Lost in an unending loop of responsibilities and distractions? Longing for a transformative escape? Join host Meghan Thomas with special guests Jaime Weisberg and Tracy Dando Mergler as they take you on a journey through the profound power of retreats in this episode.  Explore with us as we discuss exactly how retreats provide us with a chance to hit the pause button on our fast-paced lives, enabling us to disconnect from the world and reconnect with our authentic selves. We also touch on the collective and individual energy experienced during a retreat and how this allows us to safely step into our vulnerability, to connect and be seen. We also discover new tools that can be brought back into our lives that will have a profound effect on not only ourselves but the people closest to us as well.  We warmly invite you to join us at our upcoming retreat - Root to Rise: Connect and Be Seen at the beautiful VanderKamp in Cleveland New York. We've designed this retreat to be a sanctuary for self-care and self-reflection. We offer a variety of activities aimed at helping you connect with your inner-self, while fostering a sense of belonging among participants. We also shed light on how we've made accessibility and affordability central to our retreat, with special scholarship opportunities for those in need. With a combination of movement, positive psychology and group circles is our way of creating a safe space for vulnerability, healing, and connection.  Root to Rise is more than just a retreat. It’s our mission to empower you to trust your own voice, to build a life that resonates with your inner truth and find a community that truly supports you. We can't wait to meet you and help you embark on this transformative journey. Root to Rise Retreat October 27, 2023: https://www.roottorisecny.com/ Episode 14 with Jaime Weisberg: https://spotify.link/I39tPznUADb Ep 35 with Tracy Dando Mergler: https://spotify.link/jtvXE8oUADb` Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Life can be a rollercoaster, and for our incredible guest Diana Lockett, author of "The Call to Freedom," the journey to self-discovery and healing was no exception. Through the trials and tribulations of her childhood, Diana learned to reconnect with the parts of herself she had denied, disowned, and shut down. Join us as she bravely shares her experiences growing up, the impact of her upbringing on her relationships, and her path to healing and self-discovery. Together, we discuss various tools and practices for emotional healing, such as meditation, energy healing, and yoga. I open up about my own experiences learning these practices and how they have helped me reclaim deeply buried parts of myself. As we explore the challenging process of forgiveness – from generational traumas to moments of self-sabotage – we reflect on the importance of creating space for growth and healing. Diana also shares her journey as a speech pathologist and her experience of opening and closing yoga studios, offering valuable lessons she's learned along the way. We emphasize the significance of boundaries, communication, and the power of vulnerability throughout our heartfelt conversation. Join us in this inspiring episode as we uncover the journey to love, purpose, and healing through life's many challenges. --------- EPISODE CHAPTERS --------- (0:00:02) - Healing Through Imperfection (0:14:32) - Tools and Practices for Emotional Healing (0:25:15) - The Journey of Forgiveness and Self-Forgiveness (0:33:48) - Boundaries and Communication (0:39:27) - Speech Pathology and Yoga (0:43:36) - The Journey to Love and Purpose Connect with Diana Lockett: -Book: The Call to Freedom: Heal Your Pain, Awaken Your Loving Presence: https://amzn.to/3NEdIYt -Free gift: A Call to Freedom: Heal your Pain, Awaken Your Loving Presence Companion Journal. A 30 page ebook with journal prompts to awaken in your life: https://bit.ly/CTFJournal  -Socials/website:  https://linktr.ee/diana_lockett Connect with Meg: -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emotional_expedition/ -Website: https://www.meghanthomas.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our personal struggles can often lead us to our true purpose. This week Meg sat down with Dr. Ali Novitsky, a physician-turned-coach with a powerful story of overcoming body image issues and discovering her true calling in health and preventative care. Ali's unique journey through body acceptance, CBT, and postpartum depression has informed her approach to helping women become the best, most authentic versions of themselves. We also delved into the importance of emotional health and how it's deeply connected to our physical and mental well-being. Ali shared her insights on various techniques, such as exercise and dialectical behavioral therapy, that can help us regulate our emotions and ultimately live our most optimal lives. The conversation emphasized the significance of acknowledging and nurturing our emotions to truly reap the benefits of physical and mental health. Lastly, Ali's expertise in genetics shed light on how understanding our unique genetic makeup can help us manage our emotions, overcome limiting beliefs, and even address emotional eating. With a focus on optimal health strategies and mindset work, we discussed the importance of trusting the process and creating a loving relationship with ourselves. Don't miss this enlightening conversation with Dr. Ali Novitsky, filled with valuable insights on embracing our true selves and achieving our best health. --------- EPISODE CHAPTERS --------- (0:00:02) - From Doctor to Coach (0:08:42) - Physical and Emotional Health Connection (0:14:56) - Managing Emotions and Limiting Beliefs (0:26:56) - Understanding Genetics and Mental Health (0:33:15) - Genetic Factors in Emotional Eating (0:40:48) - Optimal Health Strategies and Mindset Work (0:51:44) - Trusting the Process Connect with Dr. Ali Novitsky: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alinovitskymd/ Website: https://www.lifecoachingforwomenphysicians.com/podcast PROGRAMS:  Men's Program, Fit Dad Collective™: https://www.lifecoachingforwomenphysicians.com/fdc Physician CME Program, Transform®: https://www.goals-society.com/transform The Fit Woman Collective™ is launching in August. COMING SOON!!!!! Connect with Meg: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emotional_expedition/ Website: https://www.meghanthomas.com/ Atlas of the Heart Book Study: https://www.meghanthomas.com/atlas-of-the-heart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful and transformative discussion with Jana Wilson, author of the prescriptive memoir: Wise Little One: Learning to Love and Listen to my Inner Child, we explore how her own personal journey led her to create this unique blend of storytelling and healing. Jana takes us through her challenging childhood in the South, with young parents, an alcoholic and abusive father, and a mother diagnosed with mental illness. Jana shares how she discovered the power of unconditional love, the importance of reparenting, and the profound impact of connecting with her inner child. Listen in as Jana and I discuss the concept of becoming a cycle breaker and how she used her imagination to manifest her dreams. We also examine the gift of trauma, the power of introversion, and Jana's connection to animals. As we uncover the beautiful story of self-discovery, self-love, and the importance of taking responsibility for our own choices, we are reminded that we can all find light even in our darkest moments. Finally, we explore the teachings of Deepak Chopra and Mark Nepo, and how their wisdom can be applied to our everyday lives. This episode is a must-listen for anyone on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. Connect with Jana:  Pre-order Wise Little One: https://www.janawilson.com/ Emotional Healing Retreats: https://www.emotionalhealingretreat.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emotional_healing_retreats/ Connect with Meg: Website: https://www.meghanthomas.com/ Atlas of the Heart Book Study: https://www.meghanthomas.com/atlas-of-the-heart Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emotional_expedition/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Emotional Expedition Podcast Meghan Thomas interviews Paula Crossfield, a vedic astrologer and business coach. Paula shares her journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening. She discusses her early life, her travels, and her deep connection with different cultures and spirituality. Paula is a beacon of inspiration and wisdom. Paula begins by sharing her personal journey growing up in Oklahoma, revealing how she navigated through intense emotions and anxiety. She speaks of her exploration of yoga and traditional Indian chanting, tools she employed to understand and manage her emotional rollercoasters. Paula's life story is an inspiring testimony of resilience and determination, serving as a reminder that our emotional struggles can be catalysts for transformation. Shifting gears, the conversation moves towards the intriguing connection between emotions and celestial phenomena. Paula sheds light on the profound emotional impacts of events such as eclipses and discusses their influence on our lives, even if we're not astrologically aware. Her insights give listeners a fresh perspective on how the cosmic realm may intersect with our emotional world. In a compelling dialogue on entrepreneurship, Paula reveals her approach to guiding spirit-led entrepreneurs. She explains how she aids them in aligning their business strategies with their cosmic blueprints, leading to not just financial success, but also meaningful impact. This part of the discussion unravels how money, a traditionally tangible entity, can intertwine with spirituality in entrepreneurial ventures. Paula also delves into the emotional relationship people have with money, illuminating how it can limit their financial growth. She talks about helping spiritual practitioners overcome mindset blocks that obstruct their earnings.  The podcast also explores the significance of taking calculated risks.  Paula underlines her unique business model, centered on health, well-being, and philanthropy. As a tribute to her father's influence, she emphasizes the importance of charitable giving, marking it as a vital part of her business operations. Wrapping up this enlightening episode, Paula recounts her transformative travel experiences. Her deep connection with Estonia's unique culture and her newfound appreciation for her home environment in Maine offer fascinating insights into the profound impacts of travel and exploration on personal growth. Join Meghan and Paula on this Emotional Expedition, and embark on a journey to unlock your own emotional understanding and potential. Connect with Paula:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weaveyourbliss/ Podcast: The Cosmic Business Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5QrjaD8C2NDdpG931ZDchV?si=5d5d150bc6d542c9 Website: https://www.weaveyourbliss.com Connect with Meg: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emotional_expedition/ Website: https://www.meghanthomas.com/ Atlas of the Heart Book Study: https://www.meghanthomas.com/atlas-of-the-heart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a recent podcast episode Meg had an enlightening conversation with Annabel Chown, a breast cancer survivor, architect, yoga teacher, and author. Annabel shared her journey from diagnosis to recovery, the emotional and physical challenges she faced, and how she found a new sense of purpose and direction in life. Annabel was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 31. She was working as an architect, leading a busy life, and was in the prime of her youth when the diagnosis came. The news was shocking and life-altering. The emotional toll was significant. She grappled with fear, self-consciousness, and body image issues. Despite these challenges, Annabel found solace in her yoga practice. It provided a sense of peace and connection to a part of herself that felt spacious and calm. She eventually became a yoga teacher, eager to share the benefits she had experienced with others. Annabel also underwent testing for the BRCA gene, a gene associated with a higher risk of breast and ovarian cancer. She tested positive, which led to further surgeries, including a mastectomy and the removal of her ovaries. This decision was made more complex by her desire to have a child. After a long journey, including IVF, Annabel and her husband were blessed with a son. She acknowledges the challenges of infertility, which affects one in six women, and the stress of modern life that can contribute to these struggles. Today, Annabel leads a quiet, balanced life. She wakes up early for her yoga and meditation practice, spends quality time with her son, and dedicates time to her writing. She has written a book about her journey, transforming her challenging experience into a beautiful piece of work. Annabel's story is a testament to resilience and the power of self-care. She has navigated her way through life-altering experiences, finding strength in her body, solace in her yoga practice, and a new sense of purpose in her writing. Her journey serves as an inspiration for others facing similar challenges, reminding us all of the importance of emotional readiness, self-care, and the power of sharing our stories. To connect with Annabel: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annabelchown/ Website: https://www.annabelchown.com Substack: This Beating Heart: https://annabelchown.substack.com Book: Hidden: Young, Single, Cancer: https://amzn.to/3IioiBo To connect with Meg: Website: https://www.meghanthomas.com/ Atlas of the Heart Book Study: https://www.meghanthomas.com/atlas-of-the-heart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special episode of the Emotional Expedition podcast, host Meghan Thomas celebrates her 40th birthday by sharing 40 profound quotes that have shaped and inspired her life. These quotes serve as guiding lights on her emotional journey and offer valuable insights for listeners seeking wisdom and personal growth. Throughout the episode, Meghan reflects on the significance of each quote, sharing personal anecdotes and the lessons she has learned along the way. From renowned authors and philosophers to beloved fictional characters, these quotes capture the essence of human experiences, resilience, and self-discovery. Highlights from the episode include: Cheryl Strayed: Bravery is acknowledging your fear and doing it anyway.  Maya Angelou: It's one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself, to forgive. Forgive everybody.  Wayne Dyer: Don’t die with your music still in you. Albert Einstein: There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle. John Muir: In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.  Meghan also draws inspiration from Oprah, Brené Brown, Paulo Coehlo, Cleo Wade, Yung Pueblo and other influential figures. She emphasizes the importance of gratitude, the interconnectedness of spirituality and humanity, and the everlasting love and lessons shared by our furry friends. Join Meghan on this insightful episode as she invites listeners to embark on their own emotional expeditions, armed with these 40 powerful quotes that can ignite personal transformation, offer solace in challenging times, and remind us of the inherent strength within ourselves. Connect with Meg: https://www.meghanthomas.com/ Atlas of the Heart Book Study: https://www.meghanthomas.com/atlas-of-the-heart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a recent podcast episode, Meg had an enlightening conversation with Amanda Bullat, a registered dietitian and the owner of Alpine Nutrition, a practice that helps women in midlife redefine their relationship with food and their bodies. Amanda shared her personal journey from being a competitive runner to experiencing a significant identity shift, which led her to her current work.  Amanda's journey began as a competitive runner, where she experienced the pressure of maintaining a certain body size and weight. This led to disordered eating and an unhealthy relationship with food and her body. However, a significant turning point came during a trek in Nepal with her father. Despite being physically weak due to her disordered eating, Amanda was one of the only two people in her group who didn't need medication for high altitude sickness. This experience made her realize that her body was resilient and capable, despite not fitting into the societal ideals of diet culture. The most impactful part of Amanda's Nepal story was when she found herself feeling weak and frail while descending a pass. She realized that she wanted to continue having such adventures, but didn't want to feel weak doing so. This realization led her to vow to do whatever it took to regain her strength, even if it meant gaining weight and eating more. This was the catalyst for her journey towards recovery and her eventual work in helping others redefine their relationship with food and their bodies. Amanda's approach to helping her clients is rooted in the acronym SAVOR, which stands for Start, Awareness, Variety, Options, and Reflect and Release. She guides her clients to start noticing how cultural messages affect their relationship with their bodies, develop awareness of their feelings and bodily sensations, explore a variety of foods and self-nourishment practices, consider their options for greater self-nourishment, and reflect on their experiences while releasing judgment. Amanda emphasizes the importance of viewing these steps as a practice rather than a linear trajectory towards a fixed goal. She encourages her clients to reflect on what they like and what they want to change, and to release any judgment associated with these experiences. This approach helps her clients develop a healthier and more dynamic relationship with food and their bodies. Amanda's story and her work highlight the importance of redefining our relationship with food and our bodies, especially as we navigate through different stages of life. Her approach encourages us to practice self-nourishment, mindfulness, and reflection, and to release judgment and expectations. It's a reminder that our bodies are resilient and capable, and that we can redefine our relationship with food and our bodies to better align with our personal goals and desires. To learn more about Amanda's work: Website: www.alpinenutrition.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alpinenutrition/ Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1wabNuFKPai72ZnqmOQoK7?si=a111e3e12fb6474b To connect with Meg: https://www.meghanthomas.com/ Atlas of the Heart Book Study: https://www.meghanthomas.com/atlas-of-the-heart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Emotional Expedition podcast, host Meghan Thomas interviews KJ Nasrul, a psychotherapist, healing artist, speaker, and host of the Stories of Astonishing Light podcast. They discuss KJ's experiences as a transracial adoptee, the complexities of emotions surrounding adoption, and the importance of self-reclamation and embracing personal journeys. KJ shares her story of being adopted and the emotional challenges that came with it, including feelings of displacement, abandonment, and loss. She reflects on the impact of her adopted father's passing on her life and how her Puerto Rican lineage discovery brought mixed emotions. Despite being told her differences didn't matter, she felt a strong connection to her islander heritage and sought ways to express herself through music and movement. Meg and KJ explore the concept of belonging and fitting in, with KJ noting that she feels a stronger connection to specific people and places rather than a particular culture. They discuss the challenges of navigating connections with biological family members, adoptive family, and donor conceived relatives. KJ emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and discussing differences instead of dismissing them, noting that messages like "I'm colorblind" can be both helpful and harmful. She also highlights the value of the language used in adoption, such as "bio mom" and "transracial adoptee," which helped her connect with her experiences and understand her background better. Meg and KJ share the importance of taking brave steps in their personal journeys, with KJ recently reconnecting with her musical roots by pulling out her guitar and signing up for a 23andMe account. They both stress the significance of belonging to oneself and embracing self-worth and self-love. KJ shares her playful approach to her cultural identity, creating her own blend of Filipino and Puerto Rican heritage. KJ leaves listeners with the quote "be impeccable with your word" from the Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz, emphasizing the power of language and the importance of being mindful of the words we use, especially towards ourselves. Key Takeaways: 1. Transracial adoptees often face unique challenges and emotions when discovering their biological heritage. 2. Connections with biological family members can bring up complicated feelings, especially concerning adoptive family relationships. 3. Belonging to oneself and embracing self-worth and self-love is crucial. 4. One's identity can be a unique blend of cultures and experiences, transcending traditional categories. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musingsonother/ Website: https://www.blissbeginswithin.com Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/3lXorShaoXzBMnXNR8J7Ni?si=a6cd75181fa442bf Bali Creativity Retreat: https://www.blissbeginswithin.com/featured-eventsworkshops-copy To Connect with Meg:  https://www.meghanthomas.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Emotional Expedition podcast, host Meghan Thomas interviews Tere Marie, creator of Cycle Alchemy, astrologer, somatic movement expert, and organic farmer. They explore the intersection of science and spirit, reproductive sovereignty, and the significant role of cycles in our lives. Tere shares her experiences of living on Wyllie Fox Farm in upstate New York and her journey through nature, intuition, and personal growth. Tere Marie explores the different cycles we experience, including the zodiac, the menstrual cycle, and the lunar cycle, and how they intersect to create our unique experiences. She emphasizes the importance of observation and anchoring ourselves within these cycles to understand our emotions better.  Tere explains how the seasons can be used as a metaphor for different phases of the menstrual cycle, helping us to better understand and trust our feelings:  Winter (menstrual phase) Inner spring (follicular phase) Summer (ovulatory phase) Autumn (luteal phase) These phases correspond to different hormonal changes and can influence our emotions and intuition. For many, the luteal and menstrual phases tend to be more intuitive and offer increased clarity. Tere's path to understanding cycles and the natural world was influenced by her cycle-positive upbringing, experiences with childbirth, and personal growth through overcoming challenges.  They highlight how embracing discomfort and facing our fears during the shadowy phases of life can lead to profound learning experiences. Tere explains that our bodies store experiences and that somatic movement can help connect the mind and body, allowing for healing and growth. Lastly, Tere and Meghan touch on the power of joy, flow state, and community in somatic dance and movement. They emphasize the importance of safe environments, music, and emotional processing in somatic movement practices. Join them for this captivating episode as they guide you through an emotional expedition, exploring cycles, emotions, and personal transformation. Connect with Tere: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cyclealchemist/ Website: https://www.teremariemartini.com/ Connect with Meg:  Website: https://www.meghanthomas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emotional_expedition/ Atlas of the Heart Book Study: https://www.meghanthomas.com/atlas-of-the-heart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is part two of the Emotional Expedition podcast where host Meghan Thomas is joined by KJ Nasrul and Brenda Winkle to discuss the journey Meghan went through after finding out the truth about her parentage.  This episode highlights the importance of language, storytelling, bravery, and how one person's story can help countless others. Meghan explains her fears of potentially having 50 to 200 siblings due to the lack of regulation in the fertility industry, and her struggle to accept the information she found.  KJ Nasrul introduces the concept of Internal Family Systems therapy, where healing comes from inviting exiled parts of ourselves back into our lives. Throughout the episode, Meghan discusses her struggles with embracing her newfound connections, fearing that she might be taking something away from the relationships she already has. Brenda suggests that stepping into one's power doesn't take anything away from anyone else and leads Meghan through a healing exercise to release personal power blocks. Meghan shares her experiences meeting her half-brother and half-sister, feeling a sense of belonging and discovering shared traits and experiences. She expresses her curiosity about meeting her biological father, and learning more about her genetic background. The conversation touches on the impact of shared experiences, nature versus nurture, and the importance of owning one's story. Meghan's journey continues, with the goal of helping others connect and understand themselves through sharing her story. Connect with Meg: https://www.meghanthomas.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Emotional Expedition Podcast, host Meghan Thomas shares her deeply personal story for the first time with the help of fellow podcast hosts Brenda Winkle and KJ Nasrul. This is part 1 of 2 episodes.  Meghan reveals that she discovered her biological father was a sperm donor, a secret she only learned after years of struggling with fertility issues herself. She shares the emotional journey of coming to terms with this information. Throughout her story, Meghan emphasizes the nonlinear nature of healing and the courage required to face such a truth. Both Meghan and KJ Nasrul, who is adopted, discuss the importance of openness and communication about their origins. They touch on the impact of secrecy on their self-perception and understanding of their identity. The conversation also explores the power of shame and its need for secrecy, judgment, and silence to survive. This poignant episode explores themes of identity, reclamation, and the power of sharing one's story. Meghan's hope is that by sharing her experience, she can help others feel less alone and inspire them to give themselves permission to share their own stories or parts of their identity that they haven't yet embraced. The episode serves as a catalyst for further exploration and discussion on the topic of fertility, adoption and donor-conceived children, emphasizing the need for openness and dialogue in the journey of self-discovery. Connect with Meg: https://www.meghanthomas.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Emotional Expedition podcast, we explore the complex emotions of awe and wonder. Host Meghan Thomas takes us on a journey through personal stories and scientific research to understand what these emotions are, how they manifest in our lives, and how we can cultivate more of them. Key Points: Awe and wonder are emotions that are often experienced in response to nature, art, music, spiritual experiences, or ideas. They are both essential to the human experience and can leave us feeling small compared to the vastness of our universe. Wonder fuels our passion for exploration, curiosity and learning.  In contrast, awe inspires the wish to let shine, to acknowledge and to unite. Awe can lead to personal change and growth and can be beneficial for our mental health and well-being. We share responses from our Facebook community about moments of awe they experienced, which range from witnessing the beauty of nature to seeing loved ones grow and learn. According to Dacher Keltner, awe is the feeling of being in the presence of something vast that transcends our current understanding of the world. The eight wonders of life that he identified are: moral beauty, nature, music, visual design, collective effervescence, spirituality, epiphanies or big ideas, and births and deaths.  Experiencing awe produces a multitude of positive effects such as making us calmer, kinder, and more creative. It reins in the ego and makes us feel more connected. Awe reduces stress, depression, PTSD symptoms in veterans, and is also good for cardiovascular health and the immune system. Resources Mentioned: Atlas of the Heart Book Study with Meg: https://www.meghanthomas.com/atlas-of-the-heart Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown: https://amzn.to/3KQjQeW Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How it can Transform Your Life by Dacher Keltner: https://amzn.to/40YW6L0 Thank you for listening to this episode of Emotional Expedition. If you enjoyed it, please share it with someone you love and leave a review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Let's cultivate more moments of awe and wonder in our lives together! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "The Emotional Expedition with Meghan Thomas," Meghan discusses the emotions of discouragement, resignation, and frustration. She explains that discouragement and resignation are about losing motivation and confidence to continue making efforts, while frustration is the feeling of being prevented from achieving a desired outcome.  Meghan provides examples of times when she has felt these emotions in her life, such as while trying to conceive, being an entrepreneur, and in relationships. Meghan also shares research that shows social support and positive self-talk can help individuals cope with discouragement and reduce its negative effects on mental health. In addition, she suggests goal-setting and resilience as ways to prevent discouragement, and mindfulness as a way to manage negative emotions. The episode also highlights the positive side of frustration, as it can lead to increased creativity and problem-solving skills. Meghan gives examples such as Keith Jarrett's improvised concert and Brian Eno's use of oblique strategies to disrupt the creative process. The episode encourages listeners to acknowledge and accept negative emotions and to seek support and positive coping strategies when facing discouragement, resignation, and frustration. Resources: Atlas of the Heart Book Study: https://www.meghanthomas.com/atlas-of-the-heart Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown: https://amzn.to/3nuMlFu The 4 Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin: https://amzn.to/3nr0Ha6 Atomic Habits by James Clear: https://amzn.to/3Zlz0wz To all the Magic in Me by Pavita Singh: https://amzn.to/3Ke7qNv Dr. Kristin Neff: https://self-compassion.org/ Ted Talk: How Frustration Can Make Us More Creative: Tim Harford: https://www.ted.com/talks/tim_harford_how_frustration_can_make_us_more_creative Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Regret is often seen as a negative emotion, something we should avoid at all costs. We are told to live life without regrets and to focus only on the positive aspects of our lives. However, this approach overlooks the valuable lessons that regret has to teach us. Regret can be a powerful emotion, ranging from mild discomfort to deep hurt. It arises when an outcome was not what we wanted or expected, and we believe that our decisions or actions caused the outcome. Research shows that we tend to regret the actions we didn't take, the missed opportunities, more than the actions we did take that resulted in bad outcomes. According to Brené Brown, regret is one of our most powerful emotional reminders that reflection, change, and growth are necessary. In her research, regret emerged as a function of empathy. When used constructively, regret can be a call to courage and a path towards wisdom. So, what can regret teach us? It can teach us to have the courage to be kinder, to show up, to set boundaries, to be good to ourselves, and to say yes to something scary. Regret can also teach us to take chances, to be more thoughtful, and to be conscious in conversations. In a podcast conversation between Brené Brown and author of the book, The Power of Regret, Daniel H. Pink identified four core regrets: foundation regrets, boldness regrets, moral regrets, and connection regrets. And of course as always I share my own personal experiences with regret.  Resources: Atlas of the Heart Book Study: https://www.meghanthomas.com/atlas-of-the-heart Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown: https://amzn.to/40bizDZ The Top 5 Regrets of the Dying by Bronnie Ware: https://amzn.to/3JL1WJO The Power of Regret by Daniel H. Pink: https://amzn.to/3lvtEB3 Dare to Lead Podcast: https://brenebrown.com/podcast/the-power-of-regret/ Morgan Harper Nichols: https://www.instagram.com/morganharpernichols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A lot of us learned from a young age that large and strong emotions are wrong, that we need to suppress how we feel, and doubt our intuition, only to have the effects of this belief present themselves as insecurities, trauma, and bad life decisions decades later. Our guest, Tracy Mergler, had this exact experience, and is going through her journey of unlearning unhealthy beliefs, and learning who she is, while helping others find their own healing.  Tracy is a new friend, a connector, a creator, and a believer. Someone the universe has been nudging me to meet for a while now. She’s the founder and director of Safe Space CNY, a non-profit, non-clinical, community-centered safe space that strives to change the conversation around mental health by educating, connecting, and supporting others through a peer-to-peer network. She’s leading the change in the language around mental health by providing safety, connection, community, education, and empowerment.  “I realized that this need for a safe space at a community level was not just for individuals in the recovery world. But this need for safety, connection, vulnerability, empowerment, and building a toolbox was something that everyone on this planet could benefit from.” – Tracy Mergler  Here are some things Tracy talks more about in this episode:  The story behind Safe Space CNY and how it’s growing now.  Coming back to, and reconnecting with our bodies and emotions.  Going back to her “why” behind her life’s work    Having gone through years of medication and talk therapy, Tracy has learned that these are useful and could even be necessary and lifesaving for some people under the right circumstances. But she’s also recognized that a lot of the time, it’s not enough. She’s seen how having the right community, support, and a place where you can feel safe to explore, feel, and be who you are is a necessary part of the healing journey.   Coming from a place of love and a desire for others to feel full and alive, she started Safe Space CNY so that others would be able to fill their toolbox with the set of tools that works for them. To know more about Safe Space CNY and Tracy’s journey, listen to the full episode.  “If I continue to choose love every single day, then my soul is aligned with where it’s supposed to go.” - Tracy Mergler  Connect with Tracy Mergler  Website  Twitter  LinkedIn  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In life, we all have expectations. Whether it is from ourselves, the people around us, or the experiences we encounter, we set standards and anticipate specific outcomes. However, things don't always go as planned, and we are left feeling disappointed. Disappointment is a common feeling, but it can be challenging to navigate, especially when we don't understand the relationship between our expectations and disappointment. Expectations are the beliefs we hold about an event, situation, or person. It is natural to have expectations, as they help us make sense of the world around us. They help us plan, anticipate, and prepare for events. However, when our expectations are not met, we feel disappointed.  The more significant our expectations, the more significant our disappointment. Brené Brown emphasizes that there are two types of expectations:  Examined and expressed Unexamined and unexpressed  Unexamined and unexpressed expectations, also known as "stealth expectations," are those that we keep to ourselves, and we expect others to know and fulfill them. These types of expectations are dangerous and often lead to disappointment. To manage disappointment and expectations, Brown suggests examining and communicating expectations with ourselves and others. Communicating our expectations with our loved ones or colleagues can help them understand our needs and manage their expectations. This approach can lead to healthier relationships and fewer disappointments. Examined and Expressed Expectations are when our expectations are realistic, clearly communicated, and self-aware. These expectations are intentional and thoughtful, and when they don't turn out as expected, disappointment can hurt a lot. However, it's an opportunity for meaningful connection when someone shares their hopes and dreams with us. It takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to share our Examined and Expressed Expectations with others. That's why it's important to celebrate someone's success, but also be there for them when disappointment happens. Instead of offering simple platitudes, we can show meaningful empathy by recognizing and acknowledging the courage it took to share their hopes and dreams. It's important to note that even when we have done the hard work of self-examination, we can still experience disappointment. In these moments, it's important to keep the lines of communication open and circle back to talk about our feelings and move to accountability.  Glennon Doyle Untamed Journaling Prompts:  Ideals & Expectations that you grew up with: What were you taught to believe makes a good daughter/child? What have you been conditioned to believe makes a good partner? What were you trained to believe makes a good friend? What did your family, culture, and world teach you to believe about what makes a good mother?  What expectations are you ready and willing to let go of? When have you made a decision that defied expectations that your family, your community, your workplace, or the world had of you? What are some things that you have denied yourself  because they do not fit with others expectations? Resources: Atlas of the Heart Book Study: https://www.meghanthomas.com/atlas-of-the-heart Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown: https://amzn.to/3IXIeZE Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski: https://amzn.to/3YsK9v1 Untamed by Glennon Doyle: https://amzn.to/3LkF5Gr The Invitation by Oriah Mountain Dreamer: http://www.oriahmountaindreamer.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Barrett Freibert, a spiritual embodiment coach, writer, and yoga instructor, discusses the Enneagram with Meg Thomas. Barrett shares her experience with leaving her corporate job and discovering the Enneagram, which led her to her own healing. Barrett also shares how her chronic insomnia and Lyme disease forced her to face her wounds and traumas, which helped her become aligned with her spiritual self. The episode highlights the importance of acknowledging and dealing with our inner wounds to reach our best selves. Also discussed in this episode is how the body keeps the score and how their experiences of grief have been ongoing, despite having done significant work on their healing journeys. They both lost their fathers suddenly and share a connection in their grief experience, acknowledging that their bodies remember significant dates and moments. Grief is not something that can be conquered, nor is there a finish line in the healing journey. Meg shares that she continues to experience grief in layers, like an onion being peeled. One must honor the grief and find compassion for themselves in the moment, allowing the healing journey to unfold naturally. In this episode we dive deep into The Enneagram. The Enneagram is a powerful tool for self-discovery and personal growth. The Enneagram is a system that describes nine basic personality types, each with its own strengths, weaknesses, and patterns of behavior. Barrett explains that the Enneagram is not just a personality assessment but also a way to connect with our divine essence. It helps us to understand our motivations and desires, and to come into a better relationship with ourselves and others. One of the most valuable aspects of the Enneagram is its dynamic nature. It recognizes that we all have strengths that, when used in moderation, can be wonderful. However, these same strengths can become weaknesses when overused or underused. For example, an Eight on the Enneagram is known for their strength and energy, but if they overdo everything, they can become exhausted and burned out. By understanding our tendencies and patterns of behavior, we can learn to use our strengths in a healthy way and avoid the pitfalls of our weaknesses. Another important aspect of the Enneagram is its recognition of the interconnectedness of all the types. The lines between the types represent how we can move towards health or stress depending on our circumstances. For example, an Eight can move towards the generous and caring attributes of a Two when they are in a healthy state, or towards the withdrawn and analytical attributes of a Five when they are under stress. By understanding the different types and their tendencies, we can develop more compassion and understanding for ourselves and others. Ultimately, the Enneagram is a journey of self-discovery and growth, and it can be a powerful tool for anyone who is seeking to better understand themselves and the world around them. Whether you are just beginning to explore the Enneagram or are a seasoned practitioner, there is always more to learn and discover on this path of self-awareness and connection. Resources: -Instagram @barrettafreibert -Virtual Intro to the Enneagram Course: https://www.barrettfreibert.com/shop/enneagram-for-healthy-relationships-workshop  -Taos Yoga, Meditation, & Breathwork Retreat: www.barrettfreibert.com/taosretreat -Schedule Your Free Coaching Consult Call with Barrett: https://calendly.com/redtailwisdom/free-50-minute-consult-call-for-new-clients-only -Barrett’s Website: www.barrettfreibert.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Boredom is the uncomfortable state of wanting to engage in a satisfying activity, but being unable to do it. Sometimes its good, and sometimes its bad.  How we feel about boredom is dependent on the situation. It can wind us up and leave us feeling irritable, frustrated, restless OR it can make us feel totally lethargic.  Most of us think of boredom as a negative feeling, but this isnt always the case. There is a good side to boredom and I think it's really important that we understand it.  A recent study showed that simple, boring tasks or mundane activities can allow our minds to wander, daydream, and create. The lack of stimulation that defines “being bored” gives our imagination room to play and grow. Sherry Turkle said, “boredom is your imagination calling to you.” Just last year when I was taken off of all social media when my accounts were hacked and I was offline for about 3 months in which time I spent more time meditating and leaning into being bored, that is when I was inspired to start a podcast, an idea I had never had before.  So yes, I am a huge proponent of boredom and the magic that can come out of it.  In many ways, boredom is a modern luxury. Danckert says, the word "boring" as it's used now didn't even enter common parlance until the industrial revolution gave us time to spare. "Early on in human history, when our ancestors had to spend most of their days securing food and shelter, boredom wasn't an option," he says. James Clear: Author of Atomic Habits: said, “The greatest threat to success is not failure, but boredom. We get bored with habits because they stop delighting us. The outcome becomes expected. And as our habits become ordinary, we start derailing our progress to seek novelty. Perhaps this is why we get caught up in a never-ending cycle, jumping from one workout to the next, one diet to the next, one business idea to the next. As soon as we experience the slightest dip in motivation, we begin seeking a new strategy—even if the old one was still working. As Machiavelli noted, “Men desire novelty to such an extent that those who are doing well wish for a change as much as those who are doing badly.” So this is what I am taking to now understand about boredom: It can be bad for you, it can lead you to making mistakes at work, it can have a decreased effect on your health, it can even cause you to gamble, drink, eat or whatever your vice is more just to avoid feeling it. But it can also be good for you. Boredom can lead to increased creativity, imagination and daydreaming.  Above all else we need to get better at being comfortable with being bored and teaching our kids to be more comfortable with being bored.  Resources: Atlas of the Heart Book Club: https://www.meghanthomas.com/atlas-of-the-heart Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown: https://amzn.to/3SiT14U Atomic Habits by James Clear:  https://amzn.to/3Z3PQk4 To All the Magic in Me by Pavita Singh: https://amzn.to/3XNL8pj On Purpose Podcast with Jay Shetty: https://open.spotify.com/show/5EqqB52m2bsr4k1Ii7sStc?si=3fb2ce156d204571 Hidden Brain Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/20Gf4IAauFrfj7RBkjcWxh?si=3fd12e34b4374f20 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you feel when you step foot inside your home? Connecting spaces in our home with an emotion we want to feel is the expertise of our guest today.  Today we’re joined by Paula Agudelo. Paula is the owner of Sacred Interiors, an Interior design firm that specializes in creating home spaces that are both beautiful and nourishing for the soul. She weaves together her passion for design and spirituality to create truly transformative spaces. She has a passion for helping women create intentional homes that support a meaningful and fulfilling lifestyle. In her work, she combines her background in interior design with her knowledge of holistic wellness and ancient wisdom to create truly sacred spaces.  “A lot of intentional décor is through symbolism and colors, and shapes, and anything that connects you to that energy of creation.” – Paula Agudelo  Paula and I talked a lot about intentionally arranging and designing your home, and these are three of these topics:  Giving space for grief and designating spaces in our homes where we can feel  Setting specific energy maps and emotions in our home and building altars for the things we hold important  Clearing emotions from spaces in your home is important, but we should also intentionally fill it with the energy we want to feel that space  Paula shares that you don’t need to spend anything to start improving your home. She suggests you “shop around your home” and find things that you can move around and repurpose. But it is more important to “quiet your home,” to declutter and remove the things that consume your attention and energy without necessarily providing value. This will allow for more space for you to intentionally put things that are more aligned with the home that you want to have.  “Your home is a reflection of you.” –Paula Agudelo  Everything in your home is calling for your attention. Each space has different functions. Each of us wants different things out of our home. Our homes are a reflection of our internal state, and we need to be intentional and purposeful in what we allow into our homes. Take a look around your house and see what little changes you can make.   Connect with Paula Agudelo  Book: The Path of Beauty: A Discovery of My Sacred Interior Website  Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn  YouTube  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices