Balance Period

In this episode of the Balance Period Podcast , we close out our four-part series, sponsored by First Merchants Bank , by diving into the concept of measuring how you respond to what you experience. As entrepreneurs, the ability to respond intentionally rather than react impulsively to challenges is transformative. This episode emphasizes the importance of mindset in shaping our responses and intr...

In this episode of the Balance Period Podcast, we continue our four-part series, sponsored by First Merchants Bank , where we dive into the importance of measuring the quality of what we consume. As entrepreneurs, especially entrepreneurs of color, being mindful of the food, drinks, and mental content we take in can significantly impact our mental and physical health, as well as our overall perfor...

In this episode of the Balance Period Podcast, we continue our four-part series, sponsored by ⁠First Merchants Bank⁠ , with a focus on measuring how you spend your time and energy. As entrepreneurs, particularly entrepreneurs of color, it’s important to align how we spend our time with our personal and business goals to optimize our mental health, physical health, and performance. Key Highlights :...

In this episode of the Balance Period Podcast, we kick off a four-part series, sponsored by First Merchants Bank , focused on a popular theme across our health education and wellness coaching services – ”We can only take care of what we are aware of.”  As the landscape of entrepreneurship can be overwhelming, especially for Black entrepreneurs, it's important to prioritize mental and physical heal...

Here’s what you can expect in this episode... Mindful Moment + Check-In: In this episode, Recovery Ray guides us through a calming mindful moment featuring a box breathing exercise. This practice includes two rounds of box breathing followed by a brief awareness exercise to help us become fully present. After the mindful moment, Recovery Ray encourages listeners to engage in a self-check-in by ask...

Here’s what you can expect in this episode... Mindful Moment + Check-In: In this episode, Recovery Ray guides us through a 3-1-7 breathing exercise followed by an awareness practice. This calming exercise helps listeners ground themselves in the present moment. The check-in question for this week is, "Where was I this time last year?" Reflecting on your growth over the past year can boos...

Here’s what you can expect in this episode... Mindful Moment + Check In:  Recovery Ray guides us through a balance breathing practice and a brief awareness exercise. To enhance your experience, remember to sit upright yet relaxed, focus on an equal duration for both inhaling and exhaling, and tune into your body’s sensations and surroundings. He then discusses the importance of understanding our s...

Here’s what you can expect in this episode... Mindful Moment + Check-In:  In this episode, we start with a grounding exercise featuring the 4-7-8 breathing technique. This practice is designed to activate your parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and aiding in better sleep. Ray guides us through one round of this breathing technique and a brief awareness practice to help us center...

Here’s what you can expect in this episode... Mindful Moment + Check-In: In this episode, Recovery Ray guides us through two rounds of box breathing followed by a brief awareness practice. Our check-in for this week is all about something that can enhance our mental and physical health, gratitude. Ray shares three ways we can begin integrating a gratitude practice into our daily lives. For more gu...

Here’s what you can expect in this episode... Mindful Moment + Check-In:  This week's mindful moment includes a 3-1-7 breathing technique and some Balance Breathing. This practice activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting calmness and relaxation. We follow this by tuning in to any tightness or tension we feel in our neck and shoulders. Recovery Ray offers some stretches to help u...

Here’s what you can expect in this episode... Mindful Moment:  This week's mindful moment features a 5-second box breathing practice to help reduce stress and anxiety. Box breathing is an effective technique for calming the central nervous system and improving focus. Recovery Ray guides us through three rounds of this practice, encouraging us to integrate it into our daily routine for optimal...

Here’s what you can expect in this episode: Mindful Moment:  Recovery Ray introduces the balance breathing practice, guiding listeners through a six-second inhale and exhale sequence. This practice aims to activate a balanced state by maintaining equal breathing times, and fostering calmness and focused attention. Listeners are encouraged to bring their awareness back to their breathing with compa...

Welcome to the first episode of the Generational Wellness Digest Audio Experience presented by the Balance Period Podcast. This new format delivers the content of the Generational Wellness Digest in audio form, making it accessible for those who prefer listening over reading. Each episode will follow the same structure of the digest, equipping listeners with tools and resources to optimize their h...

"We create a community where anyone, no matter your ability, feels safe and inspired to heal and strengthen your body and mind." – The Hot Room Yoga In this episode, we welcome Erin Polley to the show. Erin is a community organizer, yoga teacher, and healer dedicated to fostering healing and empowerment within communities to change the world. She is also host of the "Self Care Level...

In this episode, Recovery Ray provides an update on several areas of his wellness, including a progress report on the 300 Days of Discipline challenge, his WHOOP data over the past month, the results of a recent bloodwork test through Function Health, and the grief process from losing one of his sisters. Ray started the 300 Days of Discipline challenge this year as a sustainable way to build consi...

"Our mission is to help busy individuals build a healthier body while feeling strong and energized." – Marla, Founder of Glutes317 In the hustle of our everyday lives, fitness often takes a back seat. When it does make an appearance, it's typically within the four walls of a gym, surrounded by machines and the echo of clanking weights. But what if we could break free from the traditi...

"Our goal is to help underserved and overlooked talent find their place in the workforce — within ANY industry." – Cashmiera Brown, CEO at Her Solutions LLC In this episode, we welcome Cashmiera Brown, founder and CEO of Her Solutions LLC–an HR consultation services company. They specialize in interview skills enhancement, professional development strategies, resume revamping, and one-on...

"Your health is your true wealth! We started our business to help others on their wellness journey. " – Crystal Usher, COO at Juice Remedy In this episode, we welcome Brad and Crystal Usher, founders of Juice Remedy–a health and wellness company that offers delicious, nutrient-filled juice, sea moss, and other products to help people improve their lifestyle and overall health. Brad and C...

"If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." – African Proverb In this episode of the Balance Period Podcast, Recovery Ray shares an exciting new collaboration with Paradigm by Ajani. This collaboration will showcase the stories of the business owners on the platform and their wellness-focused products and services. Ray is joined by Paradigm founder ⁠⁠Bryson Da...

In this episode, Recovery Ray does a check-in on his health and wellness journey over the past month and shares an update on the #300daysofdiscipline challenge. Ray starts by leading a mindful breathing and gratitude meditation. He reflects on how mindfulness helps him release feelings of anxiety and be more present. He then gives an update on his health since his last check-in. After getting a cl...

In the first episode of 2024, host Recovery Ray returns after a brief hiatus, emphasizing the importance of personal well-being and self-care. Recovery Ray expresses his eagerness for this next season of the show, which will feature guests from the wellness community and explore the concept of health equity, particularly focusing on how to attain optimal health for everyone, especially in Black an...

Life often throws unexpected challenges our way, particularly when it comes to our health. These moments can be terrifying and overwhelming, yet they also present an opportunity for growth, self-discovery, and the cultivation of a supportive community. In this heartfelt episode of the Balance Period podcast, titled "Experiencing Gratitude, Wellness Journey Update, Mindful Reflection 2023, Set...

Welcome to Episode #206 of the Balance Period Podcast. This episode is a deep dive into our latest mindful merch collection: "Do Less, Be More." We kick things off with a Mindful Moment meditation, setting the tone for what's to come. Then, I discuss the intricate design details of this collection, from the t-shirts to sweat suits. Spoiler alert, a portion of the design is based on t...

Welcome to Episode 205 of the Balance Period Podcast, your dedicated partner on the journey to creating generational wellness. Join Recovery Ray as he reflects on his health data from October, shares the significance of setting intentions for living well, and highlights the value of stewardship. Here's what you can expect to hear during this episode: Balance Breathing Practice – Immerse yourse...

Welcome to Episode 204 of the Balance Period Podcast, your trusted companion on the path to creating generational wellness. Join Recovery Ray as he reflects on his health data from September and shares some of the intentions he's setting to create greater balance from the inside out. Here's the breakdown of what you can expect from this episode: Mindfulness Framework - Ray unveils the blue...