Podcasts about mbsr

THIS EPISODE OF GROWING OLDER LIVING YOUNGER focuses on sleep and the ways we can achieve sufficient natural sleep. Today's Featured Expert is retired medical doctor and  longtime mindfulness teacher, Dr. Lucinda Sykes on her approach to promoting deep natural sleep We discuss the importance of natural deep sleep, what happens to our brains during the stages of sleep, the adverse effects of sleep medications, and the importance of consistent sleep habits in a sleep conducive environment. Episode Timeline:0:11 Introduction to today's episode.7:18 Why is the quality of sleep so important?11:43 What are the three stages of sleep?17:43 Approach to her clients with a sleep problem24:01 The major factors in chronic insomnia.30:47 Insomnia and sleep medication use.36:59 Key takeaways Speaker Bio:Dr. Lucinda Sykes' background includes family medicine and Jungian psychotherapy. She has Certification in Analytical Psychology from the CG Jung Institute, Zurich as well as extensive training in MBSR (mindfulness-based stress reduction) at the U Mass Center for Mindfulness,More than 6000 patients attended medical programs of mindfulness at her Toronto clinic, Meditation for Health. When COVID ended the clinic's in-person teaching in 2020, Lucinda shifted her work online, directing her special interest in sleep and mindfulness to new coaching programs for Women 50+.   Learn more about natural sleep www.lucindasykesmd.com https://www.facebook.com/joyfulafter50 https://www.happysleepsecrets.com To discover how to Reset Your Aging Blueprint or kickstart your wellness, beauty and healthy aging business, schedule a free Discovery Call with me.  To get your copy of Growing Older Living Younger: The Science of Aging Gracefully and The Art of Retiring Comfortably click here   

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is a program that helps people manage stress and improve their overall well-being. MBSR has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. It has also been used in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, and workplaces, to improve overall well-being and increase resilience. This episode discusses its benefits for teens, adults, and older adults.

About Lauren Nelson Ludwig: Lauren struggled for 16 years with unexplainable autoimmune issues and when she went to the doctor, they said everything “looked normal”, and that maybe she just needed more sleep. She took healing into her own hands, went back to school, and learned everything she could about blood work and the emotional side of healing. This led her to get certified as a health consultant, blood work specialist,  and MBSR™ practitioner.Lauren believes that the key to solving patient health concerns lies not only in taking the right lab tests, but knowing how to interpret the results all while releasing stored emotions. In this episode Adam and Lauren discuss:Why you should get your bloodwork checked?Take a look at your environment and get out of the moldLow-grade infectionsEat whole foods. Key Takeaways: It is important to get your blood work checked if you feel like crap even though your bloodwork has always been told that it is "normal". The test involves checking for heavy metals, mold, and other environmental toxins, or checking if you have parasites, all of which can help you discover the root cause of your health problems.People are exposed to mold on a daily basis, so make sure you look at your surroundings as your environment can play a huge role in your health, and get rid of this mold to live a healthier life.Millions of viruses can cause low-grade infections and different health issues, so make sure to have your bloodwork checked - normal doesn't mean optimal.Eat vegetables, fruits, avoid processed foods, and avoid gluten as much as possible. Consider the ingredients in the food you eat, and if you can't pronounce them, don't eat them. "Go through your bloodwork, make sure your vitamin D is good, make sure your iron is good, make sure you don't have any of these low-grade infections. And just by fixing a few of those things, you're going to be feeling like a completely different person.” - Lauren Nelson Ludwig  Connect with Lauren Nelson Ludwig:Website: https://www.medellahealing.com/Instagram: http://instagram.com/medellahealingTiktok: http://tiktok.com/medellahealingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/508975247886721 Connect With Adam Weber:Website: https://meditationnotmedicine.com/about/Email: adam@meditationnotmedicine.com   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/easytomeditateInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meditationnotmedicine/   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPnbji9rDrCfxhY0W8sHL9ABook: Meditation Not Medicine  Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelica Rayco Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

This mindful moment shares a meditation on being with a wide range of energies and experiences. This practice reflects on "the gunas" from the yoga sutras and how they relate to emotional and energetic states based on Episode 41: How Counseling Relates to the Yoga Sutras with Izzy Shurte.01:26 Meditation beginsJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ and get a shout-out on our next episode as you help make dreams come true!Follow Holly on Instagram and check out her offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!

Meditation is a spiritual practice by nature. Even if you are meditating purely for the health or secular benefits, a regular practice is a lovely opportunity for you to deepen your spiritual practice. I have found that in teaching folks to meditate, when the practice means a little something, it is easier to meditate, more fun to meditate and brings way more benefits to your life. It doesn't have to be a certain tradition. If you can be a bit creative and honor your true self, you can make meditation mean more than just an excellent brain workout or one more healthy habit to complete each day. This is my last episode for this season! I will see you in March! Keep meditating and hit me up any time. I love you!In this episode we will learn: ~How to make meditation mean something more than a healthy habit~How meditation can deepen your spiritual practice even if you don't feel very spiritual at all~Ham Sah Meditation Love the show? Please review and rate Stress Therapy here: https://lovethepodcast.com/StressTherapy Quotes: “I'm not telling you what to believe, I'm telling you that if you believe something, bring it to your cushion. Because it is going to make your practice so much more fulfilling and your benefits are going to be vast.” -Cheri Augustine Flake, LCSW Interesting mentions: Barton Bryan's Mindset Forge Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mindset-forge/id1535891737 10% Happier by Dan Harris https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18505796-10-happier?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=6BWmo8Z1RI&rank=1 (After recording this episode, I did look into Dan Harris and it seems that since writing this book, he too has clearly brought spirituality into his practice. I suspect he is now WAY MORE than 10% happier!) The Host for this podcast: Cheri Augustine Flake, LCSW The Stress Therapist and Author Twitter: @stresstherapyInstagram: @thestresstherapist Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cheriaugustineflakeLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheri-augustine-flake-719b044Website: https://thestresstherapist.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/thestresstherapist Stay in touch with Cheri: https://thestresstherapist.com/contact/ Join Cheri Flake on her next retreat! https://thestresstherapist.com/retreats/ https://thestresstherapist.com/beach-retreats/ Want Cheri Flake to be your therapist? If you live in Georgia go here: https://thestresstherapist.com/contact/ to schedule a free 15 minute consultation Follow Cheri Flake on GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15903117.Cheri_Augustine_Flake Buy Cheri's book: Honey Do To Honey DONE! A Simple System For A Productive And Happy Household With Absolutely No More Nagging! https://www.amazon.com/Honey-DONE-Productive-Household-Absolutely/dp/0997950919/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_bdcrb_top?ie=UTF8 A word from your host, Cheri Flake, LCSW: Feeling good after our Stress Therapy session? Awesome. Check out the show notes to connect with me, The Stress Therapist on social media or go to www.iLoveTherapy.com to find out about meditation retreats & yoga retreats.

Welcome to Living Well with MS, the Overcoming MS podcast where we explore all topics relating to living well with multiple sclerosis (MS). In this episode, we are taking you back to the launch of the ‘Overcoming MS Handbook: Roadmap to Good Health' with Professor George Jelinek, Dr Jonathan White and Dr Phil Startin. Together they discussed how the new book was created, the highlights from the book and answered questions from the community. We were excited by the arrival of the new book, as it provides an engaging overview of the Overcoming MS Program combined with stories from the community. This webinar was recorded in February 2022 as part of our Finding Hope with Overcoming MS webinar series. You can watch the whole webinar here or the podcast highlights on YouTube here. Keep reading for the key episode takeaways and George, Jonathan and Phil's bios. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter to hear our latest tips and news about living a full and happy life with multiple sclerosis. And if you're new to Overcoming MS, visit our introductory page to find out more about how we support people with MS. Professor George Jelinek's Bio Professor George Jelinek developed the Overcoming MS Program and founded the Neuroepidemiology Unit at the University of Melbourne's School of Population and Global Health which continues to research its benefits. George's Story: When George was diagnosed with MS in 1999, he was determined to do something. His mother had died as a consequence of her MS, which spurred him on to sort through and assess the medical literature on MS. His career as a Professor in Emergency Medicine and his background as Editor-in-Chief of a major medical journal gave him the tools to do this. It became clear to George that remaining well after a diagnosis of MS is more than just a possibility. He found that with commitment to the right lifestyle changes, there is the real probability that many people with MS can live long, healthy lives, relatively free of the usual problems associated with the illness. These lifestyle recommendations are now referred to as the Overcoming MS Program, which he detailed in his book Overcoming Multiple Sclerosis. The new book in this podcast episode is a newly launched accessible overview of his findings. George has remained free of further relapses, as have many people who follow the Overcoming MS Program. Dr. Jonathan White's Bio Career: Jonathan went to University of Glasgow Medical School, graduating in 2008 (MBChB). He completed a further five years of training in Obstetrics and Gynecology and is a member of the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (MRCOG). He works at the Causeway Hospital, Coleraine and has a special interest in early pregnancy and recurrent pregnancy loss. In April 2022, Jonathan was awarded “Doctor of the Year” at the inaugural Northern Ireland Health and Social Care Awards. He contributed to the new book in this podcast episode. Overcoming MS and personal life: Jonathan was diagnosed with RRMS in October 2015 and has been following the Overcoming MS Program ever since.  Dr. White assists Overcoming MS as a medical advisor and event facilitator. He lives on the North Coast of Northern Ireland, is married to Jenny and father to Angus and Struan. His interests include the great outdoors, cycling and running (reluctantly), reading, rugby, film and spending time with his family. Dr Phil Startin's Bio Career and Overcoming MS: After a DPhil in Quantum Physics, Phil left his academic roots for a more peripatetic career in management consulting, initially with Price Waterhouse. After years of travelling around the world for both work and pleasure, including a two-year assignment in Geneva, he was diagnosed with Primary Progressive MS (PPMS) in 2007. Phil discovered Overcoming MS in 2011, and coupled with his earlier discovery of mindfulness meditation, it awakened a whole new area in his life. With training and supervision from Bangor University, he now teaches an eight-week mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) course to people with MS and to the general community on a pro-bono basis. He is also a trustee for MS-UK. Personal life: Phil lives in Arrochar, Scotland with his American wife, Cristina, whom he met over a weekend at the Jazz Fest in New Orleans. Phil's completely convinced that the Overcoming MS program and mindfulness have positively affected the trajectory of his condition. Selected Key Takeaways The new book gives different perspectives from the Overcoming MS community Professor George Jelinek said: “After what seems like quite a long time of bringing this message to people, I'm hearing the message come back to me through the filter of all of these different people's lives and experiences, joys and sorrows. It's just a wonderful read for me to sit down and say that all this has been happening in our community and that people have worked out ways of adopting and maintaining this program, many of which I've really never considered given that I've got only my own particular view of the world.” Overcoming MS supports the use of medications alongside lifestyle changes Dr Jonathan White said: “I think sometimes the medical community thinks it's “us or them” [with] lifestyle or medication and that could never be further from the truth. I personally have always chosen to use medication as part of my way of managing MS and I wouldn't change that. But nor would I change using lifestyle to manage my MS. Undoubtedly for many people medication has many benefits and is a huge part of your armor and protection against this disease. But why ignore the underlying things that caused the problem in the first place, you know, stress, lack of exercise, low vitamin D levels, poor diet and processed and altered fats and animal fats in your diet?” The Overcoming MS program is relevant for both relapsing and progressive forms of MS Dr Phil Startin said: “By following the Overcoming MS program, you absolutely can make a difference [to your MS], you can change the trajectory of that condition, and you can improve your quality of life. Through neuroplasticity, you can even recover some functions. The Overcoming MS program is just as relevant for us with a progressive form of the condition as it is for those with those newly diagnosed and with a relapsing form, possibly even more.” Related Links: Overcoming MS Handbook: Roadmap to Good Health Watch the original webinar Don't miss out: Subscribe to this podcast and never miss an episode. You can catch any episode of Living Well with MS here or on your favorite podcast listening app. If you like Living Well with MS, please leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you tune into the show. Feel free to share your comments and suggestions for future guests and episode topics by emailing podcast@overcomingms.org. Make sure you also sign up to our newsletter to hear our latest tips and news about living a full and happy life with MS. If you enjoy this podcast and want to support the ongoing work of Overcoming MS, you can leave a donation here.

In this episode of The Healers Café, Manon Bolliger (facilitator and retired naturopath with 30+ years of practice) with Lucinda Sykes about in these unstable times, society needs the full participation of Women 50+, and women need their best sleep! For the transcript and full story go to: https://www.drmanonbolliger.com/Lucinda-Sykes   Highlights from today's episode include: Lucinda Sykes We're not trying to change our experience. We're not trying to have a better experience, we are simply witnessing the experience without judging, and that is mindfulness. And oddly, some would say we are born into mindfulness, although it's not something that children do on purpose.   Lucinda Sykes So, consciousness, mindfulness has an agency to it. And we bring mindfulness to our sleepless state. And often things transform, just because we're paying attention as well. Mindfulness can be a vehicle or a container, within which we can pop in and affirmation. Or we can pop in a mantra. Or we can do some mindful stretching, some breath, work and so on. And all contained within, within mindfulness.   Lucinda Sykes It's often what's really disturbing us, in our sleeplessness is not the sleepless state ourselves itself, but rather the story we are making about the sleepless.   ABOUT LUCINDA SYKES: Graduated medicine at University of Toronto 1997, then to family practice with a special focus on psychotherapy. In 1997, I established Meditation for Health clinic in Toronto. We taught medical programs of mindfulness to more than 6000 patients until COVID forced us to end in-person teaching in 2020. I retired from licensed medical practice this year, and I've begun a new direction as a sleep coach for Women 50+. I continue the & Joyful After 50; online outreach of Meditation for Health, with a blog and regular newsletter.   https://www.joyfulafter50.com/blog Core purpose/passion: I find renewed purpose and mission in supporting the wellbeing of Women 50+ — alerting them to the risks of habitual sleep deprivation and sleeping pill dependence. Women have not been well-served by conventional medicine. In particular, they've been poorly informed about sleep self-care, and they've been put at serious risk with medicine's promotion of sleep medication. Website | Facebook  |  Freebie   ABOUT MANON BOLLIGER: As a recently De-Registered board-certified naturopathic physician & in practice since 1992, I've seen an average of 150 patients per week and have helped people ranging from rural farmers in Nova Scotia to stressed out CEOs in Toronto to tri-athletes here in Vancouver. My resolve to educate, empower and engage people to take charge of their own health is evident in my best-selling books:  'What Patients Don't Say if Doctors Don't Ask: The Mindful Patient-Doctor Relationship' and 'A Healer in Every Household: Simple Solutions for Stress'.  I also teach BowenFirst™ Therapy through Bowen College and hold transformational workshops to achieve these goals. So, when I share with you that LISTENING to Your body is a game changer in the healing process, I am speaking from expertise and direct experience". Mission: A Healer in Every Household! For more great information to go to her weekly blog:  http://bowencollege.com/blog.    For tips on health & healing go to: https://www.drmanonbolliger.com/tips   ABOUT THE HEALERS CAFÉ: Manon's show is the #1 show for medical practitioners and holistic healers to have heart to heart conversations about their day to day lives. Follow on Social: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Twitter | Linktr.ee | Rumble   * De-Registered, revoked & retired naturopathic physician after 30 years of practice in healthcare. Now resourceful & resolved to share with you all the tools to take care of your health & vitality! Remember to subscribe if you like our videos. Click the bell if you want to be one of the first people notified of a new release.

“Monks and nuns, when one thing is developed and cultivated, the mind becomes tranquil, thought and examination subside, and all wholesome qualities which pertain to true knowledge reach fulfillment by development. What is that one thing? Mindfulness of The Body” The Buddha In this practice we cultivate a deep awareness and understanding of the body. In this understanding we may become intimately acquainted with emotional states which arise through the body, thereby intercepting our reactivity. Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for over 35 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. If you find these podcasts helpful please consider making a donation: PayPal.me/suchsweetthunder May All BenefitMay All Benefit

In today's episode, Matthew has a conversation with Ted Meissner.  He is a meditation teacher and a Senior Mindfulness Program Manager for United Health Group.  He is a certified instructor of MBSR, or Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction.  They have a conversation about how meditation works, how it can benefit health and wellness, and how one can be trained to practice and how to become a teacher. Ted's Contact Information:LinkedIn Profile Website:  presentmomentmindfulness.comEmail:  tedmeissner@gmail.comPlease check back often for more episodes pertaining to health and wellness for healthcare providers and caregivers.Please send your questions to providerwellnesspodcast@gmail.comWebsite:  providerwellnesspodcast.comPlease go to providersymposium.com to learn more aboutThe Provider Wellness Symposium.Thanks for listening and please subscribe and share this episode.

Dr. Kristin Dawson and Dr. Mike Stone recap the recent study done by JAME Psychiatry called TAME. The study covers how mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) works in comparison to patients who were prescribed the antidepressant escitalopram, in a randomized 8-week study. TAME Study Center for Mindfulness

Here I outline and guide a meditation designed to allow one to dive deep into the experience of gratitude. This is considered a resourcing practice and can be very helpful when moving through times of transition, stress, and turbulence. Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Neuroplasticity, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. I f you find these podcasts helpful please consider making a donation: PayPal.me/suchsweetthunder May All Benefit.

Far from being a type of blind passivity, when we can rest deeply and completely into the present moment, we are completely engaged and relaxed at the same time. It is from here that compassion and wisdom spring forth. Please join meditation teacher Chris Luard in an upcoming talk: "Resting In The Eye Of The Storm" Facebook and Instagram Live! Chris has been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. He has received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Nonviolent Communication, and Buddhist Psychology. Chris teaches from a secular voice and he is passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition.

Welcome back to the Pybites podcast. This week we have Andrew McLeod on the show to talk about mindfulness.We talk about:- Mindfulness as it applies to the tech industry and why it's important to humanise tech.- How mindfulness humanises.- How to be more aware of different parts of the body - as opposed to only thought.- The trap of trying to use mindfulness to fix problems that require action (eg mindfulness will make you aware you are hungry, it won't resolve the issue)- How mindfulness can help with emotional intelligence (including in the context of code reviewing).- How mindfulness and emotional intelligence can help relating with peers and improve team performance.Books:- The Miracle Of Mindfulness- Chief Joy Officer - McMindfulnessCourses:- MBSR course with certification- MBSR course (without certification - free)- A significantly longer course, both of these teachers are excellentOther resources:- The guy that 'brought mindfulness to the west'- Tara Brach's work- Mindful code reviews:  part 1 and part 2We hope you enjoy this episode!To reach out to Andrew, you can do so:- On LinkedIn- On our Slack - On Instagram

How can we learn to honor sleep and dreaming as a valuable part of being human and not just as adjuncts to our waking life? Today we talk with the three founders of a hot new app called DreamWell: Have Great Dreams. Our three guests are identical twins William and Daniel Rekshan and Nkechi Njaka dialing in from France, British Columbia and San Francisco. We talk about the reality of dreaming beyond any psychological aspect including visitation dreams and out of body experiences. We also speak about sharing dreams as a way to normalize them, the continuity of mental activity from waking to dreaming and the evidence that mindfulness prepares us for and deepens our sleep. We take a call from Anna in San Francisco who shares her experience with the DreamWell app and asks about waking life influences on dreaming. Bios: DreamWell is a public benefit corporation with the mission to support the natural well-being of all dreamers everywhere by building engaging digital tools that promote and inspire healthy sleep and dreams. William Rekshan is the CEO of DreamWell, has coauthored research in sleep and clinical psychology, and has worked as an analyst at award winning mobile apps. Daniel Rekshan is the Chief Dream Officer. He has an MA from the California Institute of Integral Studies and is currently a PhD student at the California Institute for Human Science in the Integral Noetic Science program. Nkechi Njaka is the Chief Mindfulness Officer. She has an MSc. in Neuroscience from University of Edinburgh, holds MBSR, Embodied Mind 200 hr and MNDFL Certificates. She is currently a PhD student at Liverpool John Moores University. Find the DreamWell app everywhere and contact our guests at DreamWellBeWell.com Instagram: @DreamWellBeWell Tiktok: @DreamWellBeWell Intro music is Water over Stones and outro music is Everything both by Mood Science. Today's ambient music is created by Rick Kleffel. The audio can be found at Pandemiad.com. Many thanks to Rick Kleffel for also engineering the show, to Tony Russomano for answering the phones and to Ewa Malady for audio editing. Show aired on December 3, 2022. The Dream Journal is produced at and airs on KSQD Santa Cruz, 90.7 FM, streaming live at KSQD.org 10-11am Saturday mornings Pacific time.  Catch it live and call in with your dreams or questions at 831-900-5773 or at onair@ksqd.org. If you want to contact Katherine Bell with feedback, suggestions for future shows or to inquire about exploring your own dreams with her, contact katherine@ksqd.org, or find out more about her at ExperientialDreamwork.com. Available on all major podcast platforms. The complete KSQD Dream Journal podcast page can be found at ksqd.org/the-dream-journal. Thanks for being a Dream Journal listener! Rate it, review it, subscribe and tell your friends.

In a state of complete, radical rest, we may come to witness the arising and passing of our fears, angers, resentments, and regrets. By watching these and other emotions release on their own accord, we cease identifying with them. We may then become liberated from these painful mind (heart) states. Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Neuroplasticity, Nonviolent Communication, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition.If you find these videos helpful please consider making a donation at paypal.me/suchsweetthunder May All Benefit

Here I guide a meditation designed to allow us to resource our good experiences. As the saying goes: "the neurons which wire together, fire together" By embarking on this type of practice, based on the pioneering work of Dr. Rick Hanson, we can train ourself to balance out the human tendency to focus on the negative experiences of life (negativity bias) and allow us to cultivate a stable, strong awareness which experiences equally the positive and negative aspects of experience. Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Neuroplasticity, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition.If you find these videos helpful please consider making a donation at paypal.me/suchsweetthunder May All Benefit

Here is a guided meditation designed to allow one to meet challenging encounters with warmth and compassion. Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Neuroplasticity, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. If you find these podcasts helpful please consider making a donation: PayPal.me/suchsweetthunder

Here I offer a guided meditation into lovingkindness for the world, and all of the inhabitants of the world. Always including ourself. Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Nonviolent Communication, Neuroplasticity, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. If you find these podcasts helpful please consider making a donation: PayPal.me/suchsweetthunder May All Benefit

In this meditation I gently guide us through a RAIN practice designed to give us a set of tools to work with anger. With a practice such as this one, we can begin to explore the beliefs which keep us locked in resentment, and cultivate a method and a practice of forgiveness, thus removing the splinter of anger from our own heart. RAIN= R=Recognize A=Allow I=Investigate N=Nurture. Chris has been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. Chris has received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Neuroplasticity, Non Violent Communication, and Buddhist Psychology. Chris teaches from a secular voice and he is passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. May All Benefit

In this guided meditation we are invited to explore forgiveness in three ways. Asking forgiveness from those we feel we may have hurt, offering forgiveness to those we feel may have hurt us, and offering forgiveness to ourself for the ways we may have hurt ourself. Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Nonviolent Communication, Neuroplasticity, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. If you find these podcasts helpful please consider making a donation: PayPal.me/suchsweetthunder May All Benefit

Here I offer a guided meditation into lovingkindness for groups of people. We invite into our meditation a loved one, a neutral person, and a challenging person and offer lovingkindness to the group. Always including ourself. Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Nonviolent Communication, Neuroplasticity, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. If you find these podcasts helpful please consider making a donation: PayPal.me/suchsweetthunder May All Benefit

In this episode, a quick look at mindfulness-based stress reduction. The end of the year stuff is coming up early this year so quick episodes are probably going to be in the mix for the next few weeks.   If I can even get to an episode at all, it's that busy too much to do and not enough time.    However, my news feed blew up with articles, about a study about mindfulness-based stress reduction, The headlines, in many of these new stories were something like mindfulness works just as well as medicine.    In this episode, a quick look at the study and some resources so that you can do a deeper dive than most of mainstream media.   If you need support contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-8255, the Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386 or text “START” to 741-741. Resources Mentioned:  The JAMA Network Abstract on the MBSR Clinical Trial   NPR One Minute Listen on the clinical trial.   Medline Pro page on Escitalopram/Lexapro   Mindfulness and Health Institute - Programs and Virtual Classes    Sounds True Jon Kabat-Zinn catalog page of recordings.    Google Books preview copy of the book Full Catastrophe Living Using the Wisdom of Your Body and Mind to Face Stress, Pain, and Illness published by Random House Publishing Group    The University of San Francisco Osher Center for Integrative Health has multiple on-line courses in MBSR for 2023.   On the east coast there is the Mindfulness and Health Institute s they also have classes in MBSR.   Mindful.org has an informative page about How to Meditate with Anxiety, with a word or two on MBSR.   Disclaimer:  Links to other sites are provided for information purposes only and do not constitute endorsements.  Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health disorder. This blog and podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this program is intended to be a substitute for professional psychological, psychiatric or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.  

In this guided meditation we are invited to explore forgiveness in three ways. Asking forgiveness from those we feel we may have hurt, offering forgiveness to those we feel may have hurt us, and offering forgiveness to ourself for the ways we may have hurt ourself. Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Nonviolent Communication, Neuroplasticity, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. If you find these podcasts helpful please consider making a donation: PayPal.me/suchsweetthunder May All Benefit

Jon Kabat-Zinn, PhD, is the author and narrator of numerous bestselling books about mindfulness and meditation, including the classic, Wherever You Go, There You Are: Mindfulness Meditation in Everyday Life. He is founding Executive Director of the Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, Health Care, and Society at the University of Massachusetts Medical School. He is also the founding director of its renowned Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Clinic and Professor of Medicine emeritus at the University of Massachusetts Medical School. He received his Ph.D. in molecular biology from MIT in 1971 in the laboratory of Nobel Laureate, Salvador Luria. JON Jon has contributed to a growing movement to bring mindfulness into mainstream institutions such as medicine, and psychology, health care and hospitals, schools, corporations, the legal profession, prisons, and professional sports. He teaches mindfulness and MBSR in various venues around the world.  https://www.mindfulnesscds.com  

Here I offer a guided meditation into lovingkindness for people whom challenge us. People we may not like very much, if at all. We explore this by connecting with the challenging person's humanity, recognizing that they, just like us, want to be free from suffering and want to be happy. After this we move into offering the gift of lovingkindness in the form of phrases. Lovingkindness has a transformational, healing quality. Enjoy! Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Nonviolent Communication, Neuroplasticity, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. If you find these podcasts helpful please consider making a donation: PayPal.me/suchsweetthunder May All Benefit

Ever heard of Mind Body Spirit Release? This is a fantastic modality for anyone on a healing journey that addresses trapped emotions in the body. I'm honored to have Amanda Mirabella, one of the MBSR Academy's training teachers, on the podcast! In this episode she shares her own personal story with holistic healing as well as how she came to MBSR. Amanda is a word-smith and gives such beautiful descriptions and explanations as to how muscle testing works, even over a distance, and how the MBSR clearing works. She also covers the topic of this type of energy work for Christians, which I think is hugely helpful. I share a very personal experience with MBSR as well as how it can be used for children and for pets and for relationships. If you'd like to find a practitioner for MBSR (besides Amanda or myself, as we are both practicing) you can go to www.mindbodyspiritrelease.com. You'll also find information there on how to take the training courses to become an MBSR Practitioner yourself, if you like. You can find Amanda at www.mirabellaholistic.com and on IG @mirabellaholistic. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewellnessgahm/message

Chronic pain can be debilitating, so we often look for ways to mask or medicate the symptoms. Unfortunately, the medical approach to pain management can sometimes lead to even worse problems. There is now a growing body of research showing the efficacy of mindfulness practices where you literally observe and accept your pain, rather than cover it up. It isn't a panacea, but the clinical results are significant enough that mindfulness is now increasingly being integrated into hospital approaches. This week's guest is a medical doctor turned mindfulness teacher and trainer.  Listen and learn: How mindfulness can help you separate yourself from your pain Why we tend to mask and medicate rather than confront pain challenges The importance of natural, non-pharmaceutical interventions How mindfulness can be practiced in a secular way or easily integrated into your existing faith Links Dr. Wolf's Site ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Wolf started her career as a gynecologist in Berlin. She began studying and practicing Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). She later trained as a Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) teacher and a MBSR teacher trainer. She is the author of two books: A Clinician's Guide to Teaching Mindfulness and Outsmart Your Pain. Like the Show? Leave us a review Check out our YouTube channel Visit www.yogabody.com

In this meditation I gently guide us through a RAIN practice designed to give us a set of tools to work with the painful emotions we might encounter through the pressure of our Inner Critic. With a practice such as this one, we may come to see that we do not need to indulge or cater to the inner critic. In that understanding we can free ourself from the often painful reactive pattern which is the Inner Critic. This practice was designed by Michelle McDonald and modified by Tara Brach. RAIN= R=Recognize A=Allow I=Investigate N=Nurture. Chris has been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. Chris has received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Neuroplasticity, Non Violent Communication, and Buddhist Psychology. Chris teaches from a secular voice and he is passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. May All Benefit

Here I offer a guided meditation by offering the gift of lovingkindness in the form of phrases to people whom we do not know. This particular set of phrases are composed in a way that allow us hold and honor the challenges of life while connecting to the kindness inherent in our hearts. Then we move into a visualization where we radiate lovingkindness energy out to drench ourselves and our loved ones in the warm energy of lovingkindness. The longer we stay in the experience of lovingkindness, the more our neurons wire and fire together, allowing the passing state of lovingkindness to become a permanent trait. Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Neuroplasticity, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. If you find these podcasts helpful please consider making a donation: PayPal.me/suchsweetthunder

Here I offer a guided meditation by offering the gift of lovingkindness in the form of phrases to strangers. Just thinking about how many people there are in the world, and that each one represents an opportunity to be kind, can be incredibly liberating. This particular set of phrases are composed in a way that allow us hold and honor the challenges of life while connecting to the kindness inherent in our hearts. Then we move into a visualization where we radiate lovingkindness energy out to drench ourselves and our loved ones in the warm energy of lovingkindness. The longer we stay in the experience of lovingkindness, the more our neurons wire and fire together, allowing the passing state of lovingkindness to become a permanent trait. Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Neuroplasticity, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. May All Benefit

VIDEOS: EXCLUSIVE: UNDERTAKER EXPLAINS “MYSTERIOUS” CLOTTING PHENOMENON! | Louder with Crowder (part 2) Society is going to COLLAPSE -Neil Oliver ( 5:24) Fear Psychosis and the Cult of Safety – Why are People so Afraid?  – Academy of Ideas (13:25)   Dietary supplement found to improve concentration levels University of Granada, November 3, 2022 The research group from the University of Granada (UGR) has tested the effects of a multi-ingredient dietary nootropic on concentration levels and cognitive performance. Nootropics are cognitive enhancers that have traditionally been used in the treatment of cognitive pathologies. Leading this study was Lucas Jurado Fasoli—a researcher from the Scientific Unit of Excellence in Exercise, Nutrition and Health (UCEENS) at the Sport and Health Joint University Institute (iMUDS). He explains that, traditionally, nootropics have been drugs, with their corresponding side-effects. “To address the issue of potential side-effects, different dietary nootropics have emerged as an alternative way to enhance cognitive performance. And these, as is the case in this study, are used by healthy individuals in activities such as preparing for competitive exams or video-game competitions,” explains Jurado Fasoli. The results of the study showed that the acute intake of this multi-ingredient nootropic decreases the response time across different cognitive tests: in processing speed, inhibitory control, working memory, and cognitive flexibility. It also increases accuracy in tests involving processing speed, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility. The supplement contains L-tyrosine, acetyl L-carnitine, sodium citicoline, alpha-GPC, taurine, caffeine, mango leaf extract and huperzia serrata leaf. These results were accompanied by an increase in positive emotions and a decrease in negative emotions and depression. And, importantly, the favorable effects of this nootropic did not appear to have any effect on the heart-rate of participants. Previous studies have shown that supplementation with the combination of caffeine and taurine, L-theanine, tyrosine, and mango leaves extract can improve the RT in different cognitive and computerized tests. In this study, we showed that a dietary multi-ingredient nootropic improves the processing speed of information in young healthy adults. This effect could be due to the synergic effects of different dietary ingredients included in the nootropic. Also, it could be partially explained by the central nervous system activation and alertness enhancement effect of caffeine, which could increase the processing speed and decrease the RT. The inclusion of L-theanine as a dietary ingredient in the nootropic counteracts the potential effects derived from a high dose of caffeine on anxiety, psychological stress, blood pressure, and HR, which completely agrees with our results. A sample comprising 26 young adults (50:50 male/female, with an average age of 25) participated in the study. They were required to undertake various cognitive tests twice, separated by 48 hours, having ingested either the multi-ingredient dietary nootropic or a placebo (randomized and triple-blinded across the sample). Thirty minutes after ingestion, measurements were taken of processing speed, inhibitory control, working memory, cognitive flexibility, creativity, and verbal fluency. Different emotions were also evaluated and the participants' heart-rate was recorded while they undertook the tests. Consuming more magnesium associated with lower risk of mortality during years following heart attack Wageningen University and Research (Netherlands), October 31, 2022 A study of people with a history of heart attack found that those who consumed more magnesium lived longer than those whose intake was low. Having a high magnesium intake, defined as greater than 320 milligrams (mg) per day, was associated with a 28% lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease and a 22% lower risk of death from any cause compared to a low intake, defined as less than 283 mg per day. The protective effect of magnesium was even stronger in patients who were being treated with diuretic drugs. In this group, the risk of mortality from cardiovascular disease was 45% lower among those with high magnesium compared to those with low magnesium. “Little is known about magnesium intake and long-term mortality risk in cardiovascular disease patients,” authors Ilse Evers and colleagues noted. “Magnesium requirements may be different in cardiovascular disease patients because of alterations in the cardiovascular system, comorbidities and/or medication use.” The study included 4,365 participants in the Alpha Omega Cohort, an ongoing follow-up of participants in the earlier 40-month Alpha Omega Trial. The Alpha Omega Trial included men and women between the ages of 60 and 80 years who had experienced a heart attack within 10 years prior to enrolling between 2002 and 2006. Dietary questionnaire responses obtained at enrollment provided information concerning magnesium intake from food and non-food sources. Mortality was ascertained through 2018. The findings were published in Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine. Calorie restriction promotes longevity through effects on mitochondrial network Harvard School of Public Health, October 27 2022. Research reported in Cell Metabolism helps explain the effects of calorie restriction and activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK, an energy-sensing protein) on longevity. Harvard researchers have determined that AMPK and calorie restriction promote homeostasis and plasticity of networks formed by the cells' power plants known as mitochondria. Mitochondria networks change shape according to energy demand, however, this ability declines with age. “Dynamic remodeling of mitochondrial networks by fusion and fission promotes maintenance of cellular homeostasis,” explain Heather J. Weir and colleagues at the Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health. “Dysregulation of mitochondrial dynamics and aberrant mitochondrial morphology are hallmarks of aging and are thought to contribute to the pathology of numerous age-related pathologies including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.” By restricting calories in the diet of roundworms or using a strain of roundworm in which an AMPK subunit is activated, the researchers found that the roundworms maintained a youthful fused mitochondrial network shape with age. The youthful networks lengthen life by communicating with peroxisomes within the cells to alter fat metabolism. “Low-energy conditions such as dietary restriction and intermittent fasting have previously been shown to promote healthy aging,” Dr Weir commented. “Our work shows how crucial the plasticity of mitochondria networks is for the benefits of fasting. If we lock mitochondria in one state, we completely block the effects of fasting or dietary restriction on longevity.” Electroacupuncture found to ease nausea and vomiting in ICU patients recovering from chemotherapy Narbonne Hospital (France), October 28, 2022 Refractory vomiting is just one of many complications endured by patients confined to intensive care units (ICU) due to chemotherapy and other major medical treatments. But relief may be coming in the form of transcutaneous electroacupuncture (TEA) therapy that can alleviate the worst symptoms of persistent vomiting. Earlier studies have shown that TEA can reduce episodes of nausea and vomiting attributed to chemotherapy treatments, recently concluded medical operations, and pregnancy. It is growing popular as an alternative to anti-emetic medication. The TEA treatment consisted of two electrodes attached on either side of the Neiguan (PC 6) pressure point, also known as the pericardium meridian. The researchers employed a standard neuromuscular transmission monitor to stimulate the acupuncture point for 30 minutes. The overall incidence of nausea or vomiting within the first 24 hours after TEA was 50 percent. After the 24-hour mark, 30 percent of the patients perceived nausea, and 20 percent experienced vomiting. Ninety percent of patients reported suppression of nausea/vomiting immediately after undergoing TEA. During a six-hour period after TEA, 60 percent of patients did not sense nausea or experience vomiting. Between six to 24 hours after TEA, 60 percent of patients remained free from nausea or vomiting episodes. Two patients who experienced nausea were given a second TEA session that remedied all symptoms.TEA itself was free from any complication and side effects. The Mindfulness Skill That Is Crucial for Stress A new study suggests that practicing acceptance helps reduce our stress more than simple mindful awareness. Carnegie Mellon University, October 28, 2022 In this study, researchers randomly assigned 137 stressed adults of various ages and ethnicities to one of three programs: an eight-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) course, where they learned to mindfully pay attention to their present-moment experiences in an accepting, nonjudgmental way; an MBSR course without instructions on acceptance; or no course. The courses included many lessons—for example, how to pay attention to your breath and your body sensations, and how to eat food or take a walk mindfully—as well as practice time outside of class. Before, during, and afterwards, participants reported five times daily about how stressed they felt in the moment and whether they'd experienced a stressful event since their last report.In response to stress, many people today are turning to meditation or mindfulness apps (myself included). But not all mindfulness practice is equally effective for combating stress, a new study suggests. It's possible that some of our practices may be missing a vital ingredient: acceptance. Though all of the groups experienced less stress and fewer incidents of feeling stressed over time, the people who took the full MBSR course had a significantly steeper improvement than the other two groups. “Learning how to accept your present-moment experience is really important for reducing stress,” says Emily Lindsay, one of the study's coauthors. “It seems to be a key element of mindfulness training.” Mindfulness practices that specifically emphasize acceptance teach us a nonjudgmental attitude toward our experiences—meaning, learning not to label our thoughts, feelings, or experiences as good or bad, and trying not to change or resist them in any way. While many mindfulness courses include instructions in acceptance as par for the course, those that don't may not be as effective. People who learn to accept and not just notice their experiences become less prone to mind-wandering, which has been tied to well-being, and less reactive to stress—meaning, they show reductions in systolic blood pressure, the stress hormone cortisol, and feelings of stress in a stressful situation. Her recent study adds to these results by monitoring participants daily, helping to show that acceptance makes a difference in everyday life situations and not just in the laboratory. Accepting stress helps people to stop focusing only on what's wrong and to notice other feelings, sensations, and thoughts occurring at the same time, enabling them to see the “bigger picture.” Acceptance is not about acquiescing to your fate, though —like getting a diagnosis of a terminal illness and just accepting that you're going to die. That kind of “acceptance” leads to worse outcomes. Nor is it about accepting poor treatment from other people. It's more about accepting your internal experience—your thoughts and feelings—which informs you about how to respond to your external circumstances in a wiser way. For example, if you feel angry and accept your anger in the moment, it may prevent you from lashing out at someone and help you see that your feelings aren't their fault Eat more trifoliate oranges to keep your prostate healthy Korean Institute of Oriental Medicine, October 26, 2022 Compared to younger individuals, older men are at a higher risk of developing benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or an enlarged prostate. A study published in the journal BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine reveals a compelling reason for men to eat trifoliate oranges, as extracts from the fruit were proven effective in preventing the onset of BPH and cease its progression. The trifoliate orange (Poncirus trifoliata), also known as the hardy orange, is a citrus fruit native to China. It is grown in parts of the US and Europe for use in jellies, marmalades, and jams despite its notoriously bitter taste. It has been used as an ingredient in Traditional Chinese Medicine since ancient times, and current studies have shown its importance in maintaining prostate health. As the word “benign” in its name implies, BPH is relatively harmless. In fact, some consider it a normal part of the aging process among males. It can, however, be extremely inconvenient as its symptoms can make the vital act of urinating difficult. It can also cause a constant feeling of needing to pee even at night; in most cases, sufferers may find themselves unable to sleep properly because of this particular symptom. The researchers in the aforementioned looked at the trifoliate orange as a possible treatment for BPH. In particular, the study investigated the extract from Ponciri Fructus (PFE), the young fruit of the trifoliate orange, and its protective effects on the development of the BPH. In the study, the researchers induced BPH in a rat model by injecting testosterone propionate (TP) and corn oil every day for four weeks. PFE was administered via oral gavage at a dose level of 200 mg/kg, one hour before these injections over the same duration. At the end of the study, the rats were sacrificed and examined for markers of BPH. Specifically, the researchers took note of relative prostate weight, the levels of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), common factors influencing the development of BPH. At the end of the study, the researchers noticed reductions in relative prostate weight, the level of testosterone and DHT in serum and prostatic tissue, prostatic hyperplasia, and the expression of PCNA. They also noted higher levels of antioxidant enzymes.

Here I offer a guided meditation by offering the gift of lovingkindness in the form of phrases to loved ones. This particular set of phrases are composed in a way that allow us hold and honor the challenges of life while connecting to the kindness inherent in our hearts. Then we move into a visualization where we radiate lovingkindness energy out to drench ourselves and our loved ones in the warm energy of lovingkindness. The longer we stay in the experience of lovingkindness, the more our neurons wire and fire together, allowing the passing state of lovingkindness to become a permanent trait. Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Neuroplasticity, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. I

Here I offer a guided meditation by offering the gift of lovingkindness in the form of phrases to loved ones. This particular set of phrases are composed in a way that allow us hold and honor the challenges of life while connecting to the kindness inherent in our hearts. Then we move into a visualization where we radiate lovingkindness energy out to drench ourselves and our loved ones in the warm energy of lovingkindness. The longer we stay in the experience of lovingkindness, the more our neurons wire and fire together, allowing the passing state of lovingkindness to become a permanent trait. Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Neuroplasticity, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. If you find these podcasts helpful please consider making a donation: PayPal.me/suchsweetthunder

Here we are invited into a meditation designed to allow us to explore the many layers of social conditioning we may have around meeting experience as it is, and with kindness and curiosity, trusting in our experience just as it is. The benefit of this is that we may get to know the inner critic and start to befriend that harsh inner voice. Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Nonviolent Communication, Neuroplasticity, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. If you find these podcasts helpful please consider making a donation: PayPal.me/suchsweetthunder

Here we are invited into a meditation designed to allow us to explore the many layers of social conditioning we may have around receiving kindness from others, and giving freely to others. In this exploration we may find that letting go of such social conditioning allows for a free flow of kindness in our life. Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Nonviolent Communication, Neuroplasticity, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. I If you find these podcasts helpful please consider making a donation: PayPal.me/suchsweetthunder

Here I guide a meditation designed to allow us to resource our positive experiences of feeling safe. In doing this, we create the neurological pathways leading to future experiences of safety. As the saying goes: "the neurons which wire together, fire together" By embarking on this type of practice, based on the pioneering work of Dr. Rick Hanson, we can train ourself to balance out the human tendency to focus on the negative experiences of life (negativity bias) and allow us to cultivate a stable, strong awareness which experiences equally the positive and negative aspects of experience. Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for over 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Nonviolent Communication, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. If you find these podcasts helpful please consider making a donation: PayPal.me/suchsweetthunder May All Benefit

Here I guide a brief meditation through the three pillars of Self Compassion as codified by Dr. Kristen Neff. By moving through the stages of Mindfulness, Common humanity, and Kindness, we give ourself the opportunity to soften around our struggles and allow a space for healing. Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for over 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Nonviolent Communication, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. If you find these podcasts helpful please consider making a donation: PayPal.me/suchsweetthunder May All Benefit

Here I offer a guided meditation designed to allow one to connect to their resistances toward kindness. When we can see these resistances clearly, we may be able to hold compassionate space for them, and eventually they no longer inhibit our innate capacity for kindness. Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Neuroplasticity, Nonviolent Communication, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. If you find these podcasts helpful please consider making a donation: PayPal.me/suchsweetthunder May All Benefit.

Here is a guided meditation designed to allow one to meet what is challenging in our experiences with warmth and kindness. We systematically go through the sense of body, thoughts, and emotions with the receptive open heart of kindness. Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Neuroplasticity, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. If you find these podcasts helpful please consider making a donation: PayPal.me/suchsweetthunder May All Benefit.

"...the great, the mighty, the medium the short and the small, those living near and far away. Those born and to be born. May all beings be at ease." Buddha. The Metta Sutta. Please join meditation teacher Chris Luard in an upcoming talk: "Boundless Lovingkindness, Reaching All" Sat. Oct. 1st. 8am Thailand Time Friday, Sept 30th 9pm East Coast Facebook and Instagram Live! Chris has been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. He has received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Nonviolent Communication, and Buddhist Psychology. Chris teaches from a secular voice and he is passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition.

Here I offer a meditation where we are invited to bring into awareness a memory or experience which opens our heart. We then are invited to bring that open hearted warmth to our entire body and sounds. Meditation can be challenging at times. Occasionally we may experience things which surprise as a result. If you have any questions or concerns in regards to this, or other meditation practices, please feel free to message me through my website: www.suchsweetthunder.org I have been practicing meditation for 36 years and has been successfully teaching meditation worldwide since 2009, giving talks, facilitating retreats, and have authored two books. I have received formal training in Theravada, Mahayana (Tibetan, Zen,) and Vedanta meditation techniques as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, MBSR, Nonviolent Communication, and Buddhist Psychology. I teach from a secular voice and I am passionate about bringing timeless wisdom teachings to people of any faith, belief system, or tradition. If you find these podcasts helpful please consider making a donation: PayPal.me/suchsweetthunder

This episode I wanted to share my personal take on a few wellness practices I have been doing lately -  MBSR, Surrender, Kundalini Yoga and Breathwork. Don't forget to *subscribe* to the podcast so you get all the new episodes. SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER: updates, workshops & freebies: katiekaygraham.com/newsletter EPISODE REFERENCES:Untethered Soul by Michael SingerSurrender Experiment by Michael SingerMBSR Utah + Online: https://www.mindfulnessutah.com/classesMBSR Mindfulness and Health Institute: https://mindfulnessandhealthinstitute.org/?utm_source=fromMCB&utm_medium=fromMCB&utm_id=programspageKundalini Yoga:    IG - @charisma.whitefeather    Website - https://www.kundaliniwithcharisma.com/recordings/ BreathHouse: @breathhouseofficialSUPPORT US:Fill out the Feedback FormRate & Review: (1) Go to Library (2) Go to Show *not episode* (3) Scroll down to "Ratings and Reviews (3) Click "Write a ReviewShare it with a friend! Support by spreading the word!ADD ME ON:Website: https://katiekaygraham.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiekaygraham/Join The Newsletter (email list for updates/freebies/support): katiekaygraham.com/newsletterBODY BREAKING FREE LISTEN ON:Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/body-breaking-free-with-katie-graham/id1558936181Spotify Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7sAzGLATt4hiGqe819iH8z?si=-pC8KPimQ269BYjJbUcLOQ&dl_branch=1Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/ITEM_NAME-Podcast/B08NW3SG87

Dr. Dhruva Gulur, is a man of many hats, he is a board-certified family doctor, a rapper, MBSR course certified mindfulness expert, and more Dhruva's story is truly an inspirational one. In this episode we explore his journey from being a troubled kid — getting arrested multiple times — to becoming an MD,, and how he made music as an outlet to keep him afloat through it all.. In this episode you'll learn: -What Dhruva does -How he started in mindfulness -What is his mission -His Early life -Why was he a trouble kid -His experience in India -How he got through to Med School -His experience going back to US -What was his beliefs  -How he started rapping -What's his plans for the future -How our mindset affects our success Show notes here: https://themeaningmovement.com/dhruva

There is so much research and information out there about mindfulness, so today hosts Tiffany and Katja tackle this big and important topic from a different angle. In this episode, the pair takes a critical lens and unpacks the pitfalls of mindfulness research. Tiffany and Katja discuss how mindfulness is defined in the research, why self-selection of study participants may be of importance, and what the field of Contemplative Neuroscience is all about. They also touch on contraindications and adverse events of mindful meditation, as well as considerations surrounding mindfulness practices and mental health. Listen in to learn more about both the important takeaways and the challenges of recent mindfulness research. Show Notes: The background of mindfulness research [3:06] The challenge of defining mindfulness [6:26] MBSR as intervention for many research studies [13:05] Unpacking social desirability and self-selection in mindfulness research [18:42] Are we asking the right questions? Validity in mindfulness research [21:56] On Contemplative Neuroscience and fMRI [23:55] Contraindications of mindfulness practices [27:55] Adverse events of mindful meditation [33:23] Idea of capacity building & titration [37:55] Mindfulness research takeaways [42:24] Links Mentioned: Watch this episode on YouTube Yin & Meditation Yoga Teacher Training Mindfulness Research Doc Connect with Katja Bartsch: Facebook | Instagram | Yoga Medicine Online | Kalamana Yoga You can learn more about this episode, and see the full show notes at www.YogaMedicine.com/podcast-43. And you can find out more about insider tips, online classes or information on our teacher trainings at www.YogaMedicine.com. To support our work, please leave us a 5 star review with your feedback on iTunes/Apple Podcasts.

What is the difference between loneliness and being alone? The Surgeon General and mindfulness pioneer Jon Kabat-Zinn delve into the complexities of the modern human experience, including the ways technologies that have the power to both bring us together and drive us apart. Embodied wakefulness, says Kabat-Zinn, is the key to showing up whole for a planet-wide renaissance in which everyone leads a life of dignity and authenticity together. Jon Kabat-Zinn, Author, Professor, Mindfulness Pioneer Twitter: @jonkabatzinn About Jon Kabat-Zinn Jon Kabat-Zinn, Ph.D. did his doctoral work in molecular biology at MIT, in the laboratory of the Nobel Laureate Salvador Luria. Jon is Professor of Medicine emeritus at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, where he founded its world-renown Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Clinic in 1979, and the Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, Health Care, and Society, in 1995. He is the author of 15 books, currently in print in over 45 languages. His most recent is Mindfulness Meditation for Pain Relief (April 2023). He is also the author of a series of research papers on MBSR dating back to 1982. In a 2021 study of trends and developments in mindfulness research over 55 years (1966-2021), three of his empirical studies figure among the ten most cited articles on mindfulness (nos. 3, 5, and 9) in the scientific literature; and a review article he authored is number two among citations of the top ten review articles on mindfulness. His work and that of a global community of colleagues has contributed to a growing movement of mindfulness into mainstream institutions such as medicine, psychology, health care, neuroscience, schools, higher education, business, social justice, criminal justice, prisons, the law, technology, the military, government, and professional sports. Over 700 hospitals and medical centers around the world now offer MBSR. Jon lectures and leads mindfulness retreats around the world and on line. In early 2020, as the Covid-19 pandemic was growing exponentially, he offered a three month “mitigation retreat” online, consisting of 66 consecutive weekdays of live 90-minute sessions that included guided meditations, talks, and dialogue, with several thousand people joining live each day. Those sessions can be accessed at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RqkYJfT8gsw. www.jonkabat-zinn.com

In this episode, we talk to Caroline Hoffman about embodiment, mindfulness, and explore the ways that our lives can be improved by learning to be more connected to the experiences of the body. We also discuss her background in yoga, nursing, and massage therapy, and her work using mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) with people impacted by cancer. Caroline Hoffman is a certified Mindful Self-Compassion and MBSR teacher living in the UK. Caroline completed an undergraduate degree in social work at the University of Melbourne and later became a specialist Intensive Care Nurse. She has been a pioneer in the field of integrated medicine since the 1980s, with many professional trainings including Chinese Acupuncture and Shiatsu. She holds a PhD from University of Southampton and has published research on the psychological and physical benefits of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for people impacted by cancer. Caroline is also a longtime Iyengar yoga practitioner. If you are a fan of Noble Mind, don't forget to hit subscribe! We'd also love for you to come join our free Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/noblemind. You can also learn about upcoming events, get our show notes, and join our email list at noblemindpodcast.com. Enjoy the show!

In 1979, Jon Kabat-Zinn took inspiration from a Surgeon General's report called “Healthy People” to support his pioneering work in the field of mindfulness. Over the next four decades, America experienced a revolution, as millions embraced Kabat-Zinn's practices for reducing stress. Coming full circle, Kabat-Zinn and the Nation's Doctor explore the gift of awareness for healing, strengthening, and tackling some of the big issues we face as humans. Jon Kabat-Zinn, Author, Professor, Mindfulness Pioneer Twitter: @jonkabatzinn About Jon Kabat-Zinn Jon Kabat-Zinn, Ph.D. did his doctoral work in molecular biology at MIT, in the laboratory of the Nobel Laureate Salvador Luria. Jon is Professor of Medicine emeritus at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, where he founded its world-renown Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Clinic in 1979, and the Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, Health Care, and Society, in 1995. He is the author of 15 books, currently in print in over 45 languages.His most recent is Mindfulness Meditation for Pain Relief (April 2023). He is also the author of a series of research papers on MBSR dating back to 1982. In a 2021 study of trends and developments in mindfulness research over 55 years (1966-2021), three of his empirical studies figure among the ten most cited articles on mindfulness (nos. 3, 5, and 9) in the scientific literature; and a review article he authored is number two among citations of the top ten review articles on mindfulness. His work and that of a global community of colleagues has contributed to a growing movement of mindfulness into mainstream institutions such as medicine, psychology, health care, neuroscience, schools, higher education, business, social justice, criminal justice, prisons, the law, technology, the military, government, and professional sports. Over 700 hospitals and medical centers around the world now offer MBSR. Jon lectures and leads mindfulness retreats around the world and on line. In early 2020, as the Covid-19 pandemic was growing exponentially, he offered a three month “mitigation retreat” online, consisting of 66 consecutive weekdays of live 90-minute sessions that included guided meditations, talks, and dialogue, with several thousand people joining live each day. Those sessions can be accessed at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RqkYJfT8gsw. For more information, see www.jonkabat-zinn.com.

Videos : Found on Youtube 1. BlackRock: The Most Evil Business In The World 2. This company owns the world (and it's our fault) – BlackRock   Canadian Study Gives More Evidence Cancer Is A Lifestyle Disease Largely Caused By Food Cancer Control Alberta, Alberta Health Services and University of Calgary, July 22, 2022 Shockingly, worldwide cancer rates are predicted to rise to 1-in-2 women and 1-in-3 men will be diagnosed with some form of cancer. It is so common already, in fact, that it getting cancer is more common than getting married or having a first baby. In reality, one can significantly reduce the likelihood of getting cancer by making lifestyle changes. According to a recently published study out of Canada, the total proportion of cancer rates which can be attributed to lifestyle and environmental factors is quite high, nearing 41%. Regarding the methods used in the study: We estimated summary population attributable risk estimates for 24 risk factors (smoking [both passive and active], overweight and obesity, inadequate physical activity, diet [inadequate fruit and vegetable consumption, inadequate fibre intake, excess red and processed meat consumption, salt consumption, inadequate calcium and vitamin D intake], alcohol, hormones [oral contraceptives and hormone therapy], infections [Epstein-Barr virus, hepatitis B and C viruses, human papillomavirus, Helicobacter pylori], air pollution, natural and artificial ultraviolet radiation, radon and water disinfection by-products) by combining population attributable risk estimates for each of the 24 factors that had been previously estimated.  The list above essentially outlines the wide range of personal choices we know can increase the risk of cancer, mainly pointing out that food causes cancer. Along with exercise, and common avoidable environmental factors, cancer is somewhat preventable. Overall, we estimated that 40.8% of incident cancer cases were attributable to exposure to the 24 factors included in the analysis (Table 2). Tobacco smoking was responsible for the greatest cancer burden, accounting for an estimated 15.7% of all incident cancer cases (2485 cases), followed by physical inactivity and excess body weight, which were responsible for an estimated 7.2% and 4.3% of incident cancer cases, respectively. All other exposures of interest were estimated to be responsible for less than 4.0% of incident cancer cases each. Brain imaging reveals how mindfulness program boosts pain regulation University of Wisconsin-Madison, July 28, 2022 Research at the University of Wisconsin–Madison's Center for Healthy Minds has isolated the changes in pain-related brain activity that follow mindfulness training—pointing a way toward more targeted and precise pain treatment. The study, published in The American Journal of Psychiatry, identified pathways in the brain specific to pain regulation on which activity is altered by the center's eight-week Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction course. These changes were not seen in participants who took a similar course without the mindfulness instruction—important new evidence that the brain changes are due to the mindfulness training itself, according to Joseph Wielgosz. The study is the first to demonstrate pain-related brain changes from a standardized mindfulness course that is widely offered in clinical settings. Around one-third of Americans experience pain-related problems, but common treatments—like medications and invasive procedures—don't work for everyone and, according to Wielgosz, have contributed to an epidemic of addiction to prescription and illicit drugs. Popular with patients and promising in its clinical outcomes, mindfulness training courses like MBSR have taken a central place in the drive for a more effective approach to pain management. By practicing nonjudgmental, “present-centered” awareness of mind and body, participants can learn to respond to pain with less distress and more psychological flexibility—which can ultimately lead to reductions in pain itself. The study also looked at longer-term mindfulness training. Intriguingly, practice on intensive meditation retreats was associated with changes in the neural signature for influences that shape pain indirectly—for example, differences in attention, beliefs and expectations, factors that often increase the perceived levels of distress in non-meditators. These findings help show the potential for mindfulness practice as a lifestyle behavior. Optimistic Women More Likely to Live Past 90 Harvard University, July 23, 2022 Turns out that focusing on the good things really is the recipe for a longer life. A new study from Harvard University, published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, found that higher levels of optimism were positively associated with longer lifespan, with the most optimistic women even living past 90 years old across a variety of racial and ethnic groups. This study included over 150,000 postmenopausal women across a variety of diverse socio-economic and ethnic groups in the United States. These women, aged 50-79, enrolled in the study and were followed for a period of up to 26 years. The results of this study found that the 25% of subjects who were the most optimistic were more likely to have a 5.4% longer lifespan, and a 10% greater likelihood of living beyond 90 years of age compared to the 25% who were the least optimistic. The authors noted that while social structure factors can affect optimism, there is still reason to look on the bright side of life, regardless of these factors, finding that being optimistic is scientifically significant for longer lifespan and overall longevity. According to Hayami Koga, a PhD candidate in the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, this new research concluded that “There's value to focusing on positive psychological factors, like optimism, as possible new ways of promoting longevity and healthy aging across diverse groups.” The research from Harvard noted that women who were the most optimistic were 10% more likely to celebrate their 90th birthday than the least optimistic. Based on total demographics, however, the highest vs. lowest optimism quartile in the Women's Health Initiative study is broken down as follows: Overall – Associated with 5.4% longer lifespan White women – 5.1% longer lifespan Black women – 7.6% longer lifespan Hispanic/Latina women – 5.4% longer lifespan Asian women – 1.5% longer lifespan This data shows that Black women have the highest longevity rates (at 7.6%) compared to other demographics specifically when optimism is brought into play. Maintaining a positive outlook and optimism are undeniably large parts of the equation when it comes to living a long life, but there are other factors and lifestyle choices that come into play to ensure not only healthy lifespan, but healthy quality of life. These factors include: A healthy diet —It has always been important to maintain a healthy diet to benefit overall health. While the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes fruits and vegetables along with healthy fats and whole grains, is known for its health benefits, the Japanese diet is also a great option, with adherence to this diet being associated with a longer lifespan.  Maintaining a healthy weight—Keeping the number on the scale in a healthy range with a combo of diet and exercise is a large aspect of staying healthy. Nutrients—Targeted nutrients can also help support your longevity efforts. These nutrients include: Nicotinamide riboside: A precursor of NAD+, and a form of vitamin B3 that can fight general fatigue, support cellular energy production, and even contribute to anti-aging. Resveratrol: Skip the wine! Resveratrol has potent anti-aging properties, including fighting free radicals and mimicking calorie restricting diets that are key to longevity. Curcumin: The golden spice is knowing for its anti-inflammatory benefits, and with that, its ability to benefit whole-body health. Working to keep your joints and your brain healthy, it's a no brainer that this extract will keep you as young as you feel. Managing stress—Keeping stress at bay is crucial to living a long and healthy life. There's even evidence that managing stress can “un-gray” your hair! And who wouldn't feel optimistic about that? Is Vitamin E Good for PCOS? Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, July 25, 2022 Can women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) get pregnant? The answer is: yes…but it can be more challenging than for women without this hormone imbalance condition. For reproductive-age women, the hallmark of PCOS is high androgen levels (the “male” hormone), which can lead to irregular periods and difficulty getting pregnant. But, as daycares full of babies conceived with a little “help” can attest, there are options. A new study published in BMC Women's Health suggests that vitamin E may be helpful for women with PCOS undergoing ovulation induction. According to the study, women with polycystic ovary syndrome undergoing ovulation induction who received vitamin E had lower levels of oxidative stress and required lower doses of human menopausal gonadotropin. In addition to potentially supporting fertility, vitamin E has many other health benefits for women with PCOS: it also helps maintain healthy levels of insulin, triglycerides and LDL. In addition to the BMC Women's Health publication, placebo-controlled studies have shown the benefits of vitamin E for women with PCOS, especially regarding their reproduction and fertility. In the retrospective study from BMC Women's Health, 321 women with PCOS underwent ovulation induction. 105 received 100 mg/d of vitamin E during the follicular phase 106 received 100 mg/d of vitamin E during the luteal phase 110 did not receive vitamin E The results? Those who took vitamin E showed improved resistance to oxidative damage, healthy endometrium thickness, and decreased hMG dosage for healthy ovulation. Total darkness at night is key to success of breast cancer therapy — Tulane study Tulane University, July 25, 2022 Exposure to light at night, which shuts off nighttime production of the hormone melatonin, renders breast cancer completely resistant to tamoxifen, a widely used breast cancer drug, says a new study by Tulane University School of Medicine cancer researchers. The study, “Circadian and Melatonin Disruption by Exposure to Light at Night Drives Intrinsic Resistance to Tamoxifen Therapy in Breast Cancer,” published in the journal Cancer Research, is the first to show that melatonin is vital to the success of tamoxifen in treating breast cancer. “In the first phase of the study, we kept animals in a daily light/dark cycle of 12 hours of light followed by 12 hours of total darkness (melatonin is elevated during the dark phase) for several weeks,” says Hill. “In the second study, we exposed them to the same daily light/dark cycle; however, during the 12 hour dark phase, animals were exposed to extremely dim light at night (melatonin levels are suppressed), roughly equivalent to faint light coming under a door.” Melatonin by itself delayed the formation of tumors and significantly slowed their growth but tamoxifen caused a dramatic regression of tumors in animals with either high nighttime levels of melatonin during complete darkness or those receiving melatonin supplementation during dim light at night exposure. These findings have potentially enormous implications for women being treated with tamoxifen and also regularly exposed to light at night due to sleep problems, working night shifts or exposed to light from computer and TV screens. “High melatonin levels at night put breast cancer cells to ‘sleep' by turning off key growth mechanisms. These cells are vulnerable to tamoxifen. But when the lights are on and melatonin is suppressed, breast cancer cells ‘wake up' and ignore tamoxifen,” Blask says. A Cup of Cranberries a Day Keeps Dementia Away University of East Anglia (UK), July 26, 2022 While aging is inevitable, cognitive decline doesn't have to be. A recent study from the University of East Anglia found some “berry” good news about a way to help support and maintain brain function: cranberry intervention. According to the study, having the equivalent of one cup of fresh cranberries a day can improve memory, neuronal functioning, and vascular health, enhancing blood flow to the brain. And as a sweet bonus, researchers found the red fruit also helps lower LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels, which can build up in the arteries and result in a higher risk for cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's. “Cranberries are rich in these micronutrients [flavonoids, anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins] and have been recognized for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties,” the authors said. The researchers from the University of East Anglia performed a placebo-controlled study of parallel groups of healthy 50 to 80-year-olds adults to assess the effects of freeze-dried cranberry powder on cognition, brain function and biomarkers for brain cell signaling. The results revealed that taking cranberry extract for 12 weeks improved memory of everyday events (visual episodic memory) and enhanced blood circulation to certain parts of the brain (regional brain perfusion) compared to the placebo group. Better blood flow means essential nutrients such as oxygen and glucose reach areas of the brain associated with memory consolidation and retrieval.

We're continuing the conversation this week with Greg Potter, PhD., but with a plot twist. We've had Greg on the podcast many times discussing all facets of sleep and circadian biology, but today the topic is low back pain.  Greg has had personal experience with this problem since the age of 12 and has devoted extensive time and effort to researching and trying various treatment methods to find relief for himself and his coaching clients. He's quick to admit he's not an expert in low back pain, but it's clear he's well-versed on the topic. Greg thoroughly examines low back pain in this podcast, including causes, treatments, and scientifically-validated approaches for relieving chronic discomfort. He discusses time-tested treatments and cutting-edge options, including therapies, exercises, and supplements. He also recalls the book that started his healing journey and the best ways to give your back a break during daily movement and activities. Here's the outline of this episode with Greg Potter:  [00:00:10] Health Optimisation Summit. [00:00:44] Podcasts: How to Use Time-Restricted Eating to Reverse Disease and Optimize Health, with Satchin Panda, PhD; Kale vs Cow: The Case for Better Meat, with Diana Rodgers, RD. [00:01:53] Stuart McGill on HumanOS podcast: How to Avoid or Improve Back Pain Podcast with Stuart McGill [00:02:14] Greg on STEM-talk Podcast: Episode 136: Greg Potter Talks About Circadian Biology and the Importance of Sleep. [00:02:31] Greg's history with back pain. [00:03:07] Book: Low Back Disorders: Evidence-Based Prevention and Rehabilitation Third Edition, by Stuart McGill. [00:07:05] Chronic back pain: prevalence and costs to society. [00:09:42] Causes and types of lower back pain. [00:18:53] Sports that increase risk of back pain. [00:21:11] Physical Therapist Zac Cupples; Podcasts: Movement Analysis and Breathing Strategies for Pain Relief and Improved Performance and Airway Dentistry: What to Do When You Don't Breathe Right At Night. [00:22:18] Podcasts with Mike T. Nelson: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and Ben House: 1, 2. [00:22:18] Prevalence of spinal stenosis without symptoms; Review: Deer, Timothy, et al. "A review of lumbar spinal stenosis with intermittent neurogenic claudication: disease and diagnosis." Pain medicine 20.Supplement_2 (2019): S32-S44.​ [00:23:29] Spinal degeneration with no symptoms, by age; Study: Brinjikji, Waleed, et al. "Systematic literature review of imaging features of spinal degeneration in asymptomatic populations." American journal of neuroradiology 36.4 (2015): 811-816. [00:24:02] Nociplastic (nonspecific) pain. [00:26:29] Psychological causes for pain. [00:27:34] Lorimer Moseley on YouTube. [00:28:51] Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, Zach Moore; Podcasts featuring Zach: Overcoming Adversity and Strength Coaching and Health Fundamentals: Movement and Exercise. [00:33:36] Rates of low back pain in traditional cultures and early human species. [00:37:13] 2015 study: Plomp, Kimberly A., et al. "The ancestral shape hypothesis: an evolutionary explanation for the occurrence of intervertebral disc herniation in humans." BMC evolutionary biology 15.1 (2015): 1-10. [00:38:53] Difficulties in assessing and treating back pain. [00:43:51] Stuart McGill; Backfit Pro. [00:44:47] Abel Romero; Podcast: How to Avoid Chronic Pain, Improve Mobility and Feel 100% Confident in Your Lifting. [00:46:11] Spine hygiene (i.e., how to give your lower back a break); moving well and often. [00:50:53] Building spine stability. [00:51:56] Stuart McGill's Big 3 Exercises. [00:54:14] Bracing your spine when lifting things. [01:02:06] Bracing with breath: Valsalva maneuver. [01:03:22] Treatments that intervene with pain at the brain level. [01:05:58] Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) vs Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for low back pain; Study: Cherkin, Daniel C., et al. "Effect of mindfulness-based stress reduction vs cognitive behavioral therapy or usual care on back pain and functional limitations in adults with chronic low back pain: a randomized clinical trial." Jama 315.12 (2016): 1240-1249. [01:06:17] Effects from MBSR are not sustained long term; Meta-analysis: Anheyer, Dennis, et al. "Mindfulness-based stress reduction for treating low back pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis." Annals of Internal Medicine 166.11 (2017): 799-807. [01:07:18] The Mindfulness App. [01:07:36] Russ Harris; Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). [01:08:06] Pain Reprocessing Therapy; Study: Ashar, Yoni K., et al. "Effect of pain reprocessing therapy vs placebo and usual care for patients with chronic back pain: a randomized clinical trial." JAMA psychiatry 79.1 (2022): 13-23. [01:10:48] Relationship between low back pain and sleep problems. [01:11:38] Insomnia comes before back pain; Study: Agmon, Maayan, and Galit Armon. "Increased insomnia symptoms predict the onset of back pain among employed adults." PLoS One 9.8 (2014): e103591. [01:12:02] Treating insomnia can help with pain; Transdiagnostic sleep and circadian approach, Allison Harvey and Daniel Buysse. [01:12:29] Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBTI); Podcast with Ashley Mason: How to Use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia. [01:13:18] Mattresses, pillows, and sleep positions for sleep quality and musculoskeletal support. [01:19:04] Nutritional considerations for pain. [01:20:24] Intramuscular vitamin B12 for back pain; Study: Rooijakkers, Johanna M. "Intramuscular Vitamin B12 Injections for Treating Chronic Low Back Pain." (2014). [01:20:57] Effects of weight loss interventions on low back pain; Systematic review: Chen, Lu Hsi, et al. "The effectiveness of weight loss programs for low back pain: a systematic review." BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders 23.1 (2022): 1-14. [01:22:27] Impact of supplements on different kinds of back pain. [01:22:42] UC-II collagen, hydrolyzed collagen, ginger. [01:25:10] Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) - Levagen. [01:26:06] Meta-analyses on effects of PEA for pain reduction: Einaudi, Via Luigi, and Giustino Varrassi. "Palmitoylethanolamide, a special food for medical purposes, in the treatment of chronic pain: a pooled data meta-analysis." Pain Physician 19 (2016): 11-24 and Artukoglu, Bekir Berker, et al. "Efficacy of palmitoylethanolamide for pain: a meta-analysis." Pain Physician 20.5 (2017): 353-362. [01:26:49] Protein, creatine monohydrate, vitamin D3, glucosamine sulfate. [01:27:34] Glucosamine may not be effective; Study: Wilkens, Philip, et al. "Effect of glucosamine on pain-related disability in patients with chronic low back pain and degenerative lumbar osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial." Jama 304.1 (2010): 45-52.  [01:27:47] Glucosamine + chondroitin + msm, low efficacy for pain reduction; systematic review: Stuber, Kent, Sandy Sajko, and Kevyn Kristmanson. "Efficacy of glucosamine, chondroitin, and methylsulfonylmethane for spinal degenerative joint disease and degenerative disc disease: a systematic review." The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association 55.1 (2011): 47. [01:28:21] Glucosamine is associated with fewer cardiovascular events and less mortality; Study: Ma, Hao, et al. "Association of habitual glucosamine use with risk of cardiovascular disease: prospective study in UK Biobank." bmj 365 (2019). [01:28:35] Glucosamine is associated with reduced all-cause mortality: King, Dana E., and Jun Xiang. "Glucosamine/chondroitin and mortality in a US NHANES cohort." The Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine 33.6 (2020): 842-847. [01:28:59] Malcolm Kendrick; Book: The Clot Thickens: The enduring mystery of heart disease; Podcasts with Dr. Kendrick: 1, 2, 3. [01:31:23] Work with Greg: gregpotterphd.com. @gregpotterphd on social media. [01:32:28] Simon Marshall; Podcast describing SEEDS approach: Nudge Tactics for Performance and Health. [01:33:00] Kanban board; Trello.

Welcome to a Voices of Esalen archive edition. Our featured lecture was delivered at Esalen as a part of a weeklong training in 2018, by wise teachers Jack Kornfield and Trudy Goodman. Jack Kornfield is one of the key teachers to introduce Buddhist mindfulness practice to the West. He trained as a Buddhist monk in the monasteries of Thailand, India and Burma, and has taught meditation internationally since 1974 .After graduating from Dartmouth College in Asian Studies in 1967 he joined the Peace Corps and worked on tropical medicine teams in the Mekong River valley. He later met and studied as a monk under the Buddhist master Ajahn Chah. Returning to the United States, Jack co-founded the Insight Meditation Society in Barre, Massachusetts, and the Spirit Rock Center in Woodacre, California, with fellow meditation teachers Sharon Salzberg and Joseph Goldstein . His books have been translated into 20 languages and sold more than a million copies. They include, A Wise Heart,  Living Dharma; and After the Ecstasy, the Laundry. Trudy Goodman has devoted much of her life to practicing Buddhist meditation. She is one of the earliest teachers of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction and co-taught with Jon Kabat-Zinn at the MBSR clinic at University of Massachusetts Medical School. In 1995 she co-founded the Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy, the first center in the world dedicated to exploring the synergy of these two disciplines. From 1991 to 1998, Trudy was a resident Zen teacher at the Cambridge Buddhist Association. She then moved to Los Angeles and founded InsightLA, the first center in the world to combine training in both Buddhist Insight (Vipassana) Meditation and nonsectarian mindfulness and compassion practices. After becoming a mother, Trudy co-founded a school for distressed children, practicing mindfulness-based psychotherapy with children, parents, teenagers, couples and individuals. She has trained a generation of teachers, mindfulness humanitarians who make mindfulness and meditation classes available for professional caregivers, social justice and environmental activists, unsung individuals working on the front lines of suffering – all done with tenderness, courage and a simple commitment to holding hands together. (Side note: She is also the voice of “Trudy the Love Barbarian” on the Netflix series Midnight Gospel.) This is an wonderful talk. They cover so much, including how we may misuse mindfulness, how thought is a great servant but not a great master, how we may navigate living in this life of 10,000 joys and 10,000 sorrows. Also, Jack and Trudy are married, for those who don't know, and they comment insightfully on their relationship during the question and answer section of this talk. A final note: at one point, Jack and Trudy comment on an Esalen community member who died unexpectedly in 2018. They are in fact referring to Weston Call, who was a friend to so many people at Esalen and in Big Sur. This episode is dedicated to his memory.