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  • Social media is an undeniable presence in everyone's lives nowadays; some kind of virtual connection touches even those who don't post every moment in their daily routines. And social media is not only omnipresent, but it also has a bad reputation for how it negatively influences kids, oppressed minorities, or people going through hard times in particular. Nevertheless, not everything is lost; we still have a lot of control over how we use technology and whether we decide to use social media for our own benefit or not. 


    In this episode, we will focus on the benefits of using social media. We will list and explore five aspects that can be very beneficial not only for us but also for the community through the proper use of virtual connections. I invite you to discover how social media can strengthen relationships with friends and relatives, help us acquire better habits, assist introverts, reduce stigmas over diseases, leverage the students' experiences, and more. 


    Tune in to Episode 95 of Technology for Mindfulness to view social media from a different perspective and perhaps give it a second chance. 


    In This Episode, You Will Learn:

    Smartphones and advanced communication technology are not bad inherently; we choose what to do with them (1:25)Social media used as a means to connect with people we don't see very often or to seek support during challenging times (3:42) Social media and the creation of healthy and productive habits (6:07)How introverts can reduce their social anxiety in social media (10:18)Public figures showing up as mere humans and helping diminish the stigma over certain conditions, sexual orientation, and traumas (12:19)How students can use social media to make their learning process smooth and most effective (16:27)

    Resources:

    Pew Research Center - Demographics of Key Social Networking Platforms Pew Research Center - Teens' Social Media Habits and ExperiencesBook: Nicholas A. Christakis, James H. Fowler - Connected: The Surprising Power of Our Social Networks and How They Shape Our Lives -- How Your Friends' Friends' Friends Affect Everything You Feel, Think, and DoUSA Today - Interview with James Fowler: Fee-fi-foe-friend: Smell the blood of a kindred spirit?The Stigma Project - FacebookNational School Board Association - Grunwald Associates LLC: CREATING & CONNECTING: Research and Guidelines on Online Social — and Educational — Networking

    Connect with Robert Plotkin:

    Technology For Mindfulness WebsiteBlueshift IP WebsiteLinkedIn

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

  • Many people believe that mindfulness meditation is about stopping thoughts from popping into our heads, which is, needless to say, impossible. As they can't prevent themselves from having thoughts, that belief makes them stop trying mindfulness meditation. 


    Mindfulness meditation is not about preventing our minds from having thoughts but being aware of them. And being aware of those thoughts is different from knowing we have them; the difference might seem subtle but is massive. 


    Today, my guest is the mindfulness teacher, Brother Dave Kenneally, former Sargeant in the US Marine Corps and former Buddhist Monk in the Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh tradition. He travels the world spreading his knowledge, teaching business leaders, yoga instructors, cancer patients and their families, teens, and military veterans, among many others. He is a Certified Teacher of the Search Inside Yourself Program and an Ordained member of the Order of Interbeing.  


    We had a joyful conversation about his mentors and their teachings along his journey and how they impacted him, the meaning of mindfulness, and the gifts the Zen tradition has to offer. He explained the concept of "understanding is love," and he also talked about why he decided to become a monk. 


    Tune in to Episode 93 of Technology for Mindfulness and listen to Dave's fascinating story about love, reaching mindfulness, and awareness.


    Some Questions I Ask:

     What's your story and how did you get started with mindfulness? (5:23)Can you talk about where gentleness and self-compassion fit your own development and in your own teaching? (12:34)You've been talking primarily about attitudes towards yourself, your own feelings, your own thoughts, and cultivating it from that direction. If I'd like to be more compassionate, how do I just go ahead? (18:08)Is there anything you can share about how you've been able to bring your own mindfulness practices to bear on this extremely challenging time? (22:23)

    In This Episode, You Will Learn:

    Dave's definition of mindfulness (6:03)Yoga as a raw concentration practice (10:48)Understanding is love (13:32)One of the Zen practice's gifts (19:00)The consequences of being at war with our thoughts (31:50)

    Resources:

    Dave Kenneally website

    Connect with Dave:

    LinkedInFacebookInstagramYouTube

    Connect with Robert Plotkin:

    Technology For Mindfulness WebsiteBlueshift IP WebsiteLinkedIn

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

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  • Most of the stress triggers that affect a teacher's routine can't be controlled by them—the parents' demands, budget cuts, and the difficulties that teaching in the virtual spectrum offers, to name a few. After a challenging 2020, it is not a surprise that educators deal with higher stress levels than any other profession. 


    A recent study from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation showed that nearly 70% of teachers reported a lack of engagement with their jobs and that 50% experience work-related stress daily. 


    However, teachers can control something to reduce their stress levels inside and outside the classroom: their reaction to these stressors.


    In this episode, I want to share with you 5 mindfulness practices you can incorporate into your daily routine to empower yourself and manage your stress more efficiently. 


    To hear more, tune in to Episode 93 of Technology for Mindfulness!


    In This Episode, You Will Learn:

    What a daily session of guided mindfulness meditation can do for us (2:37)The power of mindful walking (4:15)Deep breathing to exhale stress (7:54)Becoming aware of each part of our bodies (12:09)Writing about our sensations to learn from our emotions (13:49)

    Resources:

    Headspace appInsight Timer appCalm appMindful Teachers websiteMindful Schools websiteBook: Patricia Jennings - Mindfulness for Teachers: Skills for Peace and Productivity in the Classroom

    Connect with Robert Plotkin:

    Technology For Mindfulness WebsiteBlueshift IP WebsiteLinkedIn

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

  • In this day and age, we’re using technology for almost everything. Whether it’s for keeping notes, making to-do lists, planning your week, or simply sharing your thoughts, there’s an app for anything we need.

     

    But is using them always a good idea? Pen and paper have been used for centuries by people to keep track of their activities, come up with ideas, and organize their life. And there are certain benefits to using your hands to write things down - one of them being it allows your mind to focus on other things also.

     

    Today, I am joined by Ryder Carroll, the creator of the Bullet Journal Methodology – a mindfulness practice disguised as a productivity method, as he would call it. You will hear him talk about his method – how he came up with the idea, how it’s evolved over time, and how people are benefiting from it to keep track of tasks and manage a whole wide variety of life situations, by using just pen and paper.

     

    Ryder is also the author of the bestselling book The Bullet Journal Method, an essential guide to avoiding all-too-common beginner mistakes and building a core discipline from which you can personalize your practice.

     

    Tune in to Episode 92 of Technology for Mindfulness to learn how to focus your time and energy in pursuit of what’s truly meaningful to you and design your future in the process.  

     

    Some Questions I Ask:

    What was the problem in your life that you didn’t see being solved by other types of task management, that caused you to come up with something new? (05:46)What are the key aspects of the Bullet Journal? (11:36)Are you encouraging people to explore what works for them individually? (18:29)Can you talk about how your active community uses the Bullet Journal Method? (19:49)Is there anything new that you’re coming up with for the Bullet Journal Method? (34:05)Do you have any advice for people on how they can benefit from the Bullet Journal? (35:15)

     

    In This Episode, You Will Learn:

    The beginnings of the Bullet Journal Method. (07:26)Why Bullet Journal is different from other productivity methods. (13:05)The powerful connection between your mind and your hand. (15:28)How to balance distractions. (16:49)How low-tech tools can sometimes be more useful than technology. (21:59)How pen and paper can help with using technology more intentionally. (25:24)The goal of the Bullet Journal Method. (27:27)How a notebook can become an extension of yourself. (32:20)

     

    Connect with Ryder:

    LinkedInInstagram

     

    Bullet Journal Resources:

    WebsiteBook: Ryder Carroll – The Bullet Journal Method: Track the Past, Order the Present, Design the FutureInstagramFacebookYoutubePinterest

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

  • Throughout the past year, we’ve experienced lots of changes with regard to our relationship with technology. Some of them are positive shifts, like using video conferencing platforms more, to stay in touch with our loved ones. But many changes may have been negative also, like spending more time than usual on social media or watching the news more than we should have.

     

    For everyone, the impact technology has had in 2020 is different, but it’s important to spend some time reflecting on those changes, and recognizing which ones benefit us and what are the habits we formed that can become detrimental to our wellbeing moving forward in 2021.

     

    In today’s episode, I share with you the three steps to mindfully enter into the new year, and how to tackle each one so that you can be more in control of your relationship with technology.

     

    To hear more, tune in to Episode 91 of Technology for Mindfulness!

     

    In This Episode, You Will Learn:

    The three steps to mindfully enter into 2021 (01:20)Some examples of how 2020 may have affected your technology habits (02:25)The importance of reflecting on the changes that happened without you noticing (04:02)How to properly set your intentions for 2021 (08:00)The advantage of having a plan of action set in place for your intentions (11:58)

     

    Connect With Robert Plotkin:

    Technology For Mindfulness WebsiteBlueshift IP WebsiteLinkedIn

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

  • When it comes to setting our own boundaries, the thought can sometimes be a little daunting. 


    Joining me today is Celebrity Business and Boundary Coach and Founder of The Boundary Academy, Karlee Fain, who is here to share her personal expertise on this topic, as well as discuss why mindfulness is such a valuable tool in both our personal and professional lives.


    In this episode, I ask Karlee a few pressing questions on how she made her start within the personal development industry, why becoming aware of our technological habits can help us to set clear boundaries, and the effect that the Coronavirus has had on our productivity levels. 


    To hear more, tune in to Episode 90 of Technology for Mindfulness!


    Some Questions I Ask:

    What motivated you to pursue the field of life coaching? (6:47)What advice can you give to those who may not have as much time to dedicate to changing their nightly routines? (10:18)What issues do your coaching clients generally encounter? (14:11)How do you help individuals who don’t have a regular mindfulness practice start to notice their behaviors? (17:06)How do you help those who are completely new to mindfulness and personal development? (21:38)What could your techniques look like to someone who may not have as much leniency with their work breaks? (26:49)

    In This Episode You Will Learn:

    Why I believe in setting boundaries on your technology use (0:57)Why setting a ‘conscious plan’ in regards to your technology is a form of self-care (2:22)How pausing and staying present helped me to manage my news intake (12:00)How mindfulness, meditation, and respite can be leveraged as a business tool (18:47)The difference that having a cultural, social, and communal awareness can make (31:43)Some background on Karlee’s work & How the pandemic has made boundary setting so much more challenging (39:12)

    Connect With Robert Plotkin:

    Technology For Mindfulness WebsiteBlueshift IP WebsiteLinkedIn

    Connect With Karlee Fain:

    Facebook Instagram Website

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

  • Trauma is a sensitive subject. 


    Today, I’m joined by Life Coach, sought-after entrepreneur and Host of The Truth Prescription Podcast, Dr. Seku Gathers, who specializes in trauma coaching and recovery through one to one client work. By intertwining his knowledge as a former emergency physician with his extensive personal development expertise, Dr. Seku has created a practice built on seven core principles, otherwise known as the ‘F.R.E.E.D.O.M’ Method. 


    In this episode, we discuss Dr. Seku’s philosophies on mindfulness, feeling ‘stuck’, and how the Coronavirus has impacted his clients. We also break down each of the main principles that make up Dr. Seku’s ‘F.R.E.E.D.O.M’ Method, 


    Tune in to Episode 89 of Technology for Mindfulness to hear more! 


    Some Questions I Ask:

    What are the most common things you see in your clients in regards to trauma? (9:43)How do you help people make the initial leap out of feeling ‘stuck?’ (17:14)Do you have any insights or words of encouragement for people on how to handle the current pandemic? (31:31)What are you seeing in your Coaching practice in relation to COVID-19? (33:23)How do you incorporate holistic wellness into your sessions? (40:27)What piece of advice can you leave my listeners with today? (45:00)

    In This Episode You Will Learn:

    A breakdown of my personal ‘order method’ & How it compliments Dr. Seku’s ‘freedom method’ (1:03)Some background on Dr. Seku Gathers (7:43)Dr. Seku’s perspective on optimism and maintaining a positive outlook (12:01)The difference between therapy and life coaching (14:28)How Dr. Seku builds strong client relationships & Why we need to stay objective when addressing our own ‘blind spots’ (22:48)Why detaching from our ego is so beneficial (28:04)Dr. Seku’s perspective on addiction and mindfulness (37:58)

    Connect With Robert Plotkin:

    Technology For Mindfulness WebsiteBlueshift IP WebsiteLinkedIn

    Connect With Dr Seku. Gathers:

    Website: The Truth PrescriptionWebsite: Reshaping TraumaInstagram Facebook Twitter

    Resources:

    Book: Total Body Wellness: The Truth About Your Health - Author, Dr. Sekuleo Gathers M.D.

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

  • Whilst the holidays won’t be going ahead the way we’d all initially hoped, there are still plenty of ways we can enjoy this season together and make a few socially distanced memories to solidify the year we’ve all collectively gone through.  


    I won’t sugar coat it, 2020 has been rough for a lot of us. Many out there are still recovering from the ongoing grief that this pandemic has brought with it and this time of year will be particularly difficult for those who have been directly affected by the virus. 


    So, I wanted to take this episode as an opportunity to share my tips on how we can all make these upcoming months a little brighter. It won’t be an easy feat, but I believe that with an optimistic outlook and an open mind, we can make the end of this year one to remember.  


    To hear more, tune in to Episode 88 of Technology for Mindfulness!


    What You’ll Learn:

    My advice on addressing the pressures COVID-19 has put on the holiday season (2:11)Why it’s important to practice gratitude during challenging times (3:19)How technology has allowed us to stay connected this year (7:10)Why I want to carry on the feeling of optimism beyond Thanksgiving (10:31)Why moderating our technology use during the holidays helps us to stay present (11:58)Ways to approach your virtual family gatherings (14:48)The benefits of getting together virtually (22:44)

    Connect With Robert Plotkin:

    Technology For Mindfulness WebsiteBlueshift IP WebsiteLinkedIn

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

  • In today’s episode of Technology for Mindfulness, I wanted to bring attention to the types of grief that this pandemic has brought upon so many of us. Whether it be the loss of a loved one, a job, or a relationship, this year has definitely taken its toll and it will take time before a lot of us are ready to heal.


    I’m going to be sharing a few of the strategies that have helped me throughout the course of isolation and take a deep dive on how and why we respond to loss in the ways that we do. I’ll also be discussing the many benefits that mindfulness brings into our lives and how utilizing these tools can aid us in overcoming bouts of personal grief. 


    Tune in to Episode 87 to hear more! 


    What You’ll Learn:

    The different types of loss that Covid-19 has brought (1:14)How we usually tend to respond to loss (7:28)Where addictive, habitual and often unhealthy routines stem from (9:22)The benefits that mindfulness brings into our lives & How people are leveraging technology to stay connected during the pandemic (11:42)My tips for dealing with loss in ways that aren’t aversive (15:38)Ways to stay social while physically distancing (18:20)Why taking breaks from technology is so important (26:24)

    Connect With Robert Plotkin:

    Technology For Mindfulness WebsiteBlueshift IP WebsiteLinkedIn

    Resources:

    Website: ‘JamKazam’

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

  • How we perceive information is majorly affected in the midst of a crisis. It impacts our ability to process news in a rational way and our response is often heavily influenced by our emotions. This makes us vulnerable to false and harmful information that sways public opinion and leads people to make uninformed decisions regarding such serious issues. 


    Learning to be mindfully aware of what is happening around us is a skill that takes time to master so obtaining the facts has never been more important. Joining me on the podcast today to discuss the science behind Covid-19 and share his tips on how we can safely control the spread, is world-renowned ‘National Geographic’ photographer and board-certified emergency physician, Dr. Jeff Gusky!


    In this episode, Jeff shares his insights into how humidity has played a key role in the increase of Coronavirus cases globally, how each individual immune system in our body functions, and the truth about herd immunity. 


    To learn more, tune in to Episode 86 of Technology for Mindfulness!


    Some Questions I Ask:

    Could you talk about the work you do surrounding Covid-19? (6:42)What does aerosol refer to? (17:25)What can people be doing to quell their anxieties at the moment? (36:20)

    What You’ll Learn:

    Why mindfulness helps us absorb information calmly and objectively (3:19)How the pandemic has affected each sector of the world (9:57)Jeff’s breakdown on each of the immune systems that function in our body (11:19)The difference between the aerosol and microdroplet model (14:03)How humidity plays a key role in controlling the spread of the Coronavirus (18:37)Why Vitamin D mitigates long term complications with Covid-19 (22:11)Dr. Jeff’s two tips for controlling the temperature in your environment (26:19)The effect humidity has had on our air quality (28:35)A glimpse into how humidity contributed to the Coronavirus outbreak in Paris (32:14)How crisis affects our perception & Why it’s important to stay properly informed (39:22)

    Connect With Robert Plotkin:

    Technology For Mindfulness WebsiteBlueshift IP WebsiteLinkedIn

    Connect With Dr. Jeff Gusky:

    WebsiteTwitterFacebookInstagramLinkedIn

    Resources:

    Website: ‘CDC’ - Coronavirus InformationWebsite: ‘ZRT Laboratory’ Profile: Jeffrey Shaman The Viral Safety Index. The humidifier Jeff is using.

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

  • In today’s episode, I’ll be sharing a few of the strategies that I use in my everyday life which help me to reduce distractions and improve my overall sense of productivity. There are so many factors that influence our ability to cultivate a healthy work-life balance and so many of them are within our control and are easily accessible to us.  


    I’ll be diving into how you can best manage your notifications to quell anxieties that present themselves when given too much information, why practicing time management skills, and prioritizing a structure can improve our productivity, and how micro rewards can yield positive results in relation to our own motivations. 


    If you’re curious to learn more, then tune in to Episode 85 of Technology For Mindfulness!


    What you’ll learn:

    An introduction to today’s topic (0:42)Why it’s important to pre-plan your day (1:17)Tips to best manage your notifications (4:12)How to transform your desktop into a productive sanctuary (6:49)How to use micro rewards as a motivational system (8:43)

    Connect With Robert Plotkin:

    Technology For Mindfulness WebsiteBlueshift IP WebsiteLinkedIn

    Resources:

    Book: ‘The 12 Week Year’ Author, Brian P. MoranWebsite - ‘FocusMe’ Website - ‘Freedom’

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

  • As someone who has worked in the field of law for a number of years now, I have seen first hand how prevalent stress is within this industry and the effect that it has had on the individuals who are practicing professionally. 


    Joining me today is someone who is combating that issue through specialized coaching and consulting, Sarah Tetlow! Sarah is a Legal Productivity Consultant at ‘Firm Focus’, a company dedicated to helping legal professionals streamline their workflow, better utilize their time management skills, and reduce the stress that many within the industry have suffered from throughout their careers. Through her work, Sarah has successfully assisted clients in managing their stress levels through productivity-based solutions that cater to each individual's needs. 


    In this episode, Sarah shares her perspective on some of the common behaviors she’s seen within the lawyers she’s worked with and how her coaching methods have helped those clients create balance and efficiency in their work life. We also talk about the need to set realistic and measurable goals, particularly in this line of work, how technology can be utilized to amplify productivity, as well as how communication is such a vital step to ensuring a team is working efficiently and coherently. 


    To learn more, tune in to Episode 84 of Technology for Mindfulness! 


    Some Questions I Ask:

    How did you get started in a field that is so specialized? (5:30)What practical skills do you use when helping your clients? (12:19)How do you respond to lawyers who have a tendency to catastrophize urgent tasks and overwork themselves? (14:07)When your clients have a genuine emergency in their work, how do you set up a process that addresses and resolves that? (18:43)What could a client expect from working with you? (21:22)What do you take into account when interviewing new clients to work with? (29:56)Could you talk about how you help your clients’ reduce stress in their lives? (38:43)

    What You’ll Learn:

    What Sarah’s ‘legal eagle’ system aims to achieve (9:44)How technology has permeated the legal profession & Created a sense of urgency around small tasks (11:19)What I’ve noticed about how lawyers respond to deadlines (25:50)Sarah’s take on using productivity apps and technology to help streamline legal processes and offload stress (27:18)How ‘proactive communication’ helps reduce the need to cram in work at the last minute (32:33)Why communication is so important, particularly now as most people have shifted to working remotely (37:21)

    Connect With Robert Plotkin:

    Technology For Mindfulness WebsiteBlueshift IP WebsiteLinkedIn

    Connect With Sarah Tetlow:

    Website - ‘Firm Focus’ LinkedInEmail: [email protected]

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

  • Continuing on from last week’s episode, today’s focus is all about maintaining productivity within your workspace while working remotely! I’m going to be discussing my key strategies and tips for conducting yourself effectively while operating from home, the nuances that come with communicating virtually with your team members, as well as how the very real effects of isolation must be taken into account by leaders in business.    


    Now more than ever, our mental wellbeing needs to be prioritized within the workplace, and managing the complex and often overwhelming feelings that come with our new working arrangements is going to be a team effort. While this period has been and is going to be difficult for many of us, there is solace in knowing that there are ways to cope and that we are not alone. 


    Join me on Episode 83 of Technology For Mindfulness to learn more!


    In This Episode You Will Learn:

    Statistics showing that remote work was already on the rise before Covid-19 (1:23)My four key tips for Managers to help their teams work effectively in a remote environment (2:47)Why sticking to a daily routine is so imperative for workplaces right now & The power that our triggers have over us creating habits (2:55)Examples of positive triggers that can help to simulate a work day (6:17)Understanding how intentions and perceptions can affect virtual communication between co-workers (10:51)What you can do to rectify a miscommunication or potential negative interaction with someone you work with (15:07)Why we should stay aware of the effects that isolation can have on us while working remotely & Why leaders in business should be understanding of this and offer assistance to employees where needed (16:22)What I think the workplace will look like after Covid-19 (22:17)

    Connect With Robert Plotkin:

    Technology For Mindfulness WebsiteBlueshift IP WebsiteLinkedIn

    Resources:

    Book: ‘Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones’ Author, James Clear

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

  • There are many critical aspects to creating a space within our home environment that is conducive to productivity. Not only can this mental boundary assist in efficiency and boosting our motivations professionally, it can also be a healthy bridge for us to open communication between ourselves and those of us who we’re sharing space with. 


    Particularly now in the midst of this global pandemic, learning strategies that help alleviate some of these stressors has never been more important. In today’s episode, I share a few mechanisms that I use to schedule my work day effectively while working remotely, as well as discuss why having honest expectations with ourselves towards our productivity at the moment is so vital to our well being. 


    To learn more, tune in to Episode 82 of Technology For Mindfulness! 


    In This Episode You Will Learn:

    An introduction to today’s topic on productivity and remote work environments during Covid-19 (0:50)A few things that will factor into each individual’s capability to work remotely (3:33)Why it’s important to remind ourselves that we’re going to be less productive during this period of time (4:52)The practical benefits of bringing our attention towards the drop in productivity (7:05)How we can establish clear mental boundaries between our home and work environments (10:00)A breakdown of ‘physical boundaries’ (11:32)A breakdown of ‘temporal boundaries’ (15:46)A breakdown of ‘personal boundaries’ (18:25)How we can effectively manage external interruptions and improve focus while working from home (24:15)

    Connect With Robert Plotkin:

    Technology For Mindfulness WebsiteBlueshift IP WebsiteLinkedIn

    Resources:

    Book: ‘Your Brain At Work: Strategies for Overcoming Distraction, Regaining Focus, and Working Smarter All Day Long’ Author, David Rock

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

  • We’ve now entered our fourth month living in the midst of Covid-19. As all of us have begun to adjust to life in isolation and become accustomed to an ever increasing sense of uncertainty, the need for anxiety management tools have never been more pressing.  


    There are so many benefits to practicing and implementing mindfulness into our routines, especially right now. In this episode, I share a few techniques that I’ve used to put difficult circumstances into perspective, why we tend to avoid accepting traumatic events, and how mindfulness allows us to build resilience and manage our anxieties in a healthy way. I also share some insights I’ve gained from others who have experienced bouts of stress during this pandemic and how their ways of thinking have helped me.     


    To learn more, tune in to Episode 81 of Technology For Mindfulness! 


    What You’ll Learn:

    An introduction to today’s topic on how Coronavirus is impacting our mental health (0:47)My first tip on using mindfulness to help you see things as they are (2:41)How mindfulness helps us decrease avoidance towards difficult circumstances (4:48)A mental exercise you can practice in your everyday life (5:37)Why mindfulness allows us to put our circumstances into perspective (7:40)Ways that mindfulness increases our resilience (10:01)What the ‘anxiety cycle’ is & The role fear plays in how we respond to crisis (11:31)The definition of ‘social contagion’ (13:58)How we can beat a negative feedback loop (14:56)The benefits of practicing ‘basic awareness training’ (18:23)Why we should engage in some form of ‘digital fasting’ during Covid-19 (18:46)

    Connect With Me:

    Technology For Mindfulness WebsiteBlueshift IP WebsiteLinkedIn

    Resources:

    Academic Journal: ‘Personality and Individual Differences’ 

    Article: ‘A Brain Hack To Break The Coronavirus Anxiety Cycle’, Juddson Brewer

    Book: ‘24/6: The Power Of Unplugging One Day A Week’, Tiffany Shlain


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

  • Mindfulness has become such a huge part of the world we live in and has integrated into mainstream culture. There are a vast number of traditional and spiritual practices that date back hundreds of years and span across cultures far outside of what we’re exposed to in the West and it’s important we educate ourselves on the origin of these methods. 


    Today, I’m joined by thought leader and established teacher, Ron Purser. Ron is a Professor of Management at San Francisco State University, and Published Author of the best selling book, ‘McMindfulness’. He shares a unique perspective, having integrated traditional Buddhist practices into his life, he does a brilliant job of challenging the ideals that are emphasized through modern mindfulness tools. 


    To hear more insights from Ron Purser and learn more about his personal approach to this topic, tune in to Episode 80 of Technology for Mindfulness!


    Some of the questions I ask:

    Could you talk about your personal background with mindfulness? (4:08)What are your concerns now that mindfulness is such a mainstream ideology? (9:17)What does mindfulness mean for you in a broader sense and in relation to traditional Buddhist teachings? (14:41)Could you elaborate on how you believe mindfulness apps are being used as overtly solitary experiences (30:22)From your experience, what is mindfulness other than a self-help technique? (37:10)Would you agree that a lot of self-help apps are too introductory and don’t cover mindfulness in a broader sense? (40:19)What would you recommend to those wanting to learn more about mindfulness? (43:09)

    What you’ll learn in this episode:

    The history of Martial Arts and Shotokan Karate (1:20)How Buddhism has become synonymous with mindfulness (7:44)How mindfulness ideologies have become part of the mainstream and integrated into Western culture (18:40)The commoditization behind mindfulness in corporate environments (23:44)A brief excerpt from ‘McMindfulness’ - How the US Army have militarized the clinical application of mindfulness (27:24)The privatization of stress and the connection that has to our bodies (33:16)The political ideologies and connotations behind fanatic mindfulness (35:23)

    Connect with Robert Plotkin:

    Technology For Mindfulness WebsiteBlueshift IP WebsiteLinkedIn

    Connect with Ron Purser:

    WebsiteThe Mindful Cranks - Podcast McMindfulness - Book

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

  • Today I’ve repurposed an old episode of ‘The Paul Minor’s Podcast’ which I was fortunate enough to be a guest on, to share with all of you! Paul is a Productivity, Business and Self Improvement Consultant who has helped over four hundred clients reach peak efficiency in their line of work. 


    In this interview, we discuss how the consumer's relationship with technology has evolved, how we can incorporate mindfulness into our daily practices, and more on my personal journey intertwining Japanese martial arts techniques with technology use.


    We also dive into the importance of understanding your responses towards notifications. For us to respond efficiently, we first have to draw our attention to internal solutions and focus on how we can catch bad habits before they become a part of our norm.  


    If you’re interested to learn more, then have a listen to episode 120 of The Paul Minors Podcast!


    What You’ll Learn:

    A brief background on myself (1:46)My journey shifting into japanese martial arts from a computer science background (3:28)How to respond internally to an ‘attack’ from the technology around us (4:45)The neuroscience behind responding to notifications (7:01)How I’ve integrated martial arts practices into my use of technology (8:50)The contrast between notifications feeling overwhelming or something that makes us feel good (9:49)The consumer issue I’m trying to solve through my work (12:40)Key points in the evolution of technology and the way users interact with it (14:34)The challenges of working with algorithms that are designed to keep us engaged (19:46) How we can catch bad habits within our device usage (26:34)Tips for practicing mindfulness in a team environment (28:34)Meditation techniques that aren’t time consuming & How we can be mindful when we’re busy (35:01)Apps I use to practice mindfulness and relieve my anxiety (42:51)

    Connect With Paul Minors:

    WebsiteYoutube Channel Twitter InstagramFacebook 

    Resources:

    Book: “Digital Minimalism” Author, Cal Newport

    Book: “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” Author, Stephen R. Covey

    Book: “It Doesn’t Have To Be Crazy At Work” Authors, Jason Fried & David Heinemeier Hansson

    Book: “Sleeping With Your Smartphone” Author, Leslie A. Perlow

    Book: “Deep Work” Author, Cal Newport 


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

  • In today’s episode, I’m joined by Corporate Meditation Teacher and CEO of Peak Wellness Co, Kayla Kozan!


    After experiencing a sudden onslaught of issues surrounding her mental health and observing how many workplaces were in need of wellness resources, she was inspired to launch her company and influence businesses to prioritize the wellbeing of their employees. By implementing strategies into her programs that have benefited her own life, she has successfully helped businesses across all different fields create a solid wellness structure and received many outstanding reviews.


    For many leaders, particularly in corporate offices, the idea of adopting a mindful mentality can feel foreign or intimidating to approach. However, providing a safe space for workers to treat their mental needs has been proven to not only increase morale and reduce stress, but also improve productivity and performance within the workplace. The time for these services has never been more needed, especially now as we have entered such unprecedented times and have had to adapt to new ways of working. 


    For more information on Kayla and the incredible work she does, tune in to Episode 78 of Technology for Mindfulness.


    Some of the questions I ask:

    What motivated you to launch Peak Wellness? (5:39)How did mindfulness help you during a period in your life when you knew your mental health was suffering? (8:09)What specifically have you found in corporate work environments that showed you there was a need for your service? (9:46)What are some new challenges you’ve noticed people facing in terms of their mental health since working from home? (12:47)How have you helped your clients with staying connected while apart? (15:05)What work have you done to help teams adapt to working remotely? (20:29)Have there been any other unexpected challenges that you have faced? (21:32)What would a company in need of your services expect from a Peak Wellness introduction? (23:26)How would you suggest ways to integrate a mindful work environment in corporate companies from a business standpoint? (26:03)Can you share any projects you’re working on at the moment? (28:16)

    What you’ll learn:

    My take on mindfulness during the pandemic (1:34)How you can apply mindfulness practices in your home workspace (4:21)An introduction on Kayla Kozan (5:24)Kayla’s experience with formal education to becoming a Corporate Mindfulness Trainer (9:04)The challenges and opportunities Kayla has encountered in transitioning her business online in the wake of Covid-19 (10:37)Techniques and strategies Kayla promotes in her Peak Wellness seminars (14:10)Kayla’s advice for setting boundaries while working at home and why you should be implementing breaks for yourself (17:19)

    Connect With Robert Plotkin:

    Technology For Mindfulness WebsiteBlueshift IP WebsiteLinkedIn

    Connect With Kayla Kozan:

    LinkedInTwitterInstagramPeak Wellness Website

    Resources:

    Wellness Tool: Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)


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

  • Today’s focus on Technology for Mindfulness is all about productivity and social connections! 


    In this episode, I discuss some creative ways we can connect with each other using technology, how to effectively set boundaries in your home, as well as sharing some personal insights from the years I’ve spent working remotely. 


    Now more than ever, dividing time between our work and personal lives has never been more essential. We’re all finding our own ways to adjust to this new norm and work efficiently, but we also need to remember to make time for the things we enjoy too. Whilst there is a lot of change going on, there’s always a silver lining that can be taken out of the situation, even if it is hard to see. 


    If you’re looking for advice on how to improve your own productivity, then join me on episode 77 of Technology for Mindfulness! 


    In This Episode You Will Learn:

    How to set clear boundaries in your home to improve productivity (5:02)What my listener’s greatest challenges have been working from home (10:13)Ways to shift your thinking around boundary setting and structure (12:37)Strategies I learned from the early years of working remotely (13:46)How to deal with feelings of loneliness and isolation (18:05)Creative ways of using technology to connect and engage with each other (18:36)Why I’ve been actively communicating through video calls (23:39)How changing your physical appearance and workspace affects your productivity when working from home (24:53)How people in supervising positions should approach their work environment remotely (26:29) Tips on how to adjust to your technological needs at home (29:04) 

    Connect With Robert Plotkin:

    Technology for Mindfulness WebsiteBlueshift IP WebsiteLinkedin

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

  • In episode 76, Mitra Manesh joins us for a conversation around the powers of storytelling, binaural beats, and integrating them into mindfulness practices. Mitra is a mindfulness thought leader, storyteller, educator, and founder of Innermap. She has over 3 decades of experience helping people develop a more mindful mindset at home and at work. 


    Throughout our conversation, Mitra shares about her product Innermap and how it offers support for living a mindful life. She also offers advice on staying present, how to interact with both the past and future, and practices to help you and your loved ones feel heard every day. 


    In This Episode, You Will Learn: 

    How Innermap helps people develop mindfulness practices. (3:37)How telling stories help transfer wisdom. (6:16)How binaural beats condition your brain to lead you into a meditative state. (16:50)How disconnecting from the present moment can lead to learning, lamenting, or anxiety. (27:43)Practices to help you and your loved ones feel heard. (31:57)

    Connect with Mitra Manesh: 

    Innermap

    Lights On Podcast


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