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Title: Episode 47- From Primal to Purposeful: Transforming Thoughts for Moms
Intro:
Welcome to the "Wellness in Every Season" podcast, where we embark on a transformative journey towards achieving total wellness, even in the midst of overwhelming moments. I'm your host, Autumn Carter, and I'm thrilled to have you here.
This podcast is a sanctuary for all mothers out there, and we extend a warm invitation to anyone seeking guidance and inspiration. We believe in fostering an inclusive community where we learn and grow together, supporting each other during life's challenging transitions.
Join us as we step out of survival mode and discover the path to thriving, embracing wellness in every season of motherhood. From sleepless nights to new beginnings, we'll explore practical strategies, share heartfelt stories, and uncover the transformative power of self-care and self-love.
Together, we'll unlock the wisdom, strength, and resilience within ourselves, reminding one another that we're never alone on this beautiful, yet demanding, journey. It's time to prioritize your well-being and reclaim your joy, one season at a time.
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EPISODE INTRO |
Welcome to Episode 47 of "Wellness in Every Season," titled "From Primal to Purposeful: Transforming Thoughts for Moms." In today's episode, we delve into a journey that many of us, as mothers, find ourselves on – a path marked by the challenges of balancing the demands of parenthood with our own personal histories. It's a journey I know intimately, having walked it myself, and today I'm sharing it with you, not to revisit the pain, but to share the triumph of transformation.
For those who are concerned about potential triggers, please know that this episode does not delve into specific traumatic events. Instead, we focus on the responses, the thinking patterns, and the shifts that can lead us from a place of struggle to one of strength and abundance. It's a conversation about emotional resilience, hope, and the power of our thoughts in shaping our reality as mothers.
As a survivor of trauma, I understand the delicate balance of addressing the past while nurturing the present and future. We'll explore how shifting from primal, reactionary thinking to a more purposeful, abundant mindset can profoundly impact our lives as mothers. This episode is about the strategies that have helped me, and many others, to not just cope, but thrive.
We'll discuss the vital role of emotional intelligence in higher thinking, how it enables us to manage our emotions effectively, and enhances our ability to be the mothers we aspire to be. The power of our environment, the people we surround ourselves with, and the daily practices of mindfulness, gratitude, and visualization all play a significant role in our journey towards healing and fulfillment.
This episode is a promise of remedies, practical tools, and strategies that offer a pathway to a more fulfilling, balanced life. It's an invitation to join me in embracing the belief that we are the creators of our reality through our thoughts. So, if you're seeking ways to navigate the complexities of motherhood with a mindset geared towards abundance, positivity, and resilience, this episode is for you. Let's embark on this journey together, from pain and reaction to healing and purposeful living.
Key point #1:
In a tranquil part of the world, I, Autumn, embraced my role as a stay-at-home mom to four wonderful children while finishing my undergrad degree. My journey as a mother and wife have been filled with love and commitment, and I've always believed in the profound impact of thoughts on shaping reality. This belief, deeply ingrained in me, is something I strive to instill not only in my children but also in other mothers, whether they are working or stay-at-home.
My daily life is a colorful blend of nurturing my children, managing household tasks, coaching other moms, and finding moments of quiet amidst the hustle and bustle. What sets my journey apart is my deep commitment to grounding and mindfulness, practices I've seamlessly integrated into my everyday life. When brushing my teeth, I immerse myself in the experience, focusing on the sensation of the bristles, the taste of the toothpaste, and the rhythm of my movements. This routine task has become a grounding ritual that brings me back to the present.
This mindfulness extends to other aspects of my day. Washing my hands is an exercise in awareness, where I feel the water's temperature, watch the soap suds, and appreciate the sense of cleanliness. Meal times are opportunities for presence, savoring each bite, and being thankful for the nourishment. Even while driving, I take in the surrounding sights and sounds, feeling the steering wheel under my hands, and fully engaging with the moment.
My commitment to being present has profoundly impacted my family life. My children experience my increased attentiveness and connection. They enjoy the heightened awareness I bring to our interactions, making even the simplest moments together more meaningful.
Beyond my family, my approach to life resonates throughout my community. I've started workshops for caregivers, which have become more than just a place to share skills. These workshops have evolved into spaces for nurturing the soul, practicing mindfulness, and growing together in a spirit of abundance and connection. Caregivers from diverse backgrounds come together, sharing not only practical tips but also experiences and techniques of mindfulness.
My story, Autumn's story, is a testament to the transformative nature of grounding and mindfulness. It shows that by incorporating these practices into daily routines, one can live a more connected, abundant life. My journey serves as an inspiration to all mothers and caregivers, regardless of their circumstances, demonstrating that the power of our thoughts, combined with a mindful presence, can create a reality filled with joy, gratitude, and profound fulfillment. As a life coach for other moms, I aim to share this philosophy and help others find their path to a balanced, joyful life.
Key point #2:
My journey has been one of resilience, transformation, and self-discovery. Growing up in an abusive home, I learned how to survive at a very early age, developing a heightened fight, flight, or freeze response. This mechanism, essential in my formative years, later became a significant challenge in my search for inner peace and happiness.
As a child in such a turbulent environment, I was constantly on alert, always ready for the next unpredictable challenge. This state of vigilance continued into my adulthood, manifesting as anxiety and an enduring sense of unease, even in safe environments. Recognizing the need for change, I turned to therapy, self-help, and life coaching, which became my avenues for healing and transformation.
In therapy, I confronted and started healing from my past traumas. It was a journey of uncovering and understanding the patterns that had shaped my early experiences. Self-help books offered me practical tools and insights, helping me reshape my thoughts and responses. However, it was life coaching that introduced me to the concept of the 'higher self.'
The higher self, in spiritual and psychological terms, is the most authentic part of an individual. It's a source of wisdom, unconditional love, and guidance, distinct from the conscious mind often clouded by ego and societal conditioning. Tapping into my higher self involved transcending reactionary patterns and accessing a deeper, more intuitive understanding of myself and the world.
This journey meant engaging in practices like meditation, journaling, and mindfulness exercises. These helped me slow down my thoughts, become more aware of my internal dialogue, and differentiate between the reactive patterns of my past and the intuitive guidance from my higher self.
By connecting with my higher self, I found a wellspring of inner peace, strength, and wisdom. I learned to trust my intuition, make decisions aligned with my true values, and see challenges as opportunities for growth. This profound inner transformation was reflected in my external world, positively influencing my relationships, parenting style, and my community contributions.
My story is a testament to the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity and find a path toward healing and fulfillment. It shows that no matter one's past, there is always the potential to access a place of inner wisdom and abundance, guiding one towards a life filled with peace, understanding, and profound fulfillment.
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Segment: Mindfulness Practice:
If you're driving, consider pulling over for a few minutes to fully engage in this practice. If that's not feasible, plan to return to this exercise when you have the time and space to delve deeply into it. For the moment, listen as best you can, keeping in mind that you'll come back to experience this transformative mindfulness journey in its entirety.
Find a quiet space where you won't be interrupted, and settle into a comfortable position. Begin by grounding yourself. Feel the weight of your body against the chair or floor. Notice the sensations where your body makes contact. Breathe deeply and slowly, and with each exhale, feel more rooted and present.
Close your eyes and imagine yourself in the future, at the end of a fulfilling life, surrounded by peace and contentment. Reflect on your journey as this older, wiser version of yourself. Recall the moments that stand out, the love and care you've given, the challenges you've overcome, and the personal growth you've achieved.
Consider your role as a caregiver and a mom, and the difference you've made in your family's lives through your support and guidance. Think about your contributions to your community, the smiles you've brought, the comfort you've provided, and the sense of togetherness you've fostered.
Now, embrace the concept of abundance and the law of attraction. Imagine your life as a magnet, drawing in joy, prosperity, love, and well-being. Envision abundance in every aspect of your life – in relationships, health, and spiritual fulfillment. This practice of visualizing abundance helps in shaping your reality, aligning your thoughts and actions with the abundance you seek.
Connect with your higher self, seeing yourself overcoming current stressors with tranquility and grace. Visualize yourself moving beyond instinctive reactions, approaching life's challenges with serenity and understanding, guided by the profound wisdom of your higher self. This visualization is a powerful tool for transcending immediate responses and embracing a deeper comprehension of your strengths.
Feel a deep sense of gratitude for your journey, the lessons learned, and the person you've become. Appreciate the tapestry of experiences that make up your life. Gently return to the present, opening your eyes when you're ready, carrying the wisdom and serenity from your envisioned future.
After the exercise, it can be beneficial to journal any insights or emotions that surfaced. This process helps integrate your experience into your current life path. This practice offers profound insights into your life's purpose and shapes the remaining chapters. It fosters a connection with fulfillment and peace, reinforcing your strength, wisdom, and the positive impact you've made and will continue to make as a caregiver, a mom, and a valued member of your community, all while attracting the abundance you envision for your life.
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Key point #3:
If you are like me, you like to know the science behind things to better conceptualize and implement ideas, especially if this is brand new to you. I won't keep you waiting any longer because this is not woo-woo stuff. The concept of higher thinking and the belief that we are creators of our reality through our thoughts, often associated with ideas like the law of attraction and abundance, have solid foundations in psychological and philosophical theories.
Engaging in higher thinking involves interacting with our thoughts at a more conscious, intentional level, transcending automatic, reactionary patterns. This approach aligns with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which suggests that our thoughts significantly influence our feelings and behaviors. By modifying our habitual thought patterns, we can alter our perception and interaction with the world.
The idea that we create our reality through our thoughts is also reflected in the psychological concept of self-fulfilling prophecy. This phenomenon occurs when a belief or expectation influences our actions to the extent that the belief materializes. For example, believing in your ability to achieve a goal can motivate behaviors that make its achievement more likely.
Focusing on thoughts of abundance means concentrating on what we have and what's possible, rather than on lack or fear. This mindset encourages gratitude, linked in studies to increased happiness, better health, and well-being.
Neuroscience offers more insights. Our brains exhibit neuroplasticity, meaning they can adapt in response to our experiences and thoughts. Engaging in higher thinking and focusing on abundance can reshape our neural pathways, making positive thinking and gratitude more habitual.
Brain imaging studies show that visualizing success and abundance activates the same neural networks involved in actually performing these activities. This suggests that mental practices like visualization can prepare the brain for the real-world execution of these tasks and goals.
However, it’s important to recognize that while our thoughts have a powerful influence, they are part of a complex interplay of factors, including genetics, environment, and social dynamics. The concept doesn’t imply that we can control every aspect of our reality with our thoughts, but rather that our mindset can significantly shape our experience of life.
In essence, the science behind higher thinking, creating our reality with our thoughts, and fostering an abundance mindset is supported by principles from psychology, neuroscience, and cognitive behavioral theories. These practices can lead to meaningful changes in our attitudes, behaviors, and overall life experiences.
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AD
Moms, I want you to imagine something for a moment. Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and envision this: You're standing at the crossroads of dreams and duty. You're not just surviving each day, juggling chores and kids, but thriving in a life where your dreams aren't sidelined—they're part of your daily reality.
Can you feel that knot of guilt in your stomach start to loosen? It's that fear of losing yourself to endless days of diapers and dishes. It's the struggle to balance your own dreams with the demands of motherhood. It's the constant juggling act that often leaves you feeling overwhelmed and underappreciated.
But here's the thing, I've been right where you are. I understand those emotions, those daily challenges, and the longing for something more. I've found a way out, a path that allows you to be the incredible mom you are while pursuing your dreams.
And guess what? I've helped other moms do the same, and they've achieved amazing results. Now, I'm here to guide you on this transformative journey.
As we step into a new school year, I have some exciting news for you. Four coaching spots have just opened up, and they're waiting for moms like you who are ready to reclaim their true selves, balance their lives, and fulfill their dreams.
Are you ready for this transformation? It's your time to shine. Sign up online at WellnessInEverySeason.com/contactus for a free 60-minute coaching call.
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Key point #4:
If you're interested in understanding how to embrace higher thinking while contrasting it with lower, more primal thinking, it's important to recognize the evolutionary role and current utility of primal thinking, especially in certain situations. Primal thinking, or our instinctive reactions, has been crucial in human evolution and continues to play a significant role in survival, particularly for children.This is how children survive into adulthood.
In evolutionary terms, lower primal thinking was essential for survival. Our ancestors relied on immediate, instinctual responses to threats in their environment, such as predators or natural disasters. This quick, reflexive thinking allowed for rapid decisions without the need for prolonged analysis, which could mean the difference between life and death.
For children, primal thinking is a key part of their development and survival. Instinctive reactions like crying when hungry or in distress ensure that they receive the care and attention needed for their well-being. In adults, this type of thinking still serves us in scenarios where immediate reaction is crucial for survival, such as pulling back your hand from a hot stove or swerving to avoid a sudden obstacle while driving.
However, while primal thinking has its place, it's not the type of thinking we need to rely on very often in modern society. Here's why:
In higher thinking with an abundance mindset and the law of attraction, there are several key elements. First, there's a positive outlook. This approach encourages you to face situations with optimism and a belief in favorable outcomes. It's about viewing challenges as opportunities for growth, which aligns with the principles of the law of attraction. Then, there's a focus on gratitude. By regularly acknowledging and appreciating what you have, you foster a sense of abundance, making you more receptive to new blessings and opportunities. Finally, higher thinking involves a long-term vision. This means setting and working towards long-term goals and visualizing success, which is a fundamental aspect of the law of attraction.
On the other hand, lower primal thinking often takes a different route. It typically exhibits a negative bias, focusing on potential dangers. This can limit growth and possibilities, especially in a modern context where immediate physical threats are less common. There's also a tendency towards a scarcity mindset. This type of thinking, typical of primal instincts, can create cycles of negativity and can blind you to the opportunities that are already present around you. Lastly, primal thinking is characterized by a short-term focus. It's reactionary, centered on immediate needs or threats, and lacks the foresight and strategic planning associated with higher thinking. This approach isn't aligned with the law of attraction, which requires a more forward-thinking, goal-oriented mindset.
To practice higher thinking, become aware of when you're slipping into negative or scarcity-driven thoughts and consciously redirect to abundance and positivity. Visualization and gratitude practices are effective for this shift.
Transitioning from lower to higher thinking is a journey of consistent practice and mindfulness. By shifting from immediate reactions to an abundant, goal-oriented mindset, you align with higher thinking and the law of attraction, leading to a more fulfilled life.
Primal thinking, while essential in certain situations, can lead to feelings of overwhelm and heightened stress in daily life, particularly for moms balancing childcare with work. By recognizing and shifting away from these instinctual reactions, you can embrace a more abundant, balanced approach to life's challenges and opportunities.
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Lifehack segment:
Creating a daily plan to exercise your higher thinking muscles is a valuable life hack for preventing lower, primal thinking patterns. Here’s a structured approach to help you cultivate a mindset of abundance, positivity, and long-term vision:
Morning Mindfulness and Intention Setting (5-10 minutes):
- Start your day with a short mindfulness exercise. This could be a brief meditation, deep breathing, or a gratitude practice.
- Set intentions for the day. Focus on positive outcomes and how you want to feel by the end of the day.
Visualization Exercise (5 minutes):
- Take a few minutes to visualize a goal or desire as already achieved. Feel the emotions associated with this success. This aligns with the law of attraction and sets a tone of positivity and possibility for your day.
Affirmation and Gratitude Journaling (5-10 minutes):
- Write down affirmations that reinforce your higher thinking. For example, “I am capable of overcoming challenges with grace and positivity.”
- Follow this with a gratitude list, noting at least three things you are grateful for. This practice helps shift focus from scarcity to abundance.
Midday Reflection (2-5 minutes):
- Take a few minutes in the middle of your day to reflect. Assess if your thoughts and actions have been aligned with your morning intentions.
- If you find yourself slipping into primal thinking patterns, gently guide yourself back to your higher thinking intentions.
Evening Review and Planning (10 minutes):
- In the evening, review your day. Acknowledge moments where you successfully exercised higher thinking.
- Plan for the next day. Identify potential challenges and decide how you will approach them with a higher thinking mindset.
Educational Input (15-30 minutes):
- Dedicate some time to reading, listening to podcasts, or watching videos that reinforce higher thinking concepts. This could include material on personal growth, the law of attraction, positive psychology, or success stories.
Mindful Wind Down (10-15 minutes):
- End your day with a relaxation practice. This might be light stretching, meditation, or listening to calming music.
- As you prepare for sleep, clear your mind and set intentions for a peaceful night and an optimistic start to the next day.
This daily plan is not just about specific activities; it's about cultivating a mindset. By consistently engaging in these practices, you exercise and strengthen your higher thinking muscles, making it easier to stay aligned with a mindset of abundance, positivity, and long-term vision, while minimizing lower, primal thinking patterns.
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Key point #5:
In our exploration of higher thinking and its contrast with primal, reactionary thinking, it's also important to consider the role of emotional intelligence (EI) and its impact on our ability to think and react. Emotional intelligence, the ability to identify, understand, and manage our emotions, plays a crucial role in higher thinking. It allows us to pause, assess our emotional responses, and choose a course of action that aligns with our higher goals rather than reacting impulsively. Developing EI involves self-awareness, empathy, and regulation of emotions, all of which are essential in shifting from primal to higher thinking. Practicing mindfulness and reflective exercises can enhance your emotional intelligence, further supporting your journey towards a mindset of abundance and positivity.
Another key area is the impact of our environment and social connections on our thinking patterns, a topic we delved into in depth in Episode 6, where I interviewed Thania Brinks about Environmental Wellness, and in Episode 9 with Kathe Bates discussing Social Wellness. The people we interact with and the environments we inhabit can significantly influence our mindset. Surrounding ourselves with positive, supportive individuals who embrace higher thinking can encourage us to do the same. Creating a personal space that reflects tranquility and positivity, as discussed in my conversation with Thania Brinks, can reinforce a mindset of abundance and calm. Furthermore, engaging in communities or groups focused on personal growth and positive thinking, a theme explored in my discussion with Kathe Bates, can provide the necessary support and inspiration to maintain this mindset. Remember, while the journey to higher thinking starts within, it's nourished and sustained by our surroundings and relationships.
Lastly, the importance of self-compassion and patience in this process cannot be overstated. Transitioning from primal to higher thinking is a gradual process that requires time and consistent effort. There will be moments of fallback, where primal reactions come to the forefront. It's crucial in these times to practice self-compassion, acknowledging that change is a journey with ups and downs. Patience with oneself, celebrating small victories, and understanding that growth is a non-linear process are vital. Remember, every step towards higher thinking, no matter how small, is progress and contributes to a more abundant, fulfilling life.
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Segment: Coaching Questions
Welcome to the coaching questions segment of our podcast. These questions are thoughtfully designed to encourage deep thinking and reflection, helping you explore your experiences and feelings, and to find practical, empowering ways to address both the challenges and joys of motherhood. Feel free to revisit these questions as often as you need, using them as a guide for self-reflection, diving deeper into your personal journey, and evaluating your progress in areas we've discussed and beyond. Here are ten coaching questions for your self-discovery:
1. How do my daily thoughts and actions align with the concept of higher thinking? Where do I notice room for improvement? Please realize we all have room for improvement. I am currently taking a course for coaches to improve myself so I can help others.
2. In moments of stress or challenge, what are my instinctual reactions, and how could I approach these situations with a mindset of abundance and positivity instead?
3. What are three things I am grateful for today, and how do they influence my overall outlook on life and motherhood?
4. Reflecting on the law of attraction, what positive changes have I observed in my life when I focus on positive and abundant thinking?
5. How do I practice mindfulness in my daily routine, and what impact does this have on my interactions with my children and others?
6. What are the long-term goals and visions I have for myself and my family, and what steps am I taking today to move closer to them?
7. How do my social interactions and environment contribute to my mindset, and what changes can I make to ensure they support my journey towards higher thinking?
8. When have I successfully shifted from a primal, reactionary response to a thoughtful, higher-thinking response, and what did I learn from that experience?
9. In what ways can I further cultivate emotional intelligence to enhance my higher thinking skills and better manage my reactions?
10. How do I practice self-compassion on my journey of personal growth, and what strategies help me remain patient and persistent in the face of challenges?
Remember, these questions are a tool for your ongoing growth and self-discovery. They're designed to help you navigate the complexities of motherhood with a mindset geared towards abundance, positivity, and resilience.
CLOSING REMARKS & EPISODE SUMMARY |
Episode summary:
In the latest episode of "Wellness in Every Season," titled "From Primal to Purposeful: Transforming Thoughts for Moms," we embarked on a profound journey exploring the power of higher thinking in shaping the realities of motherhood. The episode delved into how shifting from primal, reactionary thinking to a mindset of abundance and positivity can profoundly impact our lives as mothers, especially for those who, like me, have endured the trials of trauma.
We discussed the crucial role of emotional intelligence in higher thinking, emphasizing how it enables us to manage our emotions effectively and enhances our ability to navigate the complexities of motherhood. The discussion also highlighted the influence of our environment and social connections on our thought patterns, underscoring the importance of surrounding ourselves with positivity to reinforce a mindset of abundance and calm.
Next week on "Wellness in Every Season," we will have the privilege of welcoming Karla Levit, who will share her invaluable insights on a topic often veiled in silence: miscarriage, pregnancy loss, and infertility. In anticipation of this enlightening conversation, Karla will be revealing the staggering statistics that 1 in 4 pregnancies will result in miscarriage, 1 in 8 women will experience infertility, 1 in 100 women endure recurrent miscarriage, 1 in 160 births end in stillbirth, and 1 in 6 women develop PTSD after a loss.
Karla will also be opening up about her personal journey, a reflection of these statistics. After facing the situation where doctors had given up on her, she embarked on a path of healing and empowerment. By tuning into her intuition and addressing her trauma, Karla was able to experience a natural pregnancy at the age of 41.
During her 9-year struggle with these issues, Karla often found herself battling in silence and isolation, carrying a heavy burden of shame and guilt. These are feelings she continues to confront and work through in her life as a mother to two children. Her healing journey, which she approaches with courage and accountability, is a daily practice. This upcoming episode promises to be more than just a recounting of personal trials; it's a testament to the strength and resilience inherent in every mother and a message of hope and empowerment for anyone navigating similar paths.
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Outro:
Thank you for joining us on this week's refreshing wellness discussion. I'm Autumn Carter, your guide through the seasons of motherhood, and I hope you found inspiration and valuable insights during our time together.
If you resonate with the topics we explored today and want to continue your wellness journey, I invite you to follow me on Instagram at Moms Wellness in Every Season. There, you'll discover a wealth of ongoing wellness tips specifically curated for moms like you.
Sharing our podcast with others is an act of caring, and I invite you to spread the word by sharing, subscribing, and leaving a review wherever you enjoy your podcasts. Your support is deeply valuable to us and enables us to reach more mothers who are seeking transformation and empowerment.
If you have a specific topic you'd like us to cover in more detail or if you're interested in a free coaching consultation, don't hesitate to reach out. You can send me a direct message on Instagram or visit my website, wellnessineveryseason.com, to send an email. I'm here to support you on your wellness journey.
Thank you again for being a part of our vibrant community. I'm genuinely excited to connect with you, hear your stories, and continue this important discussion in the weeks to come.
Until next time, remember to prioritize your well-being, embrace every season with grace, and always strive for wellness in every aspect of your motherhood journey. Take care, and I can't wait to catch up with you soon.
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