On this episode of ASKITA podcast, John and Aaron Gilbert, LICSW discuss creating a positive change in life through resilience and personal growth, with Aaron sharing insights about therapy and its benefits for healing and recovery. They explored various aspects of mental health, including the impact of negative self-talk, depression, and the importance of being present, while discussing practical tools like meditation and exercise for well-being. Aaron's website is www.bostoneveningtherapy.com Benefits and Role of Therapy Aaron discussed the benefits of therapy, emphasizing its role in providing a supportive environment where individuals can feel fully heard and understood. He highlighted how sharing one's story with a trained professional can be a significant step toward healing and recovery, offering an opportunity to make sense of experiences together. Aaron also touched on the importance of recognizing when therapy might be beneficial, suggesting that therapy can serve as a resource for expressing oneself and gaining a different perspective. Understanding Negative Self-Talk Impact John and Aaron discussed the impact of negative self-talk and depression, with John sharing his experience of feeling hyper-focused and losing perspective during a difficult time. They explored how people tend to think in extremes, whether optimistically glossing over issues or pessimistically fixated on worst-case scenarios, and Aaron noted that both extremes share a focus on the future rather than the present. Mind-Body Well-being Strategies Aaron and John discussed the importance of being present and the mind-body connection. They explored how meditation and focusing on breathing can be grounding and calming, especially when dealing with anxiety. Aaron emphasized the benefits of exercise and natural light for overall well-being, highlighting that physical activities, like walking in nature, can help improve sleep patterns and circadian rhythms. Self-Care Priorities and Daily Actions John and Aaron discussed the challenges of finding time for self-care, particularly in difficult situations. Aaron suggested that people often prioritize other activities over taking care of themselves, but emphasized that it's a matter of setting priorities. They also talked about the importance of being gentle with oneself and recognizing the value in simple, daily actions rather than focusing solely on major life events. Overcoming Self-Criticism Through Meditation Aaron and John discussed the challenges of self-criticism and the importance of maintaining personal values and virtues. They explored how meditation can help individuals recognize and let go of negative thoughts, rather than fueling them. John shared his experience of using meditation to find acceptance and manage recurring thoughts, comparing it to judo for the mind. They also touched on the role of friendship, particularly for men, in processing difficulties and the importance of self-compassion. Inner Peace and Personal Growth John and Aaron discussed the importance of resilience and personal growth, emphasizing the need to focus on inner strength and peace of mind rather than comparing oneself to others. They agreed that material success pales in comparison to inner peace and personal fulfillment, which is uniquely achievable on one's own path. Aaron suggested that self-acceptance and quieting the critical voice can lead to increased creativity, optimism, and other positive attributes that contribute to personal and professional success. Finding Positivity in Challenging Times John and Aaron discussed the importance of living in the moment and finding positivity in challenging situations, drawing from personal experiences and insights. They explored how making small, positive choices can lead to transformational growth, with Aaron emphasizing the power of recognizing and rewarding oneself for these actions. John shared his journey out of depression by choosing to change his mindset, highlighting the role of environment and support in personal growth.