An important one. TBH I don’t usually listen back to the recording all the way because I don’t want to but for this one I did and I’m really proud of saying what I had to say.

Thanks for engaging with Living in Response, a real-time exploration of starting at the beginning, which means uncertain, unfiltered, unbounded, and a little afraid.

Topics Covered

Summarized by AI

Overcoming Physical and Mental Resistance

Reflecting on personal growth through hiking at Runyon Canyon—once a challenge, now a choice. Recognizing how physical endurance mirrors mental resilience and the power of persistence. Learning to focus on the present moment, breath, and personal progress rather than external comparisons.

The Role of Breath in Expanding Capacity

Discovering the impact of Ujjayi* breath (a yoga pranayama) during hikes—how intentional breathing shifted the experience from struggle to flow. Recognizing that breathwork and embodiment are tools for endurance, both physically and in life.

*I said incorrectly in the recording that Ujjayi that it’s in through the nose and out through the mouth but I meant to say it’s in AND out through the nose. It also has a little hissing sound from constricting the throat slightly.

Lessons from the Hike Applied to Life

Drawing parallels between persistence on the trail and navigating life’s uncertainties. Learning that staying present and taking one step at a time creates momentum and trust in the unfolding process.

Shifting from Limitation to Possibility

Reflecting on a shift in mindset around wealth and success—moving from a place of “I could never” to “It’s just not what I desire right now.” Exploring how expanding personal perception of possibility removes self-imposed limitations.

Breaking Free from Societal and Cultural Conditioning

Acknowledging the deep-seated beliefs around work, opportunity, and what is “possible” based on cultural and economic upbringing. Unpacking the tension between gratitude for the present and the desire for more. Recognizing the responsibility and privilege of having broken out of cycles of limitation.

Accessibility, Opportunity, and the Bigger Picture

Exploring the need for accessibility in personal development and spiritual resources—how financial and societal barriers impact access to these tools. Reflecting on lived experiences of poverty and systemic limitations, and the responsibility to create more inclusive spaces.

The Power of Slowing Down

Recognizing that energy and motivation don’t always come from doing more—they often come from pausing, resting, and turning inward. Understanding that deep relaxation, meditation, and embodiment practices are not just luxuries but essential tools for self-sustaining energy.

Embracing Paradoxes in Personal Growth

Navigating the balance between ambition and acceptance, external success and internal fulfillment, self-responsibility and systemic barriers. Holding space for multiple truths—acknowledging privilege while also validating struggle.

Creative Expression as a Means of Integration

Using podcasting as a form of self-exploration and integration—allowing ideas to evolve through spoken word. Letting go of the need to be perfectly articulate, trusting that clarity will come through continued expression.

Mentions

I mentioned something about a speech given about women in the workforce and I TOTALLY butchered it because it was from Joelle Tanguy, UN Women Director, Division of Strategic Partnerships (not Steve Jobs omg @ me), but it was addressing the female talent in Saudi Arabia, you can check that out here if you feel called.

Final Thoughts

This episode is a deep dive into persistence, self-trust, and expanding what feels possible. It’s about recognizing that growth isn’t about forcing things but about aligning with the energy of what is already unfolding. Whether through breath, movement, or mindset shifts, we are constantly shaping our reality.

So much love and gratitude.

Mystically,

Belle

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mysticallybelle.substack.com