The Bright Side of Life (Mental Health, Self Care)

Lets delve into the fascinating world of meditation, exploring its numerous benefits and sharing a mind-blowing personal experience. Join me as I uncover the transformative power of this ancient practice and how it can positively impact our lives.First, I discuss the wide-ranging benefits of meditation. From reducing stress and anxiety to enhancing focus and creativity, meditation offers a plethora of advantages for both our mental and physical well-being. I explore the scientific research behind these benefits and highlight the positive impact meditation can have on our daily lives.Get ready to hear an incredible firsthand account of a meditation experience like no other. I share an extraordinary and deeply personal story of a meditation session that led to a truly mind-bending encounter. Check out this episode for an opportunity to deepen your understanding of meditation and unlock the door to inner peace and self-discovery.Check out our website: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/Support the show

Kalen Dion is an author and visual artist who addresses topics such as oppression, abuse, mental health, and prevailing cultural paradigms. A lover of all things creative. Kalen Dion has taken his work beyond the realm of mere artistic expression and into the fields of philosophy, cultural commentary, and human behavior. Channeling his personal experiences with abuse, alcoholism, and mental health, his work strikes very pragmatic chords, making his expression accessible and relatable to an incredibly broad audience, reaching millions of people every day. In this episode we discuss: -Kalen's personal story of healing and mental health - How he used writing as therapy and transformed that into a way to help others -The power of writing - His writing style and the topics he's passionate aboutConnect with Kalen here: https://www.kalendionpoetry.com/--------------------------------------------Join The Bright Side of Life Community today to save 20% OFF your monthly or yearly Membership: https://bit.ly/42lw7gYWhen you join the Bright Side of Life community, you will gain access to this supportive and positive community where you can connect with others on the same journey. You will have the opportunity to participate in engaging activities and events that promote personal growth and well-being. Additionally, you will receive inspiration and resources to help you live a happier and more fulfilling life.This will look like developing new skills, gaining knowledge, building confidence, overcoming challenges,  achieving your goals, and expanding your community. As a result, you will grow and evolve and be better equipped to succeed in your endeavors while cultivating more joy! Checkout our website: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/Support the show

Kohdi Rayne is a respected voice in sobriety and recovery. He is a master coach, creator of the world-famous Beyond Sober sobriety masterclass, Unlabeled Recovery program, international best-selling author, social media influencer with over half a million followers, and liver failure survivor, Kohdi's life is a testament to the power of transformation and the human spirit.In this episode we discuss: -his personal story - who is likely to become addicted or become an alcoholic -Addiction VS. Abuse -difference between sobriety and recovery -why AA and therapy aren’t working anymore -how we can overcome any addiction (food, sex, drugs, alcohol, etc) -healthy coping mechanisms -the power that of neural plasticity -The power of meditation and mindfulness -what’s happening in your brain when you want to grab a drink or drugs, sex, food Connect with Kohdi here: http://www.sobernotsober.com------------------------------------------------------------------------If you would like to donate to the GoFundMe, you can do so here: https://www.gofundme.com/manage/get-a-vehicle-after-mine-was-stolenIf you prefer to donate via Venmo you can so here: https://venmo.com/u/Melissa-Bright-5Thank you so much for your support!The Bright Side of Life Podcast website: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/Support the show

Spencer Sherman (MBA, CFP®) is helping transform our relationship to money from fear and confusion to ease and enough. Since founding Abacus, a values-driven independent financial firm, Spencer has been bringing his business acumen and 30+ year meditation and emotional intelligence practice to help people of all wealth levels experience confidence and freedom with their finances. A New York native living in California, he is the author of Cure for Money Madness, on the faculty of NYU’s Inner MBA program, and is a Certified Mindfulness Teacher.  Access his Fearless Finance training program at Spencer-Sherman.com.In this episode, financial advisor Spencer Sherman shares his insights on identifying beliefs that may be hindering our financial success. Here are the five key takeaways from our conversation:Recognize the power of your beliefs: Our beliefs shape our thoughts, feelings, and actions around money. By becoming aware of our beliefs, we can start to challenge and change them.Practice mindful spending: Take time to reflect on your spending habits and ask yourself if they align with your values and goals. This can help you make more intentional and fulfilling financial decisions.Embrace discomfort: It's normal to feel uncomfortable when challenging our beliefs, but this discomfort can lead to growth and positive change.Use affirmations: Affirmations are positive statements that can help reprogram negative beliefs. Try writing down affirmations that align with your financial goals and repeat them daily.Seek support: It can be helpful to work with a financial advisor or therapist who can provide guidance and support as you navigate your beliefs around money. Remember, you don't have to do it alone.This podcast is for informational purposes only. The opinions expressed are not the opinions of Abacus Wealth Partners, the firm that Spencer founded. Should you wish to connect with a financial advisor, we welcome you to schedule  a free introductory 15 minute phone call. Once your financial needs are understood, we would be happy to help you find the best fitIf you would like to donate to the GoFundMe, you can do so here: https://www.gofundme.com/manage/get-a-vehicle-after-mine-was-stolenIf you prefer to donate via Venmo you can so here: https://venmo.com/u/Melissa-Bright-5Thank you so much for your support! The Bright Side of Life Podcast website: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/Support the show

Kristen Butler is a bestselling author and the CEO of Power of Positivity, a community with over 50 MM followers globally. Kristen was awarded SUCCESS Magazine's Emerging Entrepreneur in 2022. She is a leader, writer, and visionary in personal development with a huge heart and captivating authenticity. Her mission is to uplift the planet!Kristen passionately started Power of Positivity in 2009 after completely transforming her life from rock bottom using the power of positive thinking. Kristen contributes her transformation to a positive mindset, her relationship with God, and an active, plant-based lifestyle.In this episode, we discuss the following: - the benefits of living a positive lifestyle- Kristen's definition of the comfort zone and why it goes against everything we've been taught (in a good way) - how we can get through hard times without them keeping us stuck there- how to start moving from burnout and stress to ease and flow Connect with Kristen here: http://www.positivekristen.comVisit our website: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/Support the show

As humans, we spend a lot of time in our homes, and the way we interact with our surroundings can have a profound impact on our well-being. Our guest, Anjie Cho, a feng shui practitioner and educator, shares her own expertise on feng shui. Feng shui is an ancient Chinese practice that seeks to harmonize individuals with their environment. In this podcast episode, we explore the relationship between feng shui and mindfulness. We delve into how our environment affects our well-being and how we can create a harmonious relationship with our home. Anjie Cho is a creator of holistic spaces, specifically focused on designing interiors and teaching feng shui and meditation. She's guided thousands of people to harmonize their living spaces through the ancient practice of feng shui. Anjie is the feng shui expert at The Spruce, co-founder of the Mindful Design Feng Shui School, co-host of the Holistic Spaces podcast, and owner of Anjie Cho Architect. She’s the author of two books Holistic Spaces and Mindful Homes.Get Anjie's book here: https://amzn.to/3Zx6LuVConnect with Anjie here: http://mindfuldesignschool.com--------------------------------------------------------Melissa is asking for your support to help her raise money to get a vehicle after hers was stolen last week. By donating just a small amount, you can help her during the challenging financial hardship.   To donate, click here: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/support/ or directly to her Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/Melissa-Bright-5 Thank you for helping with these efforts during this difficult time—It's supporters like you that help make the burden a little bit lighter for her. *If there is another way you would like to help support her, you can reach out to her via the contact form on her website: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/contact/Support the show

Joe T Baker III is back on the podcast to share what he has been up to for the last  two and half years since I last had him on. On his first episode he shared his inspiring story of going to prison for 10 years, his father was his cellmate, and then "TMH saved me" (the most high).  And today he's back sharing some valuable lessons he's learned in the last two years and how it can apply to our own lives.  Connect with Joe here: https://www.youtube.com/@JoeBaker3Visit our website: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/Support the show

In this episode, Dr. Gabby Pelicci shares her personal journey of healing and discusses her new book, "All This Healing Is Killing Me." She shares how you are only as sick as your secrets and telling your story is the medicine that can save your life. Dr. Pelicci's story is both inspiring and relatable, reminding us that healing is a journey, and it's okay to take it one step at a time.  Gabrielle Pelicci, Ph.D. “Dr. Gabby” is a professor and coach, guiding individuals and groups towards wholeness using writing as medicine. She completed her doctoral work in Transformative Studies at the California Institute of Integral Studies with a dissertation on women healers - and studied plant medicine with indigenous healers in New Mexico and Guatemala. She has been a University Professor of Integrative and Holistic Medicine since 2007 and a regular presenter at global conferences. She was named one of the Top 100 Women of the Future in 2022 for her work in emerging technologies. During her 20+ year career, Dr. Gabby has taught hundreds of students and clients proven strategies for positive change in life and work. She specializes in creating well-being at the intersection of Integrative Health, Spirituality, and Storytelling.  All This Healing is Killing Me, available on Amazon, is her first book.Connect with Dr. Gabby: https://www.gabriellepelicci.com/Shop our Etsy store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/brightsideoflifeshop?ref=seller-platform-mcnavPodcast website: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/Support the show

Our latest episode features the informative and insightful Winnie Chan Wang as our guest, delving into the topic of shadow work and healing. We discuss the significance of confronting and resolving emotional blockages, and how it can pave the way for greater self-awareness and personal growth. Winnie, a trauma-informed licensed acupuncturist, and shadow worker imparts her knowledge and experiences, sharing practical advice for embarking on your own healing journey. Tune in as we take a deep dive into the world of shadow work and discover how it can enrich our lives.Connect with Winnie Chan Wang: https://mindfulhealingheart.comShop the Bright Side of Life Shop here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/brightsideoflifeshop?ref=seller-platform-mcnavPodcast Website: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/Support the show

In this episode, my guest, Taneshia Johnson and I dive into the topic of codependency - what it is, signs of codependency, and how to heal from it. Taneshia Johnson is an associate clinical social worker, self care coach, and first time author of the book entitled When Depression And Anxiety Have A Voice . She specializes in emotional self care as well as codependency. Taneshia believes self awareness can help everyone define who they are and what they need in life in order to have joy and peace. Taneshia has helped hundreds of men and women through one on one coaching sessions as well as her self care workshops. Join us as we explore this important topic and provide tips for moving towards a healthier way of relating to others.Connect with Taneshia here: https://www.tjselfcare.com/ Etsy store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/brightsideoflifeshopSupport the show

Let's explore the concept of surrendering and letting go. In this episode, Intuitive healer, Spiritual coach & mentor, Stacey Brown discusses how releasing control can help us live a more peaceful and fulfilling life. She shares her own personal story of surrendering and what happened when she did. She also shares how surrendering to our circumstances and trusting in the universe, can transform our perspective and open ourselves up to new amazing opportunities. Join us as we explore the power of surrender and share practical tips for letting go and embracing change.Connect with Stacey: https://stacey-brown.com/Check out The Bright Side of Life Shop on Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/brightsideoflifeshop?ref=seller-platform-mcnav (USE CODE "PODCASTFAN" for 20% off your first order) Website: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/Support the show

Fleet Maull, Ph.D. is an author, executive coach, social entrepreneur, renowned meditation teacher and leading innovator in the mainstream mindfulness movement. Dr. Maull is the founder of Prison Mindfulness Institute, the Center for Mindfulness in Public Safety, National Prison Hospice Association, Heart Mind Institute and the Global Resilience Summit. He's also the co-founder of Engaged Mindfulness Institute, the Rwanda Bearing Witness Retreat, the Self-Care Summit, Summitpalooza, the Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Summit, and this, The Best Year of Your Life Summit.In this episode we discuss: -What breath work is and its relationship to meditation-How Breathwork Practice Supports Physical Self-Care- What Fleet recommends people do to get started with breathwork practice - How Radical Responsibility contributes to effective physical self-care-Demonstrations of introductory breathwork practicesWatch video here:https://youtu.be/sNlpedA3Cr4 Sign up for emails to be notified when the next Self Care Summit is: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/Support the podcast here: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/support/Support the show

I have been processing my pain and healing in real time. And with that, I want to help you too! In this episode, I go over what trauma is, how we can start healing, what it looks like when we start healing, and what happens when we choose not to address the pain. I also provide helpful resources to learn more about these topics by actual experts.  To check out the episodes I mentioned on the podcast go here: Addiction and alcoholism: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/dr-robb-kelly-on-stepping-out-of-the-disease-and-into-the-solution-recovering-from-alcoholism-and-drug-addiction/Episodes with Trauma Experts: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/understanding-ptsd-and-trauma-michele-rosenthals-story/https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/how-we-can-heal-our-trauma-dahlya-brown-shooks-story/Support the podcast: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/support/Support the show

Matthew Fray is a relationship coach and author who leans on the lessons of his failed marriage and divorce to help others avoid making the same mistakes he did. His book "This is How Your Marriage Ends" (HarperOne) went on sale in March 2022 in both North America and the United Kingdom. Fray has appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Atlantic, The Sunday Times (London), on ABC's Tamron Hall Show, and several other places. You can learn more about him and his work at matthewfray.com.In this episode we discuss: -Three ways we invalidate our partner in relationships.-What happens when we don't express our needs and vulnerability to our partner-The importance of trust in a relationship and how "Paper cuts" can create distrust over time- Intentions do not equal experience - How men and women want the same things and why this is a good thing -Why good people can ruin relationships - Why leaving a cup by the kitchen sink resulted in Matt's failed marriage and what it could mean for yours tooConnect with Matt here: https://matthewfray.comDonate to the podcast here: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/support/https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/Support the show

Stacey Freeman is a writer and journalist and the founder of Write On Track LLC. Stacey recently published her memoir called, I Bought My Husband's Mistress Lingerie.  In the episode we are going to be talking about moving past what craziness life throws at us, owning our truth and responsibility for the things that happen in our lives, and creating a new normal. Grab Stacey's book here: https://www.staceyfreeman.com/------------------------------------------------------------------------Shop The Bright Side of Life Shop here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/brightsideoflifeshopWant to help support the show? You can donate here: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/support/Support the show

New Year's resolutions are great, but they can also be really hard.Maybe you've been thinking about some new goals for yourself in the new year, or maybe you just want to take a minute to reflect on what you're doing right and where you need to improve. Either way, I got you covered! In this episode I talk about some ideas to come up with New Year's resolutions, but I also discuss a couple of fun alternative too! Happy New Year to you! The Bright Side of Life Podcast website: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/Support the show

Christopher Maher is a former Navy SEAL who endured intense physical, mental, and emotional stress as a child. By combining a “seal mindset” with modern stress management strategies, Christopher taught himself to free his body and mind from pain by developing mental and physical tools for eliminating unresolved stress. Christopher studied Traditional Chinese Medical Practices at the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine and at Yo San University before continuing his studies at The Universal Healing Tao System. He is a student of Grand Master Mantak Chia at the Universal Tao Master School in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and is currently pursuing his Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Traditional Chinese Medicine.Connect with Christopher here: https://www.truebodyintelligence.comTry this exercise to remove unresolved stress from your life: https://truebodyintelligence.com/bestercise/In this episode we cover the following topics: -Living With A Lifetime Of Unresolved Stress: The Signs & Physical Symptoms Of Unsolved Accumulated Stress-Stress Management Vs. Stress Resolution: What’s The Difference & How To Find Permanent Solutions -Escaping The “Fight Or Flight” State Of Mind: How Incorrect Perceptions Of Reality Fuel A False Dichotomy Between “Fight” & “Flight” -Modern Day Stress ManagementCheck out The Bright Side of Life Podcast here: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/Support the show

This time of year is probably the hardest time of year when dealing with grief.  It seems as though everyone else is doing fine and we wish we could be, but we are grieving. Whether this is your first year without someone, or your twentieth year, the emotions and heaviness of it all can be like a-lot. I wanted to bring my friend Linda on to share her story of how she coped with grief during the holidays. Linda lost her Mom a month before Christmas, so Christmas has been something she's had to learn how to navigate through. In this episode she will share some of her tips, along with sharing wonderful memories of her Mom to help honor her during this holiday season. Check out Linda's podcast here: https://www.lindysaudiocafe.com/The Bright Side of Life Podcast Website: https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/Support the show

To my listeners, I just wanted to do a short episode letting you know what was going on. I am not going anywhere. I will be back, I just needed to take some time while going through this hard time in my life. Join our online community and support group, Hope for the Holidays. For people that have lost loved ones and don't want to go through this holiday season alone. Sessions start Tuesday, November 8th : https://pensight.com/x/melissabright/new-digital-item/1757875e-dcd3-4bbe-992a-1ddb187fb491https://www.thebrightsideoflifepodcast.com/Support the show

In this episode I talk about perfectionism and ways we can over come it. Support the show