The DIP: Daily Inspirational Podcast

When you experience stress, you're simply applying meaning to an event that has either HAPPENED or you THINK will happen to you.  Sometimes you are correct and sometimes you are not. Studies have shown that up to 93% of what you stress over never actually happens.  Unfortunately, poor thinking/chronic stress has profound negative effects on your cells and ultimately your health.  Perhaps like grandma used to say to you, “change your attitude and watch yourself soar”.  She was right and this podcast will teach you why she was right from a doctors' perspective.  Your body becomes what you consistently think of. The post DIP Episode #57: Do Your Thoughts Control Your Health? appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

There are several different causes of DEPRESSION but perhaps the most powerful one of all is LONELINESS.  That doesn't mean that you simply don't have other people in your proximity, it means that you struggle to make strong human connections. Over 55 million people in America wake up every day and take medication for depression and anxiety.  We've been told by the AMA and Big Pharma that mood stabilizing medications, SSRI's, help to balance serotonin levels in our brain which reduces the symptoms of depression and anxiety. The question is, does the science support this hypothesis?  Does the medication really change the brain or is the effect a placebo?  Join me for this interesting discussion into all things related to depression. The post DIP Episode #56: What Causes Depression? appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Sports have been a staple in America for years.  If you live in the New England area like me, you know that the foundation of great sports lore is built around the Boston Red Sox.  Join me in this conversation with Chris Valente, the Director of Marketing for the Boston Red Sox as we get an update on our beloved team.  Chris discusses how sports have provided a haven for fellowship and entertainment allowing a modicum of escape from life's challenges. When all else fails…Go Sox!! The post DIP Episode #51: The Importance of Sports in Our Lives. appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Mr. Rick Porter is a true leader among men.  In this interview, he talks about his humble beginnings with his 2 brothers and stability that his parents provided.  He speaks of his experiences in the Army Rangers, training for iron man competitions, and building a successful business.  We shared stories of family and what he has learned from his 3 beautiful children. Rick spoke of the power of commitment and a plan of action to achieve desired goals.  And….a surprise visit from Bella. The post DIP Episode #55: A Leader Among Men appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Dreams do come true.  Mike Peckham Jr. is the newest undergraduate to join the Class of 2025 at Harvard University.  He's a self-made 18-year-old man in search of a career fashioned by mathematics and economics.  Mike sits down with me in this podcast to discuss how he was able to achieve such a lofty goal of being accepted into the oldest and most prestigious school in America.  Here's a hint: It wasn't because he is the son of a legacy or a senator or president.  Nope, Mike did it the old-fashioned way.  He earned it.  We discussed the moment he learned of his acceptance, the man who inspired him, the mentor that guided him and what he sees for himself and America.  Mike is a visionary and I suspect you are going to hear a lot about him in the future.  He is a true leader. The post DIP Episode #54: I'm Going to Harvard appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

How often do you get to have a conversation with a woman who was born just a few years after the Titanic went down? Today is that day. Say hello to my mom, Betty Jean. She is a spry 92-year-old woman with an interesting perspective on life. From a trip down memory lane including her life as a child in the 1930's and 1940's to raising a family with her loving devoted husband Cosmo (my dad). Betty shares what life was like generations ago and how solid family values shaped her journey. Her story is one of triumph and sorrow that she accepts and trusts that her faith will continue to guide her. She has words of wisdom for the new generation. She is the true American hero. The post DIP Episode #53: A Chat with Mom appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Even in the most powerful hurricane, there is a moment of peace in the eye. We find ourselves in a storm that is sure to change our way of life. We need leaders now more than ever. The youth fit that mold but for many aging Americans like me, we shiver at the thought of what todays 20-year-old is going to do to contribute to society. Amongst those that want to tear it down, there are some that still dream big and are committed to the American dream. Meet Kevin Girardin. Kevin is a 21-year-old college student that I've known for 7 years. I've watched his transformation from insecure and anxious to confident and hopeful for a great future. Join us for an intimate conversation about life and the future from tomorrows next leader. The post DIP Episode #52: Tomorrow's Leaders appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Our lives have been uprooted and of course another shutdown looms.  How can another shutdown be good for us?  Regardless if they tell us it works (which we know it doesn't, as many countries concur) what is the toll on human health, psychology and our social support systems?  Let's not forget the forgotten, our children.  They're being robbed of an education while their tender minds are running off the rails.  This will negatively affect their emotional wellness for a lifetime. All this chaos for a virus that they're 99% likely to survive if you get it. It's easier for middle age people who have already learned how to cope with adversity. Our kids are looking for safety and stability but that's not what they're getting.  They will struggle forever and the next generation will inherit this emotional dysfunction.  It's difficult to tell them that the government is in control of everything. Parents once reassured their kids that they live in a free country where speech is always protected by the constitution and education would provide them with a good paying job.  These assumptions are no longer the truth.  Government is getting bigger and thirstier for your blood and your money.  If you dare to speak up, you will be cancelled.  Nice message, huh? There is definitely something else going on here.  Big tech, Hollywood elite and of course greedy bureaucrats in Washington are setting us up for the greatest takeover of democracy we've ever seen.  If you don't believe me, then take it from Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer "Now we take Georgia and then we change America".  Hold on tight folks.  This is going to be a bumpy ride. This is part 2 of 2 of a sit down with Suraj, just chewing the fat over many of the difficult challenges that await us all. The post DIP Episode #50: Another Shutdown? Part 2 appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Our lives have been uprooted and of course another shutdown looms.  How can another shutdown be good for us?  Regardless if they tell us it works (which we know it doesn't, as many countries concur) what is the toll on human health, psychology and our social support systems?  Let's not forget the forgotten, our children.  They're being robbed of an education while their tender minds are running off the rails.  This will negatively affect their emotional wellness for a lifetime. All this chaos for a virus that they're 99% likely to survive if you get it. It's easier for middle age people who have already learned how to cope with adversity. Our kids are looking for safety and stability but that's not what they're getting.  They will struggle forever and the next generation will inherit this emotional dysfunction.  It's difficult to tell them that the government is in control of everything. Parents once reassured their kids that they live in a free country where speech is always protected by the constitution and education would provide them with a good paying job.  These assumptions are no longer the truth.  Government is getting bigger and thirstier for your blood and your money.  If you dare to speak up, you will be cancelled.  Nice message, huh? There is definitely something else going on here.  Big tech, Hollywood elite and of course greedy bureaucrats in Washington are setting us up for the greatest takeover of democracy we've ever seen.  If you don't believe me, then take it from Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer "Now we take Georgia and then we change America".  Hold on tight folks.  This is going to be a bumpy ride. This is part 1 of 2 of a sit down with Suraj, just chewing the fat over many of the difficult challenges that await us all. The post DIP Episode #49: Another Shutdown? Part 1 appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Putting yourself in the right positive mindset to achieve your goals is certainly no secret.  It's a shame that more people aren't dialed in to thinking in a manner which bring them a positive outcome.   Unfortunately, there are many events in our environment over a lifetime that hijack the way we think.  Once you become the pessimist, you're statistically going to live 5 years less than if you were an optimist.  When experiencing positive emotions, the brain responds by making a concoction of neurochemicals (endorphins, dopamine and oxytocin to name a few) which help you to feel good and stay healthy.  In 2020, the power of the positive has an enemy.  It's the pandemic and all that goes with it. Join me and my buddy Suraj Patel as we chat about The Power of the Positive Mind and the challenges we face today.  We discuss some easy to implement strategies to help you cope more effectively.  Stay positive my friend. The post DIP Episode #48: The Power of the Positive appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Being human isn't easy. We've been blessed to have an amazing brain unparalleled by any other creature on the planet. It is my firm belief that the brain can be not only our greatest attribute but also our worst nightmare. When 2 people are communicating, their brains are in coherence with each other.  This is when something magical happens. This is called communication. When we learn to communicate our ideas with others, we build strong and powerful perspectives which help us through the most difficult times. It's been said that anything is achievable, when you put your mind to it.  Communication is a learned response and unfortunately if you were absent during that class, there may be some painful interactions in your future. Today Suraj and I discuss what's happened to our communication strategies during this lockdown/pandemic.  More specifically, how social media has hijacked our brain allowing a flood of information to screw up our perspective and ultimately damage our communication skills.  The mere term social distancing should tell you something. The last thing we need to do is to be further away from each other. Sure maybe 6 feet but it's gone much further than that. Once our society began to communicate through text and social media, we lost all important one-on-one human communication which leads to a plethora of negative emotions.  Suraj and I both agree that the struggle for healthy communication has magnified significantly. Zoom meetings, Facebook, Twitter, Tinder, email and text to name a few have replaced the in person one-on-one interaction. This is troubling and it's evident that the continued deterioration of healthy communication strategies is leading to a new pandemic of its own called anxiety and depression. There are ways to take back your control. Check out this conversation with Suraj (26) and myself (55) and get a perspective from men living in what seems to be worlds apart. The post DIP Episode #47: Communication is the Key appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Have you ever noticed how cruel life can be?  Like when everything seems to be going really well and you feel on top of the world and then within the blink of an eye everything changes? If it hasn't for you, it's because you're either lying or you're dead. This podcast chronicles one incredibly difficult day for a young female athlete named Abby. Abby's life was going to plan and everything seemed right until she suffered a complete rupture of her Achilles tendon in a soccer game. In that moment, life took a painful step backwards. The physical and emotional toll that the injury and rehabilitation inflicted upon her was unprecedented. Although she struggled, she relied on faith and family to provide perspective. In Abby's words, life's challenges happen for us not to us. She shares many intimate feelings about her own existence during a time when she felt helpless.  What initially appeared to be a catastrophic event, eventually became another one of life's incredible vignettes. Perhaps her story will inspire you. It has certainly had an inspirational effect upon me. The post DIP Episode #46: When Life Gives You Lemons… appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

It started as an idea and progressed to the adventure of a lifetime.  Five years ago, my friend Jonesy had a brilliant idea to sail from Boston to Miami by himself.  The only problem was he had never sailed before. Although he felt very comfortable on the ocean as the owner and operator of a small 28' Carver cabin cruiser, he had limited to no experience on a sailboat.  After tracking down a decent sailing vessel (a Person 39 footer for you sailing enthusiasts) and months of preparation, he decided to go for it.  Join us and listen to the personal recount of his experiences during the journey and how this trip impacted his perspective on life.  Lightning storms from hell, rapidly shifting tides that grounded the craft, torn sails, damaged hulls, and that's in just the first couple of days!! Jonesy found the courage to take life head on.  Sitting on the sideline of life is not an option for him.  What about you?  Can you muster the strength to overcome your fear and live a life worth living?  As Jim McKay from ABC's Wide World of Sports used to say…“Spanning the globe to bring you the constant variety of sports...the thrill of victory...and the agony of defeat”.  If you don't try, you will never know your worth, while growth and prosperity avoid you.  The time to live is NOW! The post DIP Episode #45: Go for it! appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Too often people in my age bracket (50's) berate the current generation on their sense of entitlement and radical stance on things that tear down rather than build up.  To be honest, this does exist, but to what extent and why?  The answer lies in the people who molded them.  Was it the pussification of America perpetuated by parents, so-called mental health experts, school curriculum, Washington law makers or social media?  The answer is all of it.  So, for just a moment I want to cut them some slack. Say hello to Suraj Patel.  A few months ago this 26-year-old man reached out not me on social media after hearing my podcast and took a chance.  He asked to be a guest and I thought “That's cool. A young person with initiative”.  It piqued my curiosity and I immediately said YES!  Suraj represents the next generation of Americans who love this country and will let his hard work and experience do his talking.  Fortunately for us we get to hear his words of hope, perseverance, failure, triumph, love, and family.  It is so refreshing to know the future of our country is, in part, in the hands of a man worthy of the American Dream.  Check out what he has to say. The post DIP Episode #44: The Dream is Still Alive appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Americans have been hijacked by hate and violence.  This should not be surprising as this is part of the human condition.  The sad part is, what was so wrong with the way America has evolved over the years?  Racism and slavery were a stain on our country and most Americans agree.  Those were the sins of our past and America has worked diligently to TRY and re-right the ship.  From the bloody civil war of the Lincoln era, to Dr. Kings' civil rights movement of the 1960's.  We are not a perfect nation because we are a nation of imperfect people.  Justice and equality are always taking a hit and it takes good people, like us, to rise above the hatred and sew the seeds of love and justice for all.  Cancel culture is never seeking the truth or justice.  They seek exactly the opposite, control and oppression.  This is not the majority of people in America yet a small few are hijacking this beautiful nation and turning it into their golden calf while the rest of us implode emotionally and financially.  This war is not between black and white people.  It is certainly not because the police are murdering black people in a modern-day genocide.  It's a battle between the self-proclaimed righteous (Gov't and big Tech), their thirst for power and money and those who stand in their way. Who could possibly stand in their way? American citizens, so they look to crush us with unconstitutional regulations and divide us with decrees of RACISM and fuel our HATRED of each other while they take it all. It's time to take back control.  It's a mighty big country but each one of us can do our part to say ENOUGH. It starts with forgiveness and a desire to love one another.  What would they do if we just started getting along and were united?  Every time we start to feel good about ourselves again, they decree another government EFF You.  …Close your business and there'll be no money for you to feed your kids while we take the month off to decompress in the Hamptons.  Seriously?  Rodney King said it best. “Can't we all just get along”?  We could if they would stop regulating every facet of our lives.  My advice?  Learn and be aware of what is going on in government and vote your conscious.  This is not the time to put your head in the sand.  The future of our country depends on it.  Any chance to love your neighbor or your country, do it. Forgiveness will quell the violence and preserve a place for our kids to make American even better. God Bless America! The post DIP Episode #43: Is there any hope? appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

It was time to reconnect. Too often our lives become so busy that we forget to connect with people.  Although this epidemic has been miserable for most, there's always a silver lining. My friend Aamir Chaudry; VP of Business Development at Here Engineering, went out of his way to check in on me. I asked him to join me on the podcast and we had a nice conversation reconnecting. Aamir talked about the PPP (Paycheck Protection Program) versus Unemployment Benefits and its effect on his businesses.  We also revealed the important things that we have learned during this pandemic, which we can take with us to reinvent ourselves yet again. The post DIP Episode #42: Time to Reconnect appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

We've been dealing with this Covid-19 Virus for the past 3 months.  Now what?  At first, we were all a little scared as we learned of a new virus that was highly contagious and that people were going to die.  From the very beginning, the projected number of deaths seemed overwhelming.  Fortunately, most projections were wrong.  With preventative measures and time, we have perhaps a better glimpse into the nature of all things Covid.  If you're not careful you might find yourself a pawn of the powers that be.  As time goes on, the political rhetoric and jockeying for position has further increased the fear leading to increased suicide and other mental diseases.  Don't let fear used by the elite for political and monetary gain deter your resolve.  Most law makers know a whole lot about nothing but they'll give you the impression that they have a PhD from Harvard in Virology.  Sharpen your perspective, reduce your fear, regain your health, and know that the day you were born was the most difficult day of your life.  You can overcome anything.  Stay strong. The post DIP Episode #41: Covid-19 or Fear; Now What? appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

The Ultimate Killer: Covid-19 or the Fear promoted by the media?  This seems like such a simple answer.  It must be the virus because we see the pictures and are constantly reminded of the mortality rate.  It's true that before this epidemic is over there will be hundreds of thousands of fatalities.  But these are not unprecedented times.  Humanity has been through this before and will go through this again.  It's how Nature works.  We think we're in control but every once in a while, we're reminded of the contrary. If you survive the virus as most will, will your health take a hit from the FEAR of contracting the disease?  The answer is undeniably YES. This is not a conspiracy theory but rather science.  This podcast will explore the effects of FEAR on your physical health.  The results may be shocking but the cure is simple. The post DIP Episode #40: The Ultimate Killer: Covid-19 or Fear? appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

During these difficult times of the pandemic, we've all got some sort of cross to bear.  It can certainly be overwhelming. Recently, I spent a couple of hours chatting with good friend John Caron. John owns both West End Johnnies and Fenway Johnnies. We discussed the pandemics' impact on his businesses and then we reminisced about "the good old days". It was nice for just an hour or so to remember what makes us who we are and celebrate life no matter how difficult it can be. Life is Good! The post DIP Episode #39: Remembering better days with John Caron. appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Another day in quarantine. What to do? I decided to have a chat with my friend Matt. I began treating him when he was 6-years-old (now 32) to help him get rid of a syndrome of childhood migraine headaches. This has been a bittersweet year for Matt. He recently became engaged to the love of his life yet suffered the loss of his brother. Couple this with the corona virus and you've got a conversation worthy of another day in quarantine. The post DIP Episode #38: Another Day of Quarantine – 2. appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

In times of difficulty, it makes sense to change your perspective and connect with what truly matters. Materialism is important but human connection will always be the foundation of purpose. The most important things in life cannot be purchased but rather experienced. Love, laughter, appreciation and connection outweigh the material things in life. Imagine achieving all the material things you could possibly dream of but with one caveat; there are no other humans on the planet. You are all alone. Yikes! Love and connection are the root of the human condition. Slow your mind and focus on what's important and feel, truly feel, what it's like to be alive. The post DIP Episode #37: Focus on Connection. appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Quarantine is a scenario that none of us ever wanted to live through. Unfortunately, here we are. Through all of this, I have found that there is more that connects us than divides us. Today's conversation is a reflection of what's in the hearts and minds of me and my guest. It's a raw conversation of how we've used perspective to find joy and hope in an otherwise difficult situation. Keep your heart light, your mind open and you will surely invite sunlight back into your life. Stay strong. The post DIP Episode #36: Another Day of Quarantine. appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

The impact that we have on each other is more powerful than you think.  Twenty years ago, I met an amazing young girl named Mae Lee.  She was quiet, impressionable and thirsty for wisdom. I've spent these last 2 decades teaching her what I've learned about life through my experiences. The shoe is now on the other foot. Mae Lee, now 31, has gained valuable life experience and is excited to share what she's learned. She speaks from the heart in hopes that she may help another young person navigate their way through the gauntlet of life's difficult emotional experiences. She emphasizes the power of awareness, authenticity and environment in shaping a future full of peace, happiness and purpose.  You won't want to miss this! The post DIP Episode #35: A life worth LIVING is a life worth SHARING appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

If you've lived past your 20's, then you have some of the all-important life experience.  Sharing your experiences with someone else, who might feel forgotten by life, is a chance to make a difference.  There are so many that struggle to make sense of things around them but with your help and experience perhaps you just may affect their perspective and bring hope back to an otherwise bleak situation. Putting your arm around someone while expressing the strengths that you see in them just may be what it takes to make their journey seem valid.  We all need help.  People need tribes like bees need hives.  There's power in being part of the solution rather than a part of the problem. The post DIP Episode #34: Say Something appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

In order to fashion a successful life, you must be aware of the decisions you're making and the impact that these decisions are having in your life. Every so often you'll find yourself at the crossroads. It's in these moments where awareness of who you are and what you want become paramount. Life is a lot like the ocean tides; it ebbs and flows constantly. When things are not going your way, reassess and be aware of the decisions that you've been making. The more skilled you become at this, the more effective you'll be at navigating through the dark moments. The light from a lighthouse is invisible during the day but it rips through the night as a beacon which owes its brilliance to the darkness from which it emanates. You cannot have one without the other. Be aware of your choices and assess if they're bringing you closer or further from what you want in life.  Mistakes are inevitable but with a great sense of awareness, these mistakes will serve you in the future and remain with you as wisdom. The post DIP Episode #33: You've Gotta be Aware. appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

It's been said that life does not happen to us but rather for us.  If you embrace this statement, then it's probable that you'll be in control of your life. If not, life can seem hopeless.  Life is not trying to screw you. It just happens and you are its' guest.  You get to make the events of life mean anything you want. This is the understanding behind the statement life happens for us. Life will provide countless events for which your brain has to formulate a meaning. When things are going well, it's easy to celebrate. When heavy emotional or physical pain hit (like a kidney stone), that's when the real growth happens.  You are destined to experience the low points of life.  In these moments, with the right mindset, you can develop the wisdom necessary to navigate life's treacherous landscape and experience consistent happiness. In the difficult moments, remind yourself that you can handle anything and that this too shall pass! The post DIP Episode #32: Will the Pain Go Away? appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Relationships rarely flourish when the those involved fail to state their desires. The unparalleled passion that accompanies the development of a new relationship can slowly tarnish over time. This is not because of some universal law of physics but rather from a lack of communication. There are many things that destroy a relationship but the two most polarizing are sex and money. If your relationship seems so far away from the hot passion of where it began, perhaps it's time to get it back. People cheat on each other because someone else makes them feel something they haven't felt in a very long time, ALIVE. If you're married or in a relationship with your best friend, then you should be able to share your deepest passions and desires. For many, talking about sexual intimacy can be like pulling teeth. It's no wonder so many marriages end up in divorce. If you want to get your relationship back on track and growing again, perhaps it's time to express your desires with your significant other. Be bold, honest, and very detailed about what you want. Life is short so don't live with regret. SAY IT and don't forget, what's good for the goose is good for the gander. The post DIP Episode #31: Sex – Just say it. appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

We all experience a significant number of thoughts throughout the day. Unfortunately, many of these thoughts are negative. Negativity holds us back from becoming who we want to be. So, it begs the question, "who do you want to be?" To live a happy and productive life, you must improve the function of your brain. The easiest place to begin is to simply think different. When you're experiencing moments of anxiety, fear, anger, resentment etc., ask yourself - who do you want to be? This interrupts the pattern of negativity and immediately allows you to make new connections within the brain for happiness, peace and joy.  Do you want to become the person who is anxious, angry and resentful or the person who lives with honor, integrity and respect?   By asking the question and truly focusing on the positive answer, you begin to become that person.  In time, you change the wiring of the brain and condition yourself for fulfillment. It's up to you! The post DIP Episode #30: Who do you want to be? appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Throughout your lifetime there will be countless moments, but a mere few will have profound effects on your future. How you respond to these moments will be a testament to your character. You can either choose to see things as a positive or negative; it's your choice. These moments constitute life experience for which there is no substitute. You simply must go through it. In the end, I think you'll find that your life was just as it was supposed to be. So, stop worrying, use your time wisely and embrace each moment as a gift. Live your life with passion. The post DIP Episode #29: Life Can Change in a Moment appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Has there ever been such a generation gap as the one we're experiencing today? Let's face it; not all old people are crusty and boring just as not all young people are snowflakes and entitled. The vibrancy, the energy and the potential of the youth is intoxicating.  Unfortunately, some older people have forgotten this and need the youth to remind them of what they've lost sight of. The youth seeks the answers (wisdom) that older people seem to have created through a lifetime of experience. Having an open dialogue of communication between the generations could only serve to bring a greater sense of community which seemingly leads to a life worth living. The post DIP Episode #28: Old vs. Young: Let's meet in the middle appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

The modern-day medical paradigm regarding depression is that you have a problem producing serotonin in your brain. That is to say that you have a chemical imbalance that will respond to medications that help increase the amount of serotonin in your brain. This will alleviate your depression and make you feel normal again. This of course is the dogma, but is it accurate? The answer is, maybe but not for the reasons you think. It is now well understood by brain researchers that depression is heavily linked to loneliness. Loneliness is a lethal disease that will kill you faster than alcoholism, cigarette smoking or obesity. You're in control of your choices but you have to know the truth. The post DIP Episode #27: I Think I'm Depressed appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Life can have us running in a number of directions at once.  This can overwhelm the brain and increase the production of stress hormones that, over time, can damage your health.  Often, it's difficult to detect that you're in a tailspin because it has become so “normal” to you.  When there's time off, like the holidays, and you allow yourself to rest, it's amazing how the body responds.  Sleep improves, mood softens, the body heals and connections deepen.  It's a reminder that perhaps you can sometimes overdo it and you MUST take time to restore balance and repair before you break.  There's nothing wrong with working hard to achieve things you want in life but to what end?  Embrace the journey as strongly, if not more than, the destination.  The post DIP Episode #26: Balance: A Fresh Start  appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Sex is a natural part of humanity and is incredibly good for you.  There are plenty of social reasons why sex is frowned upon but as a doctor I can assure you that sex has WAY MORE upside than downside.  Physically sex lowers blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart attack and dilates your blood vessels.  It reduces the risk of prostate cancer, strengthens a woman's pelvic floor reducing incontinence while driving estrogen levels to a new level.  This is so good for you.  Sex reboots your immune system and overall makes you a physically healthier person. Emotionally, sex improves sleep while increasing connection between 2 people.  It's calming and positively affects mood.  It reduces most of the negative effects of stress while increasing the deepness of the relationship.  Don't fret if you're not in a relationship; a good solo mission will do just fine.  SEX is wonderful for all things human as long it's exercised with respect and responsibility.  Is it time to Shag?  It's up to you. The post DIP Episode #25: Sex is Good for You! appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Christmas is a magical time for many but for some it is a painful reminder of love ones lost.  When you suffer the loss of a loved one, the magic of Christmas might seem more like an emotional burden.  Perhaps rather than feeling pain year after year, ask yourself what that person you loved and lost would think of your perspective.  If you once shared Christmas with them, then continue to share it even in there physical absence.  You get to CHOOSE  how you want to feel.  Perhaps you celebrate their life and continue the traditions of love and giving to others who also might be suffering.   This is what they would've wanted.  Christmas didn't steal your loved one.  Their journey ended when it was supposed to.  Yes sometimes that means at Christmas.  Think about getting back in the game and feeling the love of Christmas and your loved one.  Then take a deep breath, know that you'll be OK, and help someone else in need.  Merry Christmas. The post DIP Episode #24: It's Christmas Again. appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Pain can have many different causes but none-the-less it's a very unpleasant sensation.  Unlike pain from a physical injury, emotional pain cannot be measured by a doctor. It's very personal.  Pain from loss, betrayal, or even loneliness can cripple you and hold you down, if you let it.  Consider seeking counsel and connect with others who can help bear the burden while you feel weak. Stay connected to people who can help nurture your emotional pain with love and compassion.  This is why we're all here to begin with; to care for each other.  It won't be long your pain will transform into experience and allow you an opportunity in the future to be someones else's rock; paying it forward. The post DIP Episode #23: Emotional Pain appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

The power of the brain is limitless.   It's actually a collection of billions of cells called neurons that communicate with each other, which represents every thought you've had and will ever have in the future.  The more times you stimulate one of these brain circuits, the stronger and more efficient it gets.  The opposite is also true.  If you reduce the stimulation to the circuit, the connections prune back and become less efficient. In some cases, they are completely erased!  If you re-live the painful events of your life as negative thoughts, you will emotionally resonate this in your health while others will feel your negative emotional state making them weary of investing time and money in you.  If for every time you feel a negative thought you quickly shift your mindset to something positive, you can re-wire your brain circuits for happiness, joy and an overall sense of peace.  Then you have tapped into your personal power and this is where the magic happens.  The post DIP Episode #22: The Power of the Brain appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Did you know that its' your story that defines you?  It's the story that you tell yourself and others about how you got to this place that controls your feelings and behaviors.  When you believe your story, you will focus all of your energy on it either consciously or unconsciously.  You'll become the living manifestation of perhaps victimization or triumph.  It's your call because you're in control.  If you learn to improve the story, you manifest feelings of hope and possibility.  If you keep talking about the darkness of your past experiences, you will unfortunately be a prisoner in your own mind manifesting feeling of failure and despair.  So what's your story?  The post DIP Episode #21: What's Your Story? appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

The Marijuana plant remains a controversial topic. Today's Podcast features Big John, a marijuana cultivator and overall enthusiast. John covers the misconceptions regarding pot in an effort to promote societal awareness of the truth and possible benefits of the chemicals derived from this age-old plant. The post DIP Episode #20: Marijuana…What's the Deal? appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

When it's time to change your life, it's time.  Not many of us ever know when that is but it usually comes after an overwhelming sense of pain and frustration, sprinkled with anxiety and depression.  There comes a point when the brain just can't handle the negative emotions and in that one moment, the brain is primed to make change.  The minute you recognize the need to make a change, your brain starts making new circuits that promote joy and happiness.  You have to focus on happiness and seek positive stimuli when everything that you have ever known tells you the opposite. That's why they call it change.  Rest assured you can change the circuits of the brain to live a life chock full of powerful positive emotions but it's going to take a lot of consistent work to focus on the things that make you happy in the face of overwhelming odds.  I'm betting on you. How 'bout you? The post DIP Episode #19: When it's Your Time… appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

If you plan to develop a successful relationship, you have to be ready to put in the time.  Learning to accept that person without judgment while never attempting to change them will get you off on the right track.  Once you define what you want out of the relationship, you must act in accordance with your desires. Insecurities promote jealousy and infidelity which usually crush a relationship. Learning how to communicate will take a lifetime as we slowly change with time and experience.  Talk to your partner about your feelings, insecurities and desires.  Be authentic to who you are and be as blatantly honest as possible.  This will give you the best chance at success! The post DIP Episode #18: Relationships take work. appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Life can surely be difficult.  Watching others get ahead can leave you feeling as though you're not good enough.  Whether you come from a privileged background, the ghetto, the storied halls of Harvard University or the school of hard knocks, you can't be what you're not.  Stop trying to compare yourself to others and just be you.  I guarantee you you're enough. The post DIP Episode #17: Just Be You. appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

What's your operating system?  If you don't understand what makes you emotionally tick, you just might find yourself alone. The post DIP Episode #16: What's Your Operating System? appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Turn off the news and smile. The media is trying to control your mind to get you to spend money. They want you to feel bad but you can fight back by simply smiling. The post DIP Episode #15: Turn Off the News and SMILE appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Chris Valente, Director of Sales for the Boston Red Sox, joins today's podcast sharing stories of great Boston sports moments.  He also discusses his new podcast called Frontofficefeatures. The post DIP Episode #14: Chris Valente – Boston Red Sox appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Choose Your Words Wisely.  Words can either destroy or inspire. Too often we become damaged by the words we hear; especially from those who are supposed to protect us. The post DIP Episode #13: Choose Your Words Wisely. appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Resist Conformity - Just be YOU! The greatest gift you can give yourself is to simply be YOU.  When you conform and TRY to impress others, you move further away from who you truly are. The post DIP Episode #12: Resist Conformity – Just be YOU! appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Balance: It's Time to Party The post DIP Episode #11: Balance: It's Time to Party appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Commuting can be More Dangerous than You Think. The post DIP Episode #10: Commuting can be More Dangerous than You Think. appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Loneliness May Make You Sick. The post DIP Episode #9: Loneliness May Make You Sick. appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

Compassion repairs your DNA The post DIP Episode #8: Compassion Repairs Your DNA appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.

The Stress in Our Lives The post DIP Episode #7: The Stress in Our Lives appeared first on Dr. Peter Percuoco.