Dr. Kelly McGonigal is a health psychologist and lecturer at Stanford University. As a pioneer in the field of science help, her mission is to translate insights from psychology and neuroscience into practical strategies that support personal wellbeing and strengthen communities.
Kelly is the author of several books, including the international bestseller, The Willpower Instinct, and The Upside of Stress and her newest book is The Joy of Movement.
In this week’s episode, we explore the latest research on why movement – not just exercise – is so important for our wellbeing and the simple, joyful ways we can get moving more.
Connect with Kelly McGonigal:Â

You’ll Learn:
- [02:17] – Kelly shares the latest research findings on why movement is so important for our wellbeing.
- [05:23] – Kelly explains why we don’t have to exercise in order to enjoy the wellbeing benefits that come from moving.
- [11:30] – Kelly shares some of the latest research on how high-intensity movement – like running – helps to fuel endocannabinoids which improve our ability for social connection.
- [15:49] – Kelly explains how long-term regular exercise helps to build hope molecules that help us recover from trauma or depression and improves our levels of resilience.
- [15:49] – Kelly helps us understand how calm synchronized movements, even when we’re sitting down, can increase our pain tolerance and improve our sense of connection.
- [15:49] – Kelly offers some tips for how workplaces can help their workers to move more.
- [22:48] – Kelly completes the Lightning Round.
Your Resources:
Thanks for listening!Â
Thanks so much for joining me again this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it using the social media buttons you see at the bottom of this post.
Please leave an honest review of the Making Positive Psychology Work Podcast on iTunes. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. They do matter in the rankings of the show, and I read each and every one of them. And don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes to get automatic updates. It’s free!
You can also listen to all the episodes of Making Positive Psychology Work streamed directly to your smartphone or iPad through stitcher. No need for downloading or syncing.
Until next time, take care! Thank you Kelly!


Free Leaders Survey Tool
Take our free five minute survey to minimize psychosocial risks and build on psychological safety
Learn More
Wellbeing Survey For Youth
Our free PERMAH Wellbeing Survey Tool For Youth is now available.
Learn More
Wellbeing Survey For Kids
Our FREE PERMAH Survey tool for Kids under 12 is now available.
Learn More
PODCAST
Listen to the world’s leading positive psychology researchers and practitioners as they share their insights on our top-rated podcast.
Listen Now
WELLBEING PROGRAM
Do you want to help boost people’s wellbeing, resilience & performance? Then join us for the next round of Certificate In Creating Wellbeing.
Learn MoreRelated Podcasts:
- Making Positive Psychology Work - Afterparty
Podcast with Chelle, Paige and Michelle
- Do You Have A Wellbeing Strategy?
Podcast with Dr. Peggy Kern
- Do You Need A Wise Intervention?
Podcast with Greg Walton