Ever felt trapped by the whirlwind of anxious thoughts? Imagine being able to step back, observe them, and let them pass without judgment. On this episode of Mindfulness Monday with your host, Carly Jean Puch, we explore the transformative potential of mindfulness practices inspired by Cheri Huber's "Making a Change for Good." We delve into the art of naming anxious thoughts, creating a crucial distance between you and the chaos they may cause. This episode guides you through a simple yet profound practice to become the observer of your thoughts, empowering you to acknowledge anxiety without the burden of harsh self-judgment.

Anxiety is a natural part of our lives, and resisting it only amplifies its power. Instead, let's embrace it through mindful acceptance. By engaging mindfully with your surroundings and maintaining a perspective of acceptance, we can demystify the grip of anxiety. Join me as we learn to accept and observe without shame, fostering a healthier emotional outlook. This episode is more than just a guide; it's an invitation to revisit these practices whenever anxiety looms.

What if empowering young voices could reshape the future of mental health support in our communities? Join us as we sit down with the Youth Substance Misuse and Suicide Prevention Coordinator for Cook County, Minnesota, Rocio Rivas Silva who shares her transformative work in creating a youth prevention coalition. This initiative is not just about addressing mental health challenges among young people but equipping them with the tools to express their needs and lead community projects. We discuss an important pilot program that trains young adults to handle mental health crises, highlighting the essential nature of promoting the 988 crisis line. This conversation with Rocio and host Carly Jean Puch underscores the pressing need to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health and foster environments where open dialogues thrive.

In a world bustling with expectations, we explore the power of mindfulness and self-care as cornerstones of mental well-being. From setting boundaries to recognizing personal stress signals, this episode offers practical strategies for maintaining balance and avoiding burnout while pursuing personal passions. As societal awareness of mental health grows, we reflect on the shift from past generational taboos to a more open and supportive dialogue. Discover the value of community support, the art of active listening, and simple mindful practices that can be integrated into daily life. Whether it's through moments of solitude, engaging activities, or finding joy beyond traditional paths, we discuss how these everyday practices can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Guest Bio: Rocio Rivas is a Public Health Educator at Cook County Public Health, focusing on youth well-being and prevention work. She considers herself an independent woman with diverse skills and traits and holds a B.S. in Food Engineering, refining her analytical and logical thinking. She has extensive experience in education, having previously managed the Plant & Food Science Laboratory at Montana State University. Rocio has also gained ample experience in the food and services industry, especially in the past four years when she decided to be a Cook County resident, allowing her to meet a big part of this community. She is a friendly and adaptable person who is always ready to meet the community's needs and support their overall well-being, regardless of their age or background. Rocio is fluent in Spanish and English, bridges that foster inclusivity by bridging cultural and linguistic gaps. Committed to personal and professional growth, she's driven to promote well-being and safety in the community.

Experience the transformative power of the Five Senses Meditation and uncover a newfound sense of calm and clarity in your daily life. This week on Mindfulness Monday, your host Carly Jean Puch will guide you through a simple yet profound mindfulness exercise designed to reconnect your mind with your body. Whether you're seated at your desk, strolling through nature, or winding down for the night, this practice invites you to engage your senses—hearing, smell, taste, touch, and sight—to anchor yourself in the present moment.

Join Carly to explore how to notice your environment and bodily sensations with gentle, non-judgmental awareness. This episode promises to deliver a practical tool for those fleeting moments when you feel out of sorts, unable to focus, or simply need a mental reset. Accessible and adaptable to your unique experience, the Five Senses Meditation encourages a mindful pause, allowing you to check in with yourself and your surroundings without the pressure of a time-consuming commitment. Don't forget to revisit our prior episodes for more practice and conversations with individuals who seamlessly integrate mindfulness into their inspiring work and lives.