In the fast-paced world we live in, where stress and anxiety often seem to lurk around every corner, it's essential to find ways to prioritize and nurture our mental health.
Recently, I embarked on a new journey to explore the vast and vital landscape of mental health through my podcast series, "Cultivate Calmness". Available on SoundCloud, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify, this podcast is dedicated to diving deep into various mental health-related topics, providing insights, guidance, and a source of solace for anyone seeking support in their mental health journey.
As I launch this podcast, I couldn't be more excited to share my passion for mental health and well-being with all of you. "Cultivate Calmness" is more than just a podcast; it's a platform where we can come together to explore the complexities of the human mind and emotions, with a focus on understanding, healing, and growth.
One of the aspects that truly sets "Cultivate Calmness" apart is the incredible lineup of guests who will be joining me in future episodes. These experts and individuals have unique perspectives and experiences to share, enriching our discussions and offering diverse insights into the multifaceted world of mental health. I am genuinely thrilled about the upcoming conversations and learning opportunities that await us.
Before we dive into what's ahead, let's take a moment to reflect on the first five episodes of "Cultivate Calmness." Each of these episodes has been a journey in itself, and they have set the tone for the podcast's mission to promote understanding and compassion in the realm of mental health.
Episode #1 - Honoring National Grief Awareness Day: Kaela Rae Vance's Reflections
In this emotionally charged episode, Kaela Rae Vance, a Holistic Clinical Counselor from Central Ohio, beautifully explores the intricate landscape of grief in commemoration of National Grief Awareness Day. What makes this episode truly special is Kaela's candid sharing of her own childhood grief story, interwoven with her professional expertise. It serves as a compassionate resource for anyone seeking guidance or looking to support others in their grief journey, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and navigating grief.
Episode #2 - Grief Unpacked: Navigating the Ups and Downs
Kaela Rae Vance returns in the second episode, where she delves even deeper into the world of grief. Her expertise in advanced counseling and trauma shines through as she provides valuable insights on handling various types of grief. This episode is like a friendly guide for anyone in need of advice or those wanting to support someone through their grief journey. It's all about understanding and navigating the rollercoaster of emotions that come with grief.
Episode #3 - The Five Stages: Beyond Kubler Ross's Framework
In this episode, we challenge the traditional five stages of grief, illustrating that they are not linear but rather a complex web of emotions. We explore how grief continues to evolve long after the first year, using the analogy of a bookshelf to depict its ever-changing nature. Special attention is given to how children perceive loss, emphasizing that understanding of grief changes as they mature. This episode highlights the enduring and ever-evolving nature of grief.
Episode #4 - Anger Unveiled: From Frustration to Outburst
In this insightful episode, we unravel the multifaceted nature of anger, viewing it as a secondary emotion stemming from underlying feelings and needs. Visual aids like the pyramid and bell curve are used to portray the progression and complexity of anger, emphasizing the importance of addressing it at the right moment. We introduce tools like "dammit dolls" and explore research that highlights the effectiveness of introspection in reducing anger. This episode underscores the significance of recognizing and addressing the root causes of anger.
Episode #5 - Holistic Therapy: A Holistic Path to Mental Health
In this enlightening episode, we focus on holistic mental health, exploring the intricate connection between the mind and body through holistic approaches. As a trauma therapist, we emphasize that mental health extends beyond just the brain and emotions; it encompasses how the physical body stores emotions and memories. Holistic mental health considers all aspects of life, including work, family, relationships, diet, exercise, spirituality, medication, sleep, support systems, and more. The goal is to uncover the root causes of mental health challenges and address physical health and hormones, exploring complementary therapies like chiropractic care, massage, acupuncture, and tailored exercise. Holistic mental health aims to empower individuals to cope better, improve overall health, and understand that healing encompasses both mental and physical aspects.
These initial episodes have laid the foundation for what promises to be an incredible journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth on "Cultivate Calmness." I'm thrilled to have you along for the ride as we continue to explore diverse mental health topics, share stories, and learn from experts and individuals who are passionate about nurturing their mental well-being.
So, stay tuned, subscribe, and join me on this exciting adventure towards cultivating calmness in our lives and understanding the beautiful complexities of our minds. Together, we'll create a supportive community dedicated to mental health and well-being!