Mindfulness Mode

Bruce Hitchcock is a remarkable person who turned his life around after struggling with addiction and building mental fortitude with a program by Wes Watson that transformed everything for him. Bruce focused on nutrition and training, which completely changed his mindset. Now, he wants to inspire others to make meaningful changes in their lives. Bruce is passionate about fitness and believes that discipline starts with taking care of yourself first. He follows a strict workout routine and eats healthy to stay fit, build muscles, and get shredded. Through his company, Fortitude Fitness, he shares his journey and provides guidance on fitness and nutrition. Bruce's commitment to his own well-being has made him a leader, not just in the fitness world but also in his personal life and marriage. He has overcome his vices and become a powerful and positive influence. Bruce's story is truly inspiring, and he is excited to share it on the Mindfulness Mode podcast to motivate and uplift others.

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Contact Info

Company: Fortitude Fit

Instagram: @Fortitude.Fitt

Most Influential Person

Zach – Zakk Wylde, lead guitar player with Ozzy Osborne

Effect on Emotions

Before practicing mindfulness, Bruce Hitchcock used to be an emotional wreck, constantly fluctuating between different emotions.

Bruce's challenges were primarily due to his previous drug usage. However, his approach toward emotions has undergone a transformation since then.

Consequently, Bruce now embraces whatever emotion he feels, understanding that it's not beneficial to push them away.

To Bruce, true strength lies in being able to control one's temper, while also allowing oneself to cry and fully experience the emotions when necessary.

Bruce has come to realize that hiding or suppressing emotions only leads to future problems. This valuable lesson was learned through personal hardships.

Thoughts on Breathing

When asked about breathing and its relation to mindfulness, Bruce Hitchcock expressed his thoughts on the matter. He mentioned that he recently came across a powerful breathing technique, recognizing the significant impact it can have.

Although he couldn't recall the exact pattern of breath, he emphasized the importance of taking deep breaths for about 30 seconds. According to Bruce, this kind of deep breathing can not only change one's mood but also alter their frequency.

While Bruce personally enjoys staying active through workouts to achieve heavy breathing, he has also been making an effort to incorporate breathwork into his routine.

Overall, Bruce acknowledged the benefits of breathwork and found it to be a positive addition.

Suggested Resources

Book: Marcus Aurelius – Meditations: Adapted for the Contemporary Reader

App: n/a

Bullying Story

Bruce Hitchcock shared his perspective on bullying when asked about it.

He expressed his strong dislike for bullies and mentioned that he has always been against people who pick on those who are weaker. He believes that bullies engage in such behavior for their own reasons, perhaps to make themselves feel better, although he isn't entirely sure of their motivations.

Bruce emphasized that everyone has their own story and struggles, and that should be taken into consideration.

While he personally did not have a significant experience with being bullied, he acknowledged that there may have been times when someone did something, but it didn't affect him greatly.

He did mention engaging in playful teasing and physical activities like wrestling and lacrosse with his peers, but it was never in a way that felt like being bullied.

Building Mental Fortitude Advice

If anybody's out there struggling, don't keep putting it off. Do what you need to do today. Go get help if you're in that bad of a place.

Go get help today. Start changing your life today. If you don't need help with vices and you just need to kind of tighten your life up and start living a fresh lifestyl

Sonya Shelton is a successful businesswoman and CEO of Executive Leadership Consulting. During today's episode, she will share some purpose-driven strategies for executives and those who want to become better leaders through mindfulness. Sonya helps companies grow and succeed by focusing on passionate culture and profitable strategies. Sonya is a respected author and international speaker, known for her expertise in leadership. She created the Red Thread Leadership™ model, a simple and effective way for leaders to navigate uncertainty and build a strong, motivated team. With over 25 years of experience working with various organizations, including The Walt Disney Company, Sonya shares the best practices for creating a passionate culture even in challenging times. She’s on the Forbes Coaches Council and is the author of the #1 Amazon bestseller “You’re an Executive, But Are You a Leader.

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Website: www.ExecutiveLeader.com

Website: www.RedthreadLeadership.com

Most Influential Person

Zen Master Seung Sahn

Effect on Emotions

Sonya emphasized the importance of not immediately reacting to situations, as she had mentioned earlier in her story about bullying. Instead, she focuses on recognizing when she doesn't need to react and choosing to respond from a different place.

For bigger emotions, such as grief from losing loved ones, Sonya finds solace in fully embracing the waves of emotions without trying to change or avoid them.

Sonya believes that by allowing herself to fully experience the emotion, it dissipates more quickly compared to suppressing it.

Sonya explained that mindfulness goes beyond just not reacting; it also involves being present with deep emotions and allowing them to move through you, preventing the tendency to hold onto them.

Thoughts on Breathing

Sonya explained that breathing is a fundamental aspect of mindfulness and something we always have access to.

Sonya, being a meditator herself, acknowledged that it's not always possible to stop and meditate in every situation. However, she emphasized that we can always focus on our breath.

More specifically, when we feel overwhelmed, stressed, or fearful, simply connecting with our breath and taking a few deep breaths can bring about a significant change in our state of mind.

Even just four or five intentional breaths can have a powerful impact on how we feel. Sonya recognized the accessibility and transformative nature of breathing as a tool for mindfulness.

The above suggestions are purpose-driven strategies for executives, entrepreneurs, corporate employees, or anyone seeking strategies for success.

Suggested Resources

Book: You're an Executive, but Are You a Leader: The Executive's Simple Guide to Creating, Communicating and Achieving the Vision by Sonya Shelton

Book: Wherever You Go, There You Are: Mindfulness Meditation in Everyday Life by Jon Kabat-Zinn

App: n/a

Bullying Story

Sonya shared a story about how mindfulness made a difference when she experienced bullying in the workplace. She explained that while people often talk about bullying in schools, it's also important to address the issue in the workplace. Even at a place like Disney, known as the happiest place on earth, Sonya encountered a bully who was another executive.

During a conversation about a project, the executive started screaming at Sonya. Instead of reacting with anger or shouting back, Sonya turned inward and checked in with her own feelings.

She calmly suggested ending the meeting and discussing things later when they could both be calmer. Despite the executive's continued yelling as Sonya left, she realized she didn't have to participate or let it affect her.

Sonya shared that by using mindfulness techniques, she was able to stay calm and not let the bully's behavior impact her. She highlighted the importance of discussing workplace bullying and not accepting it, while also emphasizing that mindfuln

Craig Shoemaker is a talented comedian who believes that ‘winning with humor' is something we can all achieve. He has accomplished amazing successes in his career. He has performed comedy for four US Presidents and has won awards for his outstanding performances. He's been on TV and Broadway and even won Emmy Awards. Craig is not only a comedian but also a writer and producer. He has written books for kids and even made movies. You might have seen him on shows like Parks & Recreation and Fresh Prince of Bel Air. He's been recognized as one of the top stand-up comics in the world. Craig is also a speaker and coach who teaches people how to use humor to succeed. He has traveled all over the world to share his message and also offers a course called, Winning With Humor.

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Website: www.WinningWithHumor.com

Blog: www.CraigShoemaker.com

Course: Winning With Humor by Craig Shoemaker

Most Influential Person

Michael Beckwith

Effect on Emotions

Craig Shoemaker shared his thoughts on how mindfulness has helped him handle his emotions. He called it “pause for the cause,” which means taking a moment to free himself. By pausing and focusing on his breath, he experiences a positive transformation.

Craig's negative feelings, like resentment and anger, turned into gratitude and happiness. This shift in his mindset allowed him to approach situations differently, without fear.

Whenever he takes this pause, it always works for him, instantly changing the atmosphere and avoiding conflicts. Breathing plays a crucial role in this process, as it brings a sense of calm and clarity. Craig Shoemaker was already practicing this technique even before it became trendy.

Thoughts on Breathing

When asked about breathing, Craig Shoemaker mentioned that his wife teaches breathwork and has taken him through it. He described breathwork as a powerful experience that makes him feel incredibly high, even more so than drugs.

Deep breathing often leads Craig to burst into uncontrollable laughter, which he believes is a form of deep breathing that energizes the body and brings joy. He expressed the importance of laughter and unity among people, highlighting a moment when participants in a course he was involved with were captured laughing together.

In addition, Craig emphasized the beauty of collective oneness and encourages people to appreciate and embrace it.

Suggested Resources

Book: Conversations With God Neil Donald Walsh

Book: Lovemaster’d: a digital journey to ultimate love and happiness by Craig Shoemaker

App: Craig Shoemaker is releasing his own app called ‘Laughermations'. They will contain funny bits called ‘GiggleBits'.

Bullying Story

Craig Shoemaker shared a story about his experiences with bullying and how mindfulness could have made a difference. He explained that growing up without a dad made him vulnerable, which unfortunately led to him being targeted by a kidnapper.

But apart from that, he also faced intense bullying at school. He described it as being beaten up severely, like a piñata, as if candy would come out of him. It was incredibly painful and humiliating.

Craig shared an example from when he joined a football team in eighth grade. Despite being very small in size, he chose to play as a center to feel included. However, the popular guys on the team treated him poorly. They would punch him in the face during huddles and continue to physically harm him in the locker room.

They tore his underwear and subjected him to wedgies, making him feel ashamed and unable to confide in his mom. The constant beatings took a toll on him, to the point where he attempted suicide.

Craig's intention was not to end his life, but to make those who hurt him feel remorseful.

Craig emphasized the importance of mindfulness in such situations, explaining that he would respond with consciousness, evaluation, research, and self-reflection rather than getting trapped in echo chamb

Jewels Arnes is an experienced practitioner who has focused on activating evolution within through Vibrational Healing for more than 30 years. With numerous certifications in this field, Jewels possesses a special ability called the Super Power of Tracing energy patterns. This remarkable skill allows her to identify the beliefs and programs that contribute to aging and illness. She has founded DECU Universe, a school that teaches individuals how to ascend through DECU using OMcodes Methods and the Breaking Quantum Physics lecture series. In her dedicated pursuit, Jewels helps people reach their full potential as humans, facilitating fundamental changes in their lives, bodies, and consciousness. As the creator and founder of the EvoStar Quantum App, as well as BioQuantum Skincare and Supplements, Jewels offers advanced and innovative products that aid individuals in intentionally creating beneficial molecules.

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Website: http://bioquantumskincare.com and https://activateevolution.com

Podcast: Activate Evolution

Podcast: DQ Universe Also has a skincare podcast – StarSeeds Continuum

Most Influential Person

My friend Rob Carter

Effect on Emotions

Jewels told me that she would like to teach how to rise above emotions and experience them through frequency. While she acknowledges that she still has emotions, she believes that mindfulness has helped her reach a different level of experiencing them.

Furthermore, Jewels explained that It's important to understand the level of consciousness we're in and what we identify with.

Jules wants everyone to reach this space of heightened experience with their emotions and hopes to guide them on this journey.

Thoughts on Breathing

When asked about breathing and its connection to mindfulness, Jewels shared that she doesn't focus extensively on breath work.

Instead, she finds simple ways to reset and regain mindfulness. Sometimes, she takes a small sigh to release tension, and she also enjoys shaking her hands to let go of any built-up energy.

Jules explained that these practices help her quickly return to a state of mindfulness.

Suggested Resources

Book: Frequency: The Power of Personal Vibration by Penny Pierce

App: EvoStar App

Bullying Story

Jewels shared a story about bullying and how mindfulness can make a difference. She has two daughters, and she knows that bullying happens at different levels.

When her daughters faced bullying or shaming, she would ask them to sit quietly and think about why they took it personally.

She explained that bullies often target someone's weaknesses, and if her daughters felt hurt or reacted strongly, it was a sign of their own insecurities.

Jewels encouraged her daughters to recognize their insecurities and work on building confidence in those areas. By doing so, they could stay strong when others tried to bring them down.

Jewels emphasized the importance of feeling empowered regardless of what happens around us.

Related Episodes

Visionary Yoga: Beyond Fitness to Conscious Evolution With Mariko Hirakawa

Breathwork To Upscale Your Life; Samantha Skelly

Bridging the Gap Between Spirituality and Science; D. Neil Elliott

Special Offer

Are you experiencing anxiety & stress? I’m Bruce Langford, a practicing coach and hypnotist helping fast-track people just like you to shed their inner bully and move forward with confidence. Book a Free Session to get you on the road to a more satisfying life, feeling grounded and focused. Send me an email at [email protected] with ‘Session' in the subject line. We'll set up a call and talk about how you can move forward to a better life.

David Weigert is a unique individual who wants to make a positive difference in people's lives using techniques that encourage you to shake, stimulate, and energize. He believes in helping others become more intuitive and less alone. David sees human beings as information gathering systems and aims to assist them in downloading information from the universe. He has a deep understanding of mindfulness and its significance. David's personal journey led him to realize that feeling loved is essential for calming the mind and staying present. Growing up as a refugee with parents suffering from PTSD, he experienced a sense of isolation and loneliness. However, this also redirected him to the understanding that love emanates from the core of our souls. David's spiritual nature guides him, and he has developed a personal relationship with Jesus and the creator of the universe. Through intentional shaking and the knowledge he gained from practices like Qigong and acupuncture, David amplifies his sensory experience and deepens his connection with spirituality. To him, spirituality encompasses everything and is the essence of all aspects of life. David believes that as God's children, we are infinitely loved, and our imperative to love and protect our children comes from the creative process that is ingrained within us.

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Website: https://www.recharge-rejuvenate.com/hello2

Most Influential Person

Tony Robbins

Effect on Emotions

When asked how mindfulness has helped David to deal with his emotions differently, he answered with the word “acceptance”. He explained that he has learned to love his emotions as they are and then choose the emotion he wants.

David uses techniques to help with your emotions that encourage you to shake, stimulate, and energize.

Thoughts on Breathing

“Well, I've been practicing breathing exercises since I did Silver Mind Control back in 1977. I'm still learning, so I will keep practicing.”

Suggested Resources

Book: Letting Go by David R Hawkins

App: n/a

Bullying Story

When asked about a story to share, David Weigert spoke about how he has never been bullied because of the vibe he puts out. He attributes this to his trust in God and his practice of seeking forgiveness and forgiving others quickly to avoid generating negativity. He mentioned his struggle with road rage while driving and how he took a training to calm himself down by using techniques like deep breathing.

However, David's revelation came when he started shaking about nine years ago to relieve his back pain. He noticed that our bodies are made up of trillions of cells, and the shaking increases wave activity within the body, similar to how waves propagate during natural disasters like tsunamis. This increased wave activity brings changes and nutrients to the body and washes out toxins.

David also mentioned an example of using waves to prevent freezing in a whale rescue operation. He sees the importance of waves in our bodies and considers himself a “guinea pig” for his own practice. He hopes to study this further in the future.

Related Episodes

458 Planetary Change Through Leadership; Dr. Nancy Gordon

169 Gay Pride, Mindfulness and Bullying Talk With Dear Mattie Host, Matt Marr

322 Leave A Legacy By Being Mindful Says Speaker/Author Thom Singer

Special Offer

Are you experiencing anxiety & stress? Peace is within your grasp. I’m Bruce Langford, a practicing coach, and hypnotist helping fast-track people just like you to shed their inner bully and move forward with confidence. Book a free call with me to help you feel more grounded and focused. Send me an email at [email protected] with ‘more grounded' in the subject line. We'll set up a call and talk about how you can move forward to a better life.

Steve Cloward is a resilient entrepreneur, overcoming a 14-year opiate addiction and 14 months in Federal Prison. Surprisingly, his experiences ultimately led him from federal prison to inner freedom. With a successful real estate appraisal firm and multiple seven-figure businesses under his belt, Steve's journey towards self-discovery led him to create the Bands for Freedom Foundation Inc., which has donated over $255,000 to support military personnel and their families. Driven by his own experiences, he spent years and significant resources seeking personal growth, determined to understand and overcome the obstacles from his past. Steve's warm heart, loyalty, and exceptional networking skills make him a true people person, dedicated to serving others.

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Website: https://lifeafteraddictionandindictment.com

Podcast: Life After Addiction and Indictment

Most Influential Person

My Grandfather

Effect on Emotions

Mindfulness has affected my emotions because, well, when you are aware of and mindful of what is causing your emotions, then you have a lot better chance of dealing with them. My emotions create my responses.

Thoughts on Breathing

In this episode, Steve Cloward shares his insights on the power of breathing as a mindfulness practice. While he personally doesn't have a set technique, he mentions a friend named Boish who follows breathing techniques similar to those taught by Tony Robbins.

Steve acknowledges that there are days when he feels lethargic or struggles in the afternoon, and during those moments, he finds immense benefit in engaging in breathing exercises or meditation.

Steve highlights the transformative energy shift that occurs through these practices, leading to a renewed sense of vitality and motivation. Tune in to the episode to discover how incorporating intentional breathing can help overcome fatigue and ignite a sense of purpose.

Suggested Resources

Book: Mindset Is The Key

App:  Calm

Bullying Story

In this deeply personal conversation, Steve Cloward opens up about his experiences with bullying and the profound impact mindfulness has had on his journey of self-discovery. He reflects on instances where he faced bullying during his addiction struggles but also emphasizes the importance of shifting from selfishness to selflessness in his mindfulness practice.

Steve shares pivotal moments, such as seeking guidance from a higher power before making difficult decisions and finding solace in prayer while navigating the challenges of prison.

Through his own transformative experiences, Steve encourages listeners to choose their responses to life's challenges, highlighting the power of positive thinking and seeking support from others.

Steve's story serves as a reminder of his journey from federal prison to inner freedom. He helps the listener understand that asking for help and maintaining a compassionate heart can bring about healing and personal growth.

Related Episodes

Strengthen Your Hope MuscleLessons From Life That Can’t Be Taught with Boxer, Ed LatimoreThe Key To Mental Toughness With Mani Vaya

Special Offer

Are you experiencing anxiety & stress? I’m Bruce Langford, a practicing hypnotist helping fast-track people just like you to shed their inner bully and move forward with confidence. Book a Free Coaching Session to get you on the road to a more satisfying life, feeling grounded and focused. Send me an email at [email protected] with ‘Coaching Session' in the subject line. We'll set up a call and talk about how you can move forward to a better life.

Rev. Karen Cleveland is a spiritual connection specialist, Minister, and animal communicator. This episode is about how you can come on safari and be guided on a transformative journey. Through carefully curated safari adventures worldwide, she helps those who have lost touch with their inner selves rediscover meaning and purpose in their lives. Even after the safaris, Karen continues to provide support by offering guidance on the inner journey, helping individuals unearth their buried dreams through exercises that connect the mind, body, and soul. As the host of the Connectedness podcast, Karen shares her teachings from the EVOLVE framework, which encompasses the integration of mind, body, and soul. Her podcast serves as a gateway for all listeners to embark on their own path towards realizing their heartfelt dreams while acknowledging the profound impact of coincidences and synchronicities in our lives, which manifest as everyday miracles and magic.

 

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Website: www.RevKarenCleveland.com

Podcast: Connectedness Podcast

Most Influential Person

My mentor, my senior minister when I first started, Kathianne Lewis in Seattle.

Effect on Emotions

Mindfulness has helped me to accept my emotions and not ignore them.

Thoughts on Breathing

I don't have anything to share about breathing right now. I have just recently started trying to breathe intentionally three times a day, but I am late on the whole breathing thing and am not ready to share anything yet.

Suggested Resources

Book: A New Earth: Awakening Your Life's Purpose by Eckhart Tolle

App: I set alarms, and I use music as the alarm and that reminds me to be present.

Bullying Story

Rev. Karen Cleveland shared a story about her experience as a child with red hair. She and her sister were teased because they looked different. Karen wished she had known mindfulness skills back then. It would have helped her understand that the teasing wasn't about her, but about the insecurities of others. She could have learned not to take it personally and not let it affect her. Karen believes that mindfulness would have made a big difference in how she felt during those tough times.

Related Episodes

Experience Transformation With MindTravel; Murray Hidary

112 World Traveller, Steven Shalowitz Uses Mindfulness to Embrace Cultural Differences

Self-Care Isn’t Selfish Care; Lesley Logan

Special Offer

Are you experiencing anxiety & stress? Peace is within your grasp. I’m Bruce Langford, a practicing coach, and hypnotist helping fast-track people just like you to shed their inner bully and move forward with confidence. Book a Free Session to talk about ways you can feel more grounded and focused. Send me an email at [email protected] with ‘Chat Session' in the subject line. We'll set up a call and talk about how you can move forward to a better life.

Chris Donaldson is a passionate adventurer and author. His recent acclaimed book, Going the Wrong Way,” has garnered over 300 five-star reviews on Amazon. In 1979, Chris embarked on a planned 4-month, 10,000-mile motorcycle trip from Belfast on his café racing Moto Guzzi motorcycle, driven by a desire for self-discovery. Although his journey to Australia was interrupted by the Iranian revolution, Chris persevered, traveling over 50,000 miles and ending up high in the Andes before returning home. His book, “Going the Wrong Way,” chronicles this incredible ‘coming of age' road trip and his adventurous spirit. Chris is currently riding to Australia once again, this time on the same Moto Guzzi Le Mans road bike, 42 years later.

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Contact Info

Website: www.chrisdonaldson.world

Book: Going The Wrong Way: A Coming of Age Story Like No Other by Chris Donaldson

Most Influential Person

My wife, Julie

Effect on Emotions

Chris shared how mindfulness changed how he handles emotions. Mindfulness helps him stay calm and peaceful. Instead of reacting impulsively, he takes a pause and breathes.

Mindfulness gives Chris time to think before responding. By being mindful, Chris feels more in control of his emotions.

Mindfulness has become his tool for finding balance and inner peace.

Thoughts on Breathing

Chris did not have any comments or tips about breathing as it relates to mindfulness.

Suggested Resources

Book: Zen And The Art Of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert M Pirsig

Book: Going The Wrong Way: A Coming of Age Story Like No Other by Chris Donaldson

App: No, I think we spend too much time on our phones as it is

Bullying Story

Chris Donaldson shared a story about how mindfulness could have made a difference in dealing with bullying. He mentioned Irish politics as an example where politicians are stuck in the past, constantly fighting and unable to move on mentally. They engage in bullying tactics without considering the benefits of coming together.

Chris highlighted the irony of former arch-enemies Paisley and Martin McGinnis becoming great friends later in life. This showed that it's possible to overcome mental barriers and develop new relationships. However, individuals more recently who have experienced the same struggles have not managed to move forward the way Paisley and Martin McGinnis have done.

Related Episodes

Create The Life You Love With Dr. Paul Jenkins

Cosmic Torture Strengthens the Faith of Zen Pilot Robert DeLaurentis

Increase Your Magnetic Presence With Rachael Jayne Groover

Special Offer

Are you experiencing anxiety & stress? Peace is within your grasp. I’m Bruce Langford, a practicing coach, and hypnotist helping fast-track people just like you to shed their inner bully and move forward with confidence. Book a Free Coaching Session to get you on the road to a more satisfying life, feeling grounded and focused. Send me an email at [email protected] with ‘Coaching Session' in the subject line. We'll set up a zoom call get clear about what is holding you back.

Tim Bui is a serial entrepreneur with expertise in flow state secrets, having profound experience in meditation and martial arts. As a psychonaut and biohacker, he explores the intersection of consciousness, personal development, and optimal performance. Tim is the founder of High Performance Humans, a company dedicated to empowering individuals through personalized personal development and leadership programs. With a deep understanding of the mind-body connection, Tim advocates for dissolving boundaries to truly be connected, transcending limitations, and embracing a state of flow. His work inspires individuals to overcome barriers, discover their potential, and lead purposeful lives, creating a ripple effect of positive change in the world.

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Contact Info

Company: High Performance Humans

Most Influential Person

My Buddhist Teacher

Effect on Emotions

Through meditation, Tim has gained a new perspective on his emotions. Previously, he held negative associations with certain emotions. However, he now understands that emotions themselves are not inherently negative or positive. Instead, he recognizes that everything in life comes with trade-offs, pros, and cons.

Tim acknowledges that his previous fixation on one aspect of his emotions led to resistance and exaggerated reactions, making them more significant than necessary.

By embracing the understanding that everything exists within a duality or varying degrees, he has found a sense of balance. This realization has helped him approach his emotions with greater equanimity and acceptance, allowing him to navigate them with more ease and without judgment.

Thoughts on Breathing

Tim emphasizes the importance of energy check-ins and breathwork to optimize his presence and productivity. By monitoring his energy levels and engaging in intentional breathwork when needed, he ensures he shows up at his best.

Taking deep breaths helps him reconnect with his body, activate the parasympathetic response, and reduce stress, leading to increased productivity and overall well-being.

Suggested Resources

Book: The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself by Michael A. Singer

Book: Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind: 50th Anniversary Edition by Shunryu Suzuki

App: The Apnea Trainer App

Bullying Story

As a martial artist with nearly 30 years of experience, Tim has encountered bullying throughout his life. From his early years in second grade to recent experiences at a kickboxing gym, he recognizes the cycle of bullying and its impact.

Tim's ability to maintain mindfulness and empathy has allowed him to navigate these situations without letting them overshadow the positive moments and connections in his life, ensuring that he remains focused on personal growth and meaningful interactions.

Flow State Secrets

Tim Bui shared his insights on unlocking the power of flow. Drawing from his extensive experience in meditation and martial arts, Tim emphasized the importance of dissolving the boundaries between mind and body to achieve optimal performance.

He highlighted the significance of finding one's edge, pushing boundaries, and embracing the exhilaration of growth. Tim's profound understanding of the mind-body connection and his belief in the transformative nature of flow state inspire individuals to overcome barriers, discover their potential, and lead purposeful lives.

Related Episodes

Meditation and Beyond with MindFlow App Founder Fabio Mattiussi

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Special Offer

Are you experiencing anxiety & stress? Peace is within your grasp. I’m Bruce Langford, a practicing coach, and hypnotist helping fast-track people just like you to shed their inner bully and move forward with confidence. Book a time to talk with Bruce to discover how you can feel more grounded and focused. Send me an email at bruce@mindfulnessmode

Shannon Duncan is an entrepreneur and author known for his book, Present Moment Awareness. In his newest work, Coming Full Circle, Shannon candidly shares the lessons he learned during his own extensive journey of using psychedelics to heal trauma. With a heartfelt desire to support others in their healing process, Shannon hopes that his experiences will provide valuable guidance to those in need. Along his path, Shannon has discovered the importance of embracing his authentic self, particularly his sense of humor, which has been a source of great reward in his own healing journey. Additionally, Shannon has developed “The Focus Tool,” a mobile app that complements his book and is available for both Apple and Android users.

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Contact Info

Book: Coming Full Circle: Healing Trauma Using Psychedelics by Shannon Duncan

Book: Present Moment Awareness by Shannon Duncan

Most Influential Person

My Therapist, Taffy

Effect on Emotions

Shannon Duncan expressed his insight about emotions as follows: “Through my experience with mindfulness and working with my therapist, Taffy, I gained a valuable lesson in pulling myself back and simply observing my emotions. Previously, my emotions had solely defined me, as if whatever I was feeling represented an absolute truth. I hadn't considered that these emotions might arise from deeper insecurities, sadness, or a lack of feeling safe.

However, through the practice of mindfulness, self-awareness, and self-honesty, I have been able to expand my inner world. I now understand that I can contain and observe my emotions without identifying myself solely with them. I have come to realize that I am not defined by my emotions alone.”

Thoughts on Breathing

Shannon Duncan emphasizes the significance of breathing, which plays a pivotal role in mindfulness. He stresses that the way we breathe is a direct reflection of our internal state. If our breath is shallow and confined to the chest, it indicates a heightened sense of panic or being in a primal, reactive state.

To counter this, it is essential to cultivate abdominal breathing, where the breath originates from the belly. This intentional practice helps to calm the body and mind, allowing a sense of stability to emerge.

In Shannon's personal experiences, both in psychedelic journeys and overwhelming emotional moments, conscious breathing has served as a lifeline. When faced with intense emotions that could easily lead to panic, Shannon's guide has consistently reminded him to focus on deep belly breaths. This simple act has the power to settle everything, making the overwhelming emotions more bearable and facilitating their release.

Suggested Resources

Book: Coming Full Circle: Healing Trauma Using Psychedelics by Shannon Duncan

Book: Present Moment Awareness by Shannon Duncan

App: The Focus Tool

Bullying Story

Shannon Duncan shared a poignant story with me that delves into his personal encounter with bullying and its profound connection to the practice of mindfulness. In this moving account, Shannon reveals he once endured the painful experience of being bullied, which left enduring emotional imprints. However, it was through the transformative power of mindfulness that he discovered solace and inner strength. By cultivating a state of present moment awareness, Shannon was able to observe his thoughts and emotions without judgment, allowing him to respond to the bullying with compassion and unwavering resilience. This profound journey illuminated the remarkable capacity of mindfulness in navigating challenging situations, empowering Shannon to transcend the pain and embrace their authentic self. Through the practice of mindfulness, Shannon found the ability to rise above adversity, cultivating a deep sense of self-acceptance and fostering a compassionate perspective. His story serves as a testament to the transformative potential of mindfulness, offering hope and inspiration to