#stressreduction — Public Fediverse posts
Live and recent posts from across the Fediverse tagged #stressreduction, aggregated by home.social.
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DATE: July 28, 2026 at 06:00AM
SOURCE: PSYPOST.ORG** Research quality varies widely from fantastic to small exploratory studies. Please check research methods when conclusions are very important to you. **
-------------------------------------------------TITLE: A single dose of LSD may boosts the brain’s ability to consolidate new physical skills
A recent study published in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology provides evidence that a single dose of the psychedelic drug LSD can improve motor learning the next day and reduce perceived stress up to a week later. The research also reveals subtle, lingering changes in how the brain processes auditory information and controls muscle movements. These findings suggest that LSD may temporarily enhance certain types of learning and psychological flexibility, opening the door for potential therapeutic applications in physical rehabilitation.
Lysergic acid diethylamide, commonly known as LSD, is a powerful psychedelic compound known for altering perception and mood. In recent years, this substance has emerged as a potential treatment for mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. Traditional psychiatric treatments often require daily medication, making a single-dose treatment highly appealing. A single dose of a psychedelic tends to produce therapeutic effects that can persist for months.
This extended timeline suggests that the drug might induce lasting physical or functional changes in the brain. Animal models indicate that LSD and similar drugs might trigger these changes by promoting neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to reorganize its neural networks and grow new connections.
Preclinical studies hint that psychedelics might create a temporary window where learning becomes much more efficient. This window of enhanced learning could apply to simple conditioning as well as complex social behaviors. However, evidence regarding these lingering effects in humans remains scarce. Past research has mostly focused on the immediate experience of the drug rather than what happens in the days following the trip.
Abigail Calder, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Fribourg in Switzerland, noticed this disparity in the scientific literature. “We knew of the theory that psychedelics stimulate neuroplasticity, and neuroplasticity is closely connected to learning,” Calder said.
“As we planned the study there was beginning to be a lot of research on psychedelics and neuroplasticity, but there was almost nothing on learning,” Calder explained. “It seemed like time to begin filling in that gap.”
The authors of the current paper designed an experiment to track human brain activity and behavior after the initial effects of LSD faded. They specifically wanted to investigate motor learning, which involves the brain’s ability to pick up and consolidate new physical skills. Motor learning holds significant clinical relevance for physical rehabilitation and recovering from brain injuries.
By measuring sensory processing, motor system excitability, and psychological functioning, the team aimed to map out how a single dose of LSD influences the nervous system over a one-week period. The experiment involved a randomized, double-blind crossover trial with 45 healthy participants. The volunteers were aged between 21 and 55, and data from 43 participants were analyzed.
Each person attended two separate dosing sessions at least four weeks apart. In one session, they received a full 100-microgram dose of LSD, and in the other, they received an inactive placebo. Participants were told the placebo might be a very low dose of LSD to help manage their expectations.
During the sessions, the scientific team used electroencephalography, widely known as EEG, to record electrical brain activity. Through electrodes placed on the scalp, they measured how the brain responded to a series of auditory tones. They specifically focused on two types of brain waves, known as the N1 and P2 components.
The N1 wave reflects early sensory processing, while the P2 wave tends to track attentional focus and novelty detection. The researchers also attempted to measure brain plasticity using a technique called sensory tetanization. This method involves playing very rapid tones to see if the brain’s electrical response strengthens over time.
In addition to brain waves, the team applied transcranial magnetic stimulation to measure the excitability of the brain’s motor system. This technique uses a magnetic coil placed against the head to send safe, brief pulses into the motor cortex. To test for neuroplasticity, they paired these magnetic pulses with a mild, painless electrical shock to a nerve in the participant’s wrist.
These paired pulses cause a measurable muscle twitch in the participant’s right thumb. The scientists recorded the size and speed of these twitches to gauge how responsive the motor system was under the drug’s influence. They repeated this process across several time points to track changes in muscle responsiveness over a full week.
To check for chemical markers of brain growth, the team took blood samples to measure brain-derived neurotrophic factor. This specific protein helps support the survival of existing neurons and encourages the growth of new synapses. Blood was drawn before drug intake, as well as eight hours, one day, and one week later.
The researchers checked both blood plasma and blood serum to ensure they did not miss any subtle chemical changes circulating in the body. One day after taking the drug, participants completed a sequence typing task to test their motor learning. They used their non-dominant hand to type a nine-digit number sequence on a keyboard as quickly and accurately as possible.
The task measured “online” learning during ten active practice rounds. It also measured “offline” learning, which refers to the brain’s ability to consolidate and improve a skill after a period of rest. The participants rested for ten minutes and then for eighty minutes before being tested again. Finally, participants completed psychological questionnaires to assess their perceived stress levels and cognitive flexibility one week after the initial dosing session.
The scientists found that LSD produced measurable changes in both behavior and brain activity. On the motor learning task, participants showed significantly greater improvements in typing speed one day after taking LSD compared to the placebo condition.
“We saw that a single, moderately strong dose of LSD (100 micrograms) improved motor learning the next day, on a typing task,” Calder told PsyPost. “LSD was associated with improved learning consolidation, which is the phase of learning that takes place during rest after practicing a motor skill.”
This improvement specifically occurred during the “offline” resting period rather than during the active practice rounds. Participants improved their typing speed by roughly 33 percent more after the eighty-minute rest period when they had taken LSD. The drug did not affect their typing accuracy, indicating that they were not simply sacrificing precision for speed. “This suggests that psychedelics like LSD might temporarily (though quite modestly!) improve the ability to learn new motor movements,” Calder noted.
The EEG recordings showed that LSD acutely reduced the size of the N1 and P2 brain waves on the day the drug was given. This reduction suggests a temporary disruption in early auditory processing and a shift in how the brain allocates attention to external sounds. The reduction in the P2 brain wave persisted the next day and showed signs of lingering up to one week later.
However, the rapid-tone sensory tetanization procedure failed to produce the expected signs of brain plasticity in either group. Magnetic stimulation of the motor cortex revealed that brain-to-muscle signals became faster and larger on the day participants took LSD. The next day, the size of these muscle responses decreased compared to the placebo condition.
Calder found these immediate physical reactions particularly intriguing. “While people were on LSD (about 8 hours after dosing), we saw larger, faster muscle movements in response to TMS stimulation of the motor cortex,” Calder said.
“It especially surprised me that their movements were any faster than usual,” Calder added. “We still don’t know why that was, or even if it’s useful knowledge. But it was a novel finding.”
The blood tests did not show any changes in brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels at any point during the study. This lack of change might occur because blood levels of this protein do not always accurately reflect protein levels inside the brain. On the psychological questionnaires, participants reported lower levels of perceived stress one week after the LSD session.
They also scored higher on a subscale measuring their ability to generate alternative solutions to difficult situations, which represents a key component of cognitive flexibility. During the active drug experience, side effects were common but generally mild and transient, matching typical psychedelic experiences.
Interpreting these findings requires noting a few constraints in the experimental design. The researchers intended to use rapid audio tones and magnetic pulses to directly measure long-term changes in neural plasticity. These specific measurement techniques failed to produce the expected baseline effects even when participants took the placebo.
This lack of baseline response made it impossible to confirm if the motor learning improvements were definitively driven by enhanced neuroplasticity. The motor learning gains observed the day after taking LSD might be explained by lingering effects on motivation or attention. If participants felt more engaged or aroused the day after their psychedelic experience, they might have simply performed better on the typing task.
“We aren’t sure how reliable the effect on motor learning is, how long it lasts, or under what exact circumstances it arises,” Calder cautioned. “We also don’t know if it generalizes to other types of learning, and we actually can’t even say whether it’s directly related to neuroplasticity.”
To prevent people from jumping to incorrect conclusions, Calder provided a practical warning about these early results. “So hold off on taking LSD before trying to study or start skiing lessons,” Calder said.
The scientists also noted that LSD often causes mild muscle tension or shaking during the peak drug experience. Because they did not measure resting muscle tension before applying the magnetic brain pulses, they cannot be sure if the faster muscle twitches were due to changes in the brain or simply tense muscles in the hand. Additionally, participants correctly guessed when they received the full dose of LSD due to its strong psychoactive effects.
This lack of successful blinding means that participants’ positive expectations about psychedelics could have influenced their lower stress scores. Future research projects will need to address these variables by including objective, task-based measurements of stress and motivation. Tracking participants over a longer period would also clarify if the improvements in motor learning and psychological flexibility persist over time.
“First and foremost, it’s important to replicate these findings in other samples to make sure they’re reliable,” Calder said regarding future studies. “I’m also excited to investigate whether LSD’s alleged effect on motor learning generalizes to other types of learning (like learning new emotional patterns in psychotherapy), how long learning effects last (days? weeks?), and whether other psychedelics also stimulate learning ability.”
Calder also emphasized a broader need within this scientific field to improve methodology. “We also need to get better at reliably and non-invasively measuring neuroplasticity in humans,” Calder said.
The study, “Acute and post-acute neurobehavioral responses to lysergic acid diethylamide in healthy subjects: a randomized controlled study,” was authored by Abigail E. Calder, Vincent J. Diehl, Morten P. Lietz, Parsa Yousefi, Nicole Friedli, Fabio Coviello, Antonin Rouaud, Kristian Beichmann, Anne Eckert, and Gregor Hasler.
-------------------------------------------------
Private, vetted email list for mental health professionals: https://www.clinicians-exchange.org
Unofficial Psychology Today Xitter to toot feed at Psych Today Unofficial Bot @PTUnofficialBot
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#psychology #counseling #socialwork #psychotherapy @psychotherapist @psychotherapists @psychology @socialpsych @socialwork @psychiatry #mentalhealth #psychiatry #healthcare #depression #psychotherapist #LSDlearning #Neuroplasticity #MotorLearning #PsychedelicsTherapy #CognitiveFlexibility #StressReduction #Neuropsychopharmacology #LearningConsolidation #BrainStimulation #RehabilitationResearch
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DATE: July 28, 2026 at 06:00AM
SOURCE: PSYPOST.ORG** Research quality varies widely from fantastic to small exploratory studies. Please check research methods when conclusions are very important to you. **
-------------------------------------------------TITLE: A single dose of LSD may boosts the brain’s ability to consolidate new physical skills
A recent study published in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology provides evidence that a single dose of the psychedelic drug LSD can improve motor learning the next day and reduce perceived stress up to a week later. The research also reveals subtle, lingering changes in how the brain processes auditory information and controls muscle movements. These findings suggest that LSD may temporarily enhance certain types of learning and psychological flexibility, opening the door for potential therapeutic applications in physical rehabilitation.
Lysergic acid diethylamide, commonly known as LSD, is a powerful psychedelic compound known for altering perception and mood. In recent years, this substance has emerged as a potential treatment for mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. Traditional psychiatric treatments often require daily medication, making a single-dose treatment highly appealing. A single dose of a psychedelic tends to produce therapeutic effects that can persist for months.
This extended timeline suggests that the drug might induce lasting physical or functional changes in the brain. Animal models indicate that LSD and similar drugs might trigger these changes by promoting neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to reorganize its neural networks and grow new connections.
Preclinical studies hint that psychedelics might create a temporary window where learning becomes much more efficient. This window of enhanced learning could apply to simple conditioning as well as complex social behaviors. However, evidence regarding these lingering effects in humans remains scarce. Past research has mostly focused on the immediate experience of the drug rather than what happens in the days following the trip.
Abigail Calder, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Fribourg in Switzerland, noticed this disparity in the scientific literature. “We knew of the theory that psychedelics stimulate neuroplasticity, and neuroplasticity is closely connected to learning,” Calder said.
“As we planned the study there was beginning to be a lot of research on psychedelics and neuroplasticity, but there was almost nothing on learning,” Calder explained. “It seemed like time to begin filling in that gap.”
The authors of the current paper designed an experiment to track human brain activity and behavior after the initial effects of LSD faded. They specifically wanted to investigate motor learning, which involves the brain’s ability to pick up and consolidate new physical skills. Motor learning holds significant clinical relevance for physical rehabilitation and recovering from brain injuries.
By measuring sensory processing, motor system excitability, and psychological functioning, the team aimed to map out how a single dose of LSD influences the nervous system over a one-week period. The experiment involved a randomized, double-blind crossover trial with 45 healthy participants. The volunteers were aged between 21 and 55, and data from 43 participants were analyzed.
Each person attended two separate dosing sessions at least four weeks apart. In one session, they received a full 100-microgram dose of LSD, and in the other, they received an inactive placebo. Participants were told the placebo might be a very low dose of LSD to help manage their expectations.
During the sessions, the scientific team used electroencephalography, widely known as EEG, to record electrical brain activity. Through electrodes placed on the scalp, they measured how the brain responded to a series of auditory tones. They specifically focused on two types of brain waves, known as the N1 and P2 components.
The N1 wave reflects early sensory processing, while the P2 wave tends to track attentional focus and novelty detection. The researchers also attempted to measure brain plasticity using a technique called sensory tetanization. This method involves playing very rapid tones to see if the brain’s electrical response strengthens over time.
In addition to brain waves, the team applied transcranial magnetic stimulation to measure the excitability of the brain’s motor system. This technique uses a magnetic coil placed against the head to send safe, brief pulses into the motor cortex. To test for neuroplasticity, they paired these magnetic pulses with a mild, painless electrical shock to a nerve in the participant’s wrist.
These paired pulses cause a measurable muscle twitch in the participant’s right thumb. The scientists recorded the size and speed of these twitches to gauge how responsive the motor system was under the drug’s influence. They repeated this process across several time points to track changes in muscle responsiveness over a full week.
To check for chemical markers of brain growth, the team took blood samples to measure brain-derived neurotrophic factor. This specific protein helps support the survival of existing neurons and encourages the growth of new synapses. Blood was drawn before drug intake, as well as eight hours, one day, and one week later.
The researchers checked both blood plasma and blood serum to ensure they did not miss any subtle chemical changes circulating in the body. One day after taking the drug, participants completed a sequence typing task to test their motor learning. They used their non-dominant hand to type a nine-digit number sequence on a keyboard as quickly and accurately as possible.
The task measured “online” learning during ten active practice rounds. It also measured “offline” learning, which refers to the brain’s ability to consolidate and improve a skill after a period of rest. The participants rested for ten minutes and then for eighty minutes before being tested again. Finally, participants completed psychological questionnaires to assess their perceived stress levels and cognitive flexibility one week after the initial dosing session.
The scientists found that LSD produced measurable changes in both behavior and brain activity. On the motor learning task, participants showed significantly greater improvements in typing speed one day after taking LSD compared to the placebo condition.
“We saw that a single, moderately strong dose of LSD (100 micrograms) improved motor learning the next day, on a typing task,” Calder told PsyPost. “LSD was associated with improved learning consolidation, which is the phase of learning that takes place during rest after practicing a motor skill.”
This improvement specifically occurred during the “offline” resting period rather than during the active practice rounds. Participants improved their typing speed by roughly 33 percent more after the eighty-minute rest period when they had taken LSD. The drug did not affect their typing accuracy, indicating that they were not simply sacrificing precision for speed. “This suggests that psychedelics like LSD might temporarily (though quite modestly!) improve the ability to learn new motor movements,” Calder noted.
The EEG recordings showed that LSD acutely reduced the size of the N1 and P2 brain waves on the day the drug was given. This reduction suggests a temporary disruption in early auditory processing and a shift in how the brain allocates attention to external sounds. The reduction in the P2 brain wave persisted the next day and showed signs of lingering up to one week later.
However, the rapid-tone sensory tetanization procedure failed to produce the expected signs of brain plasticity in either group. Magnetic stimulation of the motor cortex revealed that brain-to-muscle signals became faster and larger on the day participants took LSD. The next day, the size of these muscle responses decreased compared to the placebo condition.
Calder found these immediate physical reactions particularly intriguing. “While people were on LSD (about 8 hours after dosing), we saw larger, faster muscle movements in response to TMS stimulation of the motor cortex,” Calder said.
“It especially surprised me that their movements were any faster than usual,” Calder added. “We still don’t know why that was, or even if it’s useful knowledge. But it was a novel finding.”
The blood tests did not show any changes in brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels at any point during the study. This lack of change might occur because blood levels of this protein do not always accurately reflect protein levels inside the brain. On the psychological questionnaires, participants reported lower levels of perceived stress one week after the LSD session.
They also scored higher on a subscale measuring their ability to generate alternative solutions to difficult situations, which represents a key component of cognitive flexibility. During the active drug experience, side effects were common but generally mild and transient, matching typical psychedelic experiences.
Interpreting these findings requires noting a few constraints in the experimental design. The researchers intended to use rapid audio tones and magnetic pulses to directly measure long-term changes in neural plasticity. These specific measurement techniques failed to produce the expected baseline effects even when participants took the placebo.
This lack of baseline response made it impossible to confirm if the motor learning improvements were definitively driven by enhanced neuroplasticity. The motor learning gains observed the day after taking LSD might be explained by lingering effects on motivation or attention. If participants felt more engaged or aroused the day after their psychedelic experience, they might have simply performed better on the typing task.
“We aren’t sure how reliable the effect on motor learning is, how long it lasts, or under what exact circumstances it arises,” Calder cautioned. “We also don’t know if it generalizes to other types of learning, and we actually can’t even say whether it’s directly related to neuroplasticity.”
To prevent people from jumping to incorrect conclusions, Calder provided a practical warning about these early results. “So hold off on taking LSD before trying to study or start skiing lessons,” Calder said.
The scientists also noted that LSD often causes mild muscle tension or shaking during the peak drug experience. Because they did not measure resting muscle tension before applying the magnetic brain pulses, they cannot be sure if the faster muscle twitches were due to changes in the brain or simply tense muscles in the hand. Additionally, participants correctly guessed when they received the full dose of LSD due to its strong psychoactive effects.
This lack of successful blinding means that participants’ positive expectations about psychedelics could have influenced their lower stress scores. Future research projects will need to address these variables by including objective, task-based measurements of stress and motivation. Tracking participants over a longer period would also clarify if the improvements in motor learning and psychological flexibility persist over time.
“First and foremost, it’s important to replicate these findings in other samples to make sure they’re reliable,” Calder said regarding future studies. “I’m also excited to investigate whether LSD’s alleged effect on motor learning generalizes to other types of learning (like learning new emotional patterns in psychotherapy), how long learning effects last (days? weeks?), and whether other psychedelics also stimulate learning ability.”
Calder also emphasized a broader need within this scientific field to improve methodology. “We also need to get better at reliably and non-invasively measuring neuroplasticity in humans,” Calder said.
The study, “Acute and post-acute neurobehavioral responses to lysergic acid diethylamide in healthy subjects: a randomized controlled study,” was authored by Abigail E. Calder, Vincent J. Diehl, Morten P. Lietz, Parsa Yousefi, Nicole Friedli, Fabio Coviello, Antonin Rouaud, Kristian Beichmann, Anne Eckert, and Gregor Hasler.
-------------------------------------------------
Private, vetted email list for mental health professionals: https://www.clinicians-exchange.org
Unofficial Psychology Today Xitter to toot feed at Psych Today Unofficial Bot @PTUnofficialBot
-------------------------------------------------
#psychology #counseling #socialwork #psychotherapy @psychotherapist @psychotherapists @psychology @socialpsych @socialwork @psychiatry #mentalhealth #psychiatry #healthcare #depression #psychotherapist #LSDlearning #Neuroplasticity #MotorLearning #PsychedelicsTherapy #CognitiveFlexibility #StressReduction #Neuropsychopharmacology #LearningConsolidation #BrainStimulation #RehabilitationResearch
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"People who regularly read #books may live longer than those who don’t" - time to get your #reading on!
Can Reading Really Help You Live Longer? Here's What Experts Say
https://www.verywellmind.com/can-reading-help-you-live-longer-11975116#mentalhealth #stressreduction #cognitivereserve #escapism #libraries #socializing
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"People who regularly read #books may live longer than those who don’t" - time to get your #reading on!
Can Reading Really Help You Live Longer? Here's What Experts Say
https://www.verywellmind.com/can-reading-help-you-live-longer-11975116#mentalhealth #stressreduction #cognitivereserve #escapism #libraries #socializing
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Not enough time and too much stress? This 3-minute breath practice is for you. Learn and practice S breath. This brief but effective pranayama (breath) practice will leave you feeling chill. No special skills or equipment required!
Press play when you’re ready to feel calm and relaxed.
#ThreeMinuteChill #Yoga #SelfCare #Pranayama #Breath #BreathPractice #Breathe #Calm #Stress #StressReduction #Relax #Chill
https://thunderhoneysnowstudio.ca/video/3-minute-chill-s-breath/
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Not enough time and too much stress? This 3-minute breath practice is for you. Learn and practice S breath. This brief but effective pranayama (breath) practice will leave you feeling chill. No special skills or equipment required!
Press play when you’re ready to feel calm and relaxed.
#ThreeMinuteChill #Yoga #SelfCare #Pranayama #Breath #BreathPractice #Breathe #Calm #Stress #StressReduction #Relax #Chill
https://thunderhoneysnowstudio.ca/video/3-minute-chill-s-breath/
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And don't skip the jaw. If you're on back-to-back calls, that tension is probably sitting tight right there.
Under five minutes you've got clearer thinking, lower heart rate, and an actual mental reset between meetings. Way better than another coffee run.
#Biohacking #PeakPerformance #Optimization #Productivity #Focus #Efficiency #Wellness #StressReduction #Energy #MentalClarity (2/2)
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10 “Grandma Hobbies” That Ease Anxiety Symptoms – From Crocheting to Gardening https://www.allforgardening.com/1627866/10-grandma-hobbies-that-ease-anxiety-symptoms-from-crocheting-to-gardening/ #AnxietyRelief #CreativeTherapy #garden #gardening #GrandmaHobbies #MentalWellness #MindfulLiving #SlowLiving #StressReduction
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10 “Grandma Hobbies” That Ease Anxiety Symptoms – From Crocheting to Gardening https://www.allforgardening.com/1627866/10-grandma-hobbies-that-ease-anxiety-symptoms-from-crocheting-to-gardening/ #AnxietyRelief #CreativeTherapy #garden #gardening #GrandmaHobbies #MentalWellness #MindfulLiving #SlowLiving #StressReduction
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Sometimes I watch my thoughts like they are muted reruns of a favorite childhood TV show where I know the lines by heart.
Curious about meditation? 👉 https://lttr.ai/Anjne
#thoughtechoes #meditation #mindfulness #StressReduction #HighBloodPressure
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Not enough time and too much stress? This 3-minute breath practice is for you. Learn and practice S breath. This brief but effective pranayama (breath) practice will leave you feeling chill. No special skills or equipment required!
Press play when you’re ready to feel calm and relaxed.
#ThreeMinuteChill #Yoga #SelfCare #Pranayama #Breath #BreathPractice #Breathe #Calm #Stress #StressReduction #Relax #Chill
https://thunderhoneysnowstudio.ca/video/3-minute-chill-s-breath/
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Not enough time and too much stress? This 3-minute breath practice is for you. Learn and practice S breath. This brief but effective pranayama (breath) practice will leave you feeling chill. No special skills or equipment required!
Press play when you’re ready to feel calm and relaxed.
#ThreeMinuteChill #Yoga #SelfCare #Pranayama #Breath #BreathPractice #Breathe #Calm #Stress #StressReduction #Relax #Chill
https://thunderhoneysnowstudio.ca/video/3-minute-chill-s-breath/
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Dr. Alice Rizzi shares a few mindfulness practices specifically helpful for people who struggle with perfectionism, all-or-nothing thinking in this Thinkydoers episode.
Read more 👉 https://lttr.ai/Ahd0U
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Dr. Alice Rizzi shares a few mindfulness practices specifically helpful for people who struggle with perfectionism, all-or-nothing thinking in this Thinkydoers episode.
Read more 👉 https://lttr.ai/Ahd0U
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I used to think meditation meant eliminating thoughts. Turns out, my mind had other plans. Here’s how a more mindful approach helped me reconnect with myself — and how you can try it too. Read the full post 👇
https://www.originalmacguy.com/why-breath-only-meditation-failed-me-and-what-im-doing-now-pt-2/
#mindfulness #meditation #selfawareness #mentalhealth #mindfulbreathing #GilFronsdal #emotionalawareness #stressreduction #personalgrowth
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The Wisdom Of Just For Today
Most people familiar with Reiki have heard the principles of Reiki a time or two. Or you may have come across them at your local yoga studio as a gentle reminder to practice mindfulness. If you have not heard of the Reiki Principles, you are in for a treat, dear reader, as we explore the meaning and wisdom of each one.
Just for today, I will not worry.
Just for today, I will not be angry.
Just for today, I will do my work honestly.
Just for today, I will give thanks for my many blessings.
Just for today, I will be kind to my neighbor and every living thing.
Just for today, I will not worry.
Worry is the thief of time. When we worry, we are not living in the present moment and are allowing the future to invade our now-ness. The beauty of just for today, I will not worry, is that we are not saying we will never worry again- thus creating more anxiety. We focus on the present and what is currently in our control.
Let’s talk about anxiety briefly. Anxiety is a common emotion characterized by feelings of worry, fear, and unease. Everyone experiences anxiety to some degree at some point in their life, but for some people, anxiety can become overwhelming and interfere with their daily activities.
I suffered from social anxiety and general anxiety off and on for years. It was worse during my last year in college. At the time, I did not have adequate coping skills. I remember having a panic attack in the middle of a calculus exam- I wound up withdrawing from the class.
It was shortly after this I started looking into self-hypnosis and meditation to help with my anxiety. If someone had told me then, “Just for today, do not worry,” I would have told them where they could shove their pithy phrase!
It is difficult to extract oneself from emotional turmoil if there has not been practice while calm. Years of meditation practice have fostered a stillness within, a place of refuge available even amid anxiety.
Do I still worry from time to time- absolutely! However, my moments of worry no longer spiral outward, causing panic attacks or indecision. I can take a breath and ask myself some pertinent questions, such as:
Is there anything I can do about the situation in the moment?
Is worry going to affect the outcome or make things worse?
The answer to these questions is usually NO. So I focus on my breath, gently reminding myself I have no control over the outcome of most life situations.
Again, this hasn’t happened overnight- this is years of practice – there is no mastering, only continued practice.
Just for today, I will not be angry.
Anger is a natural and normal emotion that everyone experiences occasionally, often described as intense displeasure, frustration, or annoyance that arises in response to a perceived threat or injustice.
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comThe keyword is perceived. We tend to take situations personally, even when not meant to be. This can lead us down a path of frustration and anger, which can harm our well-being. By recognizing this tendency and approaching situations objectively and rationally, we can free ourselves from unnecessary negative emotions and find a more positive and fulfilling path forward.
Anger can range from mild irritation to intense rage and can be triggered by various internal or external factors. While some levels of anger are healthy and can even be productive, excessive or uncontrolled anger can harm us and others. Managing and expressing our anger healthily is essential to maintaining positive relationships and overall well-being.
For example, my morning commute can be the worst part of my day. Aggressive driving on the highway is dangerous and stressful, as I am routinely cut off by drivers who insist on weaving in and out of traffic at high speeds. Occasionally, when cut off, my anger is intense- I curse and yell, honk my horn, and sometimes stew about the other driver for the rest of my commute or longer, continually sending waves of anger throughout my entire body. Not healthy.
If I remember my Reiki principles during these experiences, I can extricate myself from the emotional turmoil. The other driver is not out to get me or anyone else- they are only concerned with themselves. And perhaps they are in a crisis. Maybe someone is sick and racing to get to a hospital. When I allow these thoughts to arise, I can have compassion for the other person and pray or send them healing energy on their journey.
This also helps my journey, as instead of waves of anger washing through every cell of my vessel, I am sending compassion because, just for today, I will not be angry.
Just for today, I will do my work honestly.
This principle occasionally needs clarification. It applies to professional work as well as to work done in personal or professional settings. Working honestly means not taking shortcuts and being truthful about one’s abilities.
In a professional setting, we strive for integrity in our work by paying attention to detail and deadlines and asking for help when necessary. It means putting our ego aside to accomplish what is best for the whole.
In our personal endeavors, working honestly can refer to taking care of family and friends responsibly and cultivating relationships supported by mutual trust.
Photo by fauxels on Pexels.comWith the current profusion of AI in industry, this principle takes center stage. We need to ask ourselves if we are responsibly using this technology. Using AI to write entire blog posts or essays without acknowledging AI is not ethical, in my opinion. This technology is a wonderful asset for constructing outlines, spawning ideas, or correcting grammar and spelling mistakes, as we have all used spellcheck for years. Yet, the temptation to use it as an “easy button” constantly exists.
By remembering the principle of just for today, I will do my work honestly; we can relieve ourselves of the temptation to take shortcuts, for there are lessons in making mistakes. The regular practice of our skills hones our unique, authentic voice, the true voice we should share with the world. The voice of AI lacks humanness. The compassion that a life resplendent of love and sorrow, pleasure and pain, and failure and triumph allows us to have a deep, honest connection with others, as it is in these emotions that we share common humanity.
Just for today, I will give thanks for my many blessings.
This seems simple enough, yet we forget how blessed we are in moments of sorrow or dealing with many hardships. However, even amid turmoil, we can shift our energy and perspective if we can find some small way to be grateful.
One way to shift your perspective is to reflect on the blessings in your life, no matter how big or small they may be. I have found it helpful for my mental health to appreciate the simple blessings of having good health, a place to live, and food to eat. If we have these things, we are luckier than a significant portion of the human population. However, we should avoid comparing ourselves to our friends and family, as it can lead to feelings of jealousy and dissatisfaction. If you find yourself on this path, ask yourself why it matters if others have more than you.
We must remind ourselves that everyone’s journey is unique, and comparing our blessings to others often leads to unnecessary stress on our mental well-being. Gratitude is a powerful tool that can help us navigate challenging times by acknowledging the positive aspects of our lives. It allows us to focus on what we do have rather than what we lack, fostering a sense of contentment and fulfillment. Embracing an attitude of gratitude can profoundly impact our overall outlook, promoting resilience and a more positive mindset.
Just for today, I will be kind to my neighbor and every living thing.
This seems simple enough, right? Yet we all, at some point, take out our frustrations on others who are not deserving of our ire. We need to remember that everyone is fighting their own battles, and a simple smile can profoundly affect someone’s day.
We must also be aware of our actions concerning the natural world of which we are an intrinsic part. Due to technology and our selfish trappings, we forget that we have no more right to a radiant life than any other part of existence. We exist in a web of life where every part matters or nothing does. We only realize our impact when we see news headlines regarding the garbage patch in the oceans or when wildlife encroaches on our dwellings because we selfishly take THEIR land and homes from them in the name of progress. Is it progress if we destroy our only home in the process?
Photo by Alex Andrews on Pexels.comThe interconnectedness of all life on Earth is a fundamental truth often overlooked in pursuing human development and progress. The advancement of technology has led to a disconnect between humanity and the natural world, fostering a sense of entitlement and detachment from our responsibilities as caretakers of the planet. It is crucial to acknowledge that our actions have far-reaching consequences, affecting our well-being and the delicate balance of the ecosystems that support all forms of life.
The timeless wisdom encapsulated in the Reiki principles gently reminds us of our interconnectedness with the universe and each other. Through daily mindfulness, compassion, honesty, gratitude, and kindness, we can cultivate a more harmonious and conscious way of being.
If you would like to immerse yourself in the wisdom of Just for Today, listen to a guided meditation designed to foster presence and acceptance.
https://open.spotify.com/episode/4AGlTZ0uy4qYDlCmR6WIjq?si=lQRMjXJPRcqfCCpPONbU7Q
Namaste.
#anxiety #awareness #balance #calm #calmAndCentered #healing #justForToday #meditation #mentalwellbeing #mindful #MindfulLiving #mindfulness #mindfulnesspractice #peacefulLife #practice #reiki #reikiMasterTeacher #reikiPrinciples #resilience #simplemeditationpractice #simplepratice #stressRelief #stressreduction
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Man's response to his girlfriend's hormonal breakdown taught 2.7 million people how to love again
https://web.brid.gy/r/https://www.upworthy.com/man-wins-with-crashout-response
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Aw, they love us!
What owning a #cat does to your #brain (and theirs) https://theconversation.com/what-owning-a-cat-does-to-your-brain-and-theirs-264396
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Aw, they love us!
What owning a #cat does to your #brain (and theirs) https://theconversation.com/what-owning-a-cat-does-to-your-brain-and-theirs-264396
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How can mindfulness help manage the overwhelming stress and anxiety of modern life?
Read more 👉 https://lttr.ai/Ahd0Q
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How can mindfulness help manage the overwhelming stress and anxiety of modern life?
Read more 👉 https://lttr.ai/Ahd0Q
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Humming Benefits: Not meditation, not exercise: The 5-minute habit that improves heart and brain health |
In the constant rush of life, everyone is searching for quick ways to stay healthy. Some find peace…
#NewsBeep #News #US #USA #UnitedStates #UnitedStatesOfAmerica #Fitness #brainhealth #Health #healthandwellness #HeartHealth #hummingbenefits #hummingdailypractice #improvecirculation #Mentalhealth #naturalhealthhabits #nitricoxide #stressreduction
https://www.newsbeep.com/us/100336/ -
3-minute chill S Breath
Not enough time and too much stress? This 3-minute breath practice is for you. Learn and practice S breath. This brief but effective pranayama (breath) practice will leave you feeling chill. No special skills or equipment required!
#ThreeMinuteChill #Yoga #SelfCare #Pranayama #Breath #BreathPractice #Breathe #Calm #Stress #StressReduction #Relax #Chill
https://thunderhoneysnowstudio.ca/video/3-minute-chill-s-breath/
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3-minute chill S Breath
Not enough time and too much stress? This 3-minute breath practice is for you. Learn and practice S breath. This brief but effective pranayama (breath) practice will leave you feeling chill. No special skills or equipment required!
#ThreeMinuteChill #Yoga #SelfCare #Pranayama #Breath #BreathPractice #Breathe #Calm #Stress #StressReduction #Relax #Chill
https://thunderhoneysnowstudio.ca/video/3-minute-chill-s-breath/
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Dr. Alice Rizzi shares a few mindfulness practices specifically helpful for people who struggle with perfectionism, all-or-nothing thinking in this Thinkydoers episode.
Read more 👉 https://lttr.ai/AfAC7
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Dr. Alice Rizzi shares a few mindfulness practices specifically helpful for people who struggle with perfectionism, all-or-nothing thinking in this Thinkydoers episode.
Read more 👉 https://lttr.ai/AfAC7
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Restoring Balance: The Future of Mental Health Treatments
#MentalWellness #BrainScience #Neurotransmitters #Mindfulness #EmotionalResilience #MentalHealthTips #Neuroplasticity #AnxietyRelief #DepressionHelp #MindfulnessTherapy #BrainHealth #StressReduction #InnovativeTreatments #SelfCare #MentalHealthMatters
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Discover how being present enhances productivity! We explore why rushing leads to mistakes. Embrace the moment, focus on current tasks. Forget future worries and past regrets. Be where we are! #Mindfulness #Productivity #PresentMoment #StressReduction #Focus #Wellbeing #SelfImprovement #TimeManagement #MentalHealth #InnerPeace
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CosmicNation helped transfer my content from tmg.cosmicnation.co to my Patreon site, https://patreon.com/TMGmeditations. This eliminates the need for two separate community websites. Patreon supports public posts and free memberships, so even non-supporting members can enjoy my free content. While some may disapprove, I must consider my time and stress levels just like everyone else.
#CosmicNation #Patreon #TMGmeditations #ContentTransfer #CommunityWebsite #FreeContent #TimeManagement #StressReduction
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The Science Behind Chakras and Energy Flow
Over the last two decades, references to chakras and chakra healing/balancing have exploded into mainstream culture, capturing the attention of many who seek holistic approaches to well-being. The increasing popularity of these concepts has led to a vast array of resources, workshops, and communities dedicated to exploring chakra work. Meditations, Reiki healings, and yoga practices have sprung up around this concept, allowing Westerners a glimpse of traditional healing practices from the Hindu culture, blending ancient wisdom with modern techniques. As individuals strive for emotional balance, physical health, and spiritual growth, focusing on chakras has inspired a deeper understanding and appreciation of energy systems that influence our lives, encouraging many to incorporate these ideas into their daily routines for a more harmonious existence.
Greater Wellbeing
These practices provide insights into how we relate to ourselves, others, and the greater world around us, allowing us to explore the energetic nature of the universe while deepening our understanding of interconnectedness. By examining the intricate web of relationships that bind us, we nurture our personal growth and the well-being of those around us. This journey of self-discovery touches upon the scientific aspects of how everything we think, feel, or interact with causes subtle shifts in our physical body, as recent research in fields such as psychology and quantum physics is now proving. As we delve deeper into this relationship between mind and matter, we uncover the profound impact our thoughts and emotions have on our health, ultimately fostering a more holistic approach to living harmoniously in alignment with the natural rhythms of existence.
The Chakras
First, let us reexamine the nature of the chakra system as it relates to Hindu culture. The term “Chakra” originates from Sanskrit and means “wheel.” Chakras are energy centers that serve as spinning vortexes in a vertical line through the body, from the spine’s base to the head’s crown. There are seven significant chakras, each linked to various endocrine glands and responsible for energy flow to specific organs, influencing physical and emotional well-being. Each chakra corresponds to a rainbow color—red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet—and resonates with distinct musical tones at varying frequencies. These centers embody spiritual energy in the physical realm, acting as gateways for the life force known as “Prana.” When balanced and aligned, chakras promote harmony and vitality, while blockages can result in physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges. Working with the chakra system can lead to personal transformation and holistic healing, fostering deeper self-awareness and connection to the universe.
Chakra-symbols-and-names13
By Adamo Corazza
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/2.0/legalcodeBalancing of Energies
Based on their location in the body, chakras correspond to specific states of consciousness, emotional functions, and philosophical constructs, creating a framework for understanding our experiences. The lower chakras govern practical aspects of life, such as survival, stability, and trust, forming a foundation for relationships and aspirations, while the upper chakras connect to higher states of awareness, intuition, and self-manifestation. Together, they provide a body-mind connection that aids personal growth and self-discovery, enriching our understanding of our place in the universe. Nurturing and balancing these energy centers contributes to our health and abilities in navigating life’s challenges with resilience and grace.
Energetic Workings
Let us take a moment to explore the nature of this energetic flow of chakras. The energy from emotional responses to physical stimuli runs along the chakras, creating a dynamic system that “feeds” our cells, tissues, and organs with vital life force. Each chakra plays a unique role in this process, serving as an energy exchange conduit and influencing our physical and emotional well-being. Just as our unseen breath nourishes the body with life-giving oxygen, the unseen energy we create can either nourish or deplete us, shaping our experiences and interactions with the world around us. Understanding this intricate connection between our emotions and energy flow can empower us to cultivate a healthier and more balanced life, as we learn to harness and direct this powerful energy for our benefit and those around us.
Mindful Moment:
Pay attention to your physical responses next time you experience a strong emotion. Did your heart rate increase? Do you feel warmth in certain areas?
This is the emotional energy manifesting as a physical sensation. Prolonged emotional responses such as anxiety can manifest physically as ulcers, headaches, and a host of other ailments, including fatigue and digestive issues. This connection between the mind and body underscores the importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Recognizing how our feelings impact our physical state can empower us to seek healthier coping mechanisms. This is why it is essential to be aware of your body’s physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual states; understanding these aspects can lead to a more balanced life and improved wellbeing.
Having balanced, unblocked chakras assists in keeping the rest of the body in balance and promotes overall well-being. When aligned, these energy centers enhance not only physical health but also emotional stability and mental clarity.
The Science of Chakras
Quantum physics offers a fascinating lens through which we can understand the chakra system and its relevance to energy and consciousness. At its core, quantum physics studies the fundamental nature of reality, examining how subatomic particles interact and exist in ways that often defy classical physics. This opens up intriguing possibilities for exploring energetic systems like chakras.
Interconnected
One key concept in quantum physics is that everything is interconnected at a fundamental level. This idea echoes the beliefs surrounding chakras, which propose that energy flows through the body and connects us to the universe. Just as particles can be entangled, influencing one another regardless of distance, energy centers within our bodies can impact our physical, emotional, and spiritual states. This interconnectedness suggests that our thoughts and emotions, which are forms of energy, can manifest in our physical health and well-being.
Mind Over Matter
Moreover, the principle of wave-particle duality in quantum physics posits that particles, such as photons and electrons, can exhibit both wave-like and particle-like properties depending on how they are observed. This can relate to chakras in that our perceptions and intentions can influence how energy moves and flows through our bodies. For instance, a positive mindset and balanced emotional state can promote healthy energy flow, while negative thoughts or emotional disturbances might create blockages in our chakras.
Biological Mindfulness
Recent research in quantum biology also indicates that energy transfer at the molecular level can significantly affect biological processes. By understanding how consciousness and thought patterns interact with energy systems, practitioners of chakra healing may be able to harness this knowledge to promote well-being. This connection between quantum physics and chakras provides a scientifically intriguing perspective, enabling us to explore deeper aspects of their existence and embrace holistic approaches to health that align with these energy principles.
Discovering Balance
Quantum physics offers insights into the energetic frameworks that govern our existence, aligning with and enriching our comprehension of the chakra system. By bridging scientific inquiry and spiritual traditions, we are encouraged to embrace the potential for personal transformation and healing at physical, emotional, and spiritual levels. But you do not need to have a background in science to experience the benefits of chakra healing. By simply tuning into your body with daily practice, you become more familiar with your unique energetic blueprint, discovering how each chakra influences your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. As you engage in this practice more consistently, you may find that you can easily identify areas where energy may be blocked or imbalanced, allowing you to address these concerns in a mindful way. This self-exploration enhances your understanding of your energy and fosters a deeper connection to the world around you, empowering you to lead a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Chakra Balancing Course
Learn more with a guided 10-day Chakra Balancing course thoughtfully designed to enhance your understanding and practice of energy healing. Throughout this comprehensive program, you will discover the distinct characteristics of the seven primary chakras, delving into their unique qualities, colors, and influences on our physical and emotional well-being. This knowledge will empower you to tap into their energy in a way that promotes healing and balance, ultimately leading to a more harmonious daily life.
In today’s fast-paced world, our current lifestyle often causes us to lose touch with our natural selves and the energy flows within our bodies. However, this course will serve as a transformative experience, guiding you to reconnect with your innermost being through various techniques, exercises, and meditative practices tailored for each chakra. I like to engage with the course a few times a year to rebalance my energy and refresh my perspective, finding that the deliberate focus on these energy centers invites clarity and peace into my life. I have found that this practice is most effective around the change of seasons, as we naturally shift in body, mind, and spirit, allowing me to align with the rhythms of nature and embrace the shifts that come with each new phase of life. By committing to this journey, you will foster personal growth and self-awareness and cultivate a deeper connection to the world around you.
Available on Insight Timer.
#balance #chakra #chakraCourse #consciousness #course #energy #energyHealing #energyWork #experience #guidedCourse #healing #heartChakra #leearnChakras #meditation #mindful #mindfulness #physics #practice #selfcare #stressReduction #throatChakra #wellbeing
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Embrace Mindfulness: Your Guide to Wellness Techniques and Practices
#Mindfulness #WellnessJourney #Yoga #Meditation #BreathingExercises #MindfulLiving #MentalHealth #CognitiveTherapy #StressReduction #HealthyMind #Neurofeedback #MusicTherapy #YogaNidra #EmotionalWellbeing #HolisticHealth #SelfCare #MindbodyConnection
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Unlocking Wellness: Mindfulness Techniques for a Balanced Life
#Mindfulness #WellnessJourney #Yoga #Meditation #BreathingExercises #MentalHealth #MindfulnessBasedTherapy #YogaNidra #Neurofeedback #MusicTherapy #HolisticHealth #SelfCare #HealthyLiving #EmotionalWellbeing #StressReduction
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Finding Balance: Mastering Emotions through Mindfulness and Self-Compassion
#Mindfulness #EmotionalRegulation #SelfCompassion #MentalHealth #CognitiveTherapy #StressReduction #EmotionalWellness #MindfulnessBasedTherapy #Resilience #PositiveThinking #EmotionalIntelligence #CompassionateMind #MentalHealthAwareness #MindfulLiving #EmotionalExploration
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3-minute chill S Breath
Not enough time and too much stress? This 3-minute breath practice is for you. Learn and practice S breath. This brief but effective pranayama (breath) practice will leave you feeling chill. No special skills or equipment required!
Press play when you’re ready to feel calm and relaxed.
#Yoga #DailyYoga #YogaEveryDay #ChillYoga #Pranayama #Breath #BreathPractice #Breathe #Calm #Stress #StressReduction #Relax #Chill
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3-minute chill S Breath
Not enough time and too much stress? This 3-minute breath practice is for you. Learn and practice S breath. This brief but effective pranayama (breath) practice will leave you feeling chill. No special skills or equipment required!
Press play when you’re ready to feel calm and relaxed.
#Yoga #DailyYoga #YogaEveryDay #ChillYoga #Pranayama #Breath #BreathPractice #Breathe #Calm #Stress #StressReduction #Relax #Chill
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Dr. Alice Rizzi offers Thinkydoers listeners a resource encouraging us to: "find three minutes in your day to do some mindfulness practices, and I show you seven different ways that you can do it, only one of which is sitting and breathing."
Read more 👉 https://lttr.ai/AaWyS
#Mindfulness #StressReduction #Overthinkers #Perfectionism #MentalHealth #MentalHealthSupport
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Dr. Alice Rizzi offers Thinkydoers listeners a resource encouraging us to: "find three minutes in your day to do some mindfulness practices, and I show you seven different ways that you can do it, only one of which is sitting and breathing."
Read more 👉 https://lttr.ai/AaWyS
#Mindfulness #StressReduction #Overthinkers #Perfectionism #MentalHealth #MentalHealthSupport
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Embrace Mindfulness: The Path to Emotional Resilience and Mental Clarity
#Mindfulness #MentalHealth #EmotionalResilience #StressReduction #MindfulLiving #Meditation #SelfAwareness #MentalClarity #EmotionalWellness #Gratitude #MindfulBreathing #PersonalGrowth #WellnessJourney
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Tune in to this Thinkydoers episode to hear Dr. Alice Rizzi -- mindfulness expert -- share her personal journey from being an anxious ball to finding balance through mindfulness practices.
Read more 👉 https://lttr.ai/AZ4il
#Mindfulness #StressReduction #Overthinkers #Perfectionism #MentalHealth #MentalHealthSupport
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Whether you're a seasoned mindfulness practitioner or a skeptical beginner, this Thinkydoers episode with Dr. Alice Rizzi offers fresh insights and practical tools to help you navigate life's challenges with greater ease and presence.
Read more 👉 https://lttr.ai/AZuCU
#Mindfulness #StressReduction #Overthinkers #Perfectionism #MentalHealth #MentalHealthSupport
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Dr. Alice Rizzi joined me for this Thinkydoers episode to share information and practices specifically for those of us who may have struggled with mindfulness practices, or even mindfulness instruction in the past.
Read more 👉 https://lttr.ai/AZgsY
#Mindfulness #StressReduction #Overthinkers #Perfectionism #MentalHealth #MentalHealthSupport
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Mindfulness for Overthinkers and Perfectionists with Dr. Alice Rizzi: https://lttr.ai/AZhE1
#Mindfulness #StressReduction #Overthinkers #Perfectionism #MentalHealth #MentalHealthSupport
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Discover how simple breathing techniques can significantly reduce work-life stress! 🌬️✨ A recent article highlights effective methods to manage anxiety and improve overall well-being. Check it out for tips on finding calm amidst the chaos! 🧘♂️💼 #StressReduction #BreathingTechniques #MentalHealth
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#RobertBilder - How do #Human #Brains Function?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbekRnb0WAM
#Philosophy #PhilosophyOfScience #PhilosophyOfConsciousness #Consciousness #PhilosophyOfMind #Mind #Neuroscience #NeuroPsychiatry #Psychiatry #BrainTraining #Neuroplasticity #NeuroFeedback #Stress #StressReduction #Relaxation #Psychology #Wellbeing #Aerobics #Exercise #Memory #HealthData #CloserToTruth #RobertKuhn
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#TheMetalDogArticleList
#THEMINDFULMELD
Managing anxiety can unlock your full potential. Here are 5 insights inspired by James Hetfield's Journey:
Tame your dragons#Anxiety #JamesHetfield #Metallica #Mindfulness #Motivation #SelfDevelopment #ConfidenceBuilding #StressReduction #RelaxationTechniques #SuccessStories #PersonalGrowth #OvercomingAnxiety
