The Self You Seek

In this episode of The Self You Seek Podcast, host Dr Brendan and guest Rachel Zitin delve into the realms of somatic therapy and embodiment coaching. Broadcasting from the scenic Tuscan countryside, Rachel shares her unique journey from the U.S. to Italy, exploring how an early interest in yoga led her to a deeper understanding of body awareness. She recounts her experiences navigating disembodiment and embracing self-awareness through practices that prioritize mind-body connections. The conversation offers insights into her methodologies, the importance of slow, mindful therapeutic processes, and the role of cultural influences in how we interact with our bodies. This episode highlights the beauty of integrating physical sensations with mental health practices to achieve a holistic sense of well-being. 01:46 Introducing Rachel Zitin: Somatic Therapist and Embodiment Coach 02:22 The Journey into Somatic Therapy and Embodiment 04:44 Understanding Proprioception and Body Awareness 08:29 The Italian Influence on Embodiment 12:50 The Impact of Upbringing on Disembodiment 19:20 Balancing Embodiment and Dissociation 25:14 The Importance of Mind-Body Connection 32:05 What to Expect from Somatic Therapy 34:11 Exploring the Client's Present State 34:42 The Role of Empathy and Professional Boundaries 35:29 Somatic Therapy Techniques 36:04 Building Trust and Safety in Therapy 37:17 The Importance of Slow Progress in Coaching 43:17 Online vs. In-Person Coaching 45:26 The Role of Touch in Therapy 48:19 Understanding the Limits of Somatic Coaching 56:18 Personal Stories and Reflections 01:04:39 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Rachel Zitin's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rachelzitin Dr Brendan's Instagram - https://instagram.com/psychiatry4soul The Self You Seek email - theselfyouseek@gmail.com

In this episode of The Self You Seek Podcast, we dive deep into the world of yoga and self-exploration with Vijeth Kumar, a seasoned yoga practitioner and therapist. The interview begins with a meditation (played in the appendix), setting a serene tone for the discussions that follow. Vijeth shares his inspiring journey, growing up in a yoga-conscious family and the influential teachings he encountered at an ashram near Mysore. Throughout the conversation, they touch upon the essence of devotion, the importance of humility, and the pursuit of self-realisation through yogic practices. The dialogue covers practical advice for incorporating mindfulness and meditation into daily life, restoring balance, and living authentically. Concluding with discussions on the holistic benefits of yoga therapy, this episode is a profound exploration of finding inner peace and potential. 00:00 Introduction and Meditation 01:42 Vijeth's Yoga Journey 03:00 Childhood and Early Influences 04:14 Understanding Devotion 05:41 The Importance of Humility 10:42 Meditation and Mindfulness 17:37 Creating Space for Self-Discovery 24:26 Exploring the Layers of Being 26:41 The Role of Emotions in Life 31:34 Understanding Yoga Therapy 35:48 The Importance of Holistic Healing 39:28 The Path of Realization in Yoga 45:54 The Power of Meditation and Gratitude Vijeth Kumar's Instagram - https://instagram.com/vijethyoga Dr Brendan's Instagram - https://instagram.com/psychiatry4soul The Self You Seek email - theselfyouseek@gmail.com

Have you ever been curious to try therapy but weren't quite sure where to start or what to expect? Or just want to know more about the world of therapy? In this episode of the 'Recipes for Change' series in the Self You Seek podcast, Dr Brendan and Richard explore the different types of talk therapies, their effectiveness, and how to find the right therapist. The episode covers Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and attachment-based therapy, highlighting their unique approaches and benefits. Dr Brendan and Richard share personal anecdotes, discuss the therapeutic alliance's importance, and stress the significance of therapists' ethical responsibilities. This comprehensive discussion offers listeners valuable insights into the world of therapy and encourages them to seek the help they need. 00:00 Introduction to Talk Therapies 03:07 Defining Talk Therapies 04:59 The Importance of Therapeutic Alliance 05:47 Finding the Right Therapist 09:42 The Cost and Accessibility of Therapy 11:49 Psychological Mindedness and Therapy 14:09 Therapy's Impact on Personal Growth 23:53 Therapy for Relationship Issues 30:47 Therapy for Mental Health Conditions 33:26 Personal Experiences with Therapy 35:53 Long-Term Therapy Benefits 36:25 Reparenting and Parental Reflections 37:58 The Power of Therapeutic Space 39:09 Unspoken Trauma and Therapy 44:20 Pros and Cons of Therapy 45:46 Finding the Right Therapist 48:02 Types of Therapy Explained 59:34 Seeking Therapy: Practical Tips 01:02:56 Final Thoughts on Therapy Richard’s Instagram - ⁠⁠https://instagram.com/richardbrownecounsello⁠r Dr Brendan's Instagram - ⁠https://instagram.com/psychiatry4soul⁠ The Self You Seek email - ⁠theselfyouseek@gmail.com⁠

Summary: Dr. Brendan Daugherty hosts the 'The Self You Seek' podcast, focusing on self-action realization and well-being. In this episode, Marcos Forti, a Psychedelic Assisted Mentor, discusses the transformative potential of psychedelics, emphasizing responsible use, ego understanding, and integration for growth and healing.   Topics discussed: 1. Psychedelics and Transformation Marcos shares insights on how psychedelics can access the unconscious mind and rewire negative patterns. Emphasis on understanding the ego and approaching psychedelics responsibly. Personal journey using psychedelics to address physical pain and trauma, highlighting the role of ego in shaping experiences and behaviours.   2. Preparation and Integration Importance of preparing mentally, physically, and setting intentions before consuming psychedelics. Need for professional guides experienced in psychedelics and psychotherapy. Highlighting the significance of post-experience integration for healing and growth.   3. Role of Integration and Support Importance of group calls, integration sessions, and guidance in psychedelic therapy. Mention of methods like yoga, coaching, and breathwork for support. Trials incorporating integration periods for positive results, especially in treating conditions like treatment-resistant depression.  4. Emotions, Health, and Disease Discussion on suppressed emotions impacting health, anecdotal evidence of emotional healing leading to disease remission. Importance of addressing emotional well-being alongside medical treatment for conditions like cancer. Role of self-love, movement, and emotional awareness in maintaining overall health.   5. Responsible Use and Integration Responsible use of substances like cannabis, importance of integration sessions, and releasing suppressed emotions. Society's negative connotations around expressing emotions and the need for proper integration for transformation.   6. Challenges and Benefits of Psychedelics  Legal status of psychedelics in different countries, benefits and cautions of microdosing, and societal conditioning around emotions. Importance of mindfulness, legal practices, and proper support for safe exploration of psychedelics.   7.  Self-Discovery and Happiness Overcoming societal conditioning and ego resistance for self-discovery and happiness. Negotiating with the ego for increased happiness and self-love, leading to a healthier lifestyle.  Using tools like psychedelics, psychotherapy, and yoga for personal growth and development. Timestamps: 01:08  Exploring the Transformative Power of Psychedelics with Marcos Forti 11:08  Navigating Psychedelics: Understanding Ego, Integration, and Transformative Experiences 16:09  Key Steps for Safe and Effective Psychedelic Consumption and Integration 26:09  The Importance of Integration and Support in Psychedelic Therapy 27:39  Exploring the Connection Between Emotions, Health, and Disease Prevention 34:31  Exploring the World of Psychedelics: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Creativity 39:24  The Importance of Integration Sessions for Consciousness Expansion and Emotional Release 43:01  Exploring the Power of Psychedelics and Ancestral Emotions 50:43  Navigating the Legal and Personal Aspects of Psychedelic Experiences 58:25  Challenges and Reflections on Psychedelics, Pharmaceuticals, and Self-Discovery 01:06:23  Conversations with Ego: A Journey to Self-Love and Happiness 01:09:25  Negotiating with the Ego: A Journey to Self-Understanding and Fulfillment   References: The Self You Seek podcast by Dr. Brendan Daugherty Marcos Forti, Psychedelic Assisted Mentor

In this episode of The Self You Seek, Dr Brendan and Richard discuss psychedelics and plant-based medicine. They cover various aspects such as the history, types, risks, and benefits of these substances. The conversation delves into the potential uses for mental health treatment and personal development, as well as the importance of responsible and safe practices when considering psychedelics. Topics discussed: Introduction to psychedelics and plant-based medicine Contextualising the field of psychedelics Various types of psychedelics and their effects Micro-dosing and its trend in Silicon Valley Cultural and historical perspectives on psychedelics Legal and ethical considerations Risks associated with psychedelics Responsible use principles: the 6 S's Balancing curiosity with caution in exploring psychedelics The evolving landscape of medicine and therapy Time stamps: 00:02  Exploring Psychedelics and Plant Based Medicine03:07  Exploring the History and Resurgence of Psychedelics: A Journey into Altered States of Consciousness13:07  Exploring the Potential of Psychedelic Medicine for Mental Health and Personal Development23:07  Exploring Psychedelics: From Microdosing to Hero's Dose32:00  Exploring the Controversial Topic of Ayahuasca and its Impact on Mental Health42:00  Exploring the Ethics of Recommending Psychedelics in the Medical Field43:17  Exploring the Pros and Cons of Psychedelics: A Comprehensive Overview47:15  Navigating Legal Risks and Societal Stigmas of Psychedelic Substance Use50:30  The 6 S's: Principles for Responsible Psychedelic Use and Integration55:32  Exploring the Evolving Landscape of Psychedelics and Medicine59:36  Exploring the World of Therapy References: The Psychedelic Explorer's Guide by Dr. James Fadiman Microdosing Institute The Third Wave

In this episode of The Self You Seek podcast, host Dr Brendan is joined by renowned yoga teacher Byron de Marsé from Bali. Based on the topic of incremental change, the conversation explores Byron's journey from growing up on a cattle ranch in Oklahoma to becoming a yoga teacher in Bali, emphasizing the power of curiosity, self-discovery, and manifestation in shaping one's path in life. Topics discussed: Byron's Journey and Background Growing up on a cattle ranch in Ada, Oklahoma. Transition to Los Angeles and unexpected journey into yoga teaching. Reflecting on conservative upbringing, exposure to new ideas, and embracing change. Self-Discovery through Yoga Receptivity as a child leading to yoga practice. Impact of mentors and raising consciousness through yoga. Confidence and mindset shift towards exploring new opportunities. Law of Attraction and Manifestation Power of words and thoughts in manifesting desires. Balancing positive, negative, and neutral energies for conscious manifestation. Focusing on emotions and gratitude in effective manifestation. Manifestation Beyond Material Desires Importance of emotional fulfillment over superficial goals. Exploring true desires for power and security. Consequences of misusing wealth and disconnect from actual truth. Professional Growth and Challenges Importance of mentors, intuition, and discerning genuine opportunities. Navigating through challenges in the yoga industry with authenticity and sincerity. Balancing success and authenticity in career growth. Embracing incremental change, following intuition, and inspirational growth in the yoga industry. Key takeaways and lessons: Curiosity, openness, and self-discovery are powerful tools in shaping one's life journey. Manifestation requires a balance of positive, negative, and neutral energies, focusing on emotions and gratitude. Balancing success and authenticity is essential in navigating the challenges of career growth. Incremental change, following intuition, and staying open to opportunities lead to positive growth and success in the yoga industry. 00:01  Unveiling the Journey of a Yoga Teacher from Oklahoma to Bali03:23  From a Cattle Ranch to Yoga Teaching: A Journey of Open-Mindedness and Curiosity13:23  Journey of Self-Discovery Through Yoga Experience and Curiosity23:23  From Intuition to Reality TV: A Journey of Signs and Symbolism32:44  Unveiling the Law of Attraction: A Yogic Journey39:05  Mastering Manifestation: The Power of Words and Intentions42:12  Unveiling the Art of Manifestation and the Law of Attraction52:12  Unveiling the Truth Behind Manifestation and Emotional Fulfillment53:28  From Power Yoga in Los Angeles to Yoga Barn in Bali: A Journey of Transformation and Resilience01:01:37  Navigating the Impact of Mentors and Intuition in Career Growth01:05:37  Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in the Yoga Industry01:08:43  Discover Where to Find Inspirational Yoga Classes and Content Online01:11:46  Embracing Incremental Changes for Personal Growth References Yoga Barn Bali @byronyoga

Dr. Brendan Daugherty and co-host Richard Browne explore the concept of incremental change in the Self You Seek podcast. They discuss the power of persistent small adjustments over time, the challenges and benefits of incremental change, and the importance of embracing small steps towards personal growth and development. Key takeaways and lessons: - Incremental change involves making small adjustments over time for significant outcomes. - Embracing small steps towards personal growth and development is crucial. - Balancing financial stability with personal fulfillment requires patience and common sense. - Overcoming mental barriers and taking immediate actions can lead to positive changes. - Incorporating fun activities, gamification, self-care, and big goals are essential for personal growth. 00:02  Unlock Your Full Potential with Incremental Change 03:49  Embracing Incremental Change for Personal Growth and Development08:02  Understanding Different Perspectives11:30  Unlocking the Power of Incremental Change: Navigating Golden Handcuffs and Redefining the Good Life17:21  The Power of Incremental Change: From Couch to 5k to Front Yard Ultra Marathon25:33  The Journey of Incremental Change and Self-Improvement Through Running and Education31:27  The Power of Incremental Changes for Personal Growth and Sustainability39:27  Taking Action Towards Change42:54  Overcoming Barriers to Change and the Power of Small Actions49:40  How to Make Life More Enjoyable: The Power of Fun and Gamification53:29  Boost Your Productivity with 'Eat That Frog' Strategy and Self-Care Practices57:57  The Power of Making a Detailed Plan to Achieve Your Goals01:04:13  Breaking Free a story of the Elephant We hope you found value from this episode. Please like and subscribe if you did! Many thanks!

In this episode of the Self You Seek podcast, host Dr. Brendan interviews Leah Santa Cruz, a meditation teacher, speaker, and coach for the Balance app. Leah shares her journey from a challenging childhood to finding her path in meditation and teaching. She discusses radical change, personal growth, and the challenges she faces as a mother, wife, and professional. Leah emphasizes the importance of self-exploration, facing fears, and embracing imperfections on the journey to personal fulfilment. Topics discussed: - Leah's journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a meditation teacher in Bali - The impact of family struggles and personal suffering on Leah's interest in psychology and meditation - Leah's transition from a career in tech to meditation, following a divorce and a period of self-discovery - The role of meditation in helping Leah listen to her deeper self and make significant life changes - Challenges faced by Leah as a mother, wife, and professional, and the importance of self-reflection and emotional regulation - Unexpected realizations and future challenges as Leah navigates personal growth and explores new creative avenues Here are key takeaways and lessons: - Embracing change and facing fears can lead to personal growth and fulfillment. - Meditation is a powerful tool for self-exploration, healing, and emotional regulation. - Balancing personal and professional challenges requires self-awareness, compassion, and the courage to make difficult decisions. - Accepting imperfections, embracing impermanence, and listening to the heart's desires are essential for personal growth and well-being. - Finding ways to express creativity and follow unexpected paths can lead to new opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Timestamps ⁠00:03⁠  Unveiling the Journey of Self-Discovery with Leah Santa Cruz in Bali ⁠03:51⁠  Transforming Burnout to Passion Through Yoga and Meditation ⁠07:55⁠  From Corporate Job to Meditation Leader: A Journey of Radical Change and Self-Discovery⁠ 23:04⁠  Navigating Desires and Fears through Meditation ⁠27:10⁠  Exploring Meditation: Embracing All Aspects of Self for Healing ⁠34:10⁠  Embracing the Full Human Experience Through Meditation and Healing ⁠42:33⁠  Navigating the Personal Challenges of Parenting and Self-Doubt ⁠45:44⁠  Navigating Relationships, Work, and Self-Discovery: Insights from a Meditation Teacher⁠ 52:52⁠  From Still Meditation Teacher to Noisy Music Dance Person: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Courage References: - Leah Santa Cruz's website: [leahsantacruz.com] - Balance app: Available on the App Store and Google Play Store - "Well Balanced" podcast: Listen to Leah Santa Cruz's show on various podcast platforms.

Summary: In the first episode of "The Self You Seek," hosted by Doctor Brendan Daugherty, a psychiatrist, and featuring his friend and colleague, Richard Browne, a therapist, the duo delves into the topic of radical change. They discuss the different types of radical change, share personal stories of radical change, and provide practical insights into embracing and navigating radical change. Topics discussed: - Introduction to the podcast and the first series called "Recipes for Change" - Different types of radical change, including rock bottom moments, long overdue radical change, and near-death experiences - Richard's personal radical change decision to quit drinking alcohol - Brendan's personal radical change story of transitioning from a psychiatrist in Sydney to a coach, psychiatrist, and fitness fanatic in Bali - Benefits and cons of radical change - Practical ways to approach radical change Key takeaways and lessons: - Radical change can be sparked by rock bottom moments, accumulated feelings of needed change, or near-death experiences, and it often requires courage and introspection. - Brendan's story exemplifies the transformative power of radical change, demonstrating that it's a journey with ups and downs, not a linear process. - When considering radical change, reflecting on potential regrets, connecting with inspirational individuals, and embracing incremental changes can build confidence and momentum. - Deep self-inquiry, trusting intuition, using Parkinson's Law and creating a sense of urgency through accountability and intentional planning are essential steps to embrace radical change. - The podcast aims to demystify radical change and provide a balanced, realistic perspective on navigating life-altering transformations. Timestamps 00:02  Unlock Your Potential: Exploring Radical Change, Psychedelic Medicine, and More with Dr. Brendan Daugherty03:32  Exploring Men's Health (and Woman's health!) and Self-Actualization with Richard and Brendan06:41  The Power of Radical Change: A Journey of Courage and Transformation23:10  The Pros and Cons of Radical Change and How to Approach It29:19  Embracing Radical Change: Practical Steps and Motivational Strategies38:38  Radical Change: Making It Happen with Accountability and Support41:49  Join the Self You Seek Podcast Channel for the rest of the Recipes for Change series References: - "The Self You Seek" channel YouTube @TSYS - Dr Brendan Daugherty @itsdrbrendan - Richard Brown, therapist @richardbrownecounsellor

In this episode, Dr Brendan welcomes Anthony Ball, a breathwork facilitator, men's work facilitator, and entrepreneur originally from the UK. Anthony shares his journey into breathwork, which began after a significant emotional breakup and was inspired by Wim Hof. He discusses how breathwork has been a therapeutic outlet for him to process deep emotions and explains the different styles of breathwork, including pranayama, rebirthing, and holotropic breathing.  Anthony also delves into his involvement with men's groups, particularly the Arka Brotherhood, and explains the benefits of men coming together to heal the masculine, set boundaries, and find balance in their lives. The episode also touches on the roles of anger, the importance of safe containers for emotional expression, and the different types of breathwork and their applications. 01:58 Discovering Breathwork 04:08 Transition to Breathwork Business 04:50 Exploring Masculinity and Emotions 06:43 Understanding Breathwork Theory 12:16 Different Types of Breathwork 17:22 Holotropic vs. Rebirthing Breathwork 21:05 Wim Hof and Extreme Practices 24:21 Managing Emotional Releases 26:52 Managing Emotions and Anger 28:24 Breathwork and Anger Management Techniques 29:40 The Role of Men's Groups in Emotional Processing 34:17 Personal Experiences with Anger and Growth 35:04 Introduction to Men's Work and Brotherhood 37:59 The Structure and Purpose of Men's Groups 41:31 Benefits and Misconceptions of Men's Groups 53:41 Final Thoughts and How to Get Involved YouTube Episode - https://youtu.be/kzJoSCbupYQ  Anthony Ball’s Website - https://www.letsgetlostbali.com/ Anthony Ball’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/letsgetlost.ubud Dr Brendan's Instagram - ⁠https://instagram.com/psychiatry4soul⁠ The Self You Seek email - theselfyouseek@gmail.com

In this episode of 'The Self You Seek,' host Dr Brendan welcomes Canadian physio entrepreneur Michael Henri. Together, they explore Michael's transition from a traditional career in physiotherapy to a life of entrepreneurship and freedom in Bali.  Inspired by Tim Ferriss's '4-Hour Workweek,' Michael shares his story of travel, personal growth, and the practical steps he took to design his ideal life. From embracing the mindset necessary for such a transformation to navigating the challenges and opportunities of living as an expat during a global pandemic, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone looking to break free from conventional lifestyles and create a life by design. 01:12 Michael's Journey to Life by Design 01:53 Early Career and Inspirations 04:37 Transition to Entrepreneurship 07:53 Building a Flexible Lifestyle 11:54 Planning for a New Life 19:43 Taking the Leap: Preparing for Travel 28:22 Facing the Unknown: Embracing Change 28:34 Conflicting Advice: Side Hustles vs. Full Commitment 29:56 Cutting Ties: Letting Go of Safety Nets 33:50 The Journey Begins: From Vietnam to Bali 34:42 Settling in Bali: Overcoming Challenges 38:23 Taking Risks: The Entrepreneurial Mindset 42:58 Living in Bali: Cultural Adaptation and Expectations 49:06 Building a Life by Design: Final Thoughts YouTube Episode - https://youtu.be/y9MePHD8nQI Michael Henri’s Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt⁠ Dr Brendan's Instagram - ⁠https://instagram.com/psychiatry4soul⁠ The Self You Seek email - theselfyouseek@gmail.com

In this episode of 'The Self You Seek,' Brendan welcomes Zahra Ciardi, a psychologist who shares her incredible life story and professional journey. Zahra discusses her background as a refugee from Kuwait and the personal struggles she faced growing up in different countries. She also delves into her experiences with mental health issues and the various therapeutic approaches that have helped her overcome them, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). The conversation touches on the challenges and rewards of the therapeutic profession, the importance of holistic approaches, and the emerging model of intensive therapy. Zahra's insights and personal anecdotes offer a compelling narrative of resilience, growth, and the quest for self-improvement. 00:14 Memories from Headspace 02:09 Zahra's Background and Early Life 03:52 Journey to Australia 07:08 Challenges in Australia 11:07 Therapeutic Journey and Mental Health 30:10 Understanding Maladaptive Behaviors 31:27 The Role of Therapy in Personal Growth 32:03 The Psychology Community and Self-Disclosure 33:07 Challenges in the Mental Health Profession 37:29 Exploring Intensive Therapy Models 46:09 The Power of EMDR Therapy 55:23 The Cost and Accessibility of Therapy 57:32 Final Thoughts and Gratitude Zahra’s Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/zahra_ciardi⁠ Zahra’s Website - ⁠https://www.zahraciardi.com/⁠ Dr Brendan's Instagram - ⁠https://instagram.com/psychiatry4soul⁠ The Self You Seek email - ⁠theselfyouseek@gmail.com⁠