The Mindfulness Monday Podcast

Join us for an enlightening conversation with our insightful guest, Miriam Hanson, as we unpack the multifaceted concept of mindfulness. We explore the intriguing paradox of being "mindful," a state that simultaneously suggests fullness and emptiness of the mind. Our discussion traverses cultural roots and the modern adaptation of mindfulness, particularly through Jon Kabat-Zinn's mindfulness-base...

Have you ever wanted to escape to a mental retreat that feels as comfortable as your favorite spot at home? This week on Mindfulness Monday, Carly invites you to discover a technique that will help you create a safe haven in your mind whenever life feels overwhelming. Through a guided practice, we'll explore how to use your imagination to build a sanctuary that can offer solace amidst chaos, wheth...

Join us on the Mindfulness Monday Podcast as we embark on a journey into the world of mindfulness and channeled writing with our guest, Jennifer Shoals. Discover what mindfulness means to us as we discuss being present in the moment, while acknowledging that moments are ever-changing. Jennifer shares her experiences with channeled writing, a practice that connects her with higher vibrations and te...

Ever felt trapped by the whirlwind of anxious thoughts? Imagine being able to step back, observe them, and let them pass without judgment. On this episode of Mindfulness Monday with your host, Carly Jean Puch, we explore the transformative potential of mindfulness practices inspired by Cheri Huber's "Making a Change for Good." We delve into the art of naming anxious thoughts, creating a crucial di...

What if empowering young voices could reshape the future of mental health support in our communities? Join us as we sit down with the Youth Substance Misuse and Suicide Prevention Coordinator for Cook County, Minnesota, Rocio Rivas Silva who shares her transformative work in creating a youth prevention coalition. This initiative is not just about addressing mental health challenges among young peo...

Experience the transformative power of the Five Senses Meditation and uncover a newfound sense of calm and clarity in your daily life. This week on Mindfulness Monday, your host Carly Jean Puch will guide you through a simple yet profound mindfulness exercise designed to reconnect your mind with your body. Whether you're seated at your desk, strolling through nature, or winding down for the night,...

Emily's journey into mindfulness began with a serendipitous encounter while traveling through South America, which sparked a deep curiosity about yoga and its potential to manage anxiety. Her path took her from connecting with her Venezuelan roots to a transformative study experience at a Sivananda ashram in India. Her story is a testament to adaptability, as she embraced both traditional teaching...

Unleash the power of a simple shake to unlock a calmer, more connected version of yourself. This week's Mindfulness Monday with Carly Jean Puch introduces the transformative practice of shaking meditation. Inspired by trauma expert Peter Levine and nature’s own stress-relief methods, we explore how a natural movement often forgotten by humans can be a game-changer for our mental well-being. Discov...

Growing up in a house filled with the vibrant sounds of the Beatles and jazz legends like Duke Ellington, music became a lifelong companion and teacher. On this episode of Mindfulness Monday, I sit down with Pete, a cherished musician from our community, as we explore how those early musical experiences shaped his journey. From strumming a guitar in high school bands to the soulful reunion shows t...

Discover the power of Brahmari Pranayama, or bee breath, in this week's episode of Mindfulness Monday with your host, Carly Jean Puch. With hopes of relieving tension and enriches mindfulness, Carly guides you through this soothing breathwork inspired by the black bee of India. Whether you're grappling with stress, anxiety, or simply seeking a refreshing pause in your busy day, bee breath offers a...

On this week's episode, guest Zahir Orest, shares personal insights, highlighting the joy in being fully immersed in the moment and the cultural nuances that shape our self-perception. Zahir helps unpack a fascinating anecdote about the Dalai Lama's astonishment at the Western inclination towards self-criticism, contrasted with Tibetan perspectives that are much more forgiving. Our exploration is...

Ever felt like traditional meditation just isn't your style? You’re not alone! Many people find the idea of sitting still, focusing solely on their breath, a bit intimidating. That's why this week I'm talking about moving meditations. Imagine incorporating mindfulness into your daily strolls or even a quick walk around your house, transforming these ordinary moments into profound practices of pres...

Ever wondered how or even if, mindfulness can transform both advocacy work and personal growth? Together with my guest, Ed Heisler, a fellow advocate and mindfulness enthusiast, we unpack the critical role mindfulness plays in reducing harm and sustaining our work. Our candid discussion covers the evolving awareness of mindfulness across various fields, as well as the complex narratives surroundin...

Join me as we explore how gratitude can profoundly impact your mental, physical, and social well-being. In this episode of Mindfulness Monday, I take you on a journey through the science behind gratitude, revealing how it can boost your mood, enhance your immune system, and help you build stronger, more empathetic relationships. Discover practical, everyday techniques like journaling and letter wr...

Discover the transformative journey of artist Hannah Palma Laky as she reveals how mindfulness has not only reshaped her life but also infused her artistic expression with depth and authenticity. Amidst the peaceful landscapes of Grand Marais, Hannah found a sanctuary that spurred her mindfulness practice, a tool she later leaned on to overcome personal challenges like depression and spiraling tho...

This episode features a simple yet powerful breathwork practice called the "dandelion breath," designed for both young people and adults. Imagine holding a fluffy dandelion and blowing its seeds into the wind as you exhale. This visualization helps to calm the mind and relax the body, making it an excellent tool for managing stress and anxiety. Listen in as we explore different imaginative variati...

After years of juggling the demands of nonprofit work and feeling disconnected from his own body, Seth discovered a transformative approach to mindfulness that changed everything. Join us in this episode of Mindfulness Monday as Seth shares his inspiring journey and insights gained as the director of the Damiano Center and a leader at the Svalja Studio in Duluth. He sheds light on the importance o...

Unlock a transformative tool in your mindfulness journey as we guide you through a progressive muscle relaxation meditation. This episode of the Mindfulness Monday podcast promises to equip you with a simple yet powerful technique to combat the stress and anxiety that permeate our daily lives.

Join host Carly Jean Puch and special guest Ann as they delve into the transformative power of mindfulness and self-care in a hectic world. This insightful episode explores how ancient yogic principles, such as satya (truthfulness) and asteya (non-stealing), can guide us toward more authentic and balanced lives. The conversation highlights the importance of breath as a grounding tool and challenge...

Welcome to the start of Season 2 of the Mindfulness Monday podcast! In this episode, host Carly Jean Puch, explores the profound impact mindfulness can have on mental health and overall well-being. With a focus on being present, Carly shares personal insights and practical tips to incorporate mindfulness into daily life, aiming to reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and foster meaningful connections. T...

Join me on this enlightening episode of Mindfulness Monday as I sit down with Charles, an acupuncturist and herbalist from Grand Marais, Minnesota. Charles shares his journey of moving to this community and taking over the local acupuncture practice. He introduces us to the neoclassical style of acupuncture he practices, which emphasizes palpation and the interconnectedness of human and environmen...

Welcome back to Mindfulness Monday, where your journey towards a more balanced and mindful life continues. This week, I'm thrilled to guide you through the transformative practice of box breathing. Whether you're battling anxiety, seeking to stay present, or just looking to enhance your physical activity, breath work is a powerful ally. As we explore this simple yet profound technique together, yo...

Embark on a transformative expedition into the heart of mindfulness with our esteemed guest, Mel Eldridge from Two Birds Studio. Mel opens up about her unexpected foray into the realm of intuitive bodywork and massage, and how her career blossomed from a family-inspired interest into a life calling. She walks us through her eclectic mix of healing practices, from Thai bodywork to yin yoga, and sha...

Have emotions ever taken the driver's seat in your life? This Mindfulness Monday, I'm Carly Jean Puck, and I'll guide you through embracing the full spectrum of your feelings with a meditation practice designed for acceptance without judgment. Today, we illuminate the often-overlooked power within our emotions and discover how to weave acceptance into the fabric of our daily routines. Together, we...

On this week's Mindfulness Monday podcast I'm thrilled to sit down with Marcia Hyatt, an expert in leadership development and the voice behind the "Best of Ourselves" podcast. Together, we navigate the compelling intersection of mindfulness and leadership, unraveling how self-awareness and presence are not just buzzwords but essential tools for any effective leader. Listen in as Marcia shares her...