# "Living Intensively": The Psychology Podcast on Emotional Depth In the podcast episode "That's Just Me," psychological therapist Stefanie Stahl and psychologist Lukas Klaschinski discuss how people can make their lives more intense. They emphasize that in our fast-paced society, the ability to truly experience moments is becoming increasingly rare. ### 1. Intensive Moments are Important for Mental Health According to the discussion, so-called "peak moments" - situations with strong positive emotions - have a positive impact on mental health. These experiences lead to "an optimistic basic mood, to a higher life satisfaction," while "negative thoughts, rumination, i.e., brooding, fears, and stress decrease." ### 2. Awe is a Central Emotion for Intensive Living The two psychologists emphasize the importance of moments of awe, especially in nature: "And these experiences of awe lead to an optimistic basic mood, to a higher life satisfaction." Dacher Keltner has identified "the eight wonders of life" that can trigger awe: including nature, music, visual art, and "moral beauty." ### 3. Digital Distraction Prevents Intensive Experiences Constant parallel employment is "the poison when you want to be amazed." Stahl admits: "...when I'm eating alone, I get bored, so I'd rather play a round of Skat on my phone at the same time." This leads to a "dopamine-infested" brain structure that requires more and more stimuli. ### 4. Suppressing Emotions Leads to Monotony Living intensively also means allowing unpleasant feelings: "If we don't perceive the entire spectrum of our emotions, we're like a pilot on autopilot in our lives." Stahl explains that many people "tend to avoid unpleasant feelings" and as a result, "the pleasant feelings also fail to appear, and in the end, everything feels very flat, very gray." ## Breakdown The podcast offers an easily accessible introduction to psychological concepts surrounding emotional intensity and well-being. The conversation partners convey their expertise in a personal, approachable way by sharing their own experiences - such as Stahl's "rush" or Klaschinski's nature experience with his daughter. What's striking is the individualistic focus: the responsibility for a more intense life is primarily located in the individual. Societal factors that make a slowed-down life more difficult - such as precarious working conditions or systemic overload - are hardly critically reflected upon. The basic assumption that every person has the same resources and opportunities to "slow down" their life remains unchallenged. The concepts presented are well-founded and are based on established psychological theories such as Maslow's "peak experiences." Particularly valuable is the hint that intensive living includes not only positive feelings but also the willingness to confront unpleasant emotions. The podcast offers helpful ideas for people seeking more depth in everyday life, without going into esoteric or problematic concepts.