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The Science of Willpower

Secrets for self-control without suffering.
by Kelly McGonigal, Ph.D.
Kelly McGonigal, Ph.D., is a health psychologist at Stanford University. See full bio

The Science of Willpower

January 27, 2010

Stress Hormone Key to Alcohol Dependence

Most people who haven't experienced addiction first-hand think that getting hooked is all about pleasure. Something makes you feel so good that you'll do anything to get more of that bliss. Read More

January 9, 2010

You Are What You Eat

My apologies to any PhD students reading this blog. I recently stumbled upon two studies that suggest you can get college students to abandon an unhealthy behavior if you can convince them it's what graduate students do. Apparently grad students are so uncool, college students do not want to be identified with their habits. Read More

January 1, 2010

What Matters Now: Real "Health" Care

You may have seen Seth Godin's free ebook "What Matters Now." In it, he asked 76 of his favorite big thinkers what is on their mind as they enter the new decade. Read More

December 22, 2009

The Joy of New Year's Resolutions

Most advice about New Year's Resolutions misses the point. How to enjoy yours, guilt-free. Read More

December 8, 2009

Sugar Addiction In Your Body, Not Just Your Mind

In my Science of Willpower course at Stanford University, I have a lot of self-proclaimed addicts. The most common addictions? Sugar, email, and reality TV. Read More

November 24, 2009

Willpower Tips for Thanksgiving

A few quick tips for boosting your willpower over the holidays--or at least for understanding why it's so easy to go overboard! Read More

November 17, 2009

The Problem with Dieting

A recent study showed just how chronic dieting can turn someone into a food addict. Read More

October 28, 2009

In Defense of a Good Night's Sleep

It's so tempting to cut back on sleep when you can't figure out how to make it all fit. Many of us have an irregular sleep cycle, staying up and sleeping in some days, and trying to rise before the first respectable glimmer of dawn the next day. Read More

October 22, 2009

Exercise and the Immune System: A Stress Lesson

A recent New York Times article by Gretchen Reynolds asked and answered the question: Does exercise boost immunity? The answer may surprise some, and its lessons extend well beyond the world of working out. Read More

October 5, 2009

Change Your Posture

Quick, notice your posture as you read this. Are you slumped at your desk, shoulders curved forward, spine rounded? Or sitting up straight, with a tall spine but relaxed shoulders?

How you're sitting may be influencing how you're feeling - not just in this moment, but throughout the day.  Read More

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Books by Kelly McGonigal, Ph.D.

Image of Yoga for Pain Relief: Simple Practices to Calm Your Mind & Heal Your Chronic Pain (Whole Body Healing)
Yoga for Pain Relief: Simple Practices to Calm Your Mind & Heal Your Chronic Pain (Whole Body Healing)

Integrative Medicine Basics

Integrative Medicine

Integrative or complementary medicine combines the best of standard medical treatment with holistic approaches including dietary changes, supplements, acupuncture and a focus on how one's mood and outlook impact physical well-being.  Visit our Alternative Health Center for more information. &n

Go to the Integrative Medicine Basics page for more on Integrative Medicine including:
  • The Mind Body Connection
  • Choosing Complementary Treatment
  • Heart Health
  • Integrative Medicine and Public Policy
Go to Integrative Medicine Basics

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Heartbreak and Home Runs: The Power of First Experiences

How early life experiences shape our character.