Do you feel stuck in worry loops that drain your energy and pull you out of the present moment? In this episode of The Wise Effort Show, Dr. Diana Hill talks with neuroscientist and psychiatrist Dr. Judson Brewer about “inside information” on the brain—especially the default mode network and how self-focused rumination and worry activate the posterior cingulate cortex. They explore new, encouraging research showing that experienced meditators don’t show the same activation during worry recall, and that even beginners can deactivate this brain region quickly using a simple mindfulness “noting” practice (labeling seeing, hearing, feeling, thinking). Diana and Jud also discuss using technology to interrupt addictive habit loops (like compulsive checking) and how moving beyond anxiety can open the door to integrity, kindness, and flourishing—grounded in the reminder that “your actions are your only belongings.”

Listen and learn:

• Your brain has a “me network” that can drain your energy.
• Noticing changes your relationship to experience.
• The goal is not just less anxiety, but more integrity, energy, and flourishing.
• “My actions are my only belongings.”

Suggested Next Episode:

Busting Brain Myths With Dr. Judson Brewer

Related Resources

Get enhanced show notes for this episode

• >>>Join Diana live September 24 for a free Word of the Week talk and meditation<<<
• Want to sit with Diana live during her Word of the Week talk and mediation? Join the Wise Effort Community to access the live event and previous recordings.
• Get your ticket (in-person and streaming) to Diana’s Tell the Truth Salon Series, a live gathering in Santa Barbara, California.
• Sign up for Diana's newsletter
• Order Diana's book, Wise Effort: How to Focus Your Genius Energy on What Matters Most, and receive special bonus gifts.

Diana's Events

• See Diana at an upcoming event

Connecting With Diana

• Subscribe for free on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
• Leave a 5-star review on Apple so people like you can find the show.
• Follow Diana on Psychology Today, Insight Timer, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Diana’s website.
• Sign up for the free Wise Effort Newsletter.

Thanks to the team, Craig and Ashley Hiatt, and Benjamin Gould of Bell & Branch for your beautiful music.

Mentioned in this episode:

Come to the Tell the Truth Salon on October 1

See Diana Hill and Rosemerry Trommer during this special live event. Join in-person and live stream.

Tell the Truth Salon Series

Come to the Tell the Truth Salon on October 1

See Diana Hill and Rosemerry Trommer during this special live event. Join in-person and live stream.

Tell the Truth Salon Series