emotional wellness |

Bringing Ideas and Concepts for a Positively Minded Life November 12, 2013

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Dr. Rachel Naomi Remen

Category: Mind-Body Wellness Insights

In this episode, host Armand DiMele speaks with Dr. Rachel Naomi Remen, a physician and professor at UCSF, about the importance of human connection in medicine. They discuss the need to return to a more compassionate approach to healthcare, emphasizing the significance of listening and understanding patients beyond their physical ailments. Dr. Remen shares insights from her course, ‘The Healer’s Art,’ which aims to remind medical students of the heart of medicine and the values of service, compassion, and authenticity. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by healthcare professionals and the necessity of nurturing their own humanity to better serve others.

Anxiety: Friend or Foe March 26, 2013

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Dr. Sarah Denning

Category: Emotional and Mental Health

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the complexities of anxiety with Dr. Sarah Denning, founder of Adaptive Behavioral Therapy. They explore the nature of anxiety, its mechanisms, and how it can serve both as a motivator and a hindrance. Dr. Denning introduces her Anxiety Notebook Series, emphasizing the importance of identifying anxiety levels and understanding their origins. The conversation covers practical strategies for managing anxiety, including recognizing physical symptoms, the role of movement, and the significance of resensitizing oneself to lower levels of stress. Listeners are encouraged to engage with their anxiety constructively and learn to navigate its challenges.

Caregiving and Its Challenges April 17, 2012

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Diana Denholm, John Valerio, Linda Vanella

Category: Generational and Age Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the complexities of caregiving with Dr. Diana Denholm, author of ‘The Caregiving Wife’s Handbook.’ They explore the emotional toll on caregivers, the dynamics of care in relationships, and the importance of communication. Dr. Denholm shares insights from her personal experiences and offers practical tools for caregivers to manage their feelings of anger, resentment, and guilt. The conversation emphasizes the need for compassion and understanding between caregivers and those they care for, highlighting the shared journey of love and support during challenging times.

Ideas for a Positively Minded Life November 30, 2011

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Kent Robertshaw, Linda Vanella

Category: Mind-Body Wellness Insights

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the complexities of mental health and aging with Kent Robertshaw and Linda Vanella Vanella Vanellis. They explore the impact of psychiatric conditions, the importance of medication, and the role of nutrition in improving mental well-being. The conversation touches on how relationships can influence happiness and the significance of self-acceptance as we age. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and the ways they can foster a more positive mindset, despite the challenges they may face.

Emotions and Aging July 12, 2011

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Linda Vanella

Category: Mind and Mood Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the complex relationship between serotonin levels and depression, particularly in the elderly. He explores the concept of neurogenesis—the birth of new brain cells—as a potential key to understanding and treating depression. Armand challenges the traditional view that low serotonin levels are the primary cause of depression, highlighting that many people with low serotonin do not experience depression. He emphasizes the importance of exercise, learning, and enriched environments in promoting neurogenesis and improving emotional well-being. The episode also touches on the role of fear and obsessive-compulsive behaviors in managing depression.

Power of Rest July 29, 2010

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Dr. Matthew Edlund

Category: Sleep and Well-being

In this episode, Armand DiMele speaks with Dr. Matthew Edlund about the importance of rest and its impact on health. They discuss various aspects of sleep, including the effects of modern lifestyles on sleep quality, the significance of social connections for better rest, and the role of music in relaxation. Dr. Edlund shares insights from his book, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to rest, which includes physical, mental, and social aspects. The conversation also touches on the challenges of insomnia, the influence of technology, and practical tips for achieving better sleep.

Exploring the Connection Between Heart and Mind January 6, 2010

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Sherri Siegel, Teresa Palmer

Category: Mind-Body Wellness Insights

In this episode, Armand DiMele, along with guests Teresa Palmer and Sherri Siegel, delve into the intricate relationship between the heart and the brain. They discuss how emotional stress can manifest physically, leading to serious health issues, and explore the emerging field of neurocardiology, which examines the heart’s role beyond being just a pump. The conversation highlights the importance of holistic health, emphasizing that emotional well-being is crucial for physical health. The hosts advocate for empowering patients to take charge of their health by understanding the connections between their emotions, lifestyle, and overall well-being.

Addiction and the Brain December 15, 2009

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Dr. Hal Urschel

Category: Health and Wellness Insights

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the complexities of addiction with Dr. Hal Urschel, author of ‘Healing the Addicted Brain.’ They explore the physical effects of addiction on the brain, the importance of comprehensive treatment approaches, and the role of medications like suboxone and vivitrol in recovery. Dr. Urschel emphasizes that addiction is a chronic disease that requires long-term management, similar to other chronic illnesses. The conversation also touches on the misconceptions surrounding various substances, including alcohol and marijuana, and the need for a more nuanced understanding of addiction.

Happiness and Resistance December 1, 2009

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Sherri Siegel

Category: Personal Growth and Well-being

In this episode, Armand DiMele and Sherri Siegel explore the complex nature of happiness and the psychological resistance that often hinders personal growth. They discuss the myriad of self-help resources available on happiness, the prevalence of depression, and the significant financial investments people make in search of joy. The conversation delves into the concept of the ‘engineer’ within us, which protects us from change and the unknown. Through dialogue and acceptance, the hosts encourage listeners to confront their resistance and embrace the journey towards a more fulfilling life.

Locked-In Syndrome and Emotional Isolation November 25, 2009

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Sherri Siegel

Category: Psychology and Cultural Insights

In this episode, Armand DiMele and Sherri Siegel explore the concept of ‘locked-in syndrome,’ a neurological condition where individuals are awake but unable to communicate. They discuss the emotional parallels, such as addiction and social anxiety, that can leave people feeling isolated. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding and reaching out to those who may be emotionally ‘locked-in’ and highlights the significance of gratitude in fostering connections. The hosts encourage listeners to reflect on their own emotional states and the ways they can engage with others during the holiday season.