Resources
Articles
April 11, 2019
Connection is a Core Human Need, But we Are Terrible at It
This article, which is a review of Johann Hari's book 'Lost Connections', beautifully describes some of the main principles which I believe are the source of our distress and suffering. It recognizes that having a sense of connection is a core, primal need, and what takes us out of this state is largely due to trauma. Unlike popular belief, there are many forms of trauma which go beyond the extreme forms of violence and tragedy. Trauma is something that affects us all, to some degree, but many times goes unnoticed as the symptoms can be delayed and express themselves in a variety of ways. Thankfully we can do something about it, and transform it. Find our more here.
January 28, 2019
Are Meditators Unmotivated Slackers?
This catchy titled article addresses some of the concerns people may have towards meditation as being a drive-killer--ie. hippy-stuff--that takes us away from being productive members of society. On the contrary, meditation, or mindfulness, can be a great way of becoming more present in life (and the workforce); doing less of the extraneous 'stuff' that stresses you out and getting clarity on what needs to be done now.
January 13, 2019
Inside the Retreat Where Men Purge Toxic Emotions
This article covers an immensely important topic concerning men in pain, the prevailing silence around their emotional wounds, and the devastation that ensues to self and others as a result. Highlighted here as a way to address this is by encouraging men to be vulnerable and connect to their internal experience, believing that one can only meaningfully connect with others when they are able to fully connect with themselves.
January 13, 2019
Get Your Mind and Body Out of Crisis Mode
This article covers stress, and the consequences that 'unchecked stress' can have on body and mind over time. A major causation of built-up stress, suggested by the author, is our inability to step out of the information flow we are continually bombarded with as a result of living in the technological era.
To address this issue, a 'Six Step Process to Mindfully Manage Stress' is given, providing concrete ways to not only mitigate stressors but change our relationship to them that promotes well-being.
January 17, 2019
A Meditation on Working with Anxiety
This article offers a practice of 'Mindful self-inquiry', which is the investigation into the nature of one's own mind and body, as a way of addressing stress and anxiety. Highlighted in this practice is gaining an attitude of allowance, or 'going with' as opposed to fighting one's present experience, that incorporates mindful breathing, body scans, and mindfulness of thoughts. Physical sensations, emotions, and thoughts are explored with intentioned curiosity.
* A 30 minute audio meditation is included, along with a full written transcription
January 09, 2019
Men after #MeToo: ‘There’s a narrative that masculinity is fundamentally toxic'
This article examines men in the wake of the #MeToo movement, via a men's group, whose aim is to rebel against outdated modes of masculinity by encouraging vulnerability, speaking up, and connecting with other men on a deeper level. Questions arise as to how to respond to these challenging times, and what role men can play in this endeavour.
January 13, 2019
Kevin Love Explains What it Feels Like to Deal With Anxiety
Five-time NBA All Star and Olympic Gold medal winner has a refreshing discussion about his challenges with anxiety, and eventually seeking help about it. Love admits that, initially, he saw mental health as a weakness and one that could get in the way of his career--and thereby, 'success'. He finally took his situation seriously after being sidelined due to an anxiety attack mid-game.
Since seeking professional help, Love has found immense results, incorporating meditation and body awareness exercises into his daily regimes. His recent focus has been on wanting other guys to know that their masculinity isn't threatened by mental health issues, and that it could happen to anyone.
Videos
What People Who Go To Therapy Want You To Know
January 17, 2019
How Psychotherapy Works (The School of Life)
January 17, 2019
This video gives a great overview of the 3 most popular formal means of addressing mental health (medication, CBT, and psychotherapy), including how psychotherapy sets itself apart, and why this can benefit you.
(side-note: while the video suggests long-term transformation as taking years of work, research has shown that clients should be experiencing a noticeable change in the first 4-5 sessions)
The Power of Emotional Courage. Susan David
January 17, 2019
This is a fantastic talk about questioning society's recent obsession with 'Positivity', and how only focusing on the 'good' can have detrimental effects on one's overall health and well-being. To address this, Susan encourages us to develop the capacity to embrace the complete range of emotions, so that we can move forward with more ease.
Be a Man: Joe Ehrmann
January 01, 2020
What are the 3 words that are considered to be the most culturally destructive in North America?
...Be...A...Man.
Think of the context from which this is said, and the implications that ensues as a result.
This is a great talk given by an ex-NFL player turned minister and motivational speaker, whose mission is redefining masculinity that gets boys and men to live from their hearts; where meaning is derived from focusing on relationships and a commitment to a cause.