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Walking Through the Valley: A Journey from Anxiety to Radically Genuine Mental Health

Liberation Lunes

September 23rd, 2024

Introduction:

In the depths of the 2020 lockdown, like many, I faced overwhelming anxiety and depression. The forced isolation, a sudden shift to online therapy, and the unhealthy environment of my mold-infested home office pushed me to a breaking point—a severe mental breakdown in August 2020. But through that dark time, I began a practice that has become a cornerstone of my mental wellness: walking.


The Healing Power of Walking:

Every day, I lace up my shoes and head out for a 3-mile walk in my neighborhood, striving to do this at least five days a week. This simple act has been transformative. Not only does it provide me with much-needed sunshine and Vitamin D—natural remedies for anxiety and depression—but it also serves as a time for reflection and learning.


A Shift in Perspective: From Wellness to Radically Genuine

Back then, I immersed myself in wellness podcasts like The Ancient Health Podcast by Dr. Josh Axe, The Doctor’s Farmacy by Dr. Mark Hyman, The Model Health Show by Shawn Stevenson, Wellness Mama by Katie Wells, and Kwik Brain by Jim Kwik, just to name a few on my ever-growing list. These shows offered valuable insights that guided my approach to holistic health. However, in July 2024, I discovered Dr. Roger McFillin’s Radically Genuine podcast, and it has quickly become my go-to listening during my walks.


Challenging Conventional Norms in Mental Health

One episode that stood out to me was Episode 2, titled “10 Steps to a Life of Misery.” In this episode, Dr. McFillin uses humor and irony to outline behaviors that lead to unhappiness, challenging listeners to rethink their habits and mindsets. Here are the key takeaways from the episode:


1. Constant Comparison: Regularly compare yourself to others, focusing on what you lack.

2. Blame Others: Avoid personal responsibility and blame others for your problems.

3. Dwell on the Past: Focus on past mistakes and regrets, rather than living in the present.

4. Fear Change: Resist change and stick to familiar patterns, even if they’re harmful.

5. Perfectionism: Set unrealistic standards for yourself and others, leading to chronic dissatisfaction.

6. Isolation: Avoid meaningful relationships and isolate yourself from others.

7. Overcommitment: Say yes to everything, leading to burnout and resentment.

8. Neglect Health: Ignore your physical and mental health, leading to long-term consequences.

9. Avoid Difficult Conversations: Suppress your feelings and avoid addressing issues directly.

10. Rely on External Validation: Base your self-worth on the opinions of others, leading to insecurity and instability.


Practical Tools for Breaking the Cycle of Misery:

Dr. McFillin’s episode inspired me to reflect on my own journey. I realized that my commitment to holistic practices—walking, better nutrition, and breathwork—has been crucial in breaking these negative patterns. Here are some practical tools you can use to improve your mental wellness:


1. Embrace Change: Be open to change and new experiences, even if they’re uncomfortable at first. Growth often comes from stepping out of your comfort zone.

2. Practice Gratitude: Focus on what you have rather than what you lack. Gratitude can shift your perspective and reduce the urge to compare yourself to others.

3. Take Responsibility: Acknowledge your role in your own happiness. By taking responsibility, you empower yourself to make positive changes.

4. Build Meaningful Relationships: Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. Connection is a vital part of mental health.

5. Prioritize Your Health: Make time for physical and mental self-care. Whether it’s through walking, eating better, or practicing mindfulness, your health should be a priority.


Bridging the Gap: My Conversation with Dr. Roger McFillin

My journey with Radically Genuine led me to reach out to Dr. McFillin, who graciously appeared on my podcast. In Episode 18, titled Informed Consent, Mindful Freedom, and Ethical Mental Health: Dr. Roger McFillin on The Conscious Clinician Collective, we dive deep into these issues, exploring how to approach mental health with integrity and true informed consent.


Gratitude and Your Next Step:

I’m deeply grateful for the wealth of information available to help us become the best versions of ourselves. But sometimes, we all need someone to guide us to the mountaintop, showing us the way. That’s where I can help. If you’re ready to take the next step in your mental wellness journey, contact me today to set up your free 15-minute consultation. Together, we can chart a path to a healthier, more fulfilling life.


Conclusion:

If you’re like me and have felt disillusioned by conventional mental health approaches, I encourage you to explore alternative perspectives. Whether you walk, listen to thought-provoking podcasts like Radically Genuine or The Holistic Counselor, or engage with holistic practices, there’s a path to mental wellness that honors your mind, body, and spirit.



Click on the picture to watch Episode 18 of my podcast, which features an insightful conversation with Dr. Roger McFillin on ethical mental health practices. You can also find this wherever you listen to your podcasts.


In Service, Faith Hope and Love,

Diana


P.S. If you found this post helpful, share it with someone who might benefit from it. And don’t forget to check out my latest podcast episodes and blog posts for more holistic mental health insights.


“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” — Romans 12:2



Lord, guide us as we seek healing in mind, body, and spirit. Help us to find strength in Your light and wisdom in the paths we choose. In Jesus name, Amen.




Disclaimer:

The content provided on Liberation Lunes is for entertainment and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this blog. The views expressed on this blog are my personal opinions and do not represent the views of any professional organizations with which I am affiliated. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, 911, or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) immediately. Liberation Lunes does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned on the blog. Reliance on any information provided by Liberation Lunes, others appearing on the blog at the invitation of Liberation Lunes, or other visitors to the blog is solely at your own risk.


Confidentiality Notice:

If you choose to engage with Liberation Lunes by commenting or posting and you are a client, please be aware that you may be revealing information that could compromise your confidentiality. Remember that disclosing your identity or personal details can be linked to your clinical material. As a therapist, I am bound by confidentiality and will not respond to any disclosures of this nature on this blog. I am committed to upholding the ethics and confidentiality of the therapeutic relationship, which extends to all forms of communication, following the laws and professional guidelines that govern mental health professionals. Your privacy is of utmost importance, and you are responsible for protecting it when interacting on this platform or any other public forum.

 

 








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