Energy Works

What if happiness and connection aren't just personality traits or good luck, but actual skills you can build, like biceps or baking bread? In this episode, Lauren talks with bestselling author and researcher Dawson Church about the neuroscience of what he calls “spiritual intelligence.”They get into the nuts and bolts of how consistent practices like meditation and compassion-based training can physically change your brain, and why that matters for your everyday joy, focus, and ability to not lose it in traffic.Whether you're deep into meditation or just trying to sit still for five minutes, there's something here that'll land.You'll hear about:How meditation rewires your brain in as little as 30 daysWhy compassion speeds up brain growth (and might make you nicer to your barista)What the “Enlightenment Network” is and why it matters for your healthThe science behind joy and resilience—not as fluffy ideas, but as actual brain shiftsWhy Dawson believes we're becoming more compassionate as a society (even if it doesn't look like it on the news)Key Takeaway:Spiritual intelligence isn't something reserved for monks or mystics. It's something you can build. With the right tools and some consistency, you can train your brain to be happier, more grounded, and more connected. No chanting required.You can purchase Spiritual Intelligence here:  https://spiritualintelligencebook.com/?orid=559172&opid=179✨ Tune in to learn how small daily practices can build a bridge between your brain, your heart, and the world you want to live in.

You don't need another expert telling you to “get off your phone” or “try magnesium.” You probably already know what helps with sleep. The harder part? Actually doing it—consistently, night after night.In this solo episode, Blaine lays it out straight: better sleep isn't about chasing the next trick—it's about showing up for the simple things that work. She connects the dots between light exposure, bedtime routines, old wisdom, and modern behavioral tools that (surprise!) all say the same thing: your body wants rhythm, not randomness.This episode is equal parts practical, grounded, and honest. If your sleep is off and you're ready to stop treating it like a side project, press play.What she covers:Why light is your body's favorite sleep medicineNot a supplement. Not a sleep spray. Natural light—especially in the morning and evening—can re-sync your internal clock more powerfully than most people realize. Blaine explains how to work with it, not against it.The little habits that quietly sabotage restFrom screen time to late dinners, these might seem harmless, but they add up. This part isn't about shame—it's about noticing what's actually making it harder to wind down (and what's not worth stressing over).A behavioral approach that skips the fluff CBT-I is one of the most researched methods for sleep. Blaine gives a down-to-earth overview of how it works and why it might be worth looking into if your nights are consistently rough.What waking up at 2 a.m. might be telling youTraditional systems like Chinese medicine have long understood the body's nighttime patterns. Learn why those specific hours might not be random—and what you can do with that information.Blaine's Core Message:If you want better sleep, you have to commit to change. Routine, consistency, and respect for your body's rhythms—not quick fixes—are what lead to lasting rest and healing.

In this episode, Blaine and Lauren return to a central theme in both Energy Medicine and Five Element Theory: how we ground ourselves during times of transition. Whether you're moving through seasonal shifts, emotional changes, or simply trying to stay steady amid everyday stress, this conversation centers the Earth element not as a passing phase, but as the anchor that's always present.Drawing from Chinese medicine, breath practices, and personal experience, they explore what it means to care for your own center when everything else feels in motion. You'll hear practical ways to reconnect with yourself, through food, breath, and a shift in perspective, along with a gentle reminder: the Earth element isn't something you wait for. It's something you can return to, again and again.Listen to learn:A reframe of the Earth element as the constant in Five Element TheoryWhat transitions do to the nervous system—and how to support yourselfEveryday grounding practices you can do anywhereA breath technique to reconnect with your bodyWhat “sweet” means in Chinese dietary therapy—and how to work with itThe role of self-love in staying centeredTakeaway:You don't need the “right” season to find your footing. The Earth element is always available - and grounding isn't a luxury. It's a way back to yourself.✨ Tune in to explore a new lens on Earth element energy, and the power of feeling your feet beneath you.

Lauren and Blaine are back with a follow-up to an episode that stirred up a lot. This time, they're sitting with the phrase “I want to”—and why it can be surprisingly hard to say out loud.For Lauren, that phrase didn't feel empowering at first. It felt loaded. Like stepping on a landmine of guilt, old stories, and a nervous system trained to downplay desire. In this conversation, she shares what came up, what softened, and how staying with the discomfort opened a new door.Together, Lauren and Blaine unpack the difference between performative motivation (“I get to!”) and the kind that actually sticks. They also walk through a grounding energy practice to help you reconnect with your center when want feels like a risk. This one's honest, personal, and practical—in that way healing tends to be: a little messy, a little awkward, and a whole lot of worth it.In This Episode:The emotional charge behind “I want to”—and where it comes from.How trauma can mess with your relationship to desire.A simple energy technique to settle your system when you feel unworthy or untethered.Why real behavior change starts with telling the truth—to yourself.Takeaway:Wants aren't indulgent. They're information. Naming them isn't self-centered—it's self-honoring.The Energy Works episode from the past that Lauren and Blaine refer to in this episode is called “The ‘Should' Trap: How to Build Habits You Actually Want”

In this episode of Cool People Big Ideas, Lauren sits down with Dan Millman, best-selling author of Way of the Peaceful Warrior, The Journeys of Socrates, and Peaceful Heart, Warrior Spirit. They cover everything from the trap of revenge to spotting misinformation and why a four-minute daily practice might be all you need to stay grounded. Dan shares stories from his years of training with spiritual teachers, lessons he learned the hard way, and how to move through life with both strength and peace.What You'll Learn About:Why stories matter – How fiction and parables teach us more than facts ever could.Breaking the revenge cycle – The lessons hidden in The Journeys of Socrates.Truth vs. misinformation – How belief systems shape our world (and not always for the better).What wisdom actually looks like – Dan's 20-year search for answers.Finding calm in chaos – Practical ways to build resilience, even when life feels like a mess.A practice that lasts a lifetime – Why Dan's four-minute daily movement routine has stuck with him for over 50 years.Takeaway:✨ Life is both a training ground and a classroom. Through his books and teachings, Dan Millman reminds us that true wisdom is not just about seeking knowledge but living it—embracing daily challenges with both peace and strength.

What if the flavors you crave aren't random but clues from your body about what it needs?In this solo episode of Energy Works, Blaine breaks down the five flavors in Food Energetics and explains how each one supports your body in specific, medicinal ways.Sweet, salty, sour, bitter, pungent… these aren't just taste sensations. In Chinese Dietary Therapy, these flavors have energetic properties that influence digestion, energy, mood, and even emotional patterns.Blaine shares practical examples of how to notice these patterns in your own cravings and meals, how to use the flavors of food more intentionally, and why this ancient approach to eating still makes so much sense in modern life (especially if your “what should I eat?” brain feels a little frazzled)..What You'll Learn:The Basics of Food Energetics: What it is, and why it matters.The five flavors of food (sweet, salty, sour, bitter, pungent) and their energetic propertiesWhat each flavor does in the body Simple ways to experiment with flavor for balance and well-beingWhy eating this way is about support, not restrictionTakeaway:Food isn't just fuel. It's energy, language, communication, and self-care. When we understand the energetics of flavor and how it makes us feel, we can move from autopilot to awareness, use meals as medicine, and build a more nourishing relationship with ourselves and our bodies.

The food on your plate does more than just keep you going—it influences your mood, energy, and overall well-being. In this solo episode of Energy Works, Blaine breaks down food energetics, showing how what you eat affects not just your body but also your emotions and mental clarity.From warming and cooling foods to the subtle ways your diet shifts your energy levels, Blaine explains how to eat in a way that supports your body's natural rhythm. If you've ever felt sluggish, overwhelmed, or out of sync, small shifts in what you eat could help you find more balance. Tune in for practical, easy-to-apply tips that make a real difference.What You'll Learn:Food as Energy: How different foods affect your mood, digestion, and vitality.Warming vs. Cooling Foods: Why some foods rev you up while others help you unwind.Eating for Your Body's Needs: How to listen to your cravings and what they might be telling you.Balancing Yin and Yang in Nutrition: Ancient wisdom meets modern eating habits.Practical Tips for Energized Eating: Simple changes that can make a big difference.Takeaway:Food isn't just fuel—it's information. Learning to read what your body needs can help you feel clearer, more balanced, and energized every day.

When does pushing through turn into pushing too hard? In this episode of Energy Works, Lauren and Blaine discuss the fine line between commitment and burnout. They also talk about the role of rest, the risks of overtraining, and the messages our bodies send when we're not listening.Lauren shares how ignoring her body's signals led to an injury - and how looking at the emotional side of her pain helped her heal faster. Blaine, an experienced athlete and coach, breaks down how to balance movement and recovery, why rest days don't always mean doing nothing, and how paying attention to your body can keep you moving for years to come.What You'll Hear:The Rest Day Myth – Why full recovery doesn't always mean total stillness and how gentle movement can actually help.Balancing Commitment and Intuition – When pushing through becomes a problem and how to recognize the warning signs.Emotional Lessons in Injury – How Lauren connected her back pain to deeper emotional patterns. The Power of Yin – Why slowing down matters, especially as we age. Practical Tools – Quick body check-ins, breathwork, and small habits to stay in tune with what you need.Takeaway:Injury doesn't usually come out of nowhere - it starts with whispers before it turns into a shout. The more you tune in, whether through movement, rest, or breath, the better you'll feel in the long run.

In this episode of Cool People Big Ideas, Lauren talks with Ann Hood, author of The Stolen Child, Comfort, and Morningstar, to talk about storytelling, grief, and the choices that shape our lives. Ann shares her thoughts on creating characters that feel real, balancing truth and fiction, and using art as a way to heal. They talk about time travel in stories, the fun and challenge of writing in different genres, and how personal loss affects creative work. Ann talks about the power of decision-making, explaining how every choice can affect a lifetime in surprising ways. If you're a writer, a reader, or someone interested in the power of art, this episode offers a look at life's important moments and the stories we tell to understand them.What to Listen For:- The Essence of Fiction: Why fiction matters and how it helps us understand the world.- The Role of Art: How creativity—from knitting to writing—helps and changes us.- Decisions and Regret: Talking about the “what-ifs” of life through stories.- Grief and Writing: How personal loss affects Ann's work and her journey to creating the Gracie Belle imprint.- The Stolen Child: The story behind Ann's novel, including the connection of time, memory, and art.- Knitting and Healing: The calming practice that helped Ann's recovery.Takeaway:Every decision is a part of life. Through her writing and personal stories, Ann Hood reminds us that it's never too late to use creativity, find meaning in grief, and enjoy storytelling.

What does it mean to truly let go? The metal element in Five Element Theory represents endings, refinement, and the wisdom that comes from life's experiences. When out of balance, it can cause grief, rigidity, or detachment. In this episode of Energy Works, Lauren and Blaine talk about the metal element—its strengths, its challenges, and how to work with it in a way that helps growth and clarity.Blaine, whose primary element is metal, and Lauren, who has worked to develop more metal energy, talk about how this element influences the body, emotions, and mindset. They also share practical techniques to balance metal energy, allowing for healthy detachment, clarity, and faith in life's cycles.What You'll Hear:Metal and the Body – How this element connects to the lungs, large intestine, skin, and the process of release.The Alchemist and The Sage – Talking about the archetypes of metal energy and how they show up in leadership, discipline, and clarity.Grief and Letting Go – Why grief is a normal part of life and how to process it in a healthy way.Finding Balance in Metal Energy – Breathwork, neurovascular holds, and sound techniques to move from grief to faith.Metal in Daily Life – How the energy of endings can help us refine our purpose, relationships, and personal growth.Takeaway:Metal energy teaches us the art of release and refinement. When in balance, it allows us to process grief, extract wisdom, and move forward with faith. By learning to accept endings, we open ourselves up to new beginnings.

In this episode of Energy Works, Lauren and Blaine break down the Earth element in Five Element Theory. As they continue around the elemental wheel, they look at how Earth energy shapes balance, nourishment, and emotional well-being.Lauren shares a personal story about caring for her aging dog in his final days and the lessons it brought about love, devotion, and the need to balance giving and receiving. Blaine explores Earth archetypes and why caretakers—whether parents, healers, or teachers—often struggle with boundaries and self-care.What's Inside This Episode:The Earth Element – How it supports stability, nourishment, and life transitions.Earth Archetypes – The nurturers, caregivers, and empaths who hold it all together.Worry and Self-Love – Why excessive worry drains energy and how self-care shifts everything.Keeping Earth in Balance – The challenge of giving too much and why receiving matters.Energy Techniques for Earth Types – The Ujjayi breath and a neurovascular hold to restore inner harmony.Key Takeaways:- Earth energy governs nourishment—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.Caretakers can't pour from an empty cup—giving without limits leads to exhaustion.- Worry often disguises itself as care, but real love is rooted in trust.Self-care isn't selfish—it's the foundation for lasting well-being.

In this episode of Energy Works, Lauren and Blaine break down the Fire element in Five Element Theory. As they move around the elemental wheel, they explore how Fire shapes passion, connection, and emotional balance.Blaine explains how Fire types are natural social connectors—full of charisma, warmth, and joy—but also prone to anxiety and burnout. Lauren discusses the link between anxiety and inspiration, why discernment matters, and how Fire influences the heart and emotional well-being. They also touch on surprising stories about heart transplants and the mysteries of the heart's energy field.What's Inside This Episode:- The Fire Element – How it fuels joy, passion, and relationships.- Fire Archetypes – The expressive, magnetic, and deeply emotional nature of Fire types.- Anxiety vs. Inspiration – When Fire energy tips from excitement into overwhelm.- Keeping Fire in Check – Why boundaries, discernment, and emotional regulation matter.- Energy Techniques for Fire Balance – The HAA breath and a neurovascular hold to restore calm and focus.Key Takeaways:- Fire energy drives passion, connection, and emotional expression.- Anxiety is Fire out of balance—grounding techniques help restore calm.- The heart is more than a pump; it carries emotional and energetic intelligence.- Fire types need strong boundaries to avoid burnout.

Is your energy pushing forward—or pushing too hard? The wood element in Five Element Theory is all about growth, movement, and getting things done. But when it's out of balance, it can show up as frustration, tension, or burnout. In this episode of Energy Works, Lauren and Blaine discuss the wood element—its strengths, its challenges, and how to work with it instead of fighting against it.Lauren, whose primary element is wood, and Blaine, whose secondary element is wood, share how this energy influences the body, emotions, and leadership style. They also break down practical ways to balance wood energy using simple techniques that anyone can try.What You'll Hear:

In this episode of Energy Works, Lauren and Blaine talk about the water element, one of the five elements in ancient Chinese medicine. They cover what makes water energy different, how it influences emotions and physical health, and why keeping it balanced can help you feel more steady and strong. You'll learn how water connects to fear and courage, why it plays a key role in resilience and simple ways to work with this energy in daily life.What to Listen For:

In this episode of Energy Works, Lauren and Blaine break down the five elements of Chinese medicine—water, wood, fire, earth, and metal—and how they're woven into Energy Medicine Yoga. These elements aren't just abstract concepts but the threads connecting everything in the universe, from seasonal changes to our moods.Lauren shares her journey of studying these elements with Donna Eden and how it changed how she approaches energy work. Blaine explains how these elements fit naturally into traditional yoga practices, making it easier to balance your energy without overthinking it.They discuss how each element shows up in both the physical and emotional aspects of life, setting the stage for future episodes where they'll tackle each element in more depth.What You'll Hear:

In this episode of Cool People Big Ideas, Lauren talks with Eileen McKusick, a pioneering researcher of the human biofield, about the essential role of play in our lives. Eileen reflects on her shift from a work-centered mindset to embracing play as a powerful healing and personal growth tool.Eileen shares her expertise on the biofield anatomy map, explaining the connection between sound, emotions, and well-being. Together, she and Lauren discuss the influence of cultural expectations, childhood experiences, and overwork, offering practical ways to bring balance and joy back into your life through playful expression.Whether you're new to biofield tuning or curious about rediscovering the joy of play, this episode offers thoughtful perspectives and actionable steps to create a more vibrant, joyful life.What to Listen For:The Biofield Anatomy Map: How sound and vibration influence energy centers.Work vs. Play: Why balance is key to feeling whole.Childhood Trauma: How early life shapes our relationship with play and work.Cultural Expectations: The pressure to prioritize productivity over joy.The Power of Play: Activities like singing and dancing as tools for healing and vitality.Practical Tools: Tips for using biofield adjustments and affirmations to enhance energy.Eileen's Story: Her journey of reclaiming joy and connecting with the queen archetype.Takeaway:Play isn't just a pastime—it's essential to a healthy, balanced life. Tapping into the joy of play can help you release old patterns, boost energy, and approach life with renewed enthusiasm.

In this episode of Energy Works, Blaine and Lauren tackle the exhausting pressure of constantly feeling like you “should” be doing something - whether it's sticking to a rigid self-improvement plan or living up to other people's expectations.Blaine shares her experience with the endless “shoulds” that pop up around yoga and spiritual practices and how quickly that mindset can turn into frustration and burnout.They dig into how this pressure can backfire, leading to self-criticism and even resistance to the things you actually care about. This episode introduces a straightforward three-step process to help you move away from self-judgment and create healthier habits rooted in genuine choice. Blaine also shares a reflective technique to identify and work through the mental blocks that often keep you stuck.If you've ever felt weighed down by self-imposed expectations, this conversation offers practical tools for creating a more relaxed, intentional approach to personal growth.What's in This Episode:- Why the “should” mindset drains your energy and creates resistance- The impact of comparison and internalized expectations- A personal pandemic story that reshaped Blaine's approach to self-care- Practical journaling exercises to uncover hidden resistance- A three-step method for building healthier habits

In this episode of Energy Works, Lauren and Blaine tackle the often awkward, sometimes cringey, but totally human experience of being self-conscious - whether it's behind a mic or just in life.Lauren shares a story about being recognized by a podcast listener and how that unexpected moment threw her off her game. It's a candid look at how awareness of being “watched” can mess with your confidence. Together, the hosts unpack their experiences with podcasting, the fear of criticism, and how feedback (both constructive and not-so-helpful) can feel especially heavy in today's cancel-culture world.The episode doesn't just stop at the hard stuff, though. Lauren and Blaine offer practical strategies for pushing through discomfort while staying authentic, avoiding the comparison trap, and keeping self-criticism in check. They also teach two simple energy techniques: The Schoolyard Hookup and The Blowout - that'll help you calm your nerves and stay grounded when life gets stressful.What's in This Episode- How self-consciousness can sneak up on you and derail your confidenceStrategies for handling criticism without losing yourself- Why authenticity beats perfection every time- Tips for managing that tricky line between self-improvement and self-judgment- Two energy practices to keep your cool when the pressure's onDon't let self-doubt hold you back—tap into your power instead!

In this episode of Cool People Big Ideas, Lauren Walker sat down with Jill Purce, the Matriarch of the Sheldrake-Purce family, to discuss her work with chanting, healing, and internal family systems. They talked about how sound can help with emotional and spiritual well-being, including how chanting has transformed individuals and families. Jill shared personal stories from her own life and explained how she came to understand the power of vocal practices. She also talked about raising a family alongside her husband, scientist Rupert Sheldrake, and their two children, Merlin and Cosmo, each making their own mark in the world.The conversation covered a range of topics, from the science and spirituality of sound to the impact of internal family systems on relationships. Jill provided practical advice on how to bring chanting into daily life and discussed the connection between ancient traditions and modern healing. This episode offers listeners a chance to understand how sound can be a tool for personal healing and how it shapes the dynamics of family and relationships.The views and opinions expressed by guests on the Energy Works podcast do not necessarily reflect those of the Energy Works hosts or Energy Medicine Yoga employees.What You'll Learn:- How chanting can help with emotional and spiritual well-being.- The role of internal family systems in relationships.- Jill's approach to connecting with both your inner self and the outside world.Key Moments:- Jill's background and work with chanting.- Her personal journey into discovering the power of sound.- The relationship between science and spirituality in sound.- Stories of families healed through vocal practices.- An introduction to the principles of internal family systems.- Tips for integrating chanting into daily life.- The connection between ancient healing practices and modern methods.- Advice for beginners interested in vocal healing.Lauren found this conversation to be a meaningful exploration of sound, family, and healing, and she hopes it offers something valuable for everyone listening.You can learn more about Jill Purce at www.healingvoice.com.

In this episode of Cool People Big Ideas, Lauren Walker sits down with Rupert Sheldrake to discuss his groundbreaking theory of morphic resonance, which explores how living beings are connected across time and space. They talk about how Rupert's work challenges conventional scientific ideas, shedding light on phenomena like telepathy and animal instincts that many mainstream scientists dismiss. Rupert offers a simple explanation of his theory and provides real-world examples of how morphic fields influence everything from human behavior to communication between animals. He also clarifies the often-misunderstood Double Slit experiment, offering a clear perspective that sets the record straight. This conversation gives listeners a new understanding of Rupert's work and how it might shift our view of the world.The views and opinions expressed by guests on the Energy Works podcast do not necessarily reflect those of the Energy Works hosts or Energy Medicine Yoga employees.What You'll Learn:- The key ideas behind Rupert Sheldrake's morphic resonance theory.- How Rupert's theories challenge mainstream scientific beliefs.- Practical examples of how morphic resonance plays out in everyday life.- A clearer understanding of the Double Slit experiment and its true implications.- How Rupert's work connects science with common human experiences.Key Moments:- Rupert explains the concept of morphic resonance and its potential to change our understanding of science.- How Rupert's work challenges traditional views in science, particularly around phenomena like telepathy and intuition.- The connection between morphic fields and how animals and humans share unspoken knowledge.- Rupert offers a clear, simplified explanation of the Double Slit experiment and why it matters.- Real-world applications of Rupert's theories, from animal behavior to human communication.You can learn more about Rupert Sheldrake at his website www.sheldrake.org and his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/RupertSheldrakePhD 

In this special episode of Energy Works, Lauren and Blaine celebrate the end of their first year of podcasting by looking back at the journey so far. They share favorite moments, key lessons, and how the podcast has grown since day one. As they prepare for the year, the hosts dive into their styles for reflection and goal-setting.Lauren and Blaine bring their own flair to the process—Lauren leans on her intuition, while Blaine favors a more structured, step-by-step approach. Together, they talk about blending these contrasting styles, staying true to your values, and steadily progressing toward your goals.What's in This Episode:Reflecting on the Year: Highlights, lessons, and memorable moments from their first year of podcasting.Contrasting Styles: Lauren's intuitive reflection vs. Blaine's structured goal-setting—and why both have merit.Blending Approaches: How to balance flexibility and planning for effective goal-setting.Staying Grounded: Tips for staying true to your values and making progress without overwhelm.Community Connection: The role of support and accountability in reaching your goals.Practical Tips: Simple ways to wrap up your year with reflection and intention.Why Listen:Whether you're a planner, a feeler, or somewhere in between, this episode offers something for everyone. Lauren and Blaine's different styles might inspire you to find a method that fits your personality, values, and goals.

In this episode of Energy Works, Blaine and Lauren share their favorite ways to wrap up one year and gear up for the next. As part of their mini-series on year-end reviews and planning for the year ahead, they compare two reflection styles: one that's more methodical and goal-focused and one that flows with intuition and emotion.They offer actionable steps to help you look back on your year - celebrating wins, spotting what drained your energy, and preparing for what's next. Along the way, they touch on how different cultures tackle year-end traditions, proving that no matter where you are, a little self-reflection is always in season.What's in This Episode:- Why New Year's Feels Special: A look at why we like to start fresh on January 1st.- Cultural Perspectives: How others reflect on the past and plan for the future.- Reflection Styles:    *Lauren's free-flowing approach that taps into feelings and energy.    *Blaine's step-by-step system for spotting patterns and setting goals.- Blending the Two: Why combining structure and intuition might be your best bet.- Fresh Perspectives: Fun metaphors and visual exercises to reframe your year in a meaningful way.- Get Started: Simple tips to kick off your reflection process today.Why Listen:Whether you love a checklist or prefer to go with the flow, this episode will leave you with practical ideas to reflect on the past year and set clear intentions for 2024. You'll learn how to craft a process that feels right for you—no one-size-fits-all advice here.Join the Conversation:We want to hear from you! What's your favorite way to reflect on the year? Drop us a comment, share your practices, and let's start a conversation about what worked - and what didn't - in 2024.

In this episode of Energy Works, Blaine and Lauren talk about the challenges of family gatherings during the holidays, especially when beliefs and lifestyles don't align. They share strategies for maintaining calm and balance in the face of potentially stressful family interactions.Both hosts open up about their experiences navigating tricky family dynamics—like differing dietary choices and clashing values—and discuss how to set healthy boundaries. They also discuss how energy techniques can help you stay grounded and manage stress when things get tense. By the end of the episode, you'll have a toolkit of practical approaches to stay centered and handle triggers during the holiday season.What to Listen For:Handling Family Differences: Tips for managing conflicts and respecting differing beliefs during family gatherings.Personal Stories: Blaine and Lauren share how their values and lifestyle choices affect family interactions.Setting Boundaries: How to protect your peace by establishing clear limits with family members.The Warrior's Approach: A mindset for staying calm and grounded in challenging family situations.Energy Tools: Breathing exercises and other techniques for managing stress and emotional triggers.Psychological Tips: Strategies for maintaining inner peace despite family tension.Spiritual Perspective: How understanding different backgrounds can help you find peace during the holidays.Takeaway: The holidays can be both joyful and stressful, but with the tools shared in this episode, you'll be better equipped to navigate family dynamics, stay grounded, and create a peaceful, enjoyable holiday season.

In this episode of Energy Works, Lauren and Blaine shine a light on the power of helping your neighbors and why small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Lauren shares the story of her neighbor Gary, who's been facing serious health and financial challenges. Inspired to take action, she started a GoFundMe campaign—and the outpouring of community support was a testament to the good that happens when people come together.Lauren and Blaine dig into the emotional and practical aspects of being there for the people around you, exploring what it really means to be a good neighbor and how giving back doesn't have to be complicated.What to Listen For:- Gary's Story: How one neighbor in need sparked a ripple of support.- Why Helping Neighbors Matters: The big impact of showing up for the people right in front of you.- The Power of Asking: How vulnerability can lead to connection and real solutions.- Time or Money? Tips for figuring out how to give back in a way that works for you.- Making Giving Sustainable: Avoiding burnout while staying generous.- The Joy of Community: How helping others brings people closer and creates a sense of purpose.- Take Action Today: Easy, meaningful ways to lend a hand to those in your own community.- Your Takeaway: Helping your neighbors doesn't have to be a grand gesture—it's about seeing a need and finding a way to meet it. Gary's story is proof that when people come together, even small efforts can create lasting change.Gary's GoFundMe:  https://gofund.me/5265bea6

In this Energy Works episode, Lauren and Blaine tackle the ever-present voice of the inner critic—the one that loves to critique, judge, and sometimes derail us. Through personal stories and practical tools, they offer ways to quiet that voice, embrace self-acceptance, and find a little more peace in your headspace.Here's What's Waiting for You in This Episode:- What Exactly Is the Inner Critic? A straightforward look at how it shows up in our lives and impacts mental health.- Real-Life Experiences: Lauren shares a behind-the-scenes moment of self-doubt while recording a podcast intro for her spin-off series.Blaine dives into how her upbringing, steeped in competition and achievement, gave her inner critic a megaphone.- Tracing the Roots of Self-Talk: How childhood experiences shape that voice in your head—and what you can do to rewrite the script.-Tailored Affirmations That Work: Why generic affirmations can fall flat and how to create ones that actually resonate.- Energy Medicine in Action: Learn the “earmuffs” technique (yes, it's as simple as it sounds) and other tools to calm the mind and soften self-criticism.- Steps Toward Self-Kindness: Concrete tips for building a more compassionate relationship with yourself—no fluffy language or unrealistic expectations here.Your TakeawayLauren and Blaine wrap up the episode with a guided affirmation practice designed to help you take a breath, quiet the negative chatter, and connect with self-love.

What's it like to sit miles away while a massive hurricane barrels toward your home? This week, Lauren gets Blaine to open up about the raw emotions, the uncertainty, and the tools she leaned on while waiting to hear if her home had weathered two consecutive hurricanes. This isn't just about the storm itself—it's about the quiet chaos of waiting, worrying, and finding your center even when you're far away.

Join Lauren Walker and Blaine Wilkes on this episode of Energy Works, where they break down the EMYoga Wake Up routine, focusing on the first two key moves: the Four Thumps and the power of stillness. These simple exercises are perfect for grounding yourself and getting your energy moving while improving how your body's energy systems connect.Here's What You'll Learn:- Intro to the EMYoga Wake Up: This is a look at the routine and its benefits for energy levels.- The Four Thumps: Why tapping greatly impacts how your energy flows and your emotional balance.- Thump 1: K27 - Kidney Meridian: Tapping K27 can boost energy and support your immune system.- Thump 2: Thymus Thump: This thump helps keep your body well-balanced and your immune system humming.- Thump 3: Spleen 21 - Spleen Thump: This point supports your health and vitality.- Thump 4: Stomach Meridian Thump: Learn how this affects grounding and your daily energy flow.- Stillness and Silence: Why taking time to pause and be quiet can make all the difference in how you feel and connect with your energy.

✨ Join Lauren and Blaine as they share the inspiration behind their podcast and discuss their favorite books. In this episode, we explore:Introducing Cool People, Big Ideas: Discover the concept behind the upcoming Energy Works spin-off interview series and what listeners can expect from upcoming episodes.Upcoming Guests and Book Releases: Lauren previews exciting interviews, including one with Sebastian Junger, and shares insights into future book releases.Sharing Favorite Books: Both hosts discuss and recommend three of their favorite books, covering genres from spiritual guides to scientific inquiries and fiction.Encouragement to Read: Lauren and Blaine emphasize the joy and importance of engaging with diverse reading materials and perspectives.

Welcome to the inaugural "Energy Works" episode with your hosts Lauren Walker and Blaine Wilkes. Today, we dive into a topic that literally keeps you grounded — understanding and managing your energy through grounding techniques.