Your Environment Affects Your Happiness More Than You Think with Dr. Leidy Klotz
About this episode
Dr. Laurie Santos discusses with Leidy Klotz how our surroundings influence our happiness and wellbeing.
Our surroundings affect our happiness in ways we often don’t notice. The layout of a room, the amount of clutter in our home, and even small changes to lighting can shape our mood, focus, and relationships. As The Happiness Lab continues its spring cleaning series, Dr. Laurie sits down with University of Virginia Professor Leidy Klotz, author of In a Good Place , to explore the hidden ways our spaces shape our inner lives. Why do certain places make us feel calm, connected, and grounded, while others leave us distracted or drained? From creating more connection at home to using our surroundings to remember loved ones we’ve lost, these practical ideas will refresh your space and your wellbeing. Experts Mentioned: Leidy Klotz , professor of engineering and architecture at the University of Virginia Nelson Mandela , anti-apartheid activist and former president of South Africa Jane Jacobs , writer and urban activist Resources Mentioned: In a Good Place: How the Spaces Where We Live, Work, and Play Can Help Us Thrive , by Leidy Klotz (2026) Subtract: The Untapped Science of Less by Leidy Klotz (2021) “ Spatial Patterns of Solar Photovoltaic System Adoption: The…
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