Podcasts for Wellbeing
Every day, to make my commute bearable I spend most of the time listening to podcasts. I’m not ashamed to admit that I’m a bit of a podcast addict, and have subscribed to a variety of them from true crime to comedy. Our wellbeing has such an impact on our daily lives so I decided to put my listening skills to good use and review a few podcasts which focus on the important aspects of wellbeing.
We’re getting better at discussing mental health issues affecting us and those we’re close to, but we still have some way to go to remove the stigma associated with depression, anxiety, PTSD and many others. There are some great podcasts out there that confront the real issues around mental health in an open and refreshing way…
This podcast hosted by Fearne Cotton is a breath of fresh air. Her honest and frank discussions about mental health with those she admires is inspiring, challenges pre-conceptions about who it affects, and demonstrates that all experiences are unique. The podcast covers a range of mental health issues and the guests talk in-depth about their experiences and coping mechanisms they adopt. Guests include Dawn French, Russell Brand, Natalie Dormer and Zoe Sugg to name but a few.
Great for: in-depth discussions about mental health, interesting guests
The Science of Happiness, co-produced by PRI and UC Berkeley’s Greater good Science Centre discusses the science behind wellbeing, with each episode exploring a different strategy to improve our resilience, self-compassion and general wellbeing. During the episode they get regular people to test out one of the strategies in their daily lives and then delve into the psychology behind it. The exercises are very practical, and the variety means that there’s something for everyone.
Great for: those with an interest in psychology and research, accessing a variety of exercises
This podcast covers a variety of topics within mental health and wellbeing, and includes short exercises to help with relaxation, sleep and overcoming fear and anxiety. They’re delivered in a calm and relaxing tone by Dr David Peters, leader of the centre of Resilience at the University of Westminster and are easy to fit into your daily routine. Few podcasts have such a variety of relaxation exercises designed to give your body the time out it needs (just don’t listen while driving 😊).
Great for: short relaxation exercises, introducing a moment of calm to your day
Let us know if you have any recommendations on social media @UWTSDStudents
