Loretta Breuning – The Paths Towards Happiness

Loretta Breuning is the author of Habits of a Happy Brain and The Science of Positivity. I have interviewed Loretta twice in the past to discuss her books and field of research – the study of the mammalian brain, in particular, the brains happy chemicals (serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin, & endorphin) and how they work.

Recently we had a slight disagreement of opinion in an email thread which I thought it would be good to explore further with her in another conversation. That is the basis of our discussion in this episode as we explore the paths towards happiness. Enjoy!

Guest Bio

Loretta Graziano Breuning is the founder of the Inner Mammal Institute, which helps people manage the ups and downs of their mammal brain. She learned that our happy brain chemicals swing up and down because they have a job to do. When you know what they do in animals, you can make peace with your inner mammal. You can wire yourself to enjoy more happy chemicals and relieve more unhappy chemicals

Topics of discussion

• The formation of human motivations.
• Why goals are fundamental to our happiness.
• Insights into dopamine and its role in our happiness.
• Practices to stimulate environments (internal and external) conducive to a deeper state of joy. Mindfulness, gratitude, reflection, goal setting, and KISS (keep it super simple).
• Disappointment and the effects of cortisol.
• An analysis of meeting our individual needs.
• How to determine what is necessary and unnecessary.
• Social comparison and where to spend our energy.

My review of  Habits of a Happy Brain that I have read and reviewed here.

Past conversations with Loretta – Episode 21 and Episode 354.

You can visit Loretta at her site The Inner Mammal Institute.

Also, check out her video – You Have Power Over Your Brain

Further Reading and Resources 

TED Talks: Ideas worth spreading

Psychology Today: Psychology Today is devoted exclusively to everybody’s favourite subject – Ourselves

Life Hack: Tips for Life

Elite Daily: The Voice of Generation Y

Four Hour Work Week: How to escape the 9-5, live anywhere and join the new rich.

The Minimalists: How to pursue a minimalist lifestyle and be happier.

Mind Hacks: Tips and Tricks for Using Your Brain

Rich Roll: Plantpowered Wellness Advocate

The Art of Charm: Build confidence, feel comfortable and networking differently.

American Psychological Association: The largest scientific and professional organization of psychologists in the United State

The Art of Manliness: Encouraging men to be better husbands, fathers, brothers, citizens.

Tiny Buddha: Simple wisdom for complex lives.

Brain Pickings: An inventory of cross-disciplinary interestingness, spanning art, science, design, history, philosophy, and more.

Mind Body Green: Lifestyle media brand dedicated to inspiring you to live your best life.

Zen Habits: Find simplicity and mindfulness in life.

Creative NonFiction: “true stories well told.” 

Addicted 2 Success: Motivation & Inspiration Website full of quotes and inspiring articles for entrepreneurs.

Barking Up the Wrong Tree: science-based answers and expert insight on how to be awesome at life.

The Positivity Blog: Practical articles on happiness, self-esteem, productivity and social skills.

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