Episodes

  • On this episode of the Mindful Living Guide I have a great chat with Dee Reilly of Whole Body Wellness

    Dee is a Psychotherapist, Craniosacral therapist, Yoga teacher and Reiki Master. Her journey into healing was inspired by her 4 wonderful children. She approaches healing from a whole body perspective, working with physical, mental and emotional wellbeing, helping her clients to slow down and to come home to themselves in this busy world. Her passion for and curiosity around discovering ways to promote healing make her a sought after therapist and inspiring figure in the holistic health and wellness community. We cover lots of great subjects in this episode:
    The power of the Energy at the Hill of Tara.
    How that impacts the sessions that Deidre takes at the Tara. Yin Yoga
    Siting with discomfort. The effect of nature on our systems. Awareness of where we are in our journey.
    Bringing play and light energy into day.

    Deirdre also discusses some great books
    Burnout by Emily Nagoski & Amelia Nagoski Wintering by Katherine May Cycles of Belonging. Honouring Ourselves Through the Sacred Cycles of Life by Stella Tomlinson. If you feel like connecting with Dee for a session, you can reach her at:

    Instagram
    Facebook

    Also dont forgot to ask her about the new Yin Yoga classes at the beautiful Bectivemilll Geodome.
  • This week on the Mindful Living Guide, I have the pleasure of speaking to someone who is very well known in Ireland, Daragh Fleming of the Thoughts too Big blog

    Daragh is an author, freelance writer, and award-winning mental health blogger from Cork, Ireland. In 2022 his blog recently won Mental Health Blog of the year and has been an inspiration to many people. His extremly popular Book, Lonely Boy s about a man trying to be at peace with himself and his past, so that he can navigate his future. A past that includes loosing a close friend to suicide at a very young age.

    In the Episode, we chat about Daraghs own journey with depression and how it leaves you in a Numb emotionless state as well as:
    - Break stereotypes: Allow men to express emotions without judgment.
    - Evolving attitudes: Shift towards accepting men's emotional expression.
    - Coping methods: Writing, exercise, sleep, hydration for mental health.
    - Balance solitude and socialization for better mental well-being.
    - Ownership of mental health through daily, controllable actions.
    - Humour as a tool to disarm shame and address challenges.

    We also touch on how having a strong mental attitude was a game changer recently when he was the victim of a blackmail attempt. Daragh was able to take control back of the situation.

    You can check out our Show notes page for more info

    You can connect to Daragh below:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daraghfleming
    https://www.instagram.com/thoughts2big
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daragh-fleming/
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/DaraghFleming
    Website: https://thoughtstoobig.ie/
    Book: Lonely Boy


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  • Welcome back to Season 5 of The Mindful Living Guide! I am happy to be back after a few months break, and in this episode, I am excited to chat to Sinead Kennedy, a psychotherapist and mindfulness teacher who specializes in helping individuals navigate relationships, anxiety, and personal growth. Sinead's journey into the world of therapy and mindfulness was driven by her own experiences with anxiety and the desire to find ways to lead a more peaceful and fulfilling life.

    Sinead's approach to therapy and coaching is deeply rooted in mindfulness and self-compassion. She believes in the power of self-awareness, understanding the patterns that shape our lives, and creating space for personal growth. Through her work, Sinead helps individuals develop healthier relationships with themselves and others, cultivate mindfulness, and build the skills needed to navigate life's challenges.

    In this episode, Sinead shares her insights on mindfulness, the impact of anxiety, the art of setting boundaries, and fostering healthy relationships. She discusses her own journey, the importance of self-compassion, and offers practical tips for parents dealing with anxious teenagers.

    If you're curious about how mindfulness and therapy can positively impact your life, and if you're seeking guidance on building healthier relationships and managing anxiety, this episode is a must-listen. Sinead's compassionate and down-to-earth approach to these topics provides valuable insights that can inspire and empower you on your own journey toward mindful living.

    Check out the Show notes for this Page:
    http://mindfulliving.guide/sinead-kennedy-getting-to-know-our-inner-self/

    Website: www.sineadkcoaching.com
    Facebook: https://shorturl.at/lAF29
    Instagram: https://shorturl.at/cpI16
    LinkedIn: https://shorturl.at/ltuEK
    Therapy: www.here4youtherapy.com

    Don't forget to check out Sineads new Facebook Group:
    https://shorturl.at/rLQT3

  • This week I speak to a fellow Mindfulness expert, Helena Dilleen of Giddy Studios about how we can embrace a Mindful way of living.

    Here are some of many topics we chat about:

    Mindfulness is always there for us. How you can always go back to Mindfulness. Experiencing life through Informal Mindfulness practice. The power of sound when the Mind is wondering. Removing the barriers to our practice. Labelling our Emotions. A Compassionate approach to our Mindfulness Practice. Kristin Neff’s work, Fierce Self Compassion. Self Soothing Methods. How Mindfulness practice helped with the transition from the physical Studio. Doubling down on gratitude in challenging times. Breaking down barriers to Mindfulness. Embracing the right tools at the right time. Embracing the Climb in life with Mindful tools.


    ..and of course that all important question
    What does Mindful Living mean to Helena?




  • This week we are chatting to Brian Downes, Adventurer, Performance Nerd and Resilience expert.

    Once of the core concepts that we speak about is old Irish tradition called Meitheal. Meitheal describes how neighbors would come together to assist in the saving of crops or in other tasks. Brian talks about how this sense of community can be used today to bring people together for the greater good.

    We cover many topics in our conversation:

    How earning money was not the most important thing in life.

    Following his passion in Coaching, creating Performance nerds with John McNamara.

    The impact of climbing Irelands highest Mountain at 11.
    How failure should be part of the process.
    How Spirituality and Mindfulness has helped with Brians journey.
    Mindfulness Activities like cooking that bring Brian into the Present Moment.
    The impact of bringing people into Nature in the mountains.
    The origins of Meitheal in Ireland and how it how it helps with Collaboration.
    Tips for working with a busy Racing Mind.

    Not forgetting that all important question:
    What does Mindful Living mean to Brian?

    You can see more details on our Show Notes Page.

    Don't forget to use the new reply button on Spotify to let me know what you thought of the episode!

  • This week I am chatting to Niamh McDonnell, Life Coach and all round inspirational Personal about how we can set ourselves up to live our best life.

    Niamh is a NLP Mindset Coach, helping others to achieve their goals through the power of the Subconscious Mind. Eliminating feelings of inadequacy or feeling stuck. Helping others to live the best version of themselves and helping to move back negative ways of thinking. Championing others to live the life they were born to live.

    I have been following Niamh for a while, so it was great to sit down and chat to her.
    We cover a great range of topics

    Taking active responsibility for your life. Learning from lessons from challenges. Embracing our inner child. Journalling tips and the power of Gratitude. Feeding the Soul from the inside. Viktor Frankl. Living in Autopilot. Discipline through consistency. Byron Katie – The Works. Trusting in the Universe. Mindfulness while hiking to Everest Base Camp. Mantra: I am worthy. Love of being in nature on your own. Bringing self-love into your life. Powerful Affirmation: I am willing to let Life Love me today. Letting go of what We Think, People think of us.

    …and that all important question:
    What does Mindful Living mean to Niamh?

  • This week on the Mindful Living Guide I will be talking to Paula Byrne, the creator of the Mindful Cycle about the Menstrual Cycle.
    Paula has brought her love of Mindfulness and her education in Menstrual Cycle Coaching to create a program that is making a big difference for many women. I love here passion for this work as well as the compassion that she brings to it. As a Dad, I really learned a lot from chatting to Paula and I am very grateful to have her on the show.

    We chat about a lot, including:

    Paula’s experience with Endometriosis.
    Studying with Lisa De Jong.
    Adjusting her energy with the Eb and flow of her Cycle.
    The crossovers with Mindfulness and what she was learning in Menstrual cycle coaching.
    The importance of creating safe places for opening conversations about Menstrual cycles.
    The 4 seasons of a cycle by Alexander Pope.
    Embracing our differences.
    Advice for Parents.
    Tips for Self-Compassion.

    As well as that all important question.
    What does Mindful Living mean to you?

  • Welcome to another episode of the Mindful Living Guide. I'm your host Stephen Downey and today we have an incredibly special guest, George Wilse, The Sustainable Life Coach.

    When I first came across George on Instagram, I was instantly hooked on their inspirational videos and was grateful when they reached out to connect. As you can tell in the episode, we had an instant connection and I really enjoyed getting to know George on this episode.

    We talk about a lot of things, from George's journey into coaching, to why the “reason why” is so important on anyone's journey to reach their goals. As well as the importance of letting go of fear and being open to have conversations about our values and goals. The conversation is summed up beautifully at the end when we discuss how we can create a sustainable life.

    Not forgetting that all important question:
    What does Mindful Living mean to you?

    I really hope you enjoy this epoisode and follow George for more really inspirational content.

  • Joining me today on the Mindful Living Guide are two incredible guests, Laura Hilliard Brady and Amanda Ringrose.

    In this episode, we delve into the topic of Resilience, healing and self-awareness, and boundaries. Our guests emphasize the importance of taking the time to reflect on ourselves and understand what's truly important to us. They share their insights on the importance of setting boundaries and understanding that not everyone is going to have a good day. They mention techniques like zipping up and looking up to change one's energy field, and the idea of sending love and kindness to others. Why gratitude is so important in shifting our vibrational energy.

    Here are some key takeaways from this episode:

    Growth is a constant process, and everyone has the opportunity to grow every day. Our thoughts shape our beliefs and experiences. Affirmations with intention can change the energy behind them. People often struggle with their true identity. Kindness and love, including self-kindness, is important for overall well-being. Visualising sending love and kindness to yourself can help to build self-love. The power of Gratitude as well as setting boundaries. The course "Energy Resilience Workshop Leader", the first ITECH accredited course awarded in Ireland.

    As well as that all important question:
    What does Mindful Living mean to you?


    About our guests:
    Laura Hilliard Brady is a licensed “Heal your life” workshop leader, holistic therapist, yoga teacher, rainbow yoga teacher, and past dancer with over 30 years of experience in the health industry. With a passion for mindfulness and the power of our words, Laura has attended over 1000 hours of courses and workshops to deepen her knowledge and understanding of topics such as the Polyvagal theory, Heart Math, TEB, EFT, and more. Laura has worked with companies and teams to help people tap into mindfulness, the law of attraction, spiritual growth, and the power of movement and breath.

    Amanda Ringrose is a specialized relationship coach, mentor, and licensed social worker with over 30 years of experience in mentoring, teaching, and relationship dynamics. Amanda has worked with individuals and families, helping them emerge and transform their lives, and find their voice to forge a new space for themselves. Amanda's approach introduces clients to the field of neuroscience, helping them navigate their internal systems and understand the impact of their relationship with themselves, which shows up in other areas of their lives.

    I hope you find this episode as inspiring and educational as I did. If you want to learn more about Laura and Amanda's business and their "Energy Resilience Workshop Leader" course, be sure to check out their website, www.mindbodyresilienceschool.com.

    As always, thank you for tuning in to "The Mindful Living Guide." We'll be back next week with more insights and tips for living a mindful life. Until then, take care and be well.

  • When you think of Endurance Athletes, few are more resilient than today’s guest.
    Running 9 marathons in 8 days from Belfast to Waterford is hard enough or climbing to the top of Kilimanjaro. However, try doing that while carrying a washing machine. Yes, I said a washing change! That is exactly what Enda O'Doherty did to raise awareness for Mental health.

    For anyone who does not already know Enda , here is some background on him:

    Enda O’Doherty, an inspirational speaker and endurance athlete who has taken on some of the world’s toughest challenges. His endurance, drive and passion and ability to convey a message have made him a much sought-after speaker. His ability to write and present a bespoke presentation sets him apart. Enda’s endurance C.V. is astounding! He has pushed his physical and mental limits far beyond marathon running. He has completed Iron Man Sweden and Iron Man UK, one of the world’s toughest endurance races, with a 4 km swim, followed immediately by a 180 km bike ride, followed by a full marathon.

    As we discuss in this episode, the washing machine is such a good analogy for people struggling with Mental Health. Many of us are walking around carry a massive load on our backs that no one can see until it becomes too heavy to carry anymore.

    I am very grateful to Enda for taking the time to chat to me. Only last week he was speaking at The Pendulum Summit in Dublin and was the standout speaker for people I spoke to, who attended the Conference.


    In this Episode, we talk to Enda about

    How he grounded himself before his talk at Pendulum. His Journey with the Washing Machine. Sharing our Load and asking for help How he planned for any failure on the Mountain. Enda’s limitless belief in what can be achieved. The amazing cover on his book – I’m Fine. The level of dishonesty during his journey with Alcoholism. Pursuing happiness, on a daily basis. What does Mindful Living mean to Enda? Embracing those tough days. The beauty in his early morning walks. How happiness is different for everyone.

    You can also check out Enda on his own Podcast, The Might, Mini Podcast. I have all of Endas connection details on our show notes page as well as links to support networks that may help, if you are struggling yourself and could do with extra support.

    If you are new to our Podcast, I would encourage you to look back at some of the past episodes and see how Mindful Living can mean something different to everyone. The most important thing is to embrace what works for us so we can be more present in our days and appreciate our Moments, as they happen.

    You can find out more about Enda and how to contact him on our show notes page.

  • We are back this week with the wonderful Helen Colgan of Helen Colgan Healing Heart.
    A few years ago, Helen made the decision to leave a work life balance that was not suiting her. On this occasion and many more after that, she experienced a little nudge/whisper from the Universe to follow this path. One of these Whispers was a dream that nudged her to contact me and I am so grateful she did. Helen is full of great wisdom that I hope you enjoy as much as I did.

    In this Episode, we cover a lot of topics:

    The Moment she realised something needed to change. The first little whispers from the Universe. Reflexology. Transitioning to Reiki. Trusting those whispers and the journey she was on. Being Authentically you! Letting go each day so we can embrace who we are. Lymphatic Drainage Spiritual Mediumship Daily Grounding practice. Gratitude for the journey we are on. A message from St Theresa of the little Flower. Stepping into our own light.

    I really hope you enjoy this episode and the wisdom that Helen shares on it.
    You can contact Helen on her Website Helen Colgan Healing Heart
    or on our Episode Show Notes Page

  • This week I am joined by a fellow Podcaster, Linda Monahan of the Corporate to Calm Podcast.

    We also have a very big announcement about an event in January.
    See Reset2023.ie for more details.

    In this episode we talk about:
    Life for Linda in the corporate world.
    Setting boundaries in the workplace.
    Why she decided to leave the corporate world.
    The transition to working in the Pilates industry.
    What it was like teaching online during lockdown.

    The Benefits of creating her Podcast.
    The Take time for yourself Course.
    The power of Gratitude.
    Creating habits through consistent Action
    Challenges of working from home.
    What Calm looks like to Linda.
    Embracing our own version of Mindfulness.
    What does Mindful Living look like to Linda.
    Letting go of Situations.
    Letting go of what people think of you.

    You can connect to Linda at https://www.instagram.com/corporatetocalm/

  • In this episode of the Mindful Living Guide we speak to Neil Kelders about his journey from someone who struggled with many overwhelming suicidal thoughts, to a Public speaker and Author. However, as Neil says from the very start, he "Speaks to us from the trenches". Accepting the up and downs of his journey through life.

    We cover many areas of his life:
    - What it was like as a Teenager with dark Thoughts.
    - Life with a Mask.
    - The day that changed his (and possibly saved) his life.
    - Why you should keep Talking.
    - His Aha Moment.
    - How Improv helped in his daily life.
    - The effect of opening up on his blog.
    - Learning to Pause and Release between Activities.
    - Acceptance of his Journey.
    - Tips for anyone Struggling.
    - Breaking the Cycle.

    Neils new Book The other Side, A Memoire of Hope in the Midst of Depression is out on the 27th November.
    You can find out more here:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neilkelders/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilkelders/
    Website: https://neilkelders.com/book
    Book: http://www.theotherside-book.com/

    Show Notes Page: http://mindfulliving.guide/neil-kelders-interview-accepting-the-ups-and-downs/

  • Our guest this week is Steven Morrin. Stephen is an avid Mountain runner and the founder of Mind, Body and Mountains. Stephen also lives with OCD.

    As Steven says, OCD is one of the most misunderstood Mental Illness. It's not a MEME. Its "not an obsession about with keeping your house". It's a very serious illness that can have a detrimental effect on people that experience it.

    Steven has been living with and managing OCD for many years. He is very open about this and hopes to help others learn about this illness.

    We chat about what its like to live with OCD. The effect it has had on his life. The type of obsessions he has had. The constant catastrophising he would experience at times. Steven tells us about the difference between Perfectionism and OCD. (A very important difference that not many people know about.)

    We also chat about how his life changed when Steven's wife heard an interview on the radio about OCD which led him to seek help.
    How he has "learned to Accept but not Accept it".
    How exercise and getting out doors has helped to ground him.

    Mindfulness has also been a powerful tool for Steven and we discuss the difference it has made to him.

    If any of what we are talking about resonates with you and you feel you would like to talk to someone, we would encourage you to speak to OCD Ireland.

  • As part of Breast Cancer Awareness month, I sat down with Bernie Creaner to chat about her Journey over the last few years.

    We chat about about what it was like hearing the news.
    The good days and bad days.
    The wonderful people she has met along this journey.
    The support from groups like Arc. Not just for Bernie but also for other members of her family.
    Advice to others going through the journey.
    How Mindfulness has helped.

    It is our hope that by sharing conversations like this, it may help others on their journey. It may also be the catalyist someone need to go get checked.

    If you want to know more about Breast Cancer Awareness month you can check out the following sites:

    https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-awareness-month/

    https://www.cancer.ie/careforyourpairinfo

    https://www.mariekeating.ie/how-you-can-help-us/pink-patrons/

  • In this week episode of the Mindful Living Guide, I speak to Donna Bacon of Sensitively Strong. Donna is a holistic psychotherapist.

    We chat about:
    What it means to be a highly sensitive person?
    Embracing our differences.
    Working WITH our Nervous System.
    The downfails of Perfectionism.
    How nature can help sooth our souls.

    You can check out more about Donna over on our Show notes page.

  • This week as part of my mission to get men speaking about their mental health, I speak to Jon Kearney of the fantastic "That's Awesome" page. Jon is chief encourager, as he calls it, on a Facebook page that encourages us to live our most Awesome life.

    We chat about:
    Jon's passion for Sea Swimming
    How he learned to elevate stress.
    Journaling and Gratitude
    Helping people to appreciate what's important in life WITHOUT the need to hit rock bottom.
    Some Awesome Mindfulness Tip

    ...and of course, the answer to that question I ask all my guest.
    "What does Mindful Living mean to you?"

    If you want to learn more about Jon, be sure to check out our Show notes page, over on our website.

  • This week I am delighted to sit down and chat with Barbara Byrne. Barbara is a Coach, Author and Guide on the Camino. Barbara has a wealth of knowledge in coaching and leadership from her many years as Sliming world leader. She has changed a lot over the last few years and she attributes a lot of this to Finding her peace along the Camino as well as he own Mindfulness practice.
    We chat about Barbara's journey and how it has opened doors for her that she never expected.

    Barbara Byrne is an inspiring Life Coach, Camino Guide, International Co Author and Award winning Weight
    Release Expert. Barbara has worked with women and men to coach, inspire, support and encourage them through their personal transformations, for over eleven years.
    She has empowered her clients to create change in their relationships with themselves and others as well as their
    personal lives, to achieve their personal goals.
    Barbara knows first hand the effects of intense grief, traumatic marriage breakdown and dark depression.
    Her love of walking and being outdoors drives her passion empowering others to find their way to personal freedom
    through walking, being outdoors and her love of the Camino, as well as through her coaching.

    You can find out more about Barbara on our Show Notes page.

  • It's great to be back interviewing guests and sharing our great conversations. This week we speak to John Murray of John Murray Headshots. John is one of the Top Headshot photographers in the country as well as a sort after public speaker on the subject of Self Image. He has shared the stage with people like Deepak Chopra,
    Marshall Goldsmith & Kingsley Aikins.
    In this episode, we talk about self image, Facial Profiling as well as the effect of grief.

    You can find out more about this episode and how to contact John on our Show Note Page at MindfulLiving.guide

  • After a very busy year where we had to put the Podcast on hold, the Mindful Living Guide Podcast is back. I am looking for Guests at the moment so if you know someone with a great approach to life that our listeners may learn from or maybe you have a story to share yourself.
    Please reach out to me on Facebook or any or our Social Media Channels.
    http://linktree.com/MindfulLivingGuide