Stuck Brain

Are you tired of struggling to stay focused during your meditation sessions? Have you fallen victim to any of these common myths about meditation? Myth #1: Meditation requires clearing your mind of all thoughts. Myth #2: You should only meditate for long periods of time to see any benefits. Myth #3: Meditation is only for spiritual or religious purposes. Stay tuned to uncover the truth and discover the game-changing strategy that will revolutionize your meditation practice.

Meditation is really beneficial for almost everybody. So this is important to me, and it's important to mental health in general. - Eric Osterlind

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Visit Dave DuBois' website, radicalbalance.net, to learn more about him and his work as a meditation teacher, psychedelic guide, and integration coach.

Guided Meditations

Sounds and Sights

Open Awareness

Recommended Books on Meditation

• The Relaxed Mind: A Seven-Step Method for Deepening Meditation Practice by Dza Kilung Rinpoche

I love how detailed, hands-on, and clear this book is. This is my favorite “manual” for beginning meditation practice. It’s accessible for beginners and practical.

https://www.abebooks.com/9781611802825/Relaxed-Mind-Seven-Step-Method-Deepening-1611802822/plp

• The Miracle of Mindfulness: An Introduction to the Practice of Meditation by Thich Nhat Hanh

In this beautiful and lucid guide, Vietnamese Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh offers gentle anecdotes and practical exercises as a means of learning the skills of mindfulness--being awake and fully aware. From washing the dishes to answering the phone to peeling an orange, he reminds us that each moment holds within it an opportunity to work toward greater self-understanding and peace.

https://www.abebooks.com/book-search/title/the-miracle-of-mindfulness/book/

• Zen Mind, Beginners Mind by Shunryu Suzuki

This book is an inspiring introduction to Zen and meditation practice and has been beloved by meditators, new and old, for decades. It doesn’t have comprehensive, step-by-step meditation instructions but is more anecdotal and continually reframes and adjusts the beginner's subtle misconceptions about the path of meditation.

https://www.abebooks.com/9780834800793/Zen-Mind-Beginners-Informal-Talks-0834800799/plp

• Clarifying the Natural State by Dakpo Tashi Namgyal

This is such an excellent book, but not a “self-starter.” You will need a meditation guide or teacher to get the most out of this 400-year-old text. That said, it is a powerful and straightforward guide for teachers and students exploring the path of meditation.

https://www.abebooks.com/9789627341451/Clarifying-Natural-State-Principal-Guidance-9627341452/plp

• Altered Traits: Science Reveals How Meditation Changes Your Mind, Brain, and Body by Daniel Goleman and Richard J Davidson

If you benefit from knowing the science behind meditation, this is the book for you. It’s not going to give you meditation instruction, but it gives an amazing and thoroughly researched presentation of how meditation works and changes the brain. It is very clear in establishing that not all meditation practices have the same outcomes.

https://www.abebooks.com/9780399184383/Altered-Traits-Science-Reveals-Meditation-0399184384/plp

Episode Credits: Music by Magiksolo and Lesfm from Pixabay

Does this sound familiar? You've been told to just clear your mind and sit in silence, but it's not bringing you the calm and focus you desire. Instead, you're left feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, and stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts. It's time to break free from this ineffective approach and discover the power of meditation and mindfulness techniques. Say goodbye to the pain of a restless mind and unlock the key to a calmer, more centered existence.

Dave DuBois is a seasoned meditation teacher, psychedelic guide, and integration coach. With his extensive experience and expertise in these fields, Dave brings a unique perspective to the topic of meditation and mindfulness techniques. Known for his down-to-earth approach and ability to connect with individuals on a personal level, Dave is passionate about helping others start or deepen their meditation practice. His website, radicalbalance.net, serves as a valuable resource for those seeking guidance and support in their journey towards increased presence, pain management, and challenging negative self-narratives. We are excited to have Dave join us as we delve into the small things that often hinder our meditation practice and explore the profound benefits it can have on our mental health.

Just even noticing that the translation of physical sensations in the body into stories about ourselves is taking place gives us future opportunities for awareness. - Eric

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Visit Dave DuBois' website, radicalbalance.net, to learn more about him and his work as a meditation teacher, psychedelic guide, and integration coach.

Guided Meditations

Sounds and Sights

Open Awareness

Recommended Books on Meditation

• The Relaxed Mind: A Seven-Step Method for Deepening Meditation Practice by Dza Kilung Rinpoche

I love how detailed, hands-on, and clear this book is. This is my favorite “manual” for beginning meditation practice. It’s accessible for beginners and practical.

https://www.abebooks.com/9781611802825/Relaxed-Mind-Seven-Step-Method-Deepening-1611802822/plp

• The Miracle of Mindfulness: An Introduction to the Practice of Meditation by Thich Nhat Hanh

In this beautiful and lucid guide, Vietnamese Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh offers gentle anecdotes and practical exercises as a means of learning the skills of mindfulness--being awake and fully aware. From washing the dishes to answering the phone to peeling an orange, he reminds us that each moment holds within it an opportunity to work toward greater self-understanding and peace.

https://www.abebooks.com/book-search/title/the-miracle-of-mindfulness/book/

• Zen Mind, Beginners Mind by Shunryu Suzuki

This book is an inspiring introduction to Zen and meditation practice and has been beloved by meditators, new and old, for decades. It doesn’t have comprehensive, step-by-step meditation instructions but is more anecdotal and continually reframes and adjusts the beginner's subtle misconceptions about the path of meditation.

https://www.abebooks.com/9780834800793/Zen-Mind-Beginners-Informal-Talks-0834800799/plp

• Clarifying the Natural State by Dakpo Tashi Namgyal

This is such an excellent book, but not a “self-starter.” You will need a meditation guide or teacher to get the most out of this 400-year-old text. That said, it is a powerful and straightforward guide for teachers and students exploring the path of meditation.

https://www.abebooks.com/9789627341451/Clarifying-Natural-State-Principal-Guidance-9627341452/plp

• Altered Traits: Science Reveals How Meditation Changes Your Mind, Brain, and Body by Daniel Goleman and Richard J Davidson

If you benefit from knowing the science behind meditation, this is the book for you. It’s not going to give you meditation instruction, but it gives an amazing and thoroughly researched presentation of how meditation works and changes the brain. It is very clear in establishing that not all meditation practices have the same outcomes.

https://www.abebooks.com/9780399184383/Altered-Traits-Science-Reveals-Meditation-0399184384/plp

Episode Credits: Music by Magiksolo and Lesfm from Pixabay

Are you ready to establish a consistent meditation practice and unlock the mental health benefits that come with it? Join Eric as he embarks on a journey to find inner peace and clarity, but be prepared for unexpected challenges that threaten to derail his progress. Will he overcome the distractions and stay committed, or will he succumb to the chaos of his mind? Find out in this gripping tale of self-discovery and meditation.

This series guest, Dave DuBois, is not your typical meditation teacher. With a background in psychedelic guiding and integration coaching, he brings a unique perspective to the practice of mindfulness. Dave understands the challenges that many individuals face when trying to establish a regular meditation routine. That's why he focuses not only on research-backed techniques but also on the real-life experiences that shape our mental health. With Dave's guidance, you can overcome the small things that often stop us from meditating and experience the transformative power of a consistent practice. His friendly and relatable approach will help you navigate self-judgment, find the right time and space for meditation, and build a habit that feels doable and sustainable. Get ready to dive into the world of mindfulness with Dave DuBois and discover the benefits it can bring to your mental well-being.

The best practice is the one that you're going to do...if there's just some big obstacle in your morning routine, it's really okay to practice whenever you'd like to practice...Just find a good quiet space where you are less likely to be interrupted, and make that your meditation spot. - Dave DuBois

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Visit Dave DuBois' website, radicalbalance.net, to learn more about him and his work as a meditation teacher, psychedelic guide, and integration coach.

Guided Meditations

Sounds and Sights

Open Awareness

Recommended Books on Meditation

• The Relaxed Mind: A Seven-Step Method for Deepening Meditation Practice by Dza Kilung Rinpoche

I love how detailed, hands-on, and clear this book is. This is my favorite “manual” for beginning meditation practice. It’s accessible for beginners and practical.

https://www.abebooks.com/9781611802825/Relaxed-Mind-Seven-Step-Method-Deepening-1611802822/plp

• The Miracle of Mindfulness: An Introduction to the Practice of Meditation by Thich Nhat Hanh

In this beautiful and lucid guide, Vietnamese Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh offers gentle anecdotes and practical exercises as a means of learning the skills of mindfulness--being awake and fully aware. From washing the dishes to answering the phone to peeling an orange, he reminds that each moment holds within it an opportunity to work toward greater self-understanding and peace.

https://www.abebooks.com/book-search/title/the-miracle-of-mindfulness/book/

• Zen Mind, Beginners Mind by Shunryu Suzuki

This book is an inspiring introduction to Zen and meditation practice and has been beloved by meditators, new and old, for decades. It doesn’t have comprehensive, step-by-step meditation instructions but is more anecdotal and continually reframes and adjusts the beginner's subtle misconceptions about the path of meditation.

https://www.abebooks.com/9780834800793/Zen-Mind-Beginners-Informal-Talks-0834800799/plp

• Clarifying the Natural State by Dakpo Tashi Namgyal

This is such an excellent book, but not a “self-starter.” You will need a meditation guide or teacher to get the most out of this 400-year-old text. That said, it is a powerful and straightforward guide for teachers and students exploring the path of meditation.

https://www.abebooks.com/9789627341451/Clarifying-Natural-State-Principal-Guidance-9627341452/plp

• Altered Traits: Science Reveals How Meditation Changes Your Mind, Brain, and Body by Daniel Goleman and Richard J Davidson

If you benefit from knowing the science behind meditation, this is the book for you. It’s not going to give you meditation instruction, but it gives an amazing and thoroughly researched presentation of how meditation works and changes the brain. It is very clear in establishing that not all meditation practices have the same outcomes.

https://www.abebooks.com/9780399184383/Altered-Traits-Science-Reveals-Meditation-0399184384/plp

Episode Credits: Music by Magiksolo and Lesfm from Pixabay

Meditation teacher Dave Dubois dives into the turbulent waters of the mind, guiding beginners through the mesmerizing challenge of taming their waterfall of thoughts to cultivate self-awareness and well-being.

Dave is a meditation teacher, psychedelic guide, and integration coach. With a deep passion for meditation, he has dedicated his life to studying and teaching various meditation practices. Starting his journey at a young age, he discovered the transformative power of meditation in overcoming depression and understanding the inner workings of the mind. Dave's extensive background in Buddhist studies, cognitive science, and meditation instruction allows him to guide others on their own meditation journeys. In a world facing a global mental health crisis, Dave believes that meditation has the potential to cultivate self-awareness and well-being. Through his teachings and insights, Dave aims to help beginners in meditation navigate the challenges and misconceptions that often arise, ensuring that they stay committed to their practice.

Meditation is like using the mind to examine itself, to understand itself, and to examine our relationship to the world around us. - Dave Dubois

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the power of meditation as a mind exercise to improve focus and clarity.
• Explore different types of meditation and unlock their unique benefits for enhanced well-being.
• Overcome challenges in meditation and learn strategies to maintain a calm and peaceful state of mind.
• Understand the importance of meditation guidance to deepen your practice and achieve optimal results.
• Start your meditation journey with practical tips and techniques for establishing a consistent and fulfilling practice.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Check out radicalbalance.net to find out more about Dave Dubois.
• Stay tuned for additional episodes titled Meditation One through Eight where Eric Osterlind shares his own meditation journey and progress over time. These episodes will be released weekly.

Episode Credits: Music by Magiksolo and Lesfm from Pixabay

Does this sound familiar? You've been told to chase after prestigious titles and high-paying jobs, thinking it would bring you career fulfillment. But here's the painful truth: despite your achievements, you still feel an overwhelming sense of emptiness and dissatisfaction. It's time to break free from the ineffective action of pursuing external markers of success and start aligning your work with your heart-based values. Only then can you experience true happiness and fulfillment in your professional life.

Join Eric and his guest Jenn Smith as they discuss heart-based careers. Jenn believes career success doesn't have to be at the expense of a radiantly happy and healthy lifestyle. As a sought-after career and HR consultant with professional roots grounded deep within corporate America, she brings over 15 years of progressive, global HR leadership experience across multiple industries and Fortune 200 companies. As the Founder of Flourish Careers and podcast host, Jenn is on a mission to support heart-based, career-minded professionals in navigating the changing world of work by resetting boundaries and igniting action to live their happiest, healthiest lives.

It's not about finding your passion or turning a hobby into a job, it's about alignment to you. - Jenn Smith

Jenn has a brief description of heart-based career planning on the homepage of her website and a few podcast episodes that talk about it. Homepage: https://flourish.careers/

HEART-Based Career Planning: What It Is + What It Isn't https://flourish.careers/2022/09/26/heart-based-career-planning-what-it-is-what-it-isnt/

HEART-based Careers + Job Searching: How To Break The Rules (And Why You Should); Part 1: https://flourish.careers/2022/10/26/heart-based-careers-job-searching-how-to-break-the-rules-and-why-you-should-part-1/

Part 2: https://flourish.careers/heart-based-careers-job-searching-how-to-break-the-rules-and-why-you-should-part-2/

Resources:

• Check out Jenn Smith's podcast, Flourish Careers, for more insights and tips on navigating the changing world of work.
• Visit Jenn Smith's website to learn more about her career coaching services and how she can help you find alignment and fulfillment in your career https://flourish.careers/
• You can find Jenn on Instagram @flourish.careers

Episode Credits: Music by Magiksolo and Lesfm from Pixabay

If you're feeling trapped in a never-ending cycle of worry and fear, constantly seeking reassurance but never finding lasting relief, then you are not alone! Despite your efforts to find peace, anxiety continues to hold you captive, robbing you of joy and freedom. It's frustrating and exhausting, but there is hope for understanding and managing this relentless adversary.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Understand the purpose of anxiety and how it has helped humans survive challenging situations.
• Learn how to effectively manage anxiety in today's modern world, where invisible threats are ever-present.
• Discover why avoidance strategies, such as substance use or overworking, are counterproductive and learn better alternatives.
• Explore common avoidance techniques, including excessive exercise, and their impact on anxiety management.
• Gain insight into strategies for managing anxiety, such as leaning into it, practicing curiosity, and using deep breathing techniques.

The best way to make your anxiety worse is avoidance. The more you avoid your anxiety, the worse it's going to get. - Eric Osterlind

Understand the purpose of anxiety

Anxiety serves a crucial purpose as a survival instinct in humans. It acts as a signal for potential threats, prompting us to act accordingly. Understanding this function of anxiety and its fundamental role in our evolutionary history is vital to managing it effectively.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Visit EricOsterlind.com for more on anxiety treatments.
• Visit the website of the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) to learn more about anxiety disorders and their symptoms.
• Consider seeking professional help from a mental health provider if you suspect you have anxiety or need support in managing it.

Do you want to enhance your well-being and boost your productivity? Are you looking for a solution to prevent and manage burnout effectively? By implementing proven techniques, you can experience improved mental and physical health while also increasing your overall productivity. Join Eric and his guest, Bilal Seadan, as they explore the solution that will lead to enhanced well-being and heightened productivity in your professional life.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover how to prevent and manage burnout to improve your well-being and increase your productivity.
• Learn strategies for finding fulfillment in your work and developing stress management techniques to combat burnout.
• Understand the impact of the changing nature of careers and increased work demands on your mental health and how to avoid burnout.
• Explore the benefits of seeking help from mental health professionals and developing self-awareness in managing and overcoming burnout.
• Realize the importance of shifting societal attitudes towards work-life balance and the dangers of glorifying workaholic behaviors.

Find a workplace that gives you joy and fulfillment because that's where you'll find the energy to keep going. - Eric Osterlind

Practical strategies to prevent burnout

Burnout, described as emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion due to prolonged stress, is a modern-day malady affecting individuals across various fields. The podcast suggests essential, practical strategies such as stress management techniques, consistent sleep, regular exercise, and the ability to say no to tasks that may lead to overload and eventual burnout. By advocating personal strategies, and incorporating activities for self-care and relaxation like hobbies or social engagements, it demonstrates a clear path to prevent burnout.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Connect with Balal Sudan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bilal-seadan/
• or https://www.lumofy.com/

Episode Credits: Music by Magiksolo and Lesfm from Pixabay

In the quest for better physical and mental health, one crucial aspect often gets overlooked: sleep. Join Pinky and I as we explore the profound impact of prioritizing sleep, but beware, because once you realize just how crucial it is, you may find yourself wrestling with the question: How can I possibly find the time to sleep when there's so much to do?

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Recognize the significant impact sufficient sleep has on your physical fitness and mental resilience.
• Understand how usual indulgences like caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol can drastically deteriorate your sleep quality.
• Comprehend the alarming influence of sleep apnea on both your mental well-being and physical health.
• Make headway in creating a regular bedtime routine and an environment that promotes restful sleep.
• Identify the importance of managing stress and the potential need for professional assistance from a sleep specialist.

Sleep is essential and a good quality of sleep is essential to contribute to an overall good quality of life. - Eric Osterlind

The critical role of sleep

Sound sleep plays a critical role in maintaining both our physical and mental well-being. It is essential to prioritize sleep, not as a mere routine but as an important aspect of our holistic health. Consistent, quality sleep is not only rejuvenating but is also a preventive measure against a host of diseases, offering a better lifestyle.

Episode Credits: Music by Magiksolo and Lesfm from Pixabay

Meet Megan Monger, a passionate advocate and expert in perinatal mental health. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, Megan has devoted her career to the welfare of women before, during, and after pregnancy. Her work focuses on navigating the often choppy waters of life transitions, such as welcoming a child, with grace and resilience. Certified in perinatal mental health, Megan offers deep insights into the spectrums of postpartum mood and anxiety disorders. Her dedication extends beyond therapy sessions as she tirelessly champions for greater awareness and resources. Tune in to glean from Megan’s wealth of knowledge.

You deserve that support. It's a huge life transition. It impacts your relationship. It impacts your relationship with yourself, with your family in so many different ways. Everything changes. - Megan Monger

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Visit sailawaytherapy.com for more information about Megan Monger and her services as a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in perinatal mental health.
• Leave a review for the Stuck Brain podcast on Apple or iTunes to show your support and help boost the podcast's visibility.
• If you or someone you know is experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, reach out to your primary care physician, OBGYN, doula, or midwife for guidance and support.
• Consider therapy as a treatment option for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and discuss with your healthcare provider whether medication may also be necessary.
• Check out the book To Carry Wonder by AMI C. Parker, which combines personal experience and scientific information to provide support and insight for women navigating the perinatal period.
• Explore the book What About Dad? by Luis Rosendes to gain a better understanding of postpartum depression in men and the unique challenges they may face.
• Learn more about Zerzuve or Zoranolone, the first oral pill for postpartum depression, which provides rapid relief and can be taken safely while breastfeeding. Consult with a psychiatrist or healthcare provider for more

Suicide hotline number: 988

Psi hotline: 1-800-944-4773 

Postpartum Support International has free/low cost groups for new parents 

National Maternal Mental Health Hotline, 1-833-852-6262

Episode Credits: Music by Magiksolo and Lesfm from Pixabay

Does this sound familiar? You've been tirelessly searching for effective ways to tackle mental health disorders, only to be met with frustration and disappointment. Perhaps you've been told to simply rely on medication, but the relief you seek remains elusive. The pain of living with untreated symptoms persists, leaving you longing for a solution that truly works. It's time to explore a comprehensive range of treatment options and discover the potential breakthroughs that could transform your mental well-being.

Eric's co-host for this episode is Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner, Pinky Virani. Pinky brings an impressive blend of professional experience and deep insights to the field of mental health and psychiatry. As PMHNPs, Eric and Pinky have spent years studying and implementing different treatment options for various mental health disorders. Their first-hand experience with patients and their keen understanding of the subject add great dimensions to their knowledge, making their insights highly valuable. Their ability to break down complex medical terms and processes into understandable language further boosts their credibility while making them relatable and empathetic medical professionals.

Psilocybin does just as good a job, if not better, than traditional antidepressants, with fewer side effects and a stronger sense of connection. - Pinky Virani

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Unearth the range of psychiatric treatment methods for tackling mental health disorders.
• Reveal the efficacy and utility of on-label medications for mental health.
• Discover the potential advantages of off-label treatments for various conditions.
• Explore experimental therapies using substances like MDMA, psilocybin, and ayahuasca.
• Appreciate the critical role of therapy alongside various treatments.

Resources: Trial of Psilocybin versus Escitalopram for Depression - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33852780/

Episode Credits: Music by Magiksolo and Lesfm from Pixabay