Happy Mediums

Do yourself some good with these books and podcasts.

The sweet days of summer are here. Make the most of them — and maximize your mental and physical health — with these easy listens and insightful reads.

Plug into these podcasts:

1. Radio Headspace
   Want to relieve stress? Sleep better? Feel a bit happier? These are some of the positive effects listeners report after tuning into this daily podcast. Its simple, practical tips can help inspire and refresh you — and maybe even help you make lasting changes.
2. The Mindset Mentor
   Wish you felt more motivated? Host Rob Dial uses a combination of neurology, psychology, and behavioral therapy to show how your mind and body work together so you can build healthy habits and make purposeful decisions.
3. Sound Bites: A Nutrition Podcast
   Hear from registered dietician Melissa Joy Dobbins as she debunks fad diets and makes topics like food industry secrets and sustainable farming digestible. She often sits down with fellow dieticians, nutritionists, and other guests. And her engaging interview techniques will make you feel like you're at the table too.

You can download or listen to the podcasts via apps from the Google Play or Apple app store.

Relax with these reads:

1. The Energy Paradox: What to Do When Your Get-Up-and-Go Has Got Up and Gone
   Feeling stuck in a fog? Steven Gundry, M.D., can help you lift it. His clinical research makes it clear: Fatigue is often a sign something else could be wrong. His book offers ideas on how to recharge your energy reserves, moderate mood swings, and more.
2. Why We Eat (Too Much): The New Science of Appetite
   You've heard it before: “Eat less, exercise more, and you'll lose weight.” But bariatric surgeon Dr. Andrew Jenkinson knows it's more complicated. His book explores the human body, appetite, metabolism, and the science that connects them. It also offers innovative takes on healthy eating while finding and maintaining a healthy weight.
3. Bliss Brain: The Neuroscience of Remodeling Your Brain for Resilience, Creativity, and Joy
   Award-winning author Dawson Church, Ph.D., is here to tell you that you can rewire your brain for happiness. Each page is packed with brain-training activities and groundbreaking research around mindfulness and meditation. All to help elevate your mood and make positive changes.

Nicole Abendroth is a De Pere, Wis.-based freelance writer.