Reducing Stress by Talking Story
Discover how the Hawaiian tradition of “talk story” supports mindfulness and connection—simple, everyday ways for reducing stress and enhancing well-being.
What Does It Mean to “Talk Story”?
In Hawaii, there is the pidgin phrase “talk story,” which according to the reputable source of Peppo’s Pidgin to the Max series, means to talk or shoot the breeze. “Talk story” doesn’t mean just passing conversation, but the long meandering conversation that can last all night. Used in a sentence: “Sit down, relax, talk story with me.”
Kupuna and the Roots of Connection
Similarly, in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language), the word “kupuna” refers to grandparents or ancestor. Kupu means to grow and bring forth, while puna refers to a spring of water, symbolizing the source of our existence. Both “talk story” and “kupuna” invite us to sit down and reflect with mindfulness on ourselves, the lives we touch, and how we interact with our surroundings. This intentional slowing down and being mindful is especially important during these interesting times—for building connection and reducing stress in our daily lives.
Benefits of Mindfulness and Reducing Stress
Some of the benefits of slowing down, paying attention, and practicing mindfulness can include improved cognitive ability; reduced stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms; and an increased sense of well-being. And some good news for older adults who are just getting into mindfulness: research shows that middle-aged to older adults tend to be more in the moment, less reactive, and exhibit less judgment than younger adults.
Sit down, relax, talk story with me.
Simple Everyday Ways to Reduce Stress
I’m not telling you to try and commune with the tomatoes in the produce aisle at Trader Joe’s—but the next time you eat, put mindfulness in action—just take the time to taste and savor your food. Other intentional, mindful ways to connect with yourself and others, while reducing stress, include:
- Inviting a friend to lunch, just to “talk story”
- Taking a walk in a park or near the beach in the early morning or early evening (and remember to wear sunscreen!)
- Spending time with loved ones, both young and old, to build your history together and plan for a shared future
Come Talk Story With Us
We invite you to come talk story—and discover how simple shifts can support reducing stress and improving well-being.
About the Brain Wellness & Lifestyle Program
Pacific Neuroscience Institute’s Brain Wellness & Lifestyle program offers virtual and in-person, individual and group sessions. Our expert team addresses the lifestyle interventions that help optimize brain health.
Join our mailing list or make an appointment for our services:
lifestyle@pacificneuro.org | 213-344-2037
1301 20th St. #100, Santa Monica, CA 90404
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