Dr. Andrea Dinardo, Psychology Professor
Fight or Flight Threat Response Every time we feel threatened (threat is the fundamental definition of stress) our first instinct is to “fight or flight“. This perpetual “fight or flight” response loop eventually creates a host of secondary problems, above and beyond, the original stressor. Powerpoint Slide from Broaden and Build Leadership Event, January 2022... Continue Reading →
The time in between is a difficult time for all of us. Myself included. A super organized (type A) person like me becomes a little unhinged in the space in between. But don't we all? Wondering if we still have what it takes. Hoping we can still make a difference in the world when the... Continue Reading →
Today let’s celebrate all the dreams that came true. Merely an idea 5 years ago. It’s so easy to get lost in our hopes and motivations for the future. Without realizing how many of our aspirations we’ve already achieved. Together let’s honour how far we’ve come. Only then will we have the fuel + the... Continue Reading →
In this psychology article, published in The Drive Magazine, I share simple ways to cultivate mental health daily. Instead of thinking of mental health as a burden you must shoulder, imagine it as an opportunity to experience peace and joy. In the same way that we make time for our physical needs, we must devote... Continue Reading →
H old O n P ain E nds During difficult times, I often tell myself: “What a difference a day makes.” This one simple sentence helps me to remember that tomorrow is a brand new day. Illuminating the possibility that what looks like the end in that dark moment, could in fact be preparing me... Continue Reading →
The first thing that goes when we are faced with a stressor of any kind is the memory of all we have overcome in years gone by. Let this be your daily, weekly, hourly reminder of how wildly capable you are. Truly. Incredibly. Capable. We might not be a genius at everything. But we are most... Continue Reading →
What brings you joy on a Saturday morning, Friday night, or Tuesday afternoon? From my experience, it’s never the time, the day, or the month that brings good vibes. It’s how we feel on the inside. So why wait another minute for happy hour. Create the life you want wherever you are. 😊😊 Related Post: Happiness in Present... Continue Reading →
"Not until we are lost do we begin to find ourselves." No matter what happens today, know that in the end everything works out. Trust me. I speak from experience. My smile comes equally from a place of darkness and a place of light. How would I ever know how good I have it today... Continue Reading →
This post was inspired by a stressful situation that I couldn't let go of, long beyond its solution. No matter how hard I tried. Day in day out. The worry would reappear. Then someone close to me suggested "I shed the stress". And a lightbulb went off. Each time the repetitive thought appeared, I imagined... Continue Reading →
The next time you are under any kind of pressure. Stuck in traffic. Rushing from class to class. Dealing with a difficult customer at work. Desperately trying to recall answers on a final exam. Wake up to the formidable power that exists within you. Right here. Right now. Right under your nose. Breathe https://youtu.be/zRSQw-LjU8k The deeper the breath, the deeper... Continue Reading →
When problems feel big. Savour the small. The secret to having it all is knowing that you already do. Related Post: The Sweet Spot
I want to give the world the best of me. This is my hope every time we meet. And every time I teach. No matter how brief or long our interaction. I want to leave you feeling brighter, lighter, more confident. The bonus is — when your energy rises, so does mine. A boomerang effect of... Continue Reading →
Today I lift my eyes to the sunshine. No matter the weather. ♥️ Related Post: You hold the key.
I have the pleasure of starting each day with my husband John. Each morning begins at 6am with an hour of coffee talk weekends included. No alarm clock necessary. Having something as wonderful as hot coffee and good conversation to look forward to each day is its own wake up call. This morning I asked John... Continue Reading →
Thriving Under Pressure 