Mindful Matters

Mindful Matters Podcast host, Elaine Clark, speaks with Dr. Christopher Willard, (Psy. D.) a clinical psychologist, author and consultant based in Massachusetts. He has spoken in thirty countries, and has presented at two TEDx events. He is the author of over 18 books, including Alphabreaths (2019), Growing Up Mindful (2016) and How we Grow Through What We Go Through. (2022). His thoughts on mental health have been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, mindful.org, cnn.com, and elsewhere. In this episode, he speaks to us about his latest book and the connection between self-compassion and personal transformation. Episode Highlights:- His new book "How We Grow Through What We Go Through"- Post-Traumatic Growth vs Post-Traumatic Stress- The power of posture- How our physiology influences our psychology- "Name it to tame it"- The science behind physical touch - The importance of self-compassion- The language of addiction- Examples of self-compassion practices  For more information about Christopher Willard please visit https://www.drchristopherwillard.com/To purchase "How We Grow Through What We Go Through"https://www.amazon.com/Grow-Through-What-Self-Compassion-Post-Traumatic/dp/1683648900 

Mindful Matters Podcast host, Elaine Clark, speaks with Veronica Foster, Marriage and Family Therapist with over 14 years of clinical experience providing individual, family, couples and group therapy. In this episode, Veronica speaks to us about safe and empowered relationships and her personal/professional experience of Marriage and Family Therapy.  Episode Highlights:- Veronica's personal journey towards Marriage and Family Therapy - Her personal experience of marriage and relational conflict- Mindfulness practices to stay grounded in conflict- Establishing healthy relational boundaries - How to find the right Marriage and Family Therapist- 3 important lessons to get the relationship you want - The art of listening Email: veronicafostermft@gmail.comWebsite: https://theseawithin.me/Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/veronica-foster-mft-santa-cruz-ca/360769Harm Reduction: https://www.harmreductiontherapy.com/Veronica's Book Recommendations- Growing Yourself Up: How to bring your best to all of life's relationships- The Truth About Love: The Highs, the Lows, and How You Can Make It Last Forever- Hold Me Tight: Seven Conversations for a Lifetime of Love- Rock the Boat: How to Use Conflict to Heal and Deepen Your Relationship- Transcending Trauma: Healing Complex PTSD with Internal Family Systems- Attached: The New Science of Adult Attachment and How It Can Help YouFind - and Keep - Love

Mindful Matters Podcast host, Elaine Clark, speaks with Menaka Raman-Wilms, writer and journalist based in Toronto. Menaka is the host of The Decibel, the daily news podcast from The Globe and Mail and she is the author of "The Rooftop Garden". In this episode, Menaka shares insights into the process of creating her novel. Episode Highlights:- Menaka's creative writing journey   How creative projects build us at a deep level - The creative process - Starting & finishing creative projects - Perfectionism and procrastination - Insights from her book "The Rooftop Garden"- Loneliness as a theme in the book - A major take away from her book To purchase "The Rooftop Garden" by Menaka Raman-Wilmshttps://harbourpublishing.com/products/9780889714380The Decibel Podcast - The Globe and Mail https://www.theglobeandmail.com/podcasts/the-decibel/Menaka Raman-WilmsTwitter: @menakarw

Mindful Matters Podcast host, Elaine Clark, speaks with Judith Blackstone, author of "Trauma and the Unbound Body: The Healing Power of Fundamental Consciousness", "The Enlightenment Process, and "Belonging Here: a Guide for the Spiritually Sensitive Person".  In this episode, Judith speaks to us about The Realization Process: A Step-by-Step Guide to Embodied Spiritual Awakening. Episode Highlights:- Judith's personal journey - The Realization Process- Connecting to our core & attuning to our body- What is fundamental consciousness?- How to inhabit the body as fundamental consciousness to liberate trauma-based constrictions- Reclaiming ourselves from our childhood holding patterns - Deepening intimacy & internal contact with another without losing ourselves - Connecting from "core to core"- Practices that can bring us back to unity - A short guided practice by Judith For more information about Judith Blackstone & The Realization Process https://realizationprocess.org/To purchase "Trauma and the Unbound Body: The Healing Power of Fundamental Consciousness"https://www.amazon.ca/Trauma-Unbound-Body-Fundamental-Consciousness/dp/1683641833To purchase "The Intimate Life: Awakening to the Spiritual Essence in Yourself and Others"https://www.amazon.ca/Intimate-Life-Awakening-Spiritual-Yourself/dp/1604075627Social Media:Twitter: https://twitter.com/judblackstone

Mindful Matters Podcast host, Elaine Clark shares updates within the Blu Matter community and insights about the research on loneliness. Highlights - Listeners in 106 countries worldwide - Loneliness is as lethal as cigarettes- The importance of healthy social connections & vulnerability - Ingredients for friendship - The social nervous system - Upcoming on the Mindful Matters Podcast 

Mindful Matters Podcast host, Elaine Clark, speaks with Blake D. Bauer, the International Bestselling Author of "You Were Not Born To Suffer". Blake is a world-renowned teacher and speaker with an extensive background in psychology, alternative medicine, nutrition, traditional healing, and mindfulness meditation. Blake speaks to us about overcoming  suffering and adversity. Episode Highlights:- Insights from his book "You Were Not Born To Suffer"- Blake's personal healing journey - Stuck energy, blood, emotion, & trauma - We choose between self-respect or self-pity- How to recognize a victim mentality in ourselves - Taking personal responsibility for how we're not valuing ourselves - Generational trauma and how we can begin to heal - 2 important steps we can take in our healing journey- The importance of forgiveness - Giving and receiving "good healthy love" - The Butterfly metaphor For more information about Blake Bauer https://www.unconditional-selflove.com/Free 65 page sample of the bookhttps://go.unconditional-selflove.com/free-pdf-download-2To purchase the book click here Social Media:Twitter: @BlakeBauerFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlakeBauer1/Instagram @blakedbauer

Mindful Matters Podcast host, Elaine Clark, speaks with Dr. Judith Grisel, TEDx speaker, renowned behavioral neuroscientist, recovering addict, and author of the NewYork Times Bestseller, "Never Enough: The Neuroscience and Experience of Addiction." Dr. Grisel takes us through the neuroscience and experience of addiction. Episode Highlights:- Her own personal journey of addiction and sobriety- “The opposite of addiction is not sobriety, it's choice”. - Her book, Never Enough:  The Neuroscience and Experience of Addiction"  - "The solution isn't in a pill"- Why human connection is crucial in the process of recovery- The increased risk for substance use disorders while the brain is still developing- Young adults are more prone to addiction, but also more resilient- What happens in the brain when abusing substances- The "debt of addiction"- How to recognize dependence - How to support a loved one struggling with addiction- The "hungry little ghosts" - Why movement practices are neurobiologically important - Insights for anyone struggling to see a better future for themselvesFor more information about Dr. Judy Griselhttps://www.bucknell.edu/meet-bucknell/bucknell-stories/faculty-stories/judith-grisel-psychologyTo purchase the book:https://www.amazon.com/Never-Enough-Neuroscience-Experience-Addiction/dp/0385542844TEDx Video Never Enough: The Neuroscience and Experience of Addictionhttps://www.ted.com/talks/judy_grisel_never_enough_the_neuroscience_and_experience_of_addictionSocial Media:Twitter: @GriselNeuro

Mindful Matters Podcast host, Elaine Clark, speaks with Dr. Pat Boulogne, Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner, Coach, Chiropractor, Speaker, and Author of the #1 bestselling book, "Why... Are You Sick, Fat, and Tired?: Find Out Now". In this episode, she speaks to us about how we can use Functional Medicine as a way to take back our health & happiness. Episode Highlights:- Insights from her book "Why... Are You Sick, Fat, and Tired?"- Your health continuum- Major reasons why people get sick- Trauma, toxins & thoughts- Why mindset is so important- Food is information, not just calories- The 3 brains: Primitive, Mammalian & Conscious- Making changes stick- Nutritional intelligence & overeating- Knowledge is power when applied- How to use her book as a guideFor more information about Dr. Pat Boulognehttps://healthteamnetwork.com/To purchase the book: https://www.amazon.com/Why-Are-You-Sick-Tired/dp/1734185597To contact Dr. Pat Boulogne https://meetdrpat.as.me/waysft Social Media:Instagram: @drpatboulogneFacebook: @Dr Pat Boulogne - Functional - LifeStyle Medicine Expert CoachTwitter: https://twitter.com/drpatbLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drpatboulogne/Contact Usinfo@blumatterproject.com

Mindful Matters Podcast host, Elaine Clark, speaks with Wendy Behary, author of an international bestselling book, “Disarming the Narcissist: Surviving And Thriving With The Self-absorbed”, a step-by-step communication guide to help you cope with and confront the narcissist in your life. Wendy speaks to us about how to effectively navigate narcissism. Episode Highlights:- Insights from her book "Disarming the Narcissist" - What is narcissism? - Overt narcissist vs Covert Narcissist - The importance of empathic confrontation - What it's like to be in a relationship with a narcissist- Signs and traits to look out for - Most common paths that lead to narcissism - Establishing healthy boundaries- Ending the cycle of self-blame, self-shame & self-sacrificing choices- How to disarm the narcissist - Why professional help is often needed for the narcissist to change - What is Schema Therapy? - The dysfunctional fit of codependents & narcissists For more information about Wendy Beharyhttps://disarmingthenarcissist.com/Social Media:Instagram: @donsanddivasFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/wbeharyTwitter: https://twitter.com/donsanddivasLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-behary-269a8a16/Contact Usinfo@blumatterproject.comhttps://blumatterproject.com/ 

Description:Mindful Matters Podcast host, Elaine Clark, speaks with Somatic Compassion Coach, Marina Yanay-Triner, to discuss the importance of addressing the trauma stored within the body and how a somatic, body-based approach can address triggers and support nervous system regulation. Episode Highlights:- Somatic Compassion Coaching - Nervous system regulation for sustainable change - Foundational principles of healing from trauma- Survival mode vs safety - Signs of dysregulation- How we can self regulate- Treasures in the triggers - How we can cultivate more self-love - The fawning response - A body forward approach to healing- Somatic practices and embodied boundaries - The "HealFlow" program For more information about Marina Yanay-Triner please visithttps://www.marinayt.com/https://marinayt.com/healflow/Social Media:Instagram: @marina.y.tFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/marinayanaytrinerPinterest: https://www.pinterest.ca/marinayanaytrinerContact Usinfo@blumatterproject.comhttps://blumatterproject.com/ 

Mindful Matters Podcast host, Elaine Clark, speaks with Judy Wilkins-Smith, a  world-renowned author, motivational speaker and a highly regarded organizational, individual, and family patterns expert. In this inspiring episode, Judy shares insights from her new book, “Decoding Your Emotional Blueprint: A Powerful Guide to Transformation Through Disentangling Multigenerational Patterns” and how we can identify and shift our unconscious, inherited patterns that are no longer serving us. Episode Highlights:- Judy's book "Decoding Your Emotional Blueprint"- Why transformational healing can be so difficult - The scientific evidence of emotional DNA- What we can learn from emotional DNA - What is systemic work & constellation- Our unconscious loyalties - Aligning the head and the heart - Meta Patterns and how they affect us- The meta pattern of “doing ok”- How we can build our own constellation For more information about Judy Wilkins-Smith please visithttps://judywilkins-smith.com/To purchase the book, "Decoding Your Emotional Blueprint: A Powerful Guide to Transformation Through Disentangling Multigenerational Patterns"https://www.amazon.com/Decoding-Your-Emotional-Blueprint-Multigenerational-ebook/dp/B09JS9RXBV For more information about the Constellation Meditations, please visithttps://judywilkins-smith.com/product/meditations-duo/Contact Usinfo@blumatterproject.comhttps://blumatterproject.com/ 

Mindful Matters Podcast host Elaine Clark is joined with Dr. Sara Lazar, neuroscientist, Ted Talk speaker and co-author of "Meditation and Psychotherapy".  In this episode, Dr. Lazar speaks to us about how practicing mindfulness, meditation, and yoga can reshape our brain. Episode Highlights:- Dr. Lazar and her research - What neuroplasticity is - Why exercising the brain in a new way is so beneficial - How mindfulness and meditation can reshape the brain - The brain regions of the default mode network and their function- A wandering mind is an unhappy mind- How mindfulness can soften the critical mind - Benefits of mindfulness & meditation - The best kind of mindfulness & meditation to practice - How long we need to meditate in order to experience benefits - Dr. Lazar's upcoming research- How stress changes the brain For more information about Dr. Sara Lazar please visit https://scholar.harvard.edu/sara_lazar/homehttps://scholar.harvard.edu/sara_lazar/our-researchContact Usinfo@blumatterproject.comhttps://blumatterproject.com/ 

Mindful Matters Podcast host Elaine Clark is joined with Catherine Moore, registered clinical counsellor with a master's degree in Counselling Psychology. In this episode, Catherine speaks to us about adoption, complex trauma and somatic healing. Episode Highlights:- Catherine's experiences as an adoptee, an adoptive and a multi role mother in a blended family- Catherine's book, “Connections: Stories of Adoption and Reunion"- How the wound of abandonment might feel for adoptees - Some of the ways early separation from biological parents shows up for the developing child and adult- How somatic therapy can help support someone with early abandonment wounding - How we can support someone who has been adopted - What "Mindful & Heartful Therapy" is For more information about Catherine Moore, please visit https://catherinemoore.ca/Contact Us info@blumatterproject.comhttps://blumatterproject.com/ 

Mindful Matters Podcast host Elaine Clark, is joined by Canada's Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, Carolyn Bennett, who speaks to us today about the government's plan to create national standards for mental health and addiction and the priorities of her new mandate.Episode Highlights:- Why Minister Bennett is passionate about Mental Health - The importance of integrative health care - Why we need to get mental health care back into the public health care system- Why more and more people are willing to share that they're struggling with their mental             health - Wellness Together Canada (WTC) online platform- The PocketWell app- The importance of Trauma-Informed Care- Priorities for Minister Bennett's mandate For more information about Carolyn Bennett, please visit https://www.canada.ca/en/government/ministers/carolyn-bennett.htmlSocial Media:Instagram: @carolyn.bennett.stpauls 

 John Vervaeke, Associate Professor, and author of the book “Zombies in Western Culture:  A 21st Century crisis” which integrates Psychology and Cognitive Science to address the meaning crisis in Western society, speaks to us today about the Meaning Crisis, Mindfulness and Flow State.  Episode Highlights:- Dr. John Vervaeke's personal journey - What The Meaning Crisis is  - How meaning in our life prevents psychosomatic symptomatology- The meaning of life vs. the meaning in life- How we can cultivate more meaning in our life - Why physical gratification, subjective well-being & meaning in life are important - The correlation between happiness and meaning - The difference between mindfulness and meditation - Unconscious processing and the subconscious mind - What Flow State is- Mindsight resonance- How we can cultivate more mindfulnessFor more information about Dr. John Vervaeke, please visit http://johnvervaeke.com/For more information about "Zombies in Western Culture: A Twenty-First Century Crisis"https://www.amazon.ca/Zombies-Western-Culture-Twenty-First-Century/dp/1783743298Social Media:Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/johnvervaeke?app=desktopTwitter:  @vervaeke_john 

Nicola Mosley, registered social worker who employs an anti-oppressive and trauma-informed lens, speaks to us today about the Trauma Center-Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) technique and her upcoming training program with the Blu Matter Project Community on June 3-5th 2022, Trauma Center-Trauma Sensitive Yoga: Foundations for Facilitators. Episode Highlights:- Nicola's personal journey specializing in trauma sensitive care- What complex trauma and developmental trauma is - What does it mean to be "triggered"- The parts of the brain involved when we are triggered - How we can use the TCTSY technique to strengthen interoceptive awareness - The 20hr Trauma Center-Trauma Sensitive Yoga: Foundations for Facilitators program To register for the Trauma Center-Trauma Sensitive Yoga: Foundations for Facilitatorshttps://blumatterproject.com/index.php?route=information%2Fcommerce2&nav=detailsFor more information about Nicola Mosley and her 100hr trauma informed training, Mindful Movement classes, and private practice offerings, please visit https://www.traumasensitiveyogawest.ca/For more information about the 300hr Certification in TCTSY through the Center for Trauma and Embodiment: https://www.traumasensitiveyoga.com/trainings

Description:Audriana is a physiotherapist working at IRP Health, which is currently the only multidisciplinary pain management clinic in Canada catering exclusively to military veterans, RCMP, and first responders. She is the principal investigator in a current research study looking at the benefits of a physiotherapy assisted exercise program on symptoms of PTSD and chronic pain. In this episode, she speaks to us about incorporating a biopsychosocial lens for treatment and trauma informed care. Episode Highlights:- Audriana's personal journey specializing in trauma informed care- What PTSD is & symptoms experienced - How we can begin to heal from trauma responses   - The importance of "titration" when working with the body - Best practices for healing chronic pain - The Biopsychosocial Model and why it's important - The importance of socialization & shared experiences in recovery & healing - The IRP Health Clinic For more information about Audriana Monteiro, please visit:https://rehab-and-performance.thinkific.com/courses/yoga-foundationsSocial Media:Instagram: @audrianaphysioContact Usinfo@blumatterproject.comhttps://blumatterproject.com/ 

Dylan Sessler is a mental health coach, professional speaker, podcast host of The Dylan Experience, entrepreneur, combat veteran, and author of the book, Defy the Darkness: A Story of Suicide, Mental Health, and Overcoming Your Hardest Battles. In this episode, he speaks to us about how we can confront our shadow and our inner demons. This conversation is a great starting point for anyone looking to own their healing journey and share their story.Episode Highlights:- Dylan's personal journey - How our shadow can show up in our lives- The importance of confronting our shadow- How we can confront our shadow & our "inner demons" - Insights from Dylan's book "Defy the Darkness" - Lessons from Dylan's writing journey For more information about Dylan Sessler, please visit: https://dylansessler.com/For more information about Dylan's book, "Defy the Darkness: A Story of Suicide, Mental Health, and Overcoming Your Hardest Battles", please visit: https://dylansessler.com/defy-the-darknessContact Us info@blumatterproject.comhttps://blumatterproject.com/ 

Karden Rabin, Co-Founder of the Chronic Fatigue School, and the Founder of Stress School & Boundless: Integrative Wellness Center, specializes in mind-body related disease and disorders. He speaks to us about the power of somatic healing and brain retraining. Episode Highlights:- Karden's personal journey - What somatic experiencing is and how it can be supportive - How we can re-establish the feeling of sensation within the body - What "Brain retraining" is- Managing fear & the stress response - Why healing is considered subjective  - The Chronic Fatigue School For more information about Karden Rabin, please visit: https://www.kardenrabin.com/For more information about The Chronic Fatigue School, please visit: https://www.chronicfatigueschool.com/Contact Us info@blumatterproject.comhttps://blumatterproject.com/ 

Dr. Anne Wagner is a clinical psychologist and treatment development researcher based in Toronto, Canada. She is the founder of Remedy, a mental health innovation community, and Remedy Institute, Remedy's home for research. She is the principal investigator of the pilot trial of Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD + MDMA, and the randomized controlled trial of Cognitive Behavioral Conjoint Therapy (CBCT) for PTSD + MDMA. Anne collaborates on numerous projects with other researchers, spanning across the fields of psychedelics, trauma, couples therapy, HIV, and the experiences of women. She speaks to us today about how MDMA might be a part of relational healing. Episode Highlights:- Dr. Anne Wagner's personal journey and her experience of psychedelics in a therapeutic context - Why psychedelics are considered "a non-specific amplifier of the unconscious"- How MDMA might be a part of relational healing - Why psychedelics are not a “one dose miracle cure”- Why psychedelics are considered contextual - Remedy Centre & Remedy Institute For more information about Dr. Anne Wagner, please visit: https://integration.maps.org/anne-wagner/For more information Remedy Centre & Remedy Institute, please visit: https://remedycentre.ca/https://www.remedyinstitute.ca/Contact Us info@blumatterproject.comhttps://blumatterproject.com/ 

Julian Ho, Holistic Fitness & Wellness Entrepreneur, Co-Founder of BEI VITA, a well-being management consulting company, and an Ultramarathon Champion and Ironman athlete, speaks to us today about work-life harmony.  Episode Highlights:- Julian Ho's personal work-life harmony- The importance of adaptation & aligning with our core values - The 6 human needs (Certainty, Uncertainty, Significance, Connection, Growth, Contribution) - The concept of “Joy Money Flow” - A kind vs. wicked learning environment - When to hold on vs. when to let go - Self-care habits to support growth & alignment - 3 questions to ask yourself to find your "why"  For more information about Julian Ho, please visit:https://www.julianho.ca/Bei Vitahttps://www.beivita.com/Contact Us info@blumatterproject.comhttps://blumatterproject.com/ 

Dr. Christiane Wolf is a physician turned mindfulness and compassion teacher and teacher trainer. She is an authorized Buddhist teacher in the Insight (Vipassana) meditation tradition, teaching classes and retreats worldwide. Christiane shares insights from her latest book, "Outsmart Your Pain – Mindfulness and Self-Compassion to Help You Leave Chronic Pain Behind", a transformative guide to finding relief with mindfulness.Episode Highlights:- Dr. Christiane Wolf's personal journey - Insights from her book "Outsmart Your Pain”- The meaning behind "All pain is real pain" - The 3 components of pain - The difference between acute & chronic pain- How we can "outsmart our pain" - How somatic practices can support pain reduction- Therapeutic benefits of physical touch - The connection between Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) & chronic painFor more information about Dr. Christiane Wolf, please visit: https://www.christianewolf.com/For more information about her book, Outsmart Your Pain - Mindfulness and Self-Compassion to Help You Leave Chronic Pain Behind, please visit: https://www.christianewolf.com/outsmart-your-pain/ Contact Us info@blumatterproject.comhttps://blumatterproject.com/ 

Andrew Penn, MS, NP, PMHNP-BC is a University of California San Francisco trained psychiatric nurse practitioner, nationally-recognized speaker on psychedelic assisted therapy and cannabinoids in psychiatry and a co-founder of the Organization of Psychedelic and Entheogenic Nurses (OPENurses). Andrew completed extensive training in psychedelic assisted therapy and has worked as a study therapist on a phase 3 MDMA-assisted therapy protocol for PTSD and is Co-investigator on a study of psilocybin assisted therapy for major depression. He speaks to us today about psychedelic-assisted therapies. Episode Highlights:- What Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is- The parts of the brain affected by traumatic experiences- "Window of Tolerance" after trauma - The history of MDMA and psychedelics - MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD- How psychedelics can be seen as a "quick fix" - Why psychedelic medicine is considered contextual - Psilocybin assisted therapy for major depression- The default-mode network vs the task-positive network- Barriers in this field of psychedelic researchFor more information about Andrew Penn, please visithttps://www.andrewpennnp.com/Organization of Psychedelic and Entheogenic Nurseshttps://www.openurses.org/Laboratory https://psychedelics.ucsf.edu/Contact Us info@blumatterproject.comhttps://blumatterproject.com/ 

In this episode, Sex Therapist, EMDR trained Trauma Specialist, and Clinical Sexologist, Holly Wood, helps us understand sexual trauma and the healing process.   Episode Highlights:- Holly Wood's personal journey- The difference between sexual violence, sexual assault & sexual trauma- Physical, psychological and sexual side effects after a sexual boundary rupture- Hypersexuality vs. hyposexuality- The intersection of sexual trauma & eating disorders- Research-proven modalities to support healing- How partners can support each other in the process of post traumatic growthFor more information about Holly Wood, please visit https://thehollywoodsexologist.com/Contact Us info@blumatterproject.comhttps://blumatterproject.com/ 

In this episode, David Cooley talks to us about the Restorative Relationship Conversation model and how it can provide a template for working with interpersonal conflict.Episode Highlights:- David Cooley's personal journey  - Origins of the Restorative Relationship Conversation model- The role attachment issues play in relationship conflict- The importance of developing a "secure attachment"- How conflict is an opportunity for self-growth & self-awareness- How to approach conflict in a healthy way David Cooley https://www.restorativerelationship.com/Contact Us info@blumatterproject.comhttps://blumatterproject.com/ 

Dr. Erin Wiley, Naturopathic Doctor, and the Owner and Clinic Director of one of Toronto's leading integrative health clinics, the Integrative Health Institute, speaks to us about the importance of quality sleep for our mental health and well-being. Episode Highlights:- Dr. Wiley's personal journey to Naturopathic Medicine - How stress & lack of sleep disrupt the gut-brain connection- How quality sleep supports our nervous system - Effective strategies to prepare for quality sleep - Sleep trackers & how they work Show notes:Dr. Erin Wileyhttps://erinwiley.com/For more information about the Integrative Health Institute please visit,  https://www.integrativehealthinstitute.ca/

Dr. Anna Lembke, New York Times Bestseller Author, Psychiatrist & Stanford professor discusses the neuroscience of modern addiction and her latest book "Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence". Episode Highlights:- Dr. Lembke's book "Dopamine Nation" - Our “drug of choice” - Risk factors for addiction- What addiction is and how it's mis-understood - The neurochemistry of addiction- How we can manage our addictions- The acronym "DOPAMINE" Show notes:For more information about Dr. Anna Lembke, please visit  https://www.annalembke.com/

Cassandra Hope, Functional Trauma Therapist & Founder of "Be Well With Hope", shares with us her wisdom on conquering trauma and navigating relational boundaries. Episode Highlights:- Cassandra's personal journey to Functional Trauma Therapy - How lack of connection can reorganize the nervous system- The importance of relational boundaries & interpersonal regulation - Language we can adopt when setting healthy boundaries - The Polyvagal Theory and why it's important in the context of trauma Show notes:For more information about Cassandra Hope, please visit  https://www.bewellwithhope.com/ 

Dr. Patti Ashley is a psychotherapist, international speaker, and the author of 3 books: “Living in the Shadow of the Too-Good Mother Archetype", “Shame-Informed Therapy”, and “Letters to Freedom". In this episode, she shares with us her wisdom on grief, shame and vulnerability.Episode Highlights:- Dr. Ashley's personal experience of loss & grief - Insights from her book "Letters to Freedom" - The phases of grief - Vulnerability without shame- The importance of somatic practices in our healing journey Show notes:For more information about Dr. Patti Ashley, please visit www.pattiashley.com. 

As an experienced yoga instructor and trauma informed educator, Elizabeth Vecchio speaks to us about the benefits of Trauma Informed Yoga and how we can manage anxiety, self-doubt, and ruminating thoughts. Episode Highlights:- Elizabeth's personal journey as a yoga & wellness educator - A specific practice to manage anxiety, self-doubt & ruminating thoughts - What "Trauma Informed Yoga" is and how it can be supportive - The Blu Matter Project Mental Health & Trauma Sensitive TrainingShow notes:https://www.elizabethvecchio.com/

Carla Beharry is a mixed-race, intercultural, Guyanese-British-Canadian, specializing in health & education equity and in healing racial trauma from a somatic, body-based perspective. In this episode, she speaks to us about antiracial trauma biases & power dynamics in wellness culture.  Episode Highlights:- Carla's personal journey as a mixed-race, Guyanese-British-Canadian- What racial trauma is & how we can recognize it - Implicit vs. explicit bias and examples of each - How can we begin to educate ourselves and others about anti-racism & anti-oppression- How we can be an advocate for the racial justice movement- Resources for anti-racism & anti-oppressionShow notes:https://www.infiniteoceans.com/

Amanda Laine, co-founder of Inward Breathwork, speaks to us about how we can unlearn the pattern of reacting to stressful situations and how we can use hot & cold therapy to  facilitate stress reduction.  Episode Highlights:- Amanda's personal journey to creating Inward Breathwork - What you can expect in a facilitated cold immersion & sauna therapy session - What hormesis is and the beneficial effects of "mild stress" - How we can use hot & cold therapy to build resilience, and to support stress reduction & self-regulation Show notes:https://www.Inwardbreathwork.com/https://www.goinward.ca/Social Media: Instagram for breathwork: @inwardbreathworkInstagram for physical: @go_inward

Jenny McGrath, licensed mental health counsellor and somatic educator, speaks to us about how our bodies store trauma and how we can engage our bodies to heal trauma.  Episode Highlights:- Jenny's personal journey to mental health counselling & trauma informed yoga- What dissociation is and what it can feel like - How the body "speaks" to us and how trauma is stored in the body- The vagus nerve and why it's important- The psoas muscle and how it relates to trauma in the body- How we can support the vagus nerve & the psoas muscle- How movement and connecting to our bodies can help bring us out of traumaShow notes:www.indwellcounseling.com 

In today's episode, Mindful Matters host, Elaine Clark shares updates within the Blu Matter Project community. 

Description:Dr. Romith Naug, dually board certified Family Physician practicing psychotherapy and hospital medicine, speaks to us about Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and how it can help reduce negative thought patterns and behaviours. Episode Highlights:- Dr. Romith Naug's personal journey through medical school and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy- What Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is and how it can be supportive - Dr. Naug's Adapted Cognitive Behavioural Model- The importance of mindful awareness-  A specific breathing technique that can be supportive for deep healing Social Media:Instagram handle: @naugr11LinkedIn 

Dr. Selene Wilkinson is a Naturopathic Doctor and clinic owner & director of Lemon Water Wellness in Toronto, Canada. In this episode, she speaks to us about 5 pillars of health, why they are important and how they can be supportive.Episode Highlights:-Dr. Selene's personal journey to Naturopathic Medicine -The link between physical symptoms & the mental/emotional aspects of health-The importance in "doing less" -5 pillars of health & why they matter -How unconscious limiting beliefs can be major barriers to lasting changeShow notes:Lemon Water Wellness https://www.lemonwaterwellness.ca/pages/dr-selene-wilkinson-nd

Dr. Natasha Collia is a Pediatric Emergency Medicine Doctor and Simulation Educator at the Hospital for Sick Children. In this episode, she speaks to us about how we can best advocate for our own health and the health of our family. Episode Highlights:Dr. Tash's personal journey to specializing in Pediatric MedicineThe everyday physician struggle Misinformation on the internet The importance in finding reliable resourcesHealthy vs unhealthy screen timeNon-verbal health signs that parents can watch out for in children Recommended resources for pediatric health Show notes:"Physicians in Living Rooms" with @dr.tash.officialReflections from the ER Podcast 

Julie Daniluk, Nutritionist, TV personality, & award-winning, bestselling author speaks to us about the powerful connection between diet and our mental health.Episode Highlights:Julie's personal struggles with mental healthHow sugar affects us hormonallyThe importance of intermittent fastingWhat is Advanced glycation end products (AGEs)Sugar substitutes that are best for blood sugar balanceGlycemic index vs glycemic loadDonuts, sugar & flour and their impact upon our healthThe link between mental health & blood sugarA major takeaway from Julie's latest book “Becoming Sugar Free” Show notes:Julie Danilukwww.juliedaniluk.comPre-order the book " Becoming Sugar Free" https://www.juliedaniluk.com/becoming-sugar-free-book

Dr. James Gordon, a Harvard-educated psychiatrist and the Founder and Executive Director of the Centre for Mind-Body Medicine, speaks to us about trauma and his latest book “Transforming Trauma: The Path to Hope and Healing”. Show notes:Book: “Transforming Trauma: The Path to Hope and Healing”https://cmbm.org/thetransformation/The Centre for Mind-Body Medicinehttps://cmbm.org/

Teresa Greco, happiness coach, author, and radio host of “The Steps to Happiness Show” talks to us about what it really means to own our story and to make a decision to heal. She talks to us about overcoming crisis and her 5 steps to true happiness. Show notes:Book: The Decision to Heal: Pathways from Suffering to Lovehttps://www.amazon.ca/Decision-Heal-Pathways-Suffering-LoveTeresa Grecohttps://www.teresagreco.ca/

Hala Khouri, author, yoga teacher, somatic counselor, and activist who specializes in teaching trauma informed yoga. In this episode, Hala reveals the traumas she experienced that inspire her work and reflects on her personal healing journey. She shares with us insights from her new book, "Peace from Anxiety: Get Grounded, Build Resilience, and Stay connected Amidst Chaos" and specific ways to avoid compassion fatigue. Show notesHala Khourihttps://halakhouri.com/

In this episode, Lisa Wimberger discusses her personal life-threatening trauma and her journey of finding strategies to dealing with seizures. We talk about how we create our reality from the inside out, a 5-step meditation process that can help us release the grip of old patterns, and how we can manage compassion fatigue. Show notesNeurosculptinghttps://www.neurosculpting.com/Neuropraxishttps://neuropraxis.com/

Best Selling Author, Liana Werner-Gray speaks about her latest book “Anxiety Free with Food”, a scientifically backed, nutrition guide that empowers us to take control of our mental health. Liana is also the author of the bestselling books "The Earth Diet"  "Cancer-Free with Food" and she's a Certified Nutritionist and cancer survivor. In this episode, she speaks about anxiety-inducing foods we can avoid and what specific foods we can include in our diet that are proven effective for anxiety.Show notesAnxiety-Free book: https://amzn.to/2RwrJtxSupplement shop: https://www.lianas.us/shop

Dafna Lender, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified trainer, speaks to us about secure attachment of children with their caregivers, and the importance of playfulness and rupture repair in the parent-child relationship. Show notesDare to Playhttps://www.dafnalender.com/programs/dare-to-playIntegrated Attachment Family Therapyhttps://www.dafnalender.com/programs/certificate-in-integrated-attachment-family-therapy-trainingDafna Lender https://www.dafnalender.com/

Scott Robinson, known as “The Brain Guy” discusses how emotional trauma on the brain is comparable to the effects of a traumatic brain injury, the power of the subconscious mind and limiting beliefs, how powerful emotions like resentment and jealousy can manifest negative outcomes, and the difference between adaptive and passive neuroplasticity. Show notesScott Robinson www.thebrainguy.co

Dr. Karen Katchen is a Registered Clinical and Counselling Psychologist. She works with senior executives and start-up teams to build awareness around and strengthen their Emotional Intelligence. In this episode, Karen discusses the research on emotional intelligence. Show notesKaren Katchenwww.karenkatchen.ca/

Lauren Schuivens, founder of the international wellness brand, Samavira, and  certified Meditation & Mindfulness instructor trained by Buddhist Monks in Thailand. In this episode, she shares with us some benefits of meditation and how we can use the practice of meditation & mindfulness to cultivate more self-compassion & self-love.Show notesSamavirawww.samavira.com

Andrew Lynn, Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist speaks to us about moving through and forward from traumatic experiences. Show notesAndrew Lynnwww.andrewlynn.net

Maya Nehru, Registered Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, walks us through how we can identify "trauma bonding", how old wounds and past traumatic experiences can influence our relationships, signs to identify when it's time to move on from a relationship and how to take the necessary steps to do so. 

Nya Daley, Founder of Soulga Yoga, walks us through anti-oppression practices, anti-racism, the difference between cultural appropriation vs. appreciation, and how we can use critical self-study to empower ourselves toward anti-oppression.

DescriptionIn today's episode, Mindful Matters host, Elaine Clark, shares updates for the upcoming year with the Blu Matter Project. Useful Linkswww.blumatterproject.com