ATH Podcast

“Either say something nice or don’t say anything at all.” We’ve all heard versions of this statement growing up, as our caregivers taught us to be friendly and kind to others. While the intention is good, it can come at the cost of teaching us to suppress our authentic feelings and emotions. This is by no means an approval to be mean or unkind towards others, but in trying only to say nice things, we can often be dishonest about our real feelings and needs. Listen to this episode . . .

Who among us hasn’t been in a disagreement or argument in our lives? In those moments, we could find ourselves speaking cuttingly or with an injurious tone of voice. Sometimes, we may not even realize our tone of voice expresses such harsh emotions. Your tone of voice is immensely impactful, but it is not something most of us are usually aware of. It can be an indicator of how we’re feeling inside — anxious, happy, stressed or angry. More often than we realize, our tone of voice may give away our internal feelings and emotions, whether or not we realize it.  Listen to this episode . . .

Have you ever seen someone disciplining a kid? Or maybe you’ve had to talk to a kid about something? You might have noticed that the moment your tone changes, they’re almost always aware of what will follow — treats, rewards, scolding, or even punishment. Kids are incredibly good at picking up on your tone of voice, far better than adults. But let’s go back for a second. What is your tone of voice? Simply put, it’s the way you say something. Listen to this episode . . .

Over the last few episodes of Awareness that Heals, Robert and Dave have explored how developing new practices can help us take care of ourselves through both life’s biggest challenges and daily moments. These practices are being defined and refined clearly, as it is so important to understand the meaning behind each of them. Listen to this episode . . .

We all need to set a boundary or two at various points in our lives. But, how do you go about it? Do you communicate your needs and feelings clearly? Or do you throw unsuccessful hints, hoping that the other person quietly picks up on your discomfort and unease? While knowing your boundaries is powerful, setting and then enforcing them clearly and with consideration is a whole different equation.  Listen to this episode . . .

One of the main aspects of Inquiry, or the act of asking beneficial questions to take care of yourself, is to do it without judgment. Asking precise guiding questions is how you can take care of yourself, despite your feelings. In this episode of Awareness that Heals, Robert Strock takes us through a few moments of his life. He shares how his own Inquiry and the subsequent guidance he continues to develop has helped him empathize more strongly with people around him, including his podcast co-host and partner at the Global Bridge Foundation, Dave, through some recent emotional events. . Listen to this episode . . .

Every year, most of us make new resolutions and set new goals to achieve. We’re constantly encouraged to strive for external success markers and status symbols. All things that can significantly impact how we live. But what about maximizing your quality of life? From previous episodes, we know the answer to this is—learning how to ask beneficial questions—inquiry. Inquiry is when you begin asking yourself questions such as, “How can I take care of myself today?” Listen to this episode . . .

When you first start engaging with sincere questioning, it can be challenging to remember what it’s all for and find the motivation to keep going. After all, as Robert and Dave discuss in this episode, being aware of your feelings, thoughts, and emotions and actively engaging with them to become better is not something we’re taught. In fact, it’s almost counter-cultural. So then, why is it vital that we cultivate the art of asking questions?  Listen to this episode . . .

It’s always a great idea to ask how to help. Whether the person you’re asking is yourself or a loved one, asking shows your awareness that there’s a need. The art of asking questions can improve and expand our quality of life — inquiry is one of the best and clearest ways to find and shape your best self. Today, as you listen to this episode, take a moment to ask yourself— What is the challenging emotion that’s most frequent in my life?” Listen to this episode . . .

Sometimes, moments of strife can feel like you’re drowning underwater. Unable to call for help, not sure if anyone, including yourself, can hear you. Learning how to ask questions that can help you support yourself is like equipping yourself with an oxygen tank. You’re not out of the water yet, but you’re able to breathe a little better. The art of sincere questioning is an experience of love. It’s being able to take a breather in those difficult moments, pause, and ask yourself — how can I best take care of myself through this?  Listen to this episode . . .