Sero Boost

Loretta Graziano Breuning, Ph.D.: Rumination’s Role in Unhappiness | Sero Boost #55

Are you ready to delve into the intricacies of the brain? Discover how negative thinking patterns can harm your well-being and gain effective strategies to rewire your brain for a more positive perspective. Prepare to leave rumination behind and welcome a brighter, more joyful you!

Meet Loretta Graziano Breuning, Ph.D.

Loretta G. Breuning, PhD, founded the Inner Mammal Institute and is a Professor Emerita at California State University, East Bay. She authored Habits of a Happy Brain, focusing on brain chemistry and human motivation, aiding thousands in achieving inner peace. Her work, translated into 12 languages, is widely cited in major media. 

A graduate of Cornell and Tufts, she also volunteers at the Oakland Zoo, sharing her knowledge of animal behavior. The Inner Mammal Institute provides numerous resources, including videos, podcasts, books, blogs, and a free 5-day program on their website.

About the episode

In this enlightening episode of Sero Boost, Loretta Graziano Breuning, Ph.D., explains that happiness is driven by dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphin. She emphasizes that these chemicals create good feelings in both humans and animals, who do not philosophize about happiness but experience these chemicals in specific situations. 

Loretta highlights that negative thinking patterns, or rumination, can harm wellbeing, and suggests strategies to break these patterns by engaging in positive activities to promote a lasting sense of happiness. She explains that rumination affects happiness by limiting options and reinforcing negative thought patterns due to the brain’s tendency to follow well-worn neural pathways.

Loretta explains that neuroplasticity diminishes after childhood. To rewire the brain and reduce rumination, individuals should identify patterns from childhood and consciously build new, healthier pathways through repeated positive behaviors. She suggests that focusing on small, actionable goals and surrounding oneself with positive influences can help foster happier thought patterns.

In conclusion

In this episode, Loretta Graziano Breuning, Ph.D., emphasizes the importance of grasping how the brain is wired and how childhood experiences shape adult rumination. Her practical guidance focuses on leveraging neuroplasticity, underscoring the critical role of actively selecting mental stimuli and establishing realistic goals. These insights offer a robust framework for effectively managing rumination and nurturing overall mental wellness.

Be the first to see our next episode. Follow us on social media to stay updated:

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

LinkedIn

TikTok

Pinterest

You can also subscribe and listen to the show on your preferred podcasting platforms:

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Amazon

iHeart Radio

Podbean

PlayerFM

Podchaser

Google Podcasts

Nadine Aref

Recent Posts

Teaching Kindness to Children Through Everyday Moments

In a world that often rewards competition and self-interest, teaching kindness to children has never…

4 hours ago

How to Rekindle Love and Navigate Its Emotional Complexities

Ever caught yourself scrolling through old photos and wondering what your ex is up to…

4 days ago

How Body-Neutral Fitness Helps You Achieve Healing Through Movement

If you have ever felt detached from exercise, you are not alone. Many people associate…

5 days ago

Scientific Ways to Break Free From a Toxic Relationship

Relationships don't always start with a red flag. They often begin with passion, love, and…

2 weeks ago

The Ultimate Guide on How to Have a Clean Home as a Pet Owner

You've just mopped the floors, fluffed the pillows, and taken a deep, satisfied breath. Then,…

2 weeks ago

A Homeowner’s Guide to Affordable Home Maintenance

Your home is more than just your four walls — it’s where you make your…

2 weeks ago