography

Rick Hanson, Ph.D. is a psychologist, Senior Fellow at UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center, and New York Times best-selling author. His eight books have been published in 33 languages and include Hardwiring Happiness, Buddha’s Brain, Resilient, Neurodharma, Just One Thing, Making Great Relationships, A Happy, Healthy Mom, and Mother Nurture – with over a million copies in English alone. He's the founder of the Global Compassion Coalition and the Wellspring Institute for Neuroscience and Contemplative Wisdom, as well as the co-host of the Being Well podcast – which has been downloaded over 30 million times. He offers free newsletters, and his online programs have scholarships available for those with financial needs. He’s lectured at NASA, Google, Oxford, and Harvard. An expert on positive neuroplasticity, his work has been featured on CBS, NPR, the BBC, and other major media. He began meditating in 1974 and has taught in meditation centers worldwide. He and his wife live in northern California and have two adult children. He loves the wilderness and taking a break from emails.

Articles

Compassion and Assertion

Compassion and Assertion

Compassion and assertion work together as the two wings that get any relationship off the ground and keep it flying. They support each other, and they both nourish the wolf of love.

Two Wolves in the Heart

Two Wolves in the Heart

In our hearts, there are two wolves: a wolf of love and a wolf of hate. Our happiness and well-being all depends on which one we feed each day.

The Self-Transforming Brain

The Self-Transforming Brain

When your mind changes, your brain changes, too. As a result, even fleeting thoughts and feelings can leave lasting marks on your brain, much like a spring shower can leave little trails on a hillside.

Taking in the Good

Taking in the Good

Your mind is built from the experiences you have. The flow of experience gradually sculpts your brain, thus shaping your mind.

Resolving Quarrels

Disagreements and grievances are normal in any relationship, whether it’s between a mom and dad, or between two nations or peoples. Here are four things that will lead to your best chance of resolving a quarrel.

Talking About Parental Values

Parents often work out their differences informally, but sometimes, you’d benefit from a process that’s a little more structured. Here are some questions to help discuss the values that guide your parenting.

Gratitude

Gratitude

Practicing gratitude is an especially beneficial way to counter painful emotions and stress. Here are some thoughts and exercises about being grateful.

Relaxed and Content, Part 2

Relaxed and Content, Part 2

Learn about the long-term results effects of chronic sympathetic nervous system activation, a simple but comprehensive strategy for dampening the sympathetic nervous system and fueling the “rest and digest” parasympathetic nervous system and more.

Making Time for Your Relationship

During periods of intense demands – such as the first months after birth – it’s normal for a couple to have less time for each other. Time together for conversation, doing fun things together, sweet moments, and affection is the foundation of a strong and enduring love. Here are some suggestions for busy parents.