Ep #161: Stress, overwhelm, and growth: how to embrace life's pressures with Michael Henri

Grief is one of the most profound human experiences, yet many struggle to fully process and embrace it. In this episode, the speaker shares their personal journey of losing a close friend and the deep emotional impact that followed. They explore the universal nature of grief, whether it stems from the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or personal transformation. The discussion dives into both the emotional and neurological effects of grief, explaining how it alters brain function, heightens emotions, and affects hormone levels, leading to sadness, fatigue, and even physical symptoms like broken heart syndrome. Drawing from yogic philosophy and neuroscience, the speaker highlights the importance of not suppressing grief but allowing oneself to fully experience it. They reflect on their own loss of a pet, which triggered unresolved emotions, emphasizing how unprocessed grief can resurface in unexpected ways. The conversation also touches on how different cultures approach mourning and the role of rituals, social support, and personal practices like journaling and breathwork in the healing process. Ultimately, the episode encourages listeners to move toward acceptance by creating space for grief rather than resisting it, fostering emotional resilience and deeper self-awareness. Episode Chapters: 00:00:00 - Navigating Grief and Loss 00:02:58 - Confronting Unexpected Loss and Grief 00:05:25 - Understanding the Stages of Grief 00:06:21 - The Stages of Grief and the Brain 00:09:30 - Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Grief and Loss 00:14:24 - Grieving the Loss of My Dog with Friends 00:17:49 - The Importance of Grief Rituals 00:20:23 - Techniques for Nervous System Reset and Grief Acceptance 00:23:03 - Navigating Grief: Allowing the Process Michael’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/  Tags:  grief, loss, healing, emotional resilience, mental health, grief process, mourning, neuroscience of grief, emotional healing, self-awareness, acceptance, mindfulness, trauma recovery, letting go, grief support

Managing expectations can deeply impact our emotions and well-being. In this episode, Michael explores how unmet expectations—whether in relationships, work, or daily life—can lead to frustration, disappointment, or even physical stress. He explains how the brain's predictive nature forms expectations and how a mismatch between expectations and reality triggers emotional responses, including a dopamine crash and elevated cortisol levels. The discussion emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, adjusting unrealistic expectations, and cultivating flexibility to navigate life's surprises more gracefully. Drawing on personal experiences, Michael shares insights about navigating cultural differences, highlighting how expectations shaped by upbringing can clash with different ways of life, leading to resentment or disappointment. However, by managing expectations and anticipating uncertainties, they found a way to embrace outcomes with less emotional turmoil. Practical strategies include reframing disappointment as a learning opportunity, practicing gratitude, and focusing on what can be controlled. This episode underscores the importance of balancing hope with realism, letting go of control, and fostering contentment to handle unmet expectations with resilience. It’s a powerful reminder that adjusting our mindset can help us find peace and connection, even when reality doesn’t align with our plans. Episode Chapters: 00:00:00 - Reflecting on Expectations in Yoga 00:02:10 - Navigating Unmet Expectations 00:04:00 - Understanding the Impact of Expectations 00:11:32 - Emotional Impact of Unmet Expectations 00:14:11 - Navigating Emotions: From Braces to Unmet Expectations 00:19:04 - Navigating Expectations, Shame, and Regret 00:21:24 - Guilt, Expectations, and Surprise 00:23:39 - Contentment, Expectations, and Gratitude 00:26:43 - Reframing Unmet Expectations as Learning Opportunities 00:29:42 - Navigating Expectations with Resilience Michael’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/  Tags:  expectations, managing expectations, emotional resilience, stress management, disappointment, self-awareness, emotional intelligence, coping strategies, personal growth, mindfulness, gratitude, acceptance, flexibility, emotional well-being, overcoming challenges, mindset shifts, resilience building, navigating disappointment, emotional balance, cultural differences

Stress and overwhelm are part of life, but how we approach them can make all the difference. This episode explores the transformative role of acceptance in managing these emotions. Stress is a natural response to challenges, but when it becomes chronic, it can harm both physical and mental health. Overwhelm, on the other hand, often leads to feelings of paralysis and being stuck. The discussion highlights how resisting reality can amplify these feelings, draining energy and making problem-solving harder. Acceptance, however, allows us to pause, acknowledge the present moment, and move forward with clarity and resilience. The episode also shares practical tools like journaling, breathing exercises, and grounding techniques to calm the nervous system and regain perspective. Setting boundaries, asking for help, and letting go of perfectionism are essential strategies for cultivating resilience. The speakers draw inspiration from Michael J. Fox's approach to acceptance, emphasizing that it is not resignation but understanding and finding a way forward. With self-compassion and mindful practices, listeners are encouraged to embrace stress as part of the human experience and transform overwhelm into growth. This thoughtful conversation provides actionable steps for navigating life’s challenges with grace and strength. Episode Chapters 00:00:00 - Accepting the River of Life 00:01:56 - Navigating Stress, Overwhelm, and Acceptance 00:04:16 - Understanding Stress and Its Impact 00:06:12 - Stress, Overwhelm, and the Brain 00:08:14 - Navigating Stress and Overwhelm: A Bodily Experience 00:11:16 - Acceptance: The Path Through Overwhelm 00:14:06 - Accepting What You Cannot Change 00:16:45 - Taming Overwhelm Through Lists and Breathing 00:18:12 - Grounding Techniques and Acceptance Practices 00:20:52 - Emotional Writing Reduces Stress and Promotes Problem-Solving 00:23:07 - Embracing Imperfection and Asking for Support 00:25:16 - Reflecting on Short Episodes Michael’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/ 

Ping, a yoga teacher from Thailand, shares her transformative journey from growing up in chaotic Bangkok to finding healing and authenticity through yoga, psychedelics, and personal growth. After moving to Canada in her 20s, Ping began a profound exploration of altered states of consciousness, including experiences with psilocybin and DMT, which helped her confront themes of death and rebirth. These experiences shifted her perspective on life, inspiring her to embrace the present moment and seek deeper connections. Ping’s healing path also led her to explore trauma therapy, yoga, and community support, integrating practices like Internal Family Systems and shadow work. Through ego deaths and awakenings, she released old narratives and embraced her true self. A pivotal experience in Bali helped her heal wounds of self-worth and strengthened her commitment to building compassionate spaces for others. Ping reflects on the impermanence of emotions, navigating the highs and lows of life with acceptance. She emphasizes the importance of surrendering to the flow of life, practicing mindfulness, and finding a supportive community. Her story highlights the power of integrating yoga, psychedelics, and self-awareness as tools for deep healing and transformation. Listener Note: This episode includes discussions on sensitive topics such as trauma, death and suicide, and psychedelic experiences. Some content may be uncomfortable for certain listeners, so please take care of your emotional well-being while listening. Episode Chapters 00:00:00 - Reviewing the Podcast to Spread Yoga 00:02:28 - From Thailand to Yoga: Ping's Journey 00:05:19 - Discovering the World and Finding Belonging 00:09:13 - From Mojave to Portland: A Road Trip Journey 00:11:26 - Exploring Death and the Other Realm Through Psychedelics 00:29:52 - Facing Childhood Trauma Through Eye-Gazing 00:32:40 - Embracing the Shadow Self 00:37:07 - From Skeptic to Mystic: An Awakening Journey 00:45:07 - The Duality of Life: Embracing Contrasts for Growth 00:49:14 - Embracing the Journey: Healing Through Presence and Flow 00:53:31 - Exploring Psychedelics Safely with Guidance 00:56:44 - Embracing Surrender: The Path to Fulfillment 00:59:20 - Embracing Different Perspectives and Self-Acceptance Ping’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ping.presence/

Discover the profound connection between breath, energy, and consciousness in this insightful discussion with Akshay Bhatt, a practitioner of yoga and Ayurveda. The conversation explores the transformative practice of pranayama, or breath control, as a gateway to understanding the mind and body on a deeper level. Akshay explains how the practice of elongating the breath, retaining exhalations, and techniques like Brahmari (humming) can calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and unlock profound states of awareness. The speakers delve into the ancient teachings of the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and Raja Yoga, revealing how breathwork aligns with the pranic body, the subtle energy field that governs vitality and balance. Akshay also shares practical tips for integrating pranayama into daily routines, emphasizing its role in managing emotions, improving focus, and preparing for meditation. The discussion touches on the nuances of energy-based practices, such as Reiki and Pranic Healing, which help expand and balance prana (life force energy). Listeners will gain a fresh perspective on how conscious breathing not only supports physical health but also cultivates emotional resilience, spiritual awareness, and an enhanced sense of inner peace. This episode invites you to transform your daily habits through the power of breath. Episode Chapters 00:00:00 - Exploring Pranayama: The Fourth Limb of Yoga 00:03:58 - Hatha Yoga: The Foundation for Raja Yoga 00:10:23 - Sensing the Subtle Energy Between Palms 00:15:16 - Pranic Healing and the Heart's Centrality 00:19:48 - The Power of Subtle Body Expansion 00:23:04 - The Power of Prana: Exploring the Pranic Body and Breath Practices 00:29:16 - Breath Holding and Oxygen Advantage 00:35:20 - Pranayama and Meditation Techniques for Relaxation 00:42:09 - Chakra Chanting and Meditation 00:43:16 - Chakra Activation through Mantra and Breath 00:45:43 - Observing Chakra Energies and the Mind 00:49:13 - Integrating Pranayama into Daily Life 00:52:21 - The Power of Breath in Meditation Akshay’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akshaybhatyoga/

Emotions like anger, frustration, and rage are part of the human experience, but how can we navigate them in a healthy way? In this episode, the guest dives deep into understanding these intense emotions, sharing practical tools to process them constructively and avoid their negative impacts on the body and mind. The discussion explores how emotions like annoyance and anger trigger physical responses, such as increased cortisol levels and heightened stress. The guest explains how unresolved feelings, like resentment, can build over time and lead to physical tension and disrupted energy flow, particularly in organs like the liver and heart, as seen through the lens of traditional Chinese medicine. They highlight the importance of acknowledging and processing emotions in real time to prevent long-term emotional and physical strain. Drawing inspiration from leaders like Nelson Mandela and insights from Brene Brown, the conversation emphasizes the power of vulnerability and emotional awareness. Techniques like breathing exercises, mindfulness, journaling, and body awareness are recommended to calm the nervous system and build emotional resilience. Through personal stories, including challenging travel experiences, the guest illustrates how self-awareness and self-compassion can transform emotional turmoil into personal growth. Listeners will walk away with tools to navigate their emotions and build deeper empathy and connection with themselves and others. Michael’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/  Episode Chapters: 00:00:00 - The Science of Anger and Frustration 00:03:32 - Emotions, Physiology, and Traditional Medicine 00:07:22 - The Physiology of Anger and Rage 00:10:46 - Rage, Anger, and the Body's Response 00:13:52 - Unresolved Emotions and Their Impact 00:16:50 - Emotional Intelligence: Practical Techniques 00:20:44 - Techniques to Manage Anger and Frustration 00:29:50 - Emotional Trek and Flight Delays 00:32:02 - Navigating Airline Booking Mishaps 00:34:06 - Navigating Airport Frustration with Yoga-Inspired Calm 00:35:49 - Coping with Stress and Emotional Turmoil 00:37:53 - Navigating Emotional Challenges

This episode offers a deep dive into the ancient wisdom of Chinese medicine, focusing on balance as the key to physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Jocelyn Keoh, a Chinese medicine practitioner, shares profound insights into how elements like fire, metal, and water influence our well-being. The discussion explores the fire element, associated with passion and warmth, and its connection to the heart and small intestine. Jocelyn explains how imbalances can manifest as overexcitement or depletion and offers practical advice to maintain equilibrium through rest, emotional expression, and mindful living. The conversation also touches on the role of digestion and how our mental state influences gut health. By being fully present while eating, we can optimize our body's natural rhythms and support the rest-and-digest response. Other topics include the vital connection between the lungs and skin, the importance of kidney health for energy and detoxification, and the Taoist concept of "jing" or kidney essence, which fuels our vitality. Jocelyn emphasizes the need to care for our lower back, avoid rushing detox processes, and seek personalized guidance from trusted practitioners. This episode inspires listeners to tune into their body's signals, embrace balance, and take small, mindful steps toward lasting well-being. TAO’s Medicine Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taomedicine/ Episode Chapters:00:00:00 - Exploring the Elements of Traditional Chinese Medicine 00:03:05 - The Heart: Governing Emotions and Sweat 00:07:45 - The Imbalance of Intensity 00:10:25 - The Balance of Body Fluids and Emotions 00:13:06 - Repressed Emotions and Chakra Imbalance 00:15:49 - Digestive Health: Balancing Mind and Body 00:21:35 - The Power of Presence and Mindfulness 00:25:48 - The Lungs and the Metal Element 00:29:24 - The Metal Element: Balancing Dominance and Vulnerability 00:33:24 - Breathing Through the Nose: Lungs and Emotions 00:36:11 - The Kidneys: The Foundation of Yin-Yang Balance 00:41:59 - Balancing Yin and Yang in Kidney Health 00:46:52 - Navigating Altitude Adjustments 00:47:46 - Personalized Approach to Wellbeing 00:49:23 - Consult a Health Professional Before Detoxing 00:51:19 - Upcoming Herbal Medicine Course

Imagine understanding health not as a fixed state but as an ongoing journey of balance. This episode dives into the ancient wisdom of Chinese medicine, where harmony between yin and yang is the cornerstone of well-being. Jaclyn Keoh, a practitioner of Chinese medicine, shares profound insights into how balancing our body’s energy, or "chi," can lead to improved health and happiness. The conversation unpacks the interconnectedness of seasonal changes, personal constitutions, and emotional energy. Jaclyn explains how yin-yang theory applies to everyday life, emphasizing the importance of rest and activity, emotional release, and personalized self-care. Through relatable metaphors and personal stories, the speakers highlight the importance of understanding one's unique constitution and using that knowledge to make lifestyle adjustments that align with nature’s rhythms. Listeners will gain practical tips on recognizing energy imbalances, addressing emotional stagnation, and fostering harmony within relationships. Jaclyn emphasizes self-compassion and self-awareness as keys to sustaining health in a world of constant flux. This episode is an inspiring reminder that our well-being is not just about physical health but about embracing life’s natural ebbs and flows with grace and intuition. TAO’s Medicine Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taomedicine/ Episode Chapters:00:00:00 - Sharing Yoga Through Podcast Reviews 00:02:28 - Exploring Chinese Medicine with Jocelyn Kyo 00:04:19 - From Accounting to Holistic Health: My Journey 00:06:52 - Profound Encounter Sparking Health Journey 00:08:20 - From Gili Air to Chinese Medicine: A Journey of Learning 00:11:12 - Exploring the Connections Between Buddhism, Ayurveda, and Yin-Yang 00:14:59 - The Yin-Yang Balance of the Female Cycle 00:20:02 - Exploring the Elements and Seasons 00:22:19 - Adapting to Change: Exploring Personal Constitutions 00:24:37 - Balancing Personality Elements 00:28:18 - Balancing Wood Element and Stress 00:32:37 - Understanding the Intelligent Energy of Chi 00:35:57 - Releasing Emotional Stagnation for Optimal Health 00:39:37 - The Journey of Finding Balance00:42:33 - Embracing the Impermanence of Life

Imagine reaching a 5,400-meter summit in the Himalayas, finding a powerful sense of pride that goes beyond the climb itself. In this episode, Michael shares insights from his journey about cultivating self-worth and finding balance between internal and external validation. Michael explores the importance of self-compassion and how we can appreciate ourselves without relying solely on big achievements or outside approval. He suggests we aim for 70-80% of our validation to come from within, using practices like journaling, setting personal goals, and celebrating small wins. This helps build resilience, avoid burnout, and steer clear of perfectionism traps. Michael also emphasizes the role of neurotransmitters like serotonin and oxytocin in feeling pride and accomplishment. By focusing on inner growth, he argues we can foster lasting self-confidence, letting positive emotions guide us toward personal goals. For anyone interested in building self-worth through inner growth, this episode offers practical steps to boost confidence, resilience, and joy in everyday life.Episode Chapters: 00:00:00 - Practicing Self-Compassion for Emotional Resilience 00:02:09 - Cultivating Pride: Lessons from Nepal 00:05:50 - Harnessing the Power of Pride and Growth 00:10:16 - Balancing Internal and External Validation 00:14:45 - Embracing Self-Appreciation and Compassion 00:17:52 - Cultivating Self-Appreciation Through Reflection and Skill Development 00:20:20 - Balancing Goals and Self-Worth 00:23:22 - Avoiding Burnout: Balancing Achievements and Self-Worth 00:27:43 - Building Confidence Through Self-Appreciation 00:31:11 - Celebrating Effort, Seeking Feedback, and Reflecting on Growth 00:33:05 - Avoiding Burnout: Balancing Work and Joyful Activities 00:36:23 - The Neurochemistry of Pride and Accomplishment

In this episode, Akshay Bhat, an Ayurvedic practitioner and yoga teacher, delves into the Ayurvedic principles of health and the three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. He explains that Ayurveda views health as a balance between physical, mental, and spiritual aspects, emphasizing that one’s dosha is just a piece of the larger puzzle of well-being. Akshay discusses how understanding these doshas can help individuals tailor their lifestyles, diets, and routines for optimal health.  Vata, associated with movement, can lead to issues like back pain when imbalanced. Pitta, linked to fire and digestion, can cause inflammation if not balanced. Kapha individuals, with slower, heavier constitutions, may thrive on more intense exercise. The speakers highlight the importance of knowing your unique constitution to maintain a balanced lifestyle, stressing that what works for one may not work for another. They also explore the concept of circadian rhythms and how aligning daily routines with Ayurvedic principles can promote overall health. The discussion encourages listeners to embrace their unique constitution and take steps toward better self-care through Ayurveda. Episode Chapters:00:00:00 - Ayurvedic Doshas and Yoga Practice 00:03:23 - Ayurvedic Holistic Health: Balancing Doshas and the Path to Wellbeing 00:08:15 - The Puzzle of Life: Always Something Missing 00:10:41 - The Principles of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha 00:15:47 - Understanding Vata Body Type and Personality 00:18:11 - Understanding Dosha Constitutions in Ayurveda 00:20:59 - Addressing Root Causes of Imbalance 00:22:30 - Cheetah-Like Metabolism and Exercise Needs for Pitta Types 00:25:29 - The Role of Kapha in Yoga and Fitness 00:29:37 - Understanding Your Ayurvedic Body Type 00:32:08 - Finding Your Dosha: The Value of a Doctor's Evaluation 00:34:37 - Exploring Ayurvedic Doshas for Self-Understanding 00:42:48 - Finding Your Unique Nutrition Approach 00:45:42 - Discover Your Ayurvedic Constitution Akshay’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akshaybhatyoga/