The Universal Lens

John F Emilio and Henry Beltra

Join John F Emilio and Henry Beltra as we talk about life and your relationship with your mind. Listen in as we discuss how we experience anxiety, unwanted thoughts, all emotions and feelings and how we react and don’t respond to them. If your tired of being a prisoner to your mind then come along with us and take a look behind the veil of thought. John is a student of both therapeutic and spiritual modalities , learning Acceptance Commitment Therapy in a formal therapeutic setting and Spirituality from following teachers such as Eckhart Tolle, Ram Dass, Sadhguru and Thich Nhat Hanh . This path gave birth to his book The Universal Lens - A Journey to Transcend OCD, Anxiety and Mental Suffering. Henry brings a world of real life experience, knowledge and has himself been on the path for years . Henry has a passion for Mindfulness and is eager to help spread this awareness. read less
Health & FitnessHealth & Fitness

Episodes

Episode 71 - " Get out" of your mind and into your life
Yesterday
Episode 71 - " Get out" of your mind and into your life
In this conversation John Henry and Anthony discuss the concept of separating oneself from intrusive thoughts and how to deal with anxiety. They explore different techniques used in mainstream life , such as telling oneself to get the thought out of their head and masking it with an activity and John explains how that technique can be a trap in becoming an escape and compulsion . They also discuss the idea of accepting thoughts and allowing them to peacefully drift away. The hosts emphasize the importance of being aware of one's need to identify as the ego needs an opposite or other side in order to achieve that identification.  They also touch on the topic of listening to different perspectives and not attaching oneself to the emotions that arise. The conversation explores the concept of internal and external dialogue and how it affects our reactions and relationships. It delves into the idea of choosing how we react to situations and not letting them consume us. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of being mindful of our thoughts and choosing how we engage with them. The conversation explores the themes of personal transformation, growth, and mindfulness. The speakers discuss the changes they have observed in themselves and others, particularly in relation to emotions and reactions.  Overall, the speakers highlight the value of mindfulness and self-awareness in navigating life's challenges and building a more peaceful and fulfilling existence.
Episode 61 - Who are you and whats your story ?
Feb 4 2024
Episode 61 - Who are you and whats your story ?
Today we discuss the power of downplaying and how it shapes our perception of ourselves. We explore the influence of childhood conditioning and the stories we tell ourselves. We emphasize the importance of choosing who we want to be and reframing our stories. We also discuss the challenges of accepting praise and gratitude, and the need to embrace success and gratitude fully. The conversation highlights the journey of self-awareness and the power of believing in our desired story. John discusses the importance of accepting accomplishments and gratitude. He emphasizes that by fully accepting and acknowledging our achievements, we open ourselves up to receiving more from the universe. John also explores the role of positive thinking in success and highlights the need to balance success with humility. He encourages listeners to accept compliments and acknowledgments graciously, without downplaying their accomplishments. We emphasize the power of feeling gratitude for our achievements and the importance of taking small steps towards our goals. We also discusses how our skills and experiences can multiply our impact and presence in the world. The conversation concludes with a grounding meditation.   Takeaways Our perception of ourselves is often shaped by downplaying our accomplishments and abilities.Childhood conditioning and the stories we tell ourselves can limit our self-perception.We have the power to choose who we want to be and reframe our stories.Accepting praise and gratitude fully is important for personal growth and success.Believing in our desired story and embracing gratitude can lead to a more fulfilling life.
Episode 60 - How thoughts limit us from being our true self
Jan 23 2024
Episode 60 - How thoughts limit us from being our true self
Today we discuss the power of choice and the importance of not attaching to thoughts. They explore the concept of limiting beliefs and how to overcome mental blocks that keep you from living your valued meaningful life . They emphasize the significance of taking the first step and not getting overwhelmed by daunting thoughts. They also also delve into the practice of grounding oneself and bringing attention to the present moment. They discuss the benefits of interrupting not repressing or pushing away unwanted thoughts and choosing to reengage with meaningful activities. We discuss how a thought or feeling  can keep you from living a valued life if we fuse and attach to them. The thought is not the enemy , it is just a thought. The conversation explores the connection between physical and mental well-being, emphasizing the importance of thoughts in influencing physical sensations. We delve into the concept of forgetting the humanity in mindfulness and the need for reminders to stay present.  The conversation highlights the timelessness of mindfulness and awareness and the shift towards mindfulness in modern society. It also touches on the validation of mindfulness in science and its spread in industrialized countries.    Takeaways Choose to do what you value and find meaningful, regardless of anxious thoughts or limiting beliefs.Interrupt unwanted thoughts by bringing attention to the present moment and focusing on the task at hand.Detach from thoughts and observe them without judgment or attachment.Practice mindfulness to ground yourself and bring awareness to the present moment.There is no good or bad meditation, only observation of the mind's activity.
Episode 59 - Living a valued life in the face of (insert your issue)
Jan 17 2024
Episode 59 - Living a valued life in the face of (insert your issue)
Today John and Henry discuss the importance of acceptance and living a valued life. They explore the concept of choosing to engage with beneficial thoughts and the power of reframing language. They emphasize the need for emotional awareness and the willingness to be uncomfortable in order to navigate through life's challenges. The conversation also touches on the role of mindfulness education and the urge to help and share knowledge. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of choosing how to live in the face of suffering and the power of shifting focus and vocabulary.  John discusses the human side of experts and the trap of perfection. He highlights the benefits of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in understanding and relating to our thoughts. John emphasizes the importance of accepting thoughts rather than trying to get rid of them. He also explores the concept of the mind's delete button and the acceptance that thoughts cannot be erased.    Takeaways Acceptance is about being okay with whatever is happening in your life at the moment and making value choices to live your life how you want to.Choosing to engage with beneficial thoughts and focusing on a valued life can help navigate through anxiety and challenges.Reframing language and self-programming can help shift focus and choose how to experience life.Emotional awareness and the willingness to be uncomfortable are key in living a valued life.Mindfulness education should be taught from an early age to help individuals navigate through life's challenges. Experts are human beings and experience the same struggles and imperfections as everyone else.Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a valuable tool for understanding and relating to our thoughts.Rather than trying to get rid of thoughts, it is more helpful to accept them and focus on engaging in activities that align with our values.There is no delete button for thoughts, and accepting their presence is key to navigating through them.
Episode 58 Stop Expecting start Accepting
Jan 10 2024
Episode 58 Stop Expecting start Accepting
Today John and Henry discuss the importance of mindfulness and consciousness in daily life. They emphasize the need to remember the humanity part of mindfulness and accept the human experiences and emotions that come with it. They highlight the fact that even spiritual teachers and gurus experience the human condition and have their own struggles. The conversation also touches on the power of acceptance and the difference between accepting and expecting. They discuss the parallels between religion and mindfulness, and the connection to something greater. They discuss the importance of disconnecting from the noise and finding ways to unplug from the constant stream of information and distractions. They emphasize the need to adapt to life's challenges and accept the things that cannot be changed or left behind. Acceptance is presented as a path to freedom, allowing individuals to find peace and navigate through negative situations. They also highlight the power of turning negative experiences into positive opportunities for growth. The conversation concludes with practical tips for reprogramming the subconscious and a brief meditation session.   Takeaways Mindfulness and consciousness are essential in navigating daily life.It is important to remember the humanity part of mindfulness and accept the human experiences and emotions that come with it.Even spiritual teachers and gurus experience the human condition and have their own struggles.Acceptance is different from expecting; accepting without expecting leads to greater peace.There are parallels between religion and mindfulness, and a connection to something greater. Disconnecting from the noise and distractions of everyday life is essential for mental well-being.Acceptance is a powerful tool for finding peace and freedom in challenging situations.Turning negative experiences into positive opportunities can lead to personal growth and fulfillment.Reprogramming the subconscious through positive influences can have a profound impact on one's mindset and outlook on life.
Episode 57 - NEW YEAR SAME AWARENESS
Jan 2 2024
Episode 57 - NEW YEAR SAME AWARENESS
The conversation explores the importance of living life now, regardless of circumstances. It emphasizes the practice of expressing gratitude. We discuss the challenges of overcoming anxiety and apprehension, as well as the benefits of living with inner peace. We also reflect on the role of identity and labels in shaping our experiences. The conversation highlights the need to not take life too seriously and to engage in life now, rather than waiting for certain circumstances to be in place. Overall, the conversation encourages a mindful and conscious approach to living. They explore the correlation between thoughts and life, highlighting the impact of positive thinking and gratitude. The conversation also touches on breaking the cycle of negativity, identifying with negative experiences, and the power of taking action now. They conclude by encouraging listeners to embrace positivity in the new year and practice shifting their focus.   Takeaways Expressing gratitude and saying something nice about others can create a positive and loving atmosphere.Living with inner peace is possible even when thoughts and emotions are present.Engaging in life now, regardless of circumstances, leads to a more fulfilling and joyful experience.Not taking life too seriously allows for greater flexibility and enjoyment. Focus on getting what you need rather than what you want.Visualize a better future and start living as if it has already happened.There is a correlation between thoughts, mindset, and the quality of life.Practicing positivity and gratitude can improve all aspects of life.Break the cycle of negativity and avoid identifying with negative experiences.Take action now and don't wait for the perfect conditions.Find what resonates with you in terms of personal growth and mindset practices.Embrace positivity and practice shifting your focus to what you want.
Episode 55 - The Deeper meaning when we live by our Values
Dec 17 2023
Episode 55 - The Deeper meaning when we live by our Values
On todays Episode we discuss the deeper meaning of the holiday season and the importance of values and awareness in enjoying the season. They reflect on their own experiences with Christmas and how their perspectives have evolved over time. They emphasize the need to look past the superficial and connect with others on a deeper level and the importance of mindfulness in navigating the challenges of modern life.  They emphasize the importance of living in the present moment and not getting stuck in the past  encouraging listeners to observe life without attachment and to allow experiences to run their course. John shares a personal story about honoring a loved one during the holidays and suggests valuing and enjoying the holiday season based on personal values.  Points of interest in todays episode: •The holiday season can be enjoyed on a deeper level by appreciating traditions, family, and the values it represents. •Attachment to superficial aspects of relationships, such as physical appearance, can lead to dissatisfaction and divorce. •Awareness and mindfulness are key in maintaining meaningful connections and appreciating the present moment. •Values serve as a compass in navigating relationships and life, allowing for a deeper connection and understanding. Live in the present moment and appreciate the now. •Avoid getting stuck in the past and hoping it will be the way it was. •Choose how you want to experience life based on your values.