Artfully Mindful

First published on February 6th, 2023, this is the final talk in a replay of a series of four mindfulness talks by Don Thompson.  We hope you enjoy.Embark on an enlightening expedition through the winding paths of your own mind as we uncover the elusive nature of thoughts. Grasp the profound realization that our thoughts are mere suggestions, not the concrete facts we often mistake them for. Through our conversation, you'll learn to navigate the intricate dance between your mental narratives and reality. We draw wisdom from mindfulness experts Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach to heighten your awareness through three transformative levels, ultimately leading you to the liberating discovery of the observer within. This journey will not only alter how you perceive your thoughts but also promises to reshape your inner dialogue for a more peaceful existence.As we anchor our exploration in the steady rhythm of our breath, I guide you through a meditation practice designed to help you become an impartial spectator of your own thoughts. Discover the art of acknowledging your mental chatter without entanglement, and find solace in the gentle return to your breathing. By the close of our session, you'll be equipped with the tools to maintain this mindful equilibrium, influencing not only your own well-being but also casting a serene ripple across the lives of others. Join us as we celebrate the culmination of our four-class mindfulness series, looking forward to future discussions where we continue to foster the wisdom of intentional presence. Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

First published on January 30, 2023, this is the third talk in a replay of a series of four mindfulness talks by Don Thompson.  There will be one more talk in this series: Mindfulness of Thoughts.Embark on a transformative expedition into the heart of your emotional landscape, uncovering the subtle nuances between primary and secondary emotions, and learning the art of emotional mindfulness. As your guide, I'll share insights influenced by the profound work of Carl Jung and the timeless wisdom of Buddhist philosophy, promising you a journey toward emotional wholeness. Together, we'll dissect the layers of our feelings, understanding how unchecked cascading emotions can lead to delusion, and how to harness them towards cultivating compassion and equanimity. This episode isn't just about emotional intelligence; it's about embracing the full spectrum of our emotional experiences with loving awareness and kindness. Through guided meditations, we'll practice labeling and understanding our feelings, transforming the way we relate to them. Notice the shift in your own emotional tides as we learn to become the sky behind the clouds — constant, open, and free. I invite you to join me in this intimate exploration, where the end goal is a more balanced, present, and emotionally attuned self. Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

First published on January 23, 2023, this is the second talk in a replay of a series of four mindfulness talks by Don Thompson.  There will be two more talks in this series over the next two weeks: Mindfulness of Emotions and Mindfulness of Thoughts.This mindfulness session is a transformative odyssey into the essence of our physical being, as we uncover the silent wisdom of our bodies with the profound insights of Buddhist nun Pema Chödrön. Within the folds of modern life, we often lose touch with the vibrant sensations that make us feel truly alive. This episode unfurls the practices that can reignite those sensations, guiding you through mindful techniques like body scans and using breath as an anchor. Experience a revival of intuition and sensory awareness as we embrace an integrated existence, free from the societal-induced mind-body split. Dive into the healing waters of acceptance, leaving the shores of control, and emerge with a renewed sense of aliveness and presence.Feel the weight of daily life dissolve in our guided meditation chapter, a sanctuary of centeredness and balance. As I lead you through a body scan, each breath will anchor you deeper into a state of mindful presence, helping you to label and explore bodily sensations with a gentle curiosity. This meditative journey promises to leave you more attuned to the subtle whispers of your body, carrying you towards a life enriched with sensitivity and presence. With each moment spent in this practice, you reconnect with the often-forgotten language of your physical self, opening doors to a world where every sensation is a beacon guiding you back to your center. Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

Originally published on January 16th, 2023, this is the first in a series of four mindfulness talks by Don Thompson. The talks will be re-published in the same order as in 2023, so you can follow along week by week for the next few weeks. This series of talks is a transformative excursion designed to uncover the serene wisdom of mindfulness meditation. Imagine the bliss of being grounded in the now, unshackled from the relentless grip of past regrets and future anxieties. In the sacred footsteps of Shakyamuni Buddha, we journey through the four pillars—breath, body, emotions, and thoughts—and discover the ancient tool of RAIN: Recognition, Acceptance, Investigation, and Nurturing. Together, we'll foster a sanctuary within, where clarity and creativity bloom amidst life's chaos. Through personal anecdotes and guided practices, I'll reveal how this path has illuminated my world with newfound effectiveness and peace.This series is more than a meditation guide—it's a beacon of change for the individual and society alike. As we weave through the tapestry of RAIN, we'll learn to embrace each moment with kindness and non-judgment, planting seeds of compassion in the fertile soil of awareness. The art of nurturing self-compassion unfurls before us, offering the promise of self-acceptance and an unshakable sense of wholeness within. Join me in this heart-opening voyage where, together, we'll cultivate the tranquil power of mindfulness, creating a ripple effect that can gently transform our lives and the world we inhabit. Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

Ever feel like the quest for enlightenment is just another task on your to-do list? Let's flip that notion on its head together. Join me, Don Thompson, for a profound exploration into Do Nothing Meditation, a liberating practice inspired by Sean Fargo. We'll uncover the radical simplicity behind the idea that enlightenment isn't a distant goal, but an inherent state that's available to us at all times. As we traverse the principles of Tibetan Buddhism's Dzogchen, we'll learn how to release our grip on control and simply allow life to be, revealing a hidden stillness that resides beneath the bustle of our daily lives. This isn't just meditation; it's a transformative approach to living mindfully in every moment, without the need for specific postures or intense focus.Imagine discovering that the secret to inner peace lies in the inherent acceptance of life as it is. In embracing Tibetan wisdom on impermanence and the nature of reality, we approach a serene state of being. This episode isn't just a conversation; it's an invitation to a space where contentment blooms from the acceptance of life's transient dance. This podcast's insights provide a map to navigate the spaces between our thoughts and actions, guiding us to a peace that intertwines with our pursuit of happiness. So, if you're ready to find tranquility in the art of 'not doing' and to appreciate the beauty in life's impermanence, this journey with me is one you won't want to miss.Music: Kevin Grahman - 'It's Not That Simple'. Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

Embark on an intimate exploration of meditation's transformative journey with us, where deepening awareness and presence reveal a life beyond competition. As your guide, I share the subtle beginnings of overcoming inertia and the pivotal role of breath as a conduit for focus. Meditation, as we uncover, is not just about sitting in silence; it's about the blossoming of joy, compassion, and love within us. By embracing the 'antidote' of mindfulness, we find ourselves in the sanctuary of 'practiced ease,' where the once arduous task turns into a source of profound joy and a wellspring for emotional and spiritual growth.In the fabric of our daily existence, meditation weaves a new narrative, one where our interactions with the world are not just altered, but enriched. I delve into how this age-old practice reorients our perspective, allowing the mundane to sparkle with new intention. By adopting a meditative mindset, the ripple effects touch every corner of our lives, from the minute to the monumental. As we conclude this session, I leave you with a tantalizing glimpse of future episodes, promising to arm you with effective meditation techniques that promise to elevate your practice and life to newfound heights. Stay tuned for an adventure into mindfulness that transcends the cushion and becomes your constant companion.Inspired by the work of Sean Fargo. Music: Master Minded: 'Opening Up'. Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

When resilience meets creativity, extraordinary tales emerge, and none is quite as compelling as Chris Jones's journey from tech entrepreneur to master storyteller and philanthropist. He steps into our podcast with a treasure trove of experiences, sharing how his ventures weathered the storm of economic downturns and how he later turned his formidable focus towards the craft of writing. Chris's commitment shines through as he discusses his philanthropic efforts, revealing a deep belief in the potential of young minds, which he nurtures through scholarships for aspiring writers and entrepreneurs in the UK.As someone who has always been intrigued by the art of living in the moment, I was particularly captivated by our conversation on mindfulness. Chris illuminates how embedding mindfulness in daily activities—from martial arts to creative writing—can transform them into spiritual practices. His insights on 'the zone', that elusive state where focus is king, are a testament to the power of presence in enhancing performance and decision-making across life's arenas. He also reflects on how embracing a meditative mindset can facilitate smoother transitions in life, enabling one to navigate challenges with grace and informed choice.In the realm of storytelling, Chris paints a vivid picture of the strategies authors employ, from the meticulous planning of 'plotters' to the spontaneous creativity of 'panzers'. He introduces the hybrid concept of a 'plancer'—a blend he embodies as he crafts narratives that captivate and thrill. Drawing inspiration from literary giants, he underscores the vitality of action in storytelling and how creativity intertwines with neuroplasticity to foster both analytical and inventive thinking. As he teases the release of his upcoming book, Chris leaves us pondering the transformative power of writing and the enduring impact of sharing one's unique voice with the world.You can find Chris Jones' website here.His email is:  headcase@chriskjones.comFor 'Artfully Mindful':  Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

Embark on a journey of self-discovery with me, Don Thompson, as we navigate the intricate landscapes of meditation practices and their myriad purposes. We'll be wading through the philosophical depths of Buddhism, contrasting its analytical traditions with the nurturing simplicity of mindfulness and loving-kindness. This episode is a contemplative odyssey, examining the crux of why we exist, and the diverse pathways within the Buddhist teachings that lead us toward that understanding. From the analytical rigor of Tibetan Buddhism to the gentle embrace of mindfulness, we explore how these varied approaches fit into the grand mosaic of the Eightfold Path.During our conversation, I'll share intimate reflections on my own path, post-training with mindfulness luminaries like Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield. I'll discuss the practical challenges of weaving mindfulness into the fabric of daily life and the discerning decision about whether to lead a sangha. This episode is an open invitation to seasoned practitioners and newcomers alike, to ponder the essential question of our purpose and how we might harmonize the rich spectrum of perspectives within the Buddhist philosophy. It's a call to reflect on the essence of our being and the transformative power of an examined life. Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

In this podcast, I contemplate the question 'Why are we alive?' Moreover, is there a purpose in life? It's one of those questions most of us don't attempt to consider, although thinking about it can lead to some sense of resolution. Music by Michael Vignola - 'Purpose'. Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

Unlock the profound impact of mindfulness in the corporate sphere with Steve Kaplan, a seasoned mindfulness practitioner, teacher, and coach who guides us through his transformation from truth seeker to dedicated Buddhist. His journey, rich with experiences from Transcendental Meditation to Tibetan Buddhism under mentor John Churchill, illustrates the potent antidote mindfulness provides against the Western epidemic of relentless busyness. Steve's narrative promises to reveal how these practices can sharpen focus and alleviate the suffering embedded in our daily grind.Venturing into the realm of mindful leadership, we converse about how presence and acceptance can revolutionize workplace cultures. Drawing on the wisdom of figures like John Kabat-Zinn and the integration of Eastern philosophies into Western psychological frameworks, we address the evolution of corporate environments through mindful practices. Discover how leaders can embody mindfulness to foster healthier corporate spaces, enhance decision-making, and cultivate empathy and innovation, all leading to a more competitive and inclusive business landscape.Lastly, the spotlight is on heart-centered leadership, a revolutionary model that champions authenticity in the business world. We discuss the five dimensions of the heart that leaders can engage with to forge deeper connections and transform organizational culture into one where personal growth and collective support thrive. The episode also examines the role of courage and psychological safety in fostering the tender aspects of the heart, revealing how these elements can drive progress within organizations and society at large. Join us for this rich exploration of how integrating personal values into business practices can create a more mindful and effective society.Steve's website is: www.kaplancoaching.net*** Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

Note: This is a replay of a talk given by Don Thompson in 2022. Embark on a serene journey as we uncover the secrets of maintaining a tranquil heart even amid life's storms, guided by the profound insights of mindfulness experts Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield. In an intimate conversation, we discuss the subtle art of equanimity, learning to embrace the ebbs and flows of existence with grace. Witness how our understanding of natural balance—from the regenerative power of forests to the unwavering stability of Earth's magnetic field—reflects our own potential for inner harmony. Through stories and reflections, we peel back the layers of what it means to be the 'knower,' the essence of our being that observes without clinging, paving the way for true peace.Feel the expansiveness of the sky and the depth of the ocean currents as metaphors for the peace and equanimity we explore in this episode. We'll share a tapestry of thoughts on how the cosmos's grandeur can mirror the equilibrium we strive for within our own lives. With gratitude, we invite you to join us in this thoughtful space where we align with the wisdom of nature, seeking tranquility in the balance it sustains and the lessons it teaches. Allow this episode to be a guiding compass, pointing toward a horizon where the pursuit of peace becomes as instinctive as the world's quest for homeostasis and stability. Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

Ever wondered where that sudden spark of genius comes from? In this podcast we unlock the enigma of creative intuition as we uncover the symbiotic relationship between those elusive moments of inspiration and the structured pathways of our rational mind. Referencing the work of Professor Theresa Jane Hardman, we bring to light four key facets of creative intuition – from the profound state of expanded consciousness to the profound impact of empathy and emotion on our creative process. Together, we traverse the thought-provoking ideas of Carl Jung, delving into how our conscious and unconscious minds meld to shape our most innovative thoughts. This episode promises to illuminate the often-overlooked intricacies of the creative mind, providing insights that could revolutionize your artistic endeavors and intellectual pursuits.Our engaging discussion also turns to the practice of mindfulness as a gateway to harnessing your creative potential. By honing in on the particulars of the present moment—like the dance of a candle flame—we explore methods to quiet the inner noise and cultivate a space where originality thrives. The emotional resonance we share with our surroundings, inspired by Martin Buber's I-Thou relationship, paints a vivid picture of our interconnectedness and how it feeds into our creative soul. For educators and lifelong learners alike, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom, as we emphasize the balance of intuition and analysis in fostering genuine creativity within ourselves and in those we teach. Join us for a conversation that not only piques your curiosity but also arms you with the tools to tap into the wellspring of your own creative intuition.Music: Ardie Sun, 'First Sunrise'. Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

Ever wondered what it would be like to step off the relentless treadmill of daily routines and habitual reactions, especially under stress? Peel back the layers of your day-to-day existence with me, Don Thompson, as we confront the autopilot mode that often dictates our actions. This week's podcast is a deep dive into the inner workings of our minds, scrutinizing the patterns that control us and how we can break free to embrace a more mindful approach to life's challenges.Join us as we venture into a week-long exercise of self-evaluation, equipped with the teachings of mindfulness experts like Sean Fargo and Garchen Rinpoche. We'll explore the transformative power of observing our actions with a beginner's mind, viewing adversities as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. Prepare to be enlightened on how to recognize stress-induced habits and respond with patience and awareness, all while learning to integrate mindfulness into the very fabric of our daily routines.Based in part on the work of Sean Fargo. Music: Ty Simon - 'Newborn'. Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

Unlock the hidden language of your soul as we journey through the expressive world of art therapy—a sanctuary where your innermost thoughts find their canvas. This isn't about crafting masterpieces destined for the hallowed halls of galleries; it's about the pure, therapeutic delight in the act of creation itself. Whether you're scribbling with a simple pencil or weaving magic with vibrant paints, we unfold the historical benefits and the personal liberation that art can provide. From relieving stress and sharpening problem-solving skills to navigating life's complex emotions, art therapy offers a safe, controlled environment to explore and manage your experiences.Embrace the joy of artistic expression without the fear of judgment or the weight of expectations. Our discourse guides you through trusting your intuition, knowing when to add that final stroke, or when to simply let your artwork be. Learn to cherish your creations without overthinking their meaning, focusing on the process over the product. Remember, art therapy is a personal journey, a dance between you and your medium of choice. It's a pleasurable pursuit that should resonate with your individuality. So, grab your tools, and let's set your creativity free in this soul-enriching episode dedicated to the art of self-expression.Inspired by the work of Sean Fargo and others.Music: Yeheskel Raz - 'Milestone'. Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

Discover how to harness the power of your breath to combat the stresses of daily life in our latest podcast, where I, Don Thompson, walk you through the profound practice of breath awareness meditation. This isn't just about taking a moment to breathe; it's about embracing a centuries-old technique that can lower cortisol levels and improve your overall well-being. We'll explore how simple it is to get started and the myriad of benefits that come from making this practice a part of your routine. Whether you're at the beginning of your mindfulness journey or are looking for a way to deepen your existing practice, this episode is your invitation to connect with the wisdom of your own breath.Throughout our discussion, we emphasize the importance of proper guidance, particularly for those who may find the breathing process challenging. It's critical to address any difficulties with breathing under the tutelage of a qualified instructor. By revisiting the basics, even the most experienced meditators can discover a refreshing simplicity akin to the comfort of a well-worn pair of shoes. Join us for an enriching conversation that promises to elevate your meditative experience and bolster your resilience against life's distractions.Music: Greg McKay - 'Breathe'. Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

Note: this is a replay of a talk given by Don Thompson in 2023 titled 'The Mindful Blank Page'.Ever found yourself paralyzed by the sheer potential of a blank page? This episode unveils the Mindful Blank Page concept, transforming the dread of starting anew into an embracing of the present's endless possibilities. I share my personal evolution through mindfulness certification and the teachings that have sculpted my approach to life. Our conversation navigates through the mundane and electrifying junctures of existence, revealing the art within every moment waiting to be discovered.Tune in as we explore the liberation that comes with acknowledging that the only canvas we have is the present. I reflect on how past experiences and future uncertainties dissolve when we focus our awareness on the now. This episode doesn't just offer solace; it empowers you to take the reins of your life's artwork, find joy in the banal, and see the beauty in life's challenges. Join us for an enlightening journey that promises to ground you in the present and inspire a fresh perspective on the art of living. Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

This podcast talks about love -- the concept of love and the felt experience of it. I talk about different aspects of love including parental love, love of family, and love of abstract ideals. Music by Simon Wester - 'Always Loved'. Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

This podcast talks about how to develop a sense of wonder. By developing a sense of childlike wonder, we can look at the world with new eyes.  Based on the work of Sean Fargo. Music by Clemens Ruh - 'Days of Wonder'.  Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

In this podcast, I interview mindfulness coach and mentor Sunil Joseph. Sunil has a long and interesting background as a coach, teacher, and facilitator. He specializes in engendering and facilitating nonviolent communication (NVC) and has brought these teachings to imprisoned inmates in the Bay Area, California, who are often grieving over mistakes they have made in their lives. Sunil brings a message of hope and healing to all people by emphasizing our common humanity and ability to cooperate nonviolently. Sunil's website is here: https://www.myempathycoach.com Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

In this podcast, I talk about the nature of time and how that relates to the human ego. I guarantee it's an interesting topic that can help you deal with suffering in the here and now.  Music by Angel Salazar - 'The Sounds of Silence'. Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.