How the Wise One Grows

In today's episode, we've got a guided meditation to help you through life's most embarrassing moments-- and general feelings of embarrassment and shame. Using mindfulness and compassion, you'll learn how to gently let go of negative emotions and cultivate a stronger sense of self-acceptance.Whether you're new to meditation or looking to deepen your practice, this meditation is crafted to support anyone seeking to improve their emotional well-being. Download this episode so you have it on tap for when embarrassing moments arise.02:39 Meditation Begins PS, if you missed episode 100 of our most embarrassing stories... go back and listen NOW!TO SUBMIT YOUR MOST EMBARRASSING STORY: Visit our website, www.howthewiseonegrows.com, and click the microphone icon at the bottom right-hand corner. JOIN the FREE Intentional Living Community for HTWOG podcast listeners--  dedicated to continuing our conversations on the podcast, and where you can find support in living a life filled with intention and growth. Support the showJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ to support the podcast!Follow @howthewiseonegrows and @hollyzajur on Instagram for more and check out more offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!

Celebrate two years and 100 episodes of spreading the How the Wise One Grows podcast with laughter as we share our most embarrassing moments. Imagine beginning every friendship with the raw, unfiltered stories that make us human—this episode does just that with host Holly Zajur and guests Emma Hern and Kelly  Eberle, as they introduce themselves by sharing their most embarrassing stories. But the laughter doesn’t end here! We're inviting YOU to be a part of the fun. Share your embarrassing moments with us, and let’s keep the laughter alive. Visit our website, www.howthewiseonegrows.com, and click the microphone icon at the bottom right-hand corner. Your story could be featured in an upcoming episode, connecting you with a community of listeners eager to laugh along.Don’t miss out on joining our FREE Intentional Living Community for HTWOG podcast listeners. It’s a space dedicated to continuing the conversations sparked by our podcast, and where you can find support in living a life filled with intention and growth. Click to join and become a part of our growing community.Tune in to celebrate, laugh, and grow with us. Whether it's through sharing your stories or simply enjoying the mishaps of others, let's embrace the joy of authentic connection, together.Hear more from Emma HernEp 12 & Ep 50Support the showJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ to support the podcast!Follow @howthewiseonegrows and @hollyzajur on Instagram for more and check out more offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!

This episode shares the breathing technique that helped Natalie Rainer (from Ep 98) find relief through extreme pain while in the ICU followed by a meditation to connect with your core values to navigate life with clarity, as Natalie did after the accident.Box breath is a great way to: - Calm the nervous system- Improve mood- Regulate body temperature- Decrease stress- Lower blood pressureThis episode is ideal for anyone overcoming a challenge or looking to improve their mental and emotional well-being. Join us to learn how simple breathing techniques and connecting with core values can guide you through even the hardest moments of life.Related episodes:Ep 98 with Natalie RainerLoving Kindness MeditationUnderstanding Grief with Litsa Williams of What's Your GriefGrief MeditationSupport the showJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ to support the podcast!Follow @howthewiseonegrows and @hollyzajur on Instagram for more and check out more offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!

We all face hard moments in life. But some, seem impossible to overcome. Those are the moments we learn how resilient we truly are. On August 13, 2022, Natalie Rainer and Jonah Holland were in a horrific bike accident that took the life of Jonah Holland, a beloved friend and community member, and left Natalie severely injured. Natalie’s recovery story is a testament to finding resilience and compassion throughout the healing journey.Discover how Natalie confronted extreme pain and loss, and found a path to compassion and resilience through breathwork and her yoga practice. Natalie discusses her journey towards compassion for the person responsible for the accident, offering insights into the importance of empathy and the broader societal implications of our actions. This story extends beyond personal recovery, and into our collective responsibilities for mindful, compassionate living.This episode is more than a story of survival and resilience; it's a call to action, urging us to reflect on our responsibilities as part of a community, especially when behind the wheel. Tune in to honor Natalie's story and learn from the valuable lessons on resilience and compassion.About Natalie:Natalie Rainer is a yoga instructor, wellness coach, and cyclist based in Richmond, Va. A lifelong storyteller, Natalie studied journalism in college and accomplished her Master's degree in Strategic Public Relations in 2016. She is passionate about making wellness programming and practices available to all people and takes pride in her current field of non-profit programs administration. In 2022 she survived and recovered from a near-fatal accident, inspiring her to create Resiliency Yoga. Natalie hopes sharing her story of survival will inspire others to reimagine their own potential.Support Natalie's WorkYoga for CyclistsDonate to Richmond Cycling CorpsRelated episodes:Loving Kindness MeditationUnderstanding Grief with Litsa Williams of What's Your GriefGrief MeditationSupport the showJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ to support the podcast!Follow @howthewiseonegrows and @hollyzajur on Instagram for more and check out more offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!

Unlock the secret to conquering self-doubt and embracing your creative potential in this episode. Join us as we dive into the story of Jada and David Parrish, former wedding photographers turned conceptual artists. Discover how they bravely shifted careers and embarked on an ambitious 100-set project that showcases their artistic expression and personal development journey.In this episode, not only will you get an inside look at Jada and David's path from photography to conceptual art, but you'll also learn practical strategies and tips for overcoming self-doubt, setting achievable goals, and unlocking your creative genius. Whether you're an artist, a creative professional, or anyone looking to break through personal barriers, this story of courage, creativity, and resilience is sure to inspire and guide you.Tune in to hear Jada and David's firsthand experiences and the lessons they've learned about navigating the creative process, setting sights on new horizons, and making dreams a reality. This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to push the boundaries of their creativity and achieve their full potential.Chase Sapphire Travel Rewards Credit Card ReferralFollow Jada and David on InstagramCheck out their work onlineSupport the showJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ to support the podcast!Follow @howthewiseonegrows and @hollyzajur on Instagram for more and check out more offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!

This week we are time-traveling back to Episode 55 where we talked all about Forest Bathing with Daillen Culver, a compassionate well-being educator, nonprofit director, and yoga teacher. Join us as we explore compassion fatigue, the profound impacts of eco-anxiety and climate distress, and the transformative power of forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku). Daillen offers valuable insights into the emotional toll of these issues and shares practical techniques to navigate and mitigate the overwhelming feelings they can evoke.Daillen delves into the benefits of immersing oneself in the natural environment, emphasizing how forest bathing can foster a profound sense of rejuvenation, peace, and harmony within and with the natural world.Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of burnout, compassion fatigue, eco-anxiety, climate distress, and the transformative practice of forest bathing. Support the showJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ to support the podcast!Follow @howthewiseonegrows and @hollyzajur on Instagram for more and check out more offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!

In this episode, we dive into a mindfulness of death meditation, inspired by the Buddhist practice of maraṇasati and Episode 93 with death doula, Jill McClennan. "Mindfulness of Mortality" offers a guided meditation focused on the acceptance of life’s impermanence.By acknowledging mortality, we are encouraged to live with more purpose and mindfulness. The practice draws on mindfulness of death to facilitate a deeper connection with the present, highlighting the value of each moment and the importance of intentionality in our lives.Whether you’re exploring mindfulness for the first time or looking to deepen your practice, this episode provides a thoughtful approach to understanding life’s transient nature. This session aims to shift perspectives on death—from a topic often avoided to a concept that can enhance our appreciation for life.Tune in to redefine your relationship with life and death, and discover how acknowledging impermanence can lead to a more intentional and fulfilling life.02:53 Meditation beginsRecommended Episodes:Ep 93- Death: The Ultimate Life CoachEp 43- Experiencing GriefSupport the showJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ to support the podcast!Follow @howthewiseonegrows and @hollyzajur on Instagram for more and check out more offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!

The only thing we know for certain in life is... that we die. So why are we so afraid of it and talking about it?! In Episode 93 we dive into the taboo topic of death with  Death Doula and End of Life Coach, Jill McClennen. Jill shares how we can stop fearing death and start embracing mortality to live with courage, openness, and authenticity.This episode is not just a conversation about death; it's a guide to living a fuller, richer life. Episodes Referenced:Ep 67- People PleasingEp 43- GriefGet the Chase Sapphire Travel Rewards Credit CardAbout Jill: Jill McClennen is a certified death doula, a non-medical professional specially trained to provide holistic care for individuals in their final stages of life. She offers comprehensive support, preparation, and deep soul healing to her clients and their families, whether in person or through virtual sessions, as she works as a death doula and end-of-life coach.Jill is a trauma-sensitive yoga instructor and the host of the "Seeing Death Clearly" podcast.End of Life Clarity Circle Facebook GroupIG: @endoflifeclarityWork with JillSupport the showJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ to support the podcast!Follow @howthewiseonegrows and @hollyzajur on Instagram for more and check out more offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!

In today's episode, you'll hear a guided meditation for the upcoming New Moon in Aquarius, the Lunar New Year, and learn the most helpful advice as we ride the waves of life.This meditation helps you establish your core values, enabling you to set clear intentions during this pivotal time of renewal. Whether you're seeking to refresh your mindset, align with the cosmic energies, or establish a foundation for the year ahead, this episode provides the tools you need for balance.05:19 Meditation BeginsGet the Chase Sapphire Credit Card ReferralSupport the showJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ to support the podcast!Follow @howthewiseonegrows and @hollyzajur on Instagram for more and check out more offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!

Have you ever wanted to pack up and move somewhere completely new? In this episode you hear from life coach turned therapist, Marisol, about what the reality of that is actually like. In this episode, you'll discover:Essential Self-Reflection Questions: Before you pack your bags, dive into key considerations that will guide your decision to moveWhy running from our shadows doesn't work and ways to work with your shadowsRealities of Relocation: What to expect if you do pack up and moveHow to feel at home within yourself, no matter where you goPractical advice on creating a supportive communityChase Sapphire Travel Rewards Credit Card ReferralGet the "Should I Move?" PDFEpisodes Referenced:Ep 73- ShamanismMore about Marisol:Marisol Camacho, originally from the scenic Washington state, moved to the bustling tech world of San Francisco where she thrived for 4 years. The tech landscape offered insights but also led to burnout. It pushed me to discover my true calling: becoming a certified yoga teacher, then a certified life coach through iPEC and a Certified Trauma-Informed Facilitator. My journey wasn't just professional. After settling in sunny Orange County, life threw its curveballs with separation and divorce. Seeking a fresh start, I found solace in Mexico, which resonated deeply with my soul. I am now studying to become a licensed psychologist in Mexico.Whether it's pivoting from a draining job, igniting a business from your own narrative, navigating the rough tides of heartbreak, or simply seeking a new beginning that speaks to your heart, I'm here to walk alongside you. Together, we'll craft your vision, chase those dreams, and make your unique mark on the world. If not now, when?Get in Touch -www.connectwithmarisol.comPodcast- Roaming the NowSupport the showJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ to support the podcast!Follow @howthewiseonegrows and @hollyzajur on Instagram for more and check out more offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!

This meditation practice invites you to introspectively examine your past and present experiences with substances while setting an intention for the future relationship you'd like to have with substances. Whether you're exploring sobriety, sober curious, California sober, or seeking a healthier lifestyle, this meditation offers a judgment-free space for personal discovery and growth. Go back and listen to the Sober Curious Series:Ep 88- Sober Curious (Part 1)Ep 89- California Sober (Part 2)Get the Sober Curious Support GuideWhat should we talk about next?Support the showJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ to support the podcast!Follow @howthewiseonegrows and @hollyzajur on Instagram for more and check out more offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!

This episode continues our "Sober Curious" conversation from Episode 88, diving deeper into community stories and examining the roles of cannabis and psilocybin and being "California Sober". We also explore the question, "What is a substance?"You'll hear from community members about their evolving relationships with substances, the impact these substances have on personal relationships and mental health, and diverse perspectives on defining a substance.Please note: If discussions about substance abuse and/or sexual assault are triggering for you, we recommend skipping this episode.Get the Sober Curious Support GuideWhat should we talk about next?Substance definitionEpisodes Referenced:Ep 88- Sober Curious Part 1Ep 5- Microdosing and Earth MedicineEp 83- The History of MushroomsSupport the showJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ to support the podcast!Follow @howthewiseonegrows and @hollyzajur on Instagram for more and check out more offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!

What does it mean to be "sober curious"? From "dry January" to the sober curious movement, people are questioning the societal pressure to drink in a culture that emphasizes alcohol consumption. In Episode 88, we explore the concept of being "sober curious" through a conversation with Jody Sidel, a shop owner and advocate for non-alcoholic alternatives in Richmond. We also share insights from our listeners.This episode features individuals who are reevaluating their relationship with alcohol and the challenges and successes they face in reducing or eliminating their alcohol consumption. To support this conversation, we have created a sober curious support guide with tips based on these discussions to help you on your journey.We received many powerful responses from our community members, and we will continue the conversation in Episode 89. In that episode, we will explore the topics of cannabis, psilocybin, and the broad definition of substances.Please note: We prioritize the well-being of our listeners and encourage you to engage with our content in a way that is healthiest for you. If discussions about substance abuse are triggering for you, we recommend skipping this episode. If conversations around sexual assault are triggering for you, please skip section [34:57-37:22].Episodes referenced:Episode 83- Understanding the War on Drugs/ Retelling the History of Psychedelic Mushrooms: From Ancient Rituals to Modern Healing with Liz BowdenDownload the Sober Curious Support GuideVisit Point 5 online or in-person in Richmond, VA @point5rvaFollow @falloutrva for upcoming SoBar parties in Richmond, VASupport the showJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ to support the podcast!Follow @howthewiseonegrows and @hollyzajur on Instagram for more and check out more offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!

What if instead of setting resolutions, you start the new year by facing your fears? This episode shares a meditation designed to guide you through fear by acknowledging it, feeling it physically, and witnessing what aids in being with it. We explore the positive transformations that can occur when you meet your fears and help you tap into what lives on the other side of fear. Discover how fear and excitement share similar sensations in the body and how our perception shapes our experience of these emotions.Tune in to this episode any time you want to navigate fear with mindfulness and courage. This episode is perfect for those interested in living intentionally, facing fears, and personal growth. 02:43 Meditation beginsSupport the showJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ to support the podcast!Follow @howthewiseonegrows and @hollyzajur on Instagram for more and check out more offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!

Traveling can make it challenging to keep up with a wellness routine. But, it doesn't have to be that way. In this episode you will learn how we drove cross country to Canada and back with our dog without eating fast food, getting 6,000+ steps/day, AND not losing our minds. Learn how to take care of your body and mind while on the road. From mindful eating tips to the benefits of brown noise for better sleep, we're covering it all. We're also sharing the importance of making conscious choices, not only in food but also in self-care. Tune in to learn how to craft the perfect wellness toolkit for your next road trip. Click here to get the road trip wellness guide!Click here to see Will's amazing YouTube channelGet 10% off Enso Greens/ Live it Up GreensSupport the showJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ to support the podcast!Follow @howthewiseonegrows and @hollyzajur on Instagram for more and check out more offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!

In this Winter Solstice episode, we embrace the solstice as a time for inner stillness and rejuvenation. It's an opportunity to transform the shortest day into a deeply spiritual experience, one where we connect intimately with the rhythm of Mother Earth. This episode includes a guided meditation to practice during the winter solstice,  helping us to turn inwards and anchor ourselves in the natural cycles of growth.This episode is a call to end the year feeling rooted and rested, dispelling the hustle to embrace a gentler approach.  Whether you're gazing upon a sunrise or embracing the embrace of a loved one, this episode offers a gift of reflection and meditation, a silent nod to the powerful cycles of nature that guide our growth.06:27 Meditation BeginsSupport the showJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ to support the podcast!Follow @howthewiseonegrows and @hollyzajur on Instagram for more and check out more offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!

If you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or even lost... you aren't alone. That's why we're here. Join me, Holly Zajur, and guests for heartful conversations about spirituality, health, wellness, nature, and all the things that help us as we navigate being human. How the Wise One Grows podcast is a space where we come together to reconnect to our inner wisdom, one another, and the natural world. Every episode intends to empower you with a deep sense of self-awareness and confidence as you cultivate a fulfilling and authentic life.  Episodes alternate between guest interviews and guided meditations to help you integrate mindfulness into daily life. This trailer gives you a glimpse into our heartful series, featuring insights from guests like Liz Bowden, Katie Silcox, and Natalie Rainer.Follow and tune in as we explore what supports people as they navigate life's twists and turns-- and remember that we are all in this together and let's keep taking it one breath at a time.Support the showJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ to support the podcast!Follow @howthewiseonegrows and @hollyzajur on Instagram for more and check out more offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!

Feeling overwhelmed? Tune in for a  guided meditation designed to turn your attention inward to your body's signals, regulate your nervous system, and communicate your needs more effectively. This 7-minute mindfulness meditation is a powerful tool for tackling overwhelm, and it is particularly beneficial during the holiday season when stress tends to peak.Download this episode now to have support whenever you face overwhelming moments.04:43 Meditation BeginsReferenced Epsiodes: Episode 83 on the History of Mushrooms with Liz BowdenEpisode 5 on Microdosing Mushrooms with Liz BowdenSupport the showJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ to support the podcast!Follow @howthewiseonegrows and @hollyzajur on Instagram for more and check out more offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!

In this episode, Liz Bowden shares herstory of the history of psychedelic mushrooms, challenging preconceived narratives surrounding them.  If you haven't listened to Ep 5 with Liz on Microdosing Mushrooms, go back and listen before starting this episode. From the ancient Greeks and the war on drugs to modern micro-dosing, it's time to rewrite the narratives we have been told about psilocybin and navigate conversations around psychedelic use, debunk myths, and shine a light on their potential for healing and reconnect us with nature. We emphasize the importance of using these substances with reverence and intention, reflecting on their role in human evolution. Disclaimer: This episode is not advocating for the use of mushrooms. These medicines must be honored, respected, and are not for everyone.Follow Liz on InstagramMore with LizSupport the showJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ to support the podcast!Follow @howthewiseonegrows and @hollyzajur on Instagram for more and check out more offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!

Ready to unwrap the BEST present you can give yourself this holiday season?! Give yourself the gift of mindful compassion. This episode will guide you through a five-minute meditation practice to use every day from now until Christmas.Download the episode and join the challenge by practicing every day to support your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This episode will guide you through the techniques of equal-part breathing, creating a balance within your body and mind. 01:57 Meditation beginsSupport the showJoin the ~*Dream Team*~ to support the podcast!Follow @howthewiseonegrows and @hollyzajur on Instagram for more and check out more offerings online.Episode sponsored by Connect Wellness. Connect Wellness empowers people with tools to connect with themselves, others, and the present moment.Be wise-- sign up to be the first to know what's next!