Andy Puddicombe & Rich Pierson of Headspace with Guy Raz | How I Built This | NPR

Transcript

hello everyone and welcome to how I built this resilience Edition how are you doing today I'm guy Roz and I am so excited about today's episode I want to remind you that we're taking your questions right now on Facebook on Twitter and on YouTube for Andy Puddicombe and rich Pierson the cofounders of headspace before we get started I just want to th... Read More

Summary

In this video, NPR's Guy Raz interviews Andy Puddicombe and Rich Pierson, the cofounders of the meditation app Headspace. They discuss the benefits of meditation, how it can reduce anxiety, and how it can provide a sense of calm and clarity in stressful times like these. They also talk about the spike in users during the pandemic and the free access they are providing to healthcare workers and people who have lost their jobs. The interview ends with the cofounders answering questions from viewers about meditation and offering tips on maintaining a consistent meditation practice.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does meditation help to reduce anxiety and stress?

Meditation provides a sense of calm and clarity to the mind, allowing us to have more space to observe our thoughts and emotions. By developing this awareness, we can choose how we want to engage with them and avoid reactiveness. While meditation doesn't solve all our problems, it changes our relationship with them and helps us navigate through difficult times with more peace of mind.

Q: Which meditation topics would be helpful for someone who just lost their job and is planning to switch careers?

For someone dealing with the anxiety and stress of losing a job and the uncertainty of starting a new career, the anxiety, change, and self-esteem meditation packs on the Headspace app can be beneficial. These topics can help individuals manage their anxiety, embrace change, and build confidence during this transition period.

Q: When is the best time of day to meditate?

While there is no definitive answer, many people find it helpful to meditate first thing in the morning. Doing it early ensures that it gets done and sets a positive tone for the rest of the day. It also helps to emphasize the importance of mindfulness throughout the day, rather than just during the meditation session itself.

Q: Does meditation help with frustration and the feeling of things being out of our control?

Yes, meditation can help with frustration and feelings of a lack of control. By cultivating mindfulness, we learn to accept our thoughts and emotions without judgment and observe them with curiosity. This allows us to let go of the need for control and find peace even in the face of uncertain circumstances.

Q: How can one stick with a consistent meditation practice?

To stick with a consistent meditation practice, it is essential to set clear intentions and establish a routine. Linking meditation to an existing habit or daily activity can help make it a natural part of one's day. Additionally, it is important not to be too hard on oneself for missing a day or two. Showing self-compassion and getting back on track when necessary is key to maintaining a consistent practice.

Q: In five years' time, what do the cofounders hope to learn from this moment?

The cofounders hope that, in the future, this moment will be seen as a turning point in how mental health is prioritized and discussed globally. They believe that this crisis has accelerated the conversation around mental health and its importance, and they hope that mental health will be integrated into schools, businesses, and communities. They also hope that people will reassess their priorities and focus on what truly matters in life, such as health and happiness.