In this episode we explore why we view some emotions as negative. It is natural to categorise our feelings as good or bad; wrong or right. The negative ones we experience feel unpleasant and so we have a tendency to push them away.

We consider the importance of facing these emotions and starting to see them as unpleasant rather than bad or negative. All our feelings are data or information about our current state, so it can be helpful to develop a curiosity about them and what they are telling us about ourselves. We emphasise the need to manage difficult emotions rather than suppressing them, highlighting the impact of avoidance on mental health.

Takeaways:

• When faced with unpleasant emotions, we often seek distractions.
• Substance abuse and busyness can be unhealthy coping mechanisms.
• Avoiding difficult emotions can lead to negative consequences.
• It's important to face and manage our emotions directly.
• Suppressing feelings can result in them resurfacing later.
• Healthy emotional management is crucial for mental well-being.
• Understanding our emotional responses can lead to better coping strategies.
• Emotional tolerance is a skill that can be developed.
• Facing emotions can lead to personal growth and resilience.
• Support systems can aid in managing difficult feelings.

Adrienne and Lucy can be contacted through their websites:

www.presenceofmind.life (Lucy)

www.adriennekirk.uk (Adrienne)

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore the guilt we feel when taking breaks, and the cultural obsession with busyness. We discuss how modern technology and societal expectations have blurred the lines between work and personal time, leading to a constant state of doing.

We discuss the importance of recognising the need for rest, nourishing activities, and the impact of these on mental health and productivity.

We also touch on the privilege of being able to choose when to stop and the necessity of finding balance in life. We note how, even if we are unable to take long breaks it is necessary to stop, even briefly, to breathe and notice this moment.

Takeaways:

• We often feel guilty for taking breaks, which can lead to burnout.
• Cultural norms have created a badge of honour around busyness.
• Rest is essential for mental health and productivity.
• We need to learn how to be present and enjoy non-doing activities.
• The pressure to be constantly productive is exacerbated by technology.
• Recognising the need for rest can improve overall effectiveness.
• It's important to challenge the stories we tell ourselves about work and rest.
• Taking time for ourselves is not a luxury, but a necessity.
• Mindfulness can help us reconnect with the present moment.
• Life is happening now, not in the future when we are less busy.

Adrienne and Lucy can be contacted through their websites:

www.presenceofmind.life (Lucy)

www.adriennekirk.uk (Adrienne)

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore the reasons behind why individuals replay past events and the patterns of behaviour that emerge from these experiences. We discuss the impact of fixed identities, sedimented beliefs, the weight of regret and shame, and the importance of self-compassion in navigating these feelings.

The conversation emphasises the need for understanding our decision-making processes and the illusion of right choices, while also highlighting the significance of seeking help and support when feeling overwhelmed.

We hope that this discussion provides insights into breaking the cycle of overthinking and fostering personal growth.

Takeaways

We often replay the past due to ingrained patterns of behaviour.

Fixed identities can limit our perception of choices.

Shame and regret can lead to self-torture in our thoughts.

Decisions made in the past were based on available evidence at the time.

Self-compassion is crucial for personal growth and healing.

Thoughts are not facts; they can be observed and challenged.

Seeking help is not a weakness but a necessary step for recovery.

We take our existing patterns with us into new situations.

It's important to learn from the past without harsh judgment.

Acceptance of where we are now is the first step to change.

Adrienne and Lucy can be contacted through their websites:

www.presenceofmind.life (Lucy)

www.adriennekirk.uk (Adrienne)

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.