Netta Weinstein and Heather Hansen

Psychologist Professor Netta Weinstein and science writer Heather Hansen explain how time alone can boost wellbeing.

Most of us spend one third of our waking life alone. Weinstein and Hansen explain how we can find strength in being alone and how it can be a powerful time to tap into benefits. Weinstein is co-director of the Solitude Lab with fellow author Professor Thuy-vy T Nguyen, and the book is based on key findings of their research. They say solitude can be used to relax, recharge, problem solve and for emotional regulation. It can benefit personal growth and contentment, creativity and relationships with ourselves and others.

Weinstein is professor of psychology at Reading University and research associate at the Oxford Internet Institute. Hansen is a science writer and author who joined the Solitude Lab to lend her expertise in interviewing and communication.

Owen Mumford Ltd are supporters of the festival’s science and medicine programme and the festival’s annual award for science and innovation.