In this episode, we delve into the complex reasons behind our reluctance to tell the truth, from small everyday lies to avoiding pivotal conversations about mortality. We explore how avoidance impacts ourselves and others, the role of shame in our avoidance, and practical ways we can foster honesty in our relationships. We use personal examples to illustrate the impact of not being honest can have.

We discuss how although honesty can be uncomfortable, often the relief and authenticity outweighs the temporary discomfort. We explore the idea that conversations we fear may be difficult can end up being the most transformative.

Key Topics Covered:

The emotional reactions and fears that lead to untruths and avoidance

Examples from personal experiences: missed events, hiding purchases, and the fear of letting others down

The deep connection between avoidance and shame, and how stories we tell ourselves reinforce this

The role of familiarity and the unknown in avoiding difficult conversations

The impact of avoiding honesty on mental health and human connection

Strategies for practicing honest communication and overcoming fear

The importance of having difficult conversations about mortality and practical preparations

How misaligned perceptions of honesty and avoidance affect our relationships with family, friends, and clients in professional settings

Find us at: www.adriennekirk.uk or www.presenceofmind.life

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we welcomed a guest, Sassy Smith, who is the founder of Aphantasia Academy and author of Unseen Minds - A Therapist's Guide to Multisensory Aphantasia and Invisible Cognitive Differences

The episode delves into the fascinating world of cognitive differences, exploring how unique mental experiences like aphantasia, endophasia and SDAM shape our perception of reality. By understanding these variations, therapists can tailor their approaches to better meet the needs of their clients, and clients are able to articulate their experiences more easily.

Lucy (who has aphantasia) and Sassy share personal insights, Adrienne adds a therapeutic perspective and all three of us discuss professional strategies that highlight the importance of recognising and validating individual cognitive profiles.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in enhancing therapeutic practices and fostering a deeper understanding of the human mind, and also anyone currently undergoing therapy.

Sassy has generously offered a gift to listeners with codes that give discounts off her brilliant resources.

FOUNDATIONS50 gives listeners a £50 discount for the Aphantasia Foundations course and NOTTHATDEEP gives a £100 discount for the Aphantasia Therapist training.

Unseen Minds: A Therapist's Guide to Multisensory Aphantasia and Invisible Cognitive Differences -https://www.amazon.com/Unseen-Minds-Therapists-Multisensory-Differences/dp/1036970612

Aphantasia Academy - https://www.aphantasiaacademy.com

Sassy Smith on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SassySmith

Sassy Smith on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/aphantasia_academy/

Free CBT Masterclass on Aphantasia - https://www.aphantasiacoach.com/CBTMasterclass

Adrienne and Lucy can be contacted through their websites:

www.presenceofmind.life (Lucy)

www.adriennekirk.uk (Adrienne)

Find us at: www.adriennekirk.uk or www.presenceofmind.life

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this, our 100th episode, we explore the very human tendency to desire pleasant experiences and the impact this wanting has on our well-being. It’s natural, of course, to delight in the pleasant, it only becomes a problem when we start to crave for things to be more pleasant and thereby end up increasing our own suffering.

We discuss the impact of trying to push away unpleasant feelings, and even diminishing our pleasant times by being sad that they will end! To offset this we delve into mindfulness, emotional regulation, and how acceptance of impermanence can lead to greater peace.

Takeaways

Wanting things to be pleasant can increase suffering when they are not

Mindfulness helps in noticing subtle mood shifts and choosing responses

Thoughts significantly influence feelings and can be challenged

Acceptance of impermanence allows for greater peace and enjoyment of the present

Small, neutral moments can be sources of steady happiness

Adrienne and Lucy can be contacted through their websites:

www.presenceofmind.life (Lucy)

www.adriennekirk.uk (Adrienne)

Find us at: www.adriennekirk.uk or www.presenceofmind.life

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.