Why Do We Struggle to Let Go and How Can the Body Lead the Way with Somatic Freedom? featuring Melanie Smithson

In this episode, Dana Cowles shares his compelling story of growing up with intense anxiety, navigating childhood fears, and the impactful moment that altered his outlook on life. Recounting a traumatic car accident from his youth, Dana explores the profound shift it sparked, intensifying his journey toward understanding fear, helplessness, and personal resilience. Through his experiences, Dana challenges the notion of fearlessness, offering fresh insights into the roles of anxiety, discomfort, and vulnerability in building inner strength.   About the Guest: Dana Cowles is an advocate for mental health awareness and a thought leader on resilience. His life journey has been marked by overcoming anxiety and redefining courage beyond fearlessness. With personal insights shaped by traumatic experiences, Dana now speaks out on the value of embracing discomfort and viewing anxiety as a universal, useful tool for growth.   Key Takeaways: Challenging the Pursuit of Fearlessness: Dana discusses how chasing a fear-free life is often counterproductive. Embracing discomfort, rather than avoiding it, is a more authentic path to resilience. Transforming Anxiety into Strength: Dana shares how his childhood car accident left lasting psychological effects, deepening his understanding of helplessness and leading him to embrace anxiety as part of the human experience. Redefining 'Disease' in Mental Health: Dana critiques the medical tendency to label uncomfortable emotions as "diseases," advocating for a perspective that sees anxiety and pain as shared, constructive human experiences. Using Vulnerability as a Tool for Growth: Dana’s journey underscores the importance of accepting uncomfortable emotions as valuable signals, rather than problems to eliminate.   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch, DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik  Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind Stay Tuned And Follow Us! YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylife Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/  Threads - https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.club Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/ #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

10 Nov 202425min

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with Alex Love, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at River Solutions, seasoned entrepreneur, and new mom. Together, they delve into the unique challenges that come with balancing a high-powered career and motherhood. From navigating early wake-ups to managing the inevitable guilt, Alex offers candid insights on her journey, discussing the choices that allow her to thrive both at home and in her role as a leader. About the Guest: Alex Love is a dynamic leader and new mom who has taken on a pivotal role at River Solutions. With her extensive background in entrepreneurship and hosting her own podcast, Mastering the Art of Failing, Alex brings valuable life experience to her role as a mother. As she embraces the challenges of parenting alongside professional responsibilities, Alex shares her approach to resilience, prioritization, and self-compassion. Reach Her: https://www.alexslove.com  Key Takeaways: Embrace Realistic Expectations: Balancing work and family is a day-to-day process; flexibility is crucial to avoid burnout. Prioritize Non-Negotiables: Recognize where you can’t be replaced, especially in family roles, and allocate your energy accordingly. Make Peace with Imperfection: Accept that "perfect" work-life balance is a myth, and focus on what truly matters each day. Develop a Weekly Check-In: Reassess priorities regularly to manage workload and ensure you’re meeting personal goals and responsibilities. Celebrate Small Wins: Give yourself credit for what you accomplish, even on days that don’t go as planned. One Key Learning for Listeners: Learning to balance family and career is not about perfect timing—it’s about intentional choices. Make conscious decisions daily to align your energy with your priorities and recognize that balance is a journey, not a destination.   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch, DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik  Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind Stay Tuned And Follow Us! YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylife Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/  Threads - https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.club Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/ #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

5 Nov 202416min

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with Yosi Amram, a pioneer in the field of spiritual intelligence. Yosi, a psychologist, executive coach, and creator of the first-ever spiritual intelligence model, shares his insights on how tapping into deeper wisdom can elevate not only our leadership abilities but also personal growth and inner peace. This conversation explores how aligning with our inner awareness can transform the way we approach life’s challenges and opportunities. About the Guest: Yosi Amram is a trailblazer in psychology with a Ph.D. and extensive experience in executive coaching. Renowned for developing the groundbreaking spiritual intelligence model, Yosi's work reveals how tuning into one’s inner wisdom can profoundly impact leadership, decision-making, and overall personal fulfillment. His research and practical coaching emphasize integrating mental and spiritual insights for a more balanced, inspired life.   Reach Him: https://yamram.com    Key Takeaways: Understanding Spiritual Intelligence: What it is and why it matters beyond traditional notions of intelligence. Practical Applications: How spiritual intelligence influences leadership, relationships, and self-growth. Personal Stories and Realizations: Yosi shares key moments that led him to develop and refine his model. Cultivating Inner Wisdom: Tips for developing this intelligence in daily life for greater calm and clarity. Impacts on Well-Being: How embracing spiritual intelligence can lead to enhanced mental peace and resilience. One Learning for Listeners: Developing spiritual intelligence allows you to tap into a deeper level of awareness that fosters genuine self-understanding, better decision-making, and a more inspired approach to both professional and personal challenges.   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch, DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik  Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind Stay Tuned And Follow Us! YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylife Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/  Threads - https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.club Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/ #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

4 Nov 202431min

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty welcomes Maggie Parr, an artist and author who has harnessed the healing power of creativity throughout her life. With a unique blend of memoir, art, and therapy insights, Maggie shares her journey of recovery from self-destructive behaviors through art. They discuss the profound connection between creativity and mental wellness, exploring how engaging in creative expression can lead to self-discovery and healing. About the Guest: Maggie Parr is a seasoned artist and author whose four-decade journey of using creativity as a tool for healing has culminated in her book, A Creator's Guide to Stopping Self-Harm. Her work combines personal narrative with therapeutic insights, providing a unique perspective on the transformative power of creativity. Maggie’s experiences have inspired countless others to explore artistic avenues as a means of overcoming personal challenges and finding their truths.   Reach Her: https://stoppingselfharm.com/  Key Takeaways: Creativity as a Healing Tool: Engaging in creative activities can redirect self-destructive behaviors and provide a constructive outlet for emotions. The Neuroplasticity of Art: Creativity can literally reshape the brain, creating new pathways that facilitate healing, especially in trauma recovery. Inclusivity in Creativity: Anyone can tap into their creativity, regardless of their artistic background. It is a universal human trait that can be used for personal growth and healing. One Learning for Listeners: You don’t need to be an accomplished artist to benefit from creative expression. Embracing even simple forms of creativity—like doodling or writing—can help you navigate your emotions and foster a deeper understanding of yourself. Remember, creativity is your birthright, and it can be a powerful ally on your journey to mental wellness.   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch, DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik  Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind Stay Tuned And Follow Us! YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylife Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/  Threads - https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.club Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/ #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

4 Nov 202414min

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty engages with Jonathan Aslay, one of America's leading midlife dating coaches. Together, they explore the intricate connection between relationships and self-love, discussing how our interactions with others can serve as profound mirrors that reflect our self-worth and personal growth. Jonathan shares his transformative journey after the loss of his son and how it shaped his mission to help others understand and embrace self-love. About the Guest: Jonathan Aslay is a celebrated dating coach with a thriving online presence, boasting over 195,000 YouTube followers. He is the author of What the Heck is Self-Love Anyway?, a guide filled with practical tips and exercises aimed at helping individuals cultivate self-acceptance. After experiencing deep personal loss, Jonathan redefined his life's purpose to empower others on their journeys to self-discovery and authentic relationships.   Reach Jonathan: https://www.jonathonaslay.com    Key Takeaways: Relationships as Mirrors: Our relationships often reflect our self-worth issues, revealing fears and insecurities that we might not be consciously aware of. Self-Love as a Journey: Self-love is an ongoing process that can be enhanced through personal development, therapy, and meaningful connections with others. Attachment Styles: Understanding your love attachment style can significantly impact your relationships, revealing underlying fears and patterns that may affect your emotional health. One Learning for Listeners: Listeners will learn that while self-love is essential, it is often through our relationships that we uncover deeper truths about ourselves. Embracing this process can lead to greater self-awareness, healthier connections, and ultimately, a more fulfilling life.     Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch, DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik  Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind Stay Tuned And Follow Us! YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylife Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/  Threads - https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.club Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/ #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

4 Nov 202421min

In this enlightening episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty welcomes Naomi Morad, a seasoned psychosomatic practitioner with over 20 years of experience in healing. Naomi shares her profound journey from surviving trauma to becoming a guide for others on their paths to recovery. Through transformative techniques such as brain spotting, patchwork, and inner child healing, she empowers listeners to release limiting beliefs and reconnect with their true selves. This episode dives deep into how childhood experiences shape our beliefs and patterns, and it offers valuable insights on reclaiming authenticity in our lives. About the Guest: Naomi Morad is a dedicated psychosomatic practitioner known for her heart-centered and trauma-informed approach. With a powerful personal story of healing from abuse and trafficking, Naomi has devoted her life to helping individuals navigate their own healing journeys. She specializes in using transformative techniques that allow clients to release limiting beliefs, rebuild self-trust, and live authentically. Naomi’s work is a blend of her extensive experience and the deep personal insight gained from her own recovery journey.   Reach Naomi: https://www.naomimorad.com  Key Takeaways: Understanding Patterns and Beliefs: Naomi discusses how unresolved trauma from childhood shapes our beliefs and coping mechanisms, often leading to recurring patterns in our adult lives. Recognizing Subconscious Influences: She emphasizes the importance of recognizing the subconscious beliefs that act as magnets, attracting similar situations repeatedly until they are addressed. The Role of Responsibility in Healing: The first step in healing is taking responsibility for one's experiences and recognizing how personal beliefs influence life situations. Techniques for Transformation: Naomi outlines various healing techniques, such as brain spotting and inner child healing, that facilitate personal growth and healing. One Learning for Listeners: Awareness is the First Step to Change: The key lesson from Naomi's insights is that awareness of one’s patterns and beliefs is crucial for personal transformation. By acknowledging and taking responsibility for these influences, individuals can begin the journey toward authentic healing and reclaiming their true selves.   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch, DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik  Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind Stay Tuned And Follow Us! YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylife Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/  Threads - https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.club Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/ #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

4 Nov 202421min

In this enlightening episode of Healthy Waves, host Avik Chakraborty is joined by two incredible guests, health coach Allie Cass and Dr. Wendy Garvin, a leader in healthcare transformation and mental health in oncology. Together, they delve into the pivotal role that mindset plays in overall health, particularly for cancer patients and their families. Through a holistic lens, they explore how thoughts, beliefs, and emotions can directly influence physical health and well-being, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence in managing stress and supporting mental health in oncology. About the Guests: Allie Cass: A former professional bodybuilder turned health coach, Allie is dedicated to helping women transition from merely surviving to thriving. With her expertise in metabolic coaching and mindset elevation, she empowers clients to embrace self-love, gut health, and hormonal balance for sustainable transformation. Dr. Wendy Garvin: With over 20 years in clinical practice, Dr. Wendy is a pioneer in mental health support for cancer patients. As the CEO of Collaborative Cancer Care and the founder of The Stress Blueprint, she is committed to revolutionizing mental health care in oncology, ensuring that patients and their families receive the emotional support they need during challenging times. Reach Dr. Wendy: https://collaborativecancercare.com/ Reach Allie: https://www.alliecasshealth.com/    Key Takeaways: The Power of Mindset: A positive mindset is foundational to health, influencing behaviors, perceptions, and ultimately physical well-being. Stress and Physiology: Chronic stress can lead to a cycle of physical ailments, including autoimmune issues and weakened immune responses. Holistic Health Approach: Integrating mindset coaching with physical health practices creates a comprehensive approach to wellness, particularly for women and cancer patients. One Learning for Listeners: Listeners will learn that cultivating a positive mindset and managing stress are not just mental exercises; they have profound physiological implications that can significantly impact health and well-being. By addressing emotional health, especially in high-stress situations like cancer care, individuals can create a path to holistic healing and thrive in their lives.   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch, DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik  Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind Stay Tuned And Follow Us! YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylife Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/  Threads - https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.club Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/ #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

4 Nov 202439min

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with Dr. Barbara Thompson, an esteemed psychologist and leadership expert with a remarkable journey. From overcoming the hardships of her upbringing in Oklahoma to becoming an operational psychologist for the U.S. Army Special Operations Forces, Dr. Thompson has dedicated her career to helping high performers cultivate resilience, navigate obstacles, and lead with intention. Tune in as we explore Dr. Thompson’s invaluable lessons on personal growth, mental strength, and how to manage life’s complexities with confidence and clarity. About the Guest: Dr. Barbara Thompson is a distinguished psychologist with extensive experience in leadership development and resilience training. Her work spans decades, with significant contributions in both civilian and military sectors, including service as an operational psychologist for elite U.S. Army units. Dr. Thompson’s profound knowledge and compassionate approach have empowered countless individuals to build mental fortitude and lead purpose-driven lives. Reach Barbara: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-thompson-7487aa8b/    Key Takeaways: The Power of Resilience: Understand what resilience truly means and how to strengthen it in everyday life. Overcoming Personal and Professional Challenges: Dr. Thompson shares strategies for tackling obstacles and navigating difficult situations. Leading with Purpose: Insights into how purpose-driven leadership can transform personal and professional environments. Mindset Shifts for High Performance: Learn about the essential mental shifts that support sustained performance and well-being. Practical Tools for Mental Strength: Discover actionable tips and tools to enhance your mental health and lead a balanced life. One Key Learning: Resilience isn't just an innate trait; it's a skill that can be nurtured and developed through consistent practice and strategic mental exercises. Dr. Thompson emphasizes that building this skill equips individuals to better handle stress, adapt to change, and thrive in the face of adversity.   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch, DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik  Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind Stay Tuned And Follow Us! YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylife Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/  Threads - https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.club Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/ #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

4 Nov 202417min