The Podcast Returns. In this episode, we talk about what's in the future for the podcast, why I dropped out of sight for a while and we begin with the beginning...learning again how to relax and pay attention to the body and what it's telling us. Read more at http://mindfulrecoverypodcast.libsyn.com/page/1/size/25#iombJmQfOBiqU911.99 ... Continue Reading

This Easter has me thinking a lot. I don't normally share that I am a Christian but felt that it was time to step out as we discuss connection. I want to connect with those in the Christian community still driven by fear. Fear of other, fear of war, fear of death, fear of exclusion. Fear is the real enemy that separates us from connection. The real message of Easter is to let go of fear and brave connection. Read more at ... Continue Reading

In the final chapter in our exploration of connection we actually discuss disconnection. Specifically anticipatory grief or the grief we begin experiencing knowing a disconnection is coming. Death, divorce and other forms of disconnection begin affecting us way before we actually experience them and preparing for that event can help us cross the bridge more easily. It will not save us from the pain, but it will insure we meet the loss with eyes wide open and learn what it has to offer. This ... Continue Reading

In part 2 of our series on connection I speak with author, Johann Hari. His new book, “Lost Connections: Uncovering the Real Causes of Depression – and the Unexpected Solutions” is a deep dive into the healing power of connection. We discuss depression, grief, mental health and healing. Here are the links to more of Johan Hari’s brilliant work: His Ted Talk on addiction: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PY9DcIMGxMs&t=4s His Author Page on Amazon where you can get “Lost Connections” ... Continue Reading

How trauma can change our ability to regulate emotion and connect with others and what we can do about that. Connection seems to be key, but how do we learn to connect when connection feels unsafe? We begin this series with the discussion of how the nervous system is shaped by trauma and how that affects our ability to connect. Read more at http://mindfulrecoverypodcast.libsyn.com/page/1/size/25#iombJmQfOBiqU911.99 ... Continue Reading

After over half a year we are back. Working with you to study and learn to overcome trauma. The new format will focus on all aspects of trauma and the power of mindfulness to overcome it and help us regulate through is. We begin the new beginning at the beginning, with an exercise in grounding in our own breath. Read more at http://mindfulrecoverypodcast.libsyn.com/page/1/size/25#iombJmQfOBiqU911.99 ... Continue Reading

Belongingness is one of the fundamental tools in our recovery. Feeling connected to others in healthy ways is at the root of our recovery from trauma and addictions. Before we can really trust that space of belonging, however, we must begin to believe in ourselves. Often the trauma and resulting addictions have left us with a sense that we have no value, no worth and no right to set boundaries whether they are physical or emotional. The Self Esteem Workbook is one I often recommend to clients to ... Continue Reading

The Holidays can be a real challenge when we’re struggling with trauma and addictions. The constant barrage of images of what family “should” be and what “holidays” should look like just throws out there that we are not that. Avoiding expectations and choosing our family wisely are only two of the suggestions I make this week. In this episode I suggest some concrete things we need to be doing to get through the holidays without relapse. Read more at ... Continue Reading

In part 2 of my podcasts about sexual assault I interview Laura Reagan, LCSW. Laura specializes in trauma and sexual assault and is a fantastic therapist in the Annapolis area. We talk about blaming the victim and changing attitudes in this episode of Mindful Recovery. Here are Laura’s Website and her podcast Therapy Chat Read more at http://mindfulrecoverypodcast.libsyn.com/page/1/size/25#iombJmQfOBiqU911.99 ... Continue Reading

Sexual assault is an issue much in the news lately.  We cover what it is, the effects it has and hold accountable those who would excuse it in this episode of Mindful Recovery.  This week’s episode is a call to listeners to stand against such behavior. Here is a link to a webinar you might find useful explaining how mindfulness can be used to overcome anxiety and depression. Here is a link to my Huffington Post Blog where you can find many of my writings about sexual assault, working with ... Continue Reading