photo credit: Kelly Teague
Recently, I have been reflecting on renewal and self-care and have particularly appreciated several TED Talks that inspire me. TED Talks are presentations from passionate, brilliant and innovative individuals in a variety of fields. You can read more about this non-profit organization and their mission to spread ideas by exhibiting powerful, engaging presentations. Each presentation is 18 minutes or less, and well worth the investment. Here is a compilation of my top 10 favorite TED Talks to foster renewal and self-care. Some are humorous, some are gripping, and others are truly fascinating.
10. Benjamin Zander: The transformative power of classical music
Benjamin Zander, conductor of the Boston Philharmonic, makes it seem as if he is in your home having an insightful and entertaining conversation with you about a vision for classical music for all. Whether you currently appreciate classical music – or not – this is a must see.
9. Neil Pasricha: The 3 A’s of awesome
Neil Pasricha, author, discusses how his blog grew to become an international sensation – and his growth as a person in the process of finding awesomeness in every day life.
8. Pico Iyer: The art of stillness
World renowned travel writer, Pico Iyer moves beyond his standard travel writing by proposing that one can release ourselves from distractions and focus on travel as it relates to stillness and mindfulness.
7. Andy Puddicombe: All it takes is 10 mindful minutes
Former Buddhist Monk, Andy Puddicombe shares how being mindful for just 10 minutes per day can help your outlook.
6. Emily Balcetis: Why some people find exercise harder than others
Emily Balcetis shares information about different people’s vision of themselves, and how changing your mindset can help change your success of exercising.
5. Arianna Huffington: How to succeed? Get more sleep
Journalist Arianna Huffington shares her story on the power of sleep and sleep’s association with success.
4. David Griffin: How photography connects us
David Griffin, photo director for National Geographic, showcases the power of visual storytelling.
3. Amy Cuddy: Your body language shapes who you are
Social Psychologist, Amy Cuddy shares critical information on “power posing” and how this can encourage success, even if you aren’t feeling successful.
2. Mark Bezos: A life lesson from a volunteer firefighter
Mark Bezos shares his experience making a difference in someone’s life in an unlikely way.
1. Phil Hansen: Embrace the shake
Phil Hansen learned a new way to create when he let go of his physical limitations. Seeking a renewed way of seeing and representing art, he visually documents working through the creative process and redefining barriers.
There are many ways to get TED Talks. Click here if you would like to browse the TED archives for other topics. It is also easy to follow TED Talks via apps and social media. My favorite way to view TED Talks is via the free app for iPhone, where I can bookmark or download my favorites. The app is interactive, so I can even specify how much time I can commit at the moment and request a certain topic to watch.
TED Talks videos, logos and visuals highlighted here are untouched and unedited. All video and images of TED Talks are copyrighted by TED and are used here under the Creative Commons license.
Did any of these TED talks encourage you to focus on yourself, wellness or renewal? Which ones resonated with you?
photo credit: Tom Hart
