Recent Musings

Get Off The Thought Train
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

Get Off The Thought Train

Mindfulness has proven to be a valuable tool for individuals struggling with anxiety and depression. By incorporating mindfulness into your life, you can create mental space and break free from the grip of overwhelming thoughts. Imagine your mind as a house with various rooms. Mindfulness invites you to step out of the "kitchen" of anxious thoughts and redirect your attention to the "living room" of the present moment. It teaches you to observe your thoughts like passing clouds, without analyzing or getting entangled in them. Through meditation practices, such as those offered by apps like Headspace and Insight Timer, you can cultivate the ability to watch your thoughts without judgment and gently detach yourself from the stream of thinking. Embrace mindfulness as a transformative practice that empowers you to navigate your mind with greater ease and find peace in the present.

Read More
One Overlooked Reason You Might Be Depressed
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

One Overlooked Reason You Might Be Depressed

Depression can be a complex condition influenced by various factors, including suppressed anger. Many individuals with depression have learned to bury their anger, believing it to be a negative and dangerous emotion. However, the truth is that anger serves a purpose in our lives, alerting us when boundaries have been crossed or injustices have occurred. By suppressing anger, we unintentionally turn it inward, leading to self-punishment and a vicious cycle of depression. Understanding the relationship between anger and depression is crucial for reclaiming emotional well-being. By learning to express anger assertively, setting boundaries, and channeling it constructively, we can transform our sense of empowerment and foster positive change in our lives.

Read More
Honoring Your Grief
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

Honoring Your Grief

Grief is an indescribable experience, filled with profound emotions and a sense of loss that can be overwhelming. While there is no right or wrong way to grieve, it's important to honor your journey and prioritize your needs. From learning to say no and setting boundaries to finding solace in rituals and expressing your grief creatively, there are various steps you can take to navigate this difficult terrain. Remember, seeking support is not a sign of weakness but a courageous step towards healing. Be patient with yourself, reach out when needed, and treat your emotions with compassion and respect.

Read More
Embracing Your Dark Side
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

Embracing Your Dark Side

Dive into the depths of your psyche and embrace the shadows that lurk within. Carl Jung's concept of the Shadow reveals the hidden aspects of ourselves that we reject and hide away. But these "dark" qualities have a purpose—they guide us toward wholeness and self-integration. By acknowledging and understanding our dualistic nature, we embark on a transformative journey of healing and growth. Embrace your shadow, ask the right questions, and embark on a path of self-discovery and personal evolution.

Read More
What Exactly Is Self-Compassion?
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

What Exactly Is Self-Compassion?

Explore the transformative power of self-compassion in embracing kindness and acceptance. Discover the true meaning of self-compassion and let go of self-criticisms. Differentiate self-compassion from self-esteem and unlock long-term success and sustainable self-worth. Show up for yourself with genuine self-care and understanding. Experience the profound impact of self-compassion on your well-being.

Read More
The Thinking Self and The Observing Self
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

The Thinking Self and The Observing Self

In the realm of our mind, two selves coexist—the thinking self and the observing self. While the thinking self constantly churns out thoughts, interpretations, and worries, the observing self serves as a silent witness, detached from judgment. When anxiety strikes, the thinking self runs rampant, constructing elaborate narratives about potential dangers. However, the observing self remains unaffected, patiently observing the rise and fall of thoughts like passing clouds in the vast sky.

By accessing the observing self through meditation, you can tap into a sanctuary where you simply notice the thoughts, feelings, and reactions arising within you. Mindful meditation invites you to watch the scene unfold without the need to control or manipulate your experiences. As you connect with your observing self, you may uncover profound insights and cultivate a greater sense of peace. Begin by focusing on your breath and gently redirecting your attention whenever your mind wanders. Through this practice, you can gradually bring the observing self to the forefront of your consciousness, unlocking its transformative potential.

Read More
Working With Fear and Ways to Stay Grounded
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

Working With Fear and Ways to Stay Grounded

Fear can consume us, leaving us searching for ways to escape its grip. But pushing it away only leads to its resurgence. Instead, learn to drop the anchor and find grounding in the present moment. By firmly rooting yourself in your body and engaging your senses, you can create a space of curiosity and connection. Discover how this practice not only brings you back to the moment but also reduces suffering and empowers you to embrace your experiences without resistance. Explore the transformative power of observing your thoughts and sensations with openness, paving the way for resilience and inner peace.

Read More