128. How Your Senses Shape Your Energy, Focus & Mood — The Science of Sensory Wellbeing with Ngahina Richards Artwork

Full of Words

Explore the power of language on the Full of Words Podcast with hosts Sue and CJ.

Through insightful discussions and engaging interviews, this weekly podcast delves into how words and communication deeply impact business, society and our everyday lives.

Sue and CJ draw from decades of combined experience to analyse the role words and language play in effective messaging and provide tips that will empower listeners' personal and professional communications.

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128. How Your Senses Shape Your Energy, Focus & Mood — The Science of Sensory Wellbeing with Ngahina Richards

July 31, 2025 • Sue Kennedy and Catherine James • Episode 128

In this episode of the Full of Words podcast, Sue and CJ are joined by Ngahina Richards, founder of Nriched Living and creator of the Total Sensory Wellbeing framework. Ngahina shares her expertise on how understanding and working with our senses can help restore clarity, energy, and focus — especially in an overstimulating modern world.

Drawing on her background in health science, environmental psychology, and brain chemistry, Ngahina explains how our senses are constantly influencing us — often without our awareness. She discusses how small, practical adjustments to our environment and daily routines can improve our mood, cognitive function, and overall wellbeing.

If you’re navigating the challenges of open-plan offices, digital distractions, or simply seeking more balance and focus in your life, this conversation offers valuable insights.

Ngahina also introduces her forthcoming book, Come to Your Senses, which provides a comprehensive guide to sensory wellbeing tailored to individual preferences and lifestyles. Listen now!

Highlights:

(01:28) Ngahina’s personal journey to sensory wellbeing and her “accidental author” story.
(05:57) The intersection of brain chemistry, environmental psychology, and human behavior.
(09:38) Understanding the “happy D.O.S.E.”: dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, endorphins — and how modern life overstimulates them.
(23:46) The importance of personalized sensory strategies for mental energy and mood regulation.
(28:54) Practical workplace examples: how sensory irritants can lead to cognitive fatigue.
(38:31) About the book Come to Your Senses and how it equips readers to optimize their environments for wellbeing.

Sue Kennedy Links:

Website:authoracademy.com.au

LinkedIn:Sue Kennedy Book Coaching Expert

Facebook:
http://facebook.com/TheNo1AuthorAcademy
https://www.facebook.com/groups/authoracademycollective

Twitter: thauthoracademy

Email:sue@authoracademy.com.au

Booking Link: https://suekennedy.as.me/complimentarysession

Healing with Art 2024 - Creativity for Self-Care Course

Catherine James Links:

Website:catherinejames.au

LinkedIn:Catherine (CJ) James

Facebook:
Catherine James Creative
https://www.facebook.com/groups/doinitdaily/

Instagram:@catherinejamescreative

Email: cj@catherinejamescreative.com.au

Booking Link: https://catherinejames.au/contact

Guest Links:
Website: https://www.nrichedliving.com/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/total_sensory_wellbeing/