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In this conversation, Bridget Callaghan PhD, discusses her research on the gut-brain-microbiome connection and the impact of generational adversity. The study they conducted found that different forms of adversity were associated with unique signatures in the child's microbiome, and some of these microbes were associated with the emotional health of the children. In this conversation, Cindy and Bridget discuss the impact of early environments on children's gut health and microbiome. They explore the effects of COVID-19 lockdowns on children's gut composition and the importance of exposure to germs for developing a healthy microbiome. They also touch on the role of diet in gut health and the challenges of studying and interpreting scientific research. Bridget shares her hopes for future studies, including investigating the mechanisms by which gut microbes influence the brain and behavior. Overall, the conversation highlights the complexity of gut health and the need for a more nuanced understanding of its impact on overall well-being.

• Early life experiences can have a significant impact on health across the lifespan, including physical and mental health.
• The science of the gut-brain-microbiome connection is still evolving, and more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and potential interventions.
• Parents should not worry excessively about the impact of their own experiences on their children, as there are many factors at play and individual outcomes can vary. Early environments, including exposure to germs and a diverse diet, play a crucial role in shaping children's gut health and microbiome.
• COVID-19 lockdowns had an impact on the gut composition of children.
• The Mediterranean diet is often associated with a healthy gut and overall well-being, but the research on diet and gut health is complex and ongoing.
• Interpreting scientific research requires understanding that individual studies provide limited guidance for personal decisions, and that scientific knowledge evolves over time.

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In this conversation, Cindy Hovington speaks with Matt Brown and Leah Blain about the experiences of military families and their children. The conversation highlights the need for awareness and understanding of the unique lifestyle of military families and the support they require. The goal of the conversation is to shed light on the experiences of military children and promote empathy and support for them. Military families face unique challenges, including frequent moves and deployments, which can have negative impacts on children's academic and social-emotional well-being. However, research shows that with proper support and resilience-building skills, children can thrive in these environments. Parents play a crucial role in helping their children adapt to new situations and develop the necessary skills. Preventative measures, such as teaching mindfulness and emotional regulation, can be effective in supporting military families' mental health. There is a need for better access to mental health support and resources for military families, as suicide rates among service members and veterans are alarmingly high.

• The experiences of military children can vary, with some developing resilience and others struggling with the stress and changes.
• Awareness and understanding of the military lifestyle are important for supporting military families.
• Supportive communities and resources can help mitigate the challenges faced by military families and promote resilience. Frequent moves and deployments can negatively impact the academic and social-emotional well-being of children in military families.
• With proper support and resilience-building skills, children can adapt and thrive in these environments.
• Parents play a crucial role in helping their children navigate the challenges of military life.
• Preventative measures, such as teaching mindfulness and emotional regulation, can support the mental health of military families.
• There is a need for better access to mental health support and resources for military families, as suicide rates among service members and veterans are alarmingly high.

Military Family Clinic
Chimney Trail

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In this episode, Cindy Hovington interviews Kei Nomaguchi and Melissa Milkie about their research on parenthood and well-being. They discuss the concept of intensive parenting and the societal expectations placed on parents, particularly mothers. The conversation explores the pros and cons of intensive parenting and the challenges faced by parents in balancing work and family responsibilities. The need for workplace support and community connections is emphasized, as well as the importance of recognizing the rewards and meaningfulness of parenting. The episode concludes with a call for societal changes to better support parents and create a more balanced and fulfilling parenting experience. The conversation highlights the lack of support and resources for parents, the need for a proactive society, and the impact of supporting parents on children and society as a whole.

Takeaways

• The US mental health system for parents is lacking in support and resources, leaving many individuals to struggle on their own.
• A proactive approach to supporting parents is necessary, rather than waiting for symptoms of mental health issues to arise.
• Supporting parents not only benefits the well-being of the parents themselves but also has a positive impact on their children and society as a whole.

Parenthood and Psychological Well-Being: Clarifying the Role of
Child Age and Parent-Child Relationship Quality

Parenthood and Well‐Being: A Decade in Review

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In this conversation, Jacqueline discusses the application of the science of wellbeing in daily life. She shares her personal journey of implementing wellbeing practices and emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and self-reflection. The conversation explores misconceptions about happiness and the role of circumstances in our overall wellbeing. Jacqueline also highlights the significance of understanding and embracing different perspectives on happiness. The conversation delves into redefining success and shifting career paths, as well as the importance of acts of kindness and overcoming the 'What the Hell' effect. The discussion concludes with practical steps for parents to nurture their wellbeing and the need for supportive work environments.

Takeaways

• Wellbeing is a holistic concept that encompasses physical, mental, and emotional health.
• Taking care of one's physical health through exercise, nutrition, and sleep is crucial for overall wellbeing.
• Mental wellbeing involves managing stress, practicing mindfulness, and seeking support when needed.
• Emotional wellbeing is about understanding and expressing emotions in a healthy way.
• Prioritizing self-care and making time for activities that bring joy and relaxation is essential for wellbeing.

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As a child of divorce, I know that it can be very difficult to go through. I have been getting lots of emails around this and so I asked my dear friend Dr. Tamara Soles to join me today.

We break down divorce into before, during and after so that you have all the tips and advice you need to navigate this in a way that is best for you and your child.

We discuss arguing in front of your child, what repair looks like, how to talk to your kids and how to co-parent.

Don't miss this!

Join me this Wednesday at 12:00pm ET for a FREE webinar called Reflective Parenting: Learning How to Shift Perspectives and Reduce Your Stress
with the Amazing Dr. Michele Kambolis.

Register below:
https://curiousneuronacademy.mykajabi.com/registration-page-e1684acc-7aa3-47df-aada-d96f5a570e8e


Follow Dr. Soles:
https://drtamarasoles.com/

https://www.instagram.com/drtamarasoles/

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Navigating the tender complexities of mental health as a parent can often feel like a solitary journey, but it doesn't have to be. Nathalie shares candidly from the heart about her postpartum experiences, while Dr. Tina Montreuil of McGill University blends these personal narratives with academic insights. Together, we unravel the challenges and celebrate the resilience of birthing parents, marking World Maternal Mental Health Day as a beacon of support and solidarity.

In the warm embrace of this episode, we create a safe space where the intricate dance of psychological and physiological changes in parenthood is not just acknowledged, but deeply understood. We delve into the critical role of self-care for mothers, often overshadowed by the baby's needs, and how midwifery and culturally sensitive care can lighten the load. The transformative power of empathy, the necessity of accessible mental health tools, and the importance of self-compassion stitch together a narrative that advocates for a holistic approach to parental well-being.

We round out our conversation with a contemplation of the barriers that many new parents face when seeking mental health support, emphasizing the urgency of action before reaching a crisis point. Our dialogue calls for an empowered community, where parents feel seen, heard, and cared for, and where reaching out for help is seen not as a weakness but as an act of profound love and caring. Thank you again to Nathalie and Dr. Montreuil for their vulnerability and expertise, and to you, our listeners, for joining us on this journey to foster kinder, more compassionate parenting experiences.

Livre Blanc
Quebec Alliance for Perinatal Mental Health
Réseau des Centres de ressources périnatales du Québec

Episode with Kristen Neff: Apple Podcast or Spotify

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Hello my dear friend,

I get it, I have said this over and over myself. However, today, I would like you to take a step back and really reflect on this thought "I don't have time for myself".

I walk you through some reflection prompts and how you can view this problem a little differently and work through it.

Making time for yourself doesn't need to be 2 hours every day.  It is a little moment of connection, a little moment that reminds you that you are important.

Don't skip this activity this week, take a moment to reflect on what your needs are and how you can start making space for them. You matter, lease don't forget that my dear friend.

I hope you have a beautiful and lovely week,

Cindy


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Let's chat about self-compassion with the scientist that created the self-compassion scale herself!

Today, I am joined by Dr. Kristen Neff, Tedx speaker and author of Self-Compassion: The proven power of being kind to yourself. Leading expert in self-compassion, Dr. Neff walks us through what it means to be self-compassion and how we can start with baby steps to be kinder to ourselves.

I remember being a first time mom and how I had so much guilt around everything I did with my daughter. Our inner dialogue can be so tough on us, while on the other hand, we offer a nurturing hand to our friends. I know I am not alone in this because many moms and dads have shared these struggles with me.

If you are ready to be kinder to yourself and to see this impact on your mental health and physical health, then take 47 min to listen to this powerful conversation! '

Watch this in YouTube:
https://youtu.be/jFbij-CMgA4

https://www.curiousneuron.com/

Resources:

Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself
Canada
US

Visit her website or join her NEW Self-Compassion Community:
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Her Tedx Talk

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Have you ever found yourself scrubbing baseboards and questioned why you place so much pressure on yourself? As I prepare for my trip to California at the end of the month, that exact introspection led to a profound realization about the 'shoulds' in my life, a topic I eagerly explore with Erica Djossa, therapist and author of "Releasing the Motherload," on our latest Curious Neuron podcast episode. Together, we scrutinize the mental load that mothers bear, addressing the invisible tasks and the ever-elusive balance between self-care and parenting.

We offer you strategies for dealing with the intense emotional landscape that comes with parenting, ensuring that you feel seen, understood, and empowered to align your actions with your personal values. Wrapping up our conversation, we touch upon the cultural myth of the perfect mother, the critical importance of articulating boundaries, and how to advocate for yourself in an often overwhelming parenting journey. It's an episode for mothers and parents at any stage, tune in for a guiding light through the complexities of maternal mental health and well-being.

Buy Erica's new book:
Amazon in Canada

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https://www.momwell.com/

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I  really messed up last night and I want to share this with you so that you can learn from my mistake.

When we are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, it can trickle down to our kids. If we don't notice this, then all we see if a child that is "misbehaving" when in reality it is a child that is dysregulated, doesn't feel connected, doesn't feel validated or seen.

When we NOTICE this, it makes it easier for us to switch our own behaviour or thoughts with the goal of changing how it is impacting our child.

In this episode, I share the bedtime story that would might be able to relate to and I share some reflection prompts to help you work through it the next time this happens to you.

If you connect with this episode, please take a moment to rate it or review or. You can also email me to say hello!

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