mindfulness |

Holiday Reflections and Self-Gifting December 21, 2011

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Gratitude and Mindfulness

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the complexities of the holiday season, focusing on the roles individuals play within their families during this time. He discusses the concept of scapegoating, the emotional dynamics of gift-giving, and the phenomenon of ‘recession fatigue’ where people indulge in self-gifting amidst economic uncertainty. Armand encourages listeners to reflect on their personal experiences and consider how they treat themselves during the holidays, whether through positive self-care or negative self-criticism. The conversation also touches on the importance of connection and joy during this festive season.

Ideas for a Positively Minded Life November 30, 2011

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Kent Robertshaw, Linda Vanella

Category: Mind-Body Wellness Insights

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the complexities of mental health and aging with Kent Robertshaw and Linda Vanella Vanella Vanellis. They explore the impact of psychiatric conditions, the importance of medication, and the role of nutrition in improving mental well-being. The conversation touches on how relationships can influence happiness and the significance of self-acceptance as we age. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and the ways they can foster a more positive mindset, despite the challenges they may face.

Occupy Your Mind November 29, 2011

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Personal Growth and Awareness

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the complexities of mental health, discussing concepts like apathy disorder and post-traumatic bitterness disorder. He reflects on the societal pressures that lead individuals to question their sanity and the various ways people cope with their mental struggles. Through engaging conversations and listener calls, Armand emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and the journey toward mental stability. He also touches on mindfulness practices and the role of therapy in achieving a sense of calm and happiness. The episode invites listeners to confront their inner challenges and seek a deeper understanding of themselves.

Shelf Life of Mental Health October 20, 2011

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Lauren Sykes, Linda Vanella

Category: Personal Growth and Well-being

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the concept of mental health and its potential shelf life. He discusses how past behaviors and fears can resurface unexpectedly, drawing on personal anecdotes and insights from guests Linda Vanella Vanella Vanella and Lauren Sykes. The conversation delves into the idea of recidivism in mental health, examining how experiences from our youth can re-emerge as we age. The episode also touches on the importance of awareness and proactive mental health checkups, as well as the role of support groups in navigating these challenges.

Shelf Life of Mental Health September 20, 2011

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Lauren Sykes, Linda Vanella

Category: Personal Growth and Awareness

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the concept of mental health having a ‘shelf life’ and how past issues can resurface unexpectedly. He discusses the phenomenon of recidivism in mental health, where individuals may revert to old behaviors or fears despite having previously overcome them. Through personal anecdotes and insights from guests Linda Vanella Vanella Vanella and Lauren Sykes, the conversation delves into the complexities of mental health, the importance of self-awareness, and the role of external factors in triggering past traumas. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and consider the ongoing journey of mental well-being.

Emotions and Aging July 12, 2011

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Linda Vanella

Category: Mind and Mood Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the complex relationship between serotonin levels and depression, particularly in the elderly. He explores the concept of neurogenesis—the birth of new brain cells—as a potential key to understanding and treating depression. Armand challenges the traditional view that low serotonin levels are the primary cause of depression, highlighting that many people with low serotonin do not experience depression. He emphasizes the importance of exercise, learning, and enriched environments in promoting neurogenesis and improving emotional well-being. The episode also touches on the role of fear and obsessive-compulsive behaviors in managing depression.

Adaptive Behavioral Therapy and Understanding Anxiety April 12, 2011

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Dr. Sarah Denning

Category: Emotional and Mental Health

In this episode, Dr. Sarah Denning discusses her insights on anxiety, drawing from her work with the Anxiety Notebook Series. She explains how anxiety is learned as a behavioral response from early experiences and explores the neurological mechanisms behind it. The conversation covers the spectrum of anxiety, from mild discomfort to panic attacks, and emphasizes the importance of recognizing anxiety triggers. Dr. Denning introduces practical strategies for identifying and managing anxiety, including the significance of physical movement and mindfulness. The episode aims to equip listeners with tools to understand and cope with their anxiety more effectively.

Feeling Good: Understanding the Chemistry of Emotions January 13, 2011

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Elemy, Lauren Sykes, Richard Christensen

Category: Mind and Mood Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the concept of feeling good, emphasizing that it is a chemical state rather than just a mental one. He discusses how our feelings are influenced by various chemicals released in the brain, such as dopamine and oxytocin, and how activities like exercise, yoga, and even eating can impact our emotional state. Armand encourages listeners to be specific about their feelings and to recognize that feeling good can often be the absence of pain. He invites feedback from listeners on what makes them feel good, setting the stage for future discussions on the chemistry of emotions.

Craziness January 6, 2011

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Mental Health Challenges

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the concept of craziness, discussing its various definitions and manifestations. He highlights the psychological aspect of repeating behaviors in hopes of different outcomes, often rooted in childhood experiences. DeMille delves into the chemical influences on mental states, such as hormonal imbalances and paranoia, and the different forms of withdrawal and fear that can lead to a loss of sanity. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing these patterns and encourages listeners to seek control over their lives rather than succumbing to madness.

Understanding Feelings and Thoughts December 14, 2010

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Psychology and Cultural Insights

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the critical distinction between feelings and thoughts, emphasizing how often people confuse the two. He discusses the four basic feelings—sad, mad, glad, and bad—and explains how feelings manifest in the body. Armand elaborates on the concepts of impulses and behaviors, illustrating how individuals often suppress their feelings through thoughts and actions. He highlights the importance of allowing oneself to fully experience emotions in therapy to prevent complications in mental health. The episode encourages listeners to embrace their feelings and understand the relationship between emotions and thoughts.