Resilient: How To Grow an Unshakable Core of Calm, Strength, and Happiness

Clinical psychologist Rick Hanson (Hardwiring Happiness) explains how to use positive neuroplasticity to develop vital inner strengths. Positive neuroplasticity is the study of the human brain's physiological ability to form and strengthen dendritic connections, produce beneficial morphological changes, and increase cognitive reserve throughout life as a result of changes in behavior, the environment, learning, and even from physical injury. Hanson explains how to develop the 12 inner strengths—compassion, mindfulness, learning, calm, motivation, intimacy, courage, aspiration, generosity, grit, gratitude, and confidence—that are hardwired into the human nervous system and thus manage to stay calm and centered in the face of adversity. The bulk of the book is an extensive, guided explanation of how to experience, grow, and use these key mental resources for resilient well-being. The author adds numerous examples from his own life and provides practical imaging exercises that will help listeners grasp the power of the tools. His steady, calm narration is key to making his program work. Listeners are advised that a genuine commitment to practice the numerous exercises will require undivided attention, with no distractions and no multitasking.