Your Zen Friend

Send Lauren a text! On this episode of a Drop of Zen, I will guide you through a short meditation designed to help you to relax deeply and feel less stressed. This meditation is ideal to do anytime you wish to feel more relaxed. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode I will share some of the many benefits of group counseling. I'll also talk about why I love running therapeutic groups, how I structure them and why group counseling is especially helpful for kids and teens. But first I'll tell you what's keeping me from peacefully meditating in my back yard. And it involves two dogs, some birds and a bunny! 🙃Some of the many benefits of group counseling include: ~ It's more affordable than individual counseling~ It normalizes that others have similar feelings and challenges~ It creates connection with others~It often has a start and end dateListen to this week's podcast wherever you find podcasts or here: https://www.laurencounseling.com/podcast 🎤I'd love to hear from YOU!! Here's where you can connect with me: 😊Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/If you would like to learn more about Lauren's counseling services you can view her website here:https://www.laurencounseling.com/This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode of a Drop of Zen, I will guide you through a short meditation designed to help you to identify where you are people pleasing in your life. And I will help you to set an intention to start caring for yourself and people pleasing a little less. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode I am excited to have an interview with Psychotherapist and Coach, Vicki Smith! Vicki specializes in people pleasing and perfectionism. She also is the host and creator of a fantastic podcast called, Power to the Pleasers.In this interview, Vicki will help us to understand the differences of people pleasing vs just being a nice person in a quiz I give her called, "People Pleasing or Just Being a Nice Person." We have lots of laughs with this quiz! And I quickly identify how I am still people pleasing in my life. Yelp! Vicki will also tell us how we can work through our people pleasing tendencies in a way that feels good and safe for us. And if you need support with this, good news! Vicki has resources for you on her website OR you can schedule a one on one session with her. Here's where you can connect with Vicki:Website - https://powertothepleasers.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075839538976Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/power.to.the.pleasers/Viki's Bio:Vicki Smith is a licensed psychotherapist and a coach who specializes in people pleasing and perfectionism. She enjoys working with these issues because she loves seeing people discover their true nature and then share it with the world. Vicki brings both her personal and professional experience into her work with clients. Blending her experience as a mindfulness meditation teacher with her background in body-centered yoga therapy to help clients get to know the whole of their being. Her mission is to help folks not just TALK ABOUT the life they’ve always wanted, but to actually start LIVING IT OUT! When she isn’t working, she is hiking in the woods with her husband and two dogs or traveling to National Parks to explore outside her hometown of Atlanta Ga. I'd love to hear from YOU!! Here's where to connect with me:Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/If you would like to learn more about Lauren's counseling services you can view her website here:https://www.laurencounseling.com/This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode of a Drop of Zen, I will guide you through a short meditation designed to help you to identify what you can do to create a summer you'll love. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode I will tell you what I LOVE about summers in New England. I'll include how I embrace summer to create more ease in my life, with my work schedule, the way I dress, meal preparation and more. I'll also tell you how I like to have fun in the summer with family and friends. As I talk about my love of summer, I'll encourage you to identify what it is you like about summer and find ways you can slow down and enjoy the season more. Before I get into that I'll give you an update on how I've been doing with the intentions that I set for the new year. I'll tell you what goals I'm throwing out the window, what goals I've been doing decently with and the goals I'm failing at BIG TIME. I'll also tell you how my failure is helping me to identify what I need help with and how I'm exploring getting the help I need. I'd love to connect with you! Here's where you can find me: Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/If you would like to learn more about Lauren's counseling services you can view her website here:https://www.laurencounseling.com/This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode of a Drop of Zen, I will guide you through a short meditation designed to help you tune into your breath and feel more calm and grounded. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode I am excited to have an interview Dorina Leslie! Besides being a super warm and lovely person, Dorina is a Licensed Massage Therapist and Multidimensional Holistic Healer. Dorina will tell us about the different types of holistic healing she is trained in and talk about some of their many benefits.Here are the local providers (Fairfield County, Connecticut) that Dorina mentions:Club Pilates in Danbury, CT: https://www.clubpilates.com/location/danbury?utm_source=google.com&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=yextDr. B's Integrated Health & Wellness:8B Christopher Columbus Avenue Danbury, CT 06811Dorina's upcoming events: Element 50 Crystal Shop - Monday Pop Ups! 14 Sanford Street -Fairfield, CT 06824 Other ways to connect with Dorina:website: https://www.dorinaleslie.com/Newtown Wellness Collective: https://www.newtownwellnesscollective.com/instagram: dorinaleslielmthttps://www.drrichbailey.org/Cool scientific research studies, videos, all the 411 on BEMER: life.bemergroup.com Order your very own BEMER: dorinalesliellc.bemergroup.comDorina's Bio: Dorina Leslie is a multi-dimensional holistic healer from Brookfield, CT. In addition to being a therapeutic massage therapist for ten years, she is trained in reflexology and sound therapy. She's passionate about helping people move into the very best version of themselves - body, mind and spirit. She loves teaching self-empowerment and has learned that she must fill her own cup first, in order to stay strong and healthy. Dorina loves being a mom to her three adult kids and her four legged kiddo, Scooter. She is here to be a vessel of healing for anyone in need of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual transformation. A perfectly imperfect human, Dorina is doing her best to follow her soul's plan and to help raise the vibration of humanity, helping individuals and small groups to heal. I would love to hear from you!Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/If you would like to learn more about Lauren's counseling services you can view her website here:https://www.laurencounseling.com/This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode of a Drop of Zen, I will guide you through a short meditation designed to help you identify what activities are fun for you and how you can have more fun on a regular basis. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode I will talk about the F word.....FUN! I'll tell you why it's important to have fun, how I put fun into two different categories and how you can identify what's fun for you. I'll start out by sharing a story about a time in my life when I was not having much fun and how something unexpected changed that for me. It involves Zen Friend to the pod, Tennette Correia from episodes #3 and #20 and #25. It also involves a popular 90's band, dancing in the rain and awkward band encounters. If you are enjoying this podcast please share it with a friend! It also helps the podcast to grow and reach new listeners when you rate and review it on Apple Podcast or Spotify.I would love to hear from you!Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/If you would like to learn more about Lauren's counseling services you can view her website here:https://www.laurencounseling.com/This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode of a Drop of Zen, I will guide you through a short meditation designed to help you identify where you would like help in your life. I will also help you to determine who you can ask for help and how to decrease the uncomfortable feelings that might come with asking for help. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode I’ll tell you why it’s so hard to find a therapist with availability right now. I’ll also share the challenges I see kids, teens and families facing in these post pandemic times. I’ll also give you a little insight into what it has been like for me as a therapist since the pandemic began in March of 2020. And stay tuned till the end of the episode where I give tips to help you find a qualified therapist for you or your child. On this podcast I mention the therapist directory, Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/counsellors?domain=www&cc=US&cl=enIf you are enjoying this podcast please share it with a friend! It also helps the podcast to grow and reach new listeners when you rate and review it on Apple Podcast or Spotify.I would love to hear from you!Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/If you would like to learn more about Lauren's counseling services you can view her website here:https://www.laurencounseling.com/This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode of a Drop of Zen, I will guide you through a short meditation that helps you to connect with the lessons you have learned from a challenging event or difficult person in your life. Whether you connect with a past or present challenge, this episode will help you to feel more peaceful and calm. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode I am excited to have an interview with Justin Noppe, a leadership overwhelm coach. Justin will be talking about, "Kinstugi," the Japanese tradition of mending broken pottery. He will share how you can use this concept to heal and grow from the difficult times in your life.But first, have I told you I'm a recovering perfectionist? Well, I am. I'll tell you how my desire to do things perfectly has been showing up in my life lately. Justin Noppe's Bio: Justin helps leaders, founders and managers of small yet successful companies navigate their way from overwhelm and a life out of harmony, to a perspective of excitement and capability to deal with strain. Here's how to contact Justin: website: https://www.justinnoppe.com/email: [email protected]: @justinnoppeI would love to hear from you!Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/If you would like to learn more about Lauren's counseling services you can view her website here:https://www.laurencounseling.com/This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this podcast I will share the lessons I learned from working in the restaurant business and how I apply them to my life now. I was not a very good waitress. From falling down stairs to cutting myself constantly in the kitchen and never being able to properly cash out at the end of the night. But somehow I always felt valued by the restaurant owners. In this episode I will share four things I learned working as a waitress at Two Steps Downtown Grille in the 1990's:Overwhelm and hectic times don't last foreverLetting other's know, "I'm in the Weeds," and asking for help has many benefitsOffering help to others when they are, "In the Weeds," helps to build connection and community Forming connection with others wherever you work will lead to a happier lifeWork, "Smarter, not Harder," in everything you do to save time and be more efficientOn this episode I mention this video: https://youtu.be/K5ceQJLRp6wIf you are enjoying this podcast please share it with a friend! It also helps the podcast to grow and reach new listeners when you rate and review it on Apple Podcast or Spotify.I would love to hear from you!Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/If you would like to learn more about Lauren's counseling services you can view her website here:https://www.laurencounseling.com/This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode of a Drop of Zen I will guide you through a short mediation that helps you to release muscle tension while you visualize lying in the sun on the beach. This is a wonderful meditation for when you are looking for deep relaxation. Enjoy! This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode I will share how I view anxiety and one way to begin to decrease anxiety symptoms. My deep dive on anxiety will include:the role the amygdala plays in anxietywhat happens when the amygdala senses danger constantlywhy anxiety often runs in familiesthe roles of nature and nurtureunderlying medical conditions that cause anxiety symptomssimple ways to begin decreasing anxiety symptoms Products I mention on this episode:https://www.heartmath.com/https://www.revive-eo.com/products/?gclid=CjwKCAjw6vyiBhB_EiwAQJRopmMMhEsj27gTs01TweEPj_GmcO0jeGRQYETPwKVbInOZGjGRFNGX-xoC1JIQAvD_BwEI would love to hear from you! Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/If you would like to learn more about Lauren's counseling services you can view her website here:https://www.laurencounseling.com/This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode of a Drop of Zen I will guide you through a short meditation to help you honor the caretaker in you. This meditation is in honor of Mother's Day. This can be a difficult day for many. I hope that you will find peace and love all around you. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode I am super excited to have an interview with Brooke Forry! Brooke is the co-host to the Podcast Good Enough-ish, Creative Director of Curious & Co. Creative and the creator of the Balance Bound Planner. Brooke and I talk about juggling roles as caretakers and business women. Brooke shares what inspired her to create the Balance Bound Planner and how it can be used to create a life that has more balance. Brooke also shares what she does to fill her own cup and I vow to to try this self care practice ASAP!If you'd like to connect with me here's how to reach me:Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/My website: https://www.laurencounseling.com/Brooke's Bio: Brooke Forry is Creative Director of Curious & Co. Creative, an award-winning boutique design firm she co-founded in 2010, where she creates polished visual brands that make a lasting first impression. In 2019, combining her design-centric problem-solving expertise with her love of paper products, Brooke launched the Balance Bound Planner and line of stationery products that help busy people create order from the chaos of their to-do lists. Brooke is also co-host of the Good Enough-ish Podcast, where she and her professional organizer bestie, Amanda Jefferson, share tips, banter, and real-life tales (and fails) of trying to get their “ish” together and manage the tired, busy, hilarious juggle of life.In her spare time you can find Brooke baking, reading, taking in a musical theatre performance, or dining in her suburban Philadelphia hometown with her husband and two children.This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode of a Drop of Zen I will guide you through a short meditation designed to help you check in to see how you are feeling about your day. I will invite you to accept that things are the way they are and ask yourself what you need to care for yourself as the day wraps up. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this week's episode I will share what it is that my anxiety tells me NOT TO DO! I'll also share what steps I take to do it anyway. Here's a hint.... it has to do with an upcoming trip to Hawaii! If you have a fear or anxiety that you would like to overcome, this episode will help you take the first steps to move through it. From creating an outcome picture to navigating through corrective experiences and set backs, I'll explain what these terms mean and how they can help you. On this podcast I mention a technique for overcoming anxiety created by Aureen Wagner. Find out more about Aureen and her trainings here: https://www.anxietywellness.com/pages/workshops-for-professionalsWould you like to enter a contest to win a $50 gift card to Balance Bound?!! Balance Bound is home to the Balance Bound Planner (Dated and Undated planners). This planner contains sections for: Work, Self, Others and Home to help you create more balance in your life. Balance Bound also has beautiful stationary, journals daily planning sheets and more!Here's how to enter:Write a review for the Your Zen Friend podcast on your podcast app Take a screen shot (aka photo) of your review Send me your review! The winner will be announced on an upcoming podcast episode Here's where to send your screen shot: Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/If you would like to learn more about Lauren's counseling services you can view her website here:https://www.laurencounseling.com/This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! In this Drop of Zen I will guide you through a short mediation designed to help you fall asleep with more ease. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode I am excited to have an interview with Paul Bright, a certified sleep science coach and creator and host of, "The Why Behind the Z's," podcast. Before we get to our interview I will share some exciting news about an upcoming interview! Then Paul and I will talk about: the current sleep recommendations for children and teens, why it's so important for young people to get enough sleep and ways you can support your children and teens in getting the sleep their minds and bodies need. Would you like to enter a contest to win a $50 gift card to Balance Bound?!! Balance Bound is home to the Balance Bound Planner (Dated and Undated planners). This planner contains sections for: Work, Self, Others and Home to help you create more balance in your life. Balance Bound also has beautiful stationary, journals, daily planning sheets and more! Here's how to enter:Rate and write a review for the Your Zen Friend podcast on Apple or SpotifyTake a screen shot (aka photo) of your review Send me your review! I will draw a winner at randomThe winner will be announced on an upcoming podcast episode Here's where to send your screen shot: Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/Paul Bright's Bio: Paul, the host of The Why Behind Your Z’s podcast, battled sleep paralysis, insomnia, and sleep anxiety during military service. He spent years researching peer-reviewed scientific journals for solutions to his sleep problems and developed a system that helped bring his sleep to consistency. Now he's become a certified sleep science coach and wants to turn his victories into inspiration for others. Paul is the creator of Sleep You Deserve, A sleep solution resource for those who want to overcome insomnia and other sleep disturbances.Here's how to contact Paul Bright: website: https://www.sleepyoudeserve.com/email:[email protected]: @sleepcoachpaul Podcast: "The Why Behind Your Z's"- https://sleepyoudeserve.com/feed/podcast/For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.comThis podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! In this Drop of Zen I will guide you through a short meditation to help you identify how you can meet your own needs at this time. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode I will tell you how creating a red tent has been one of the best things I've done to make my 21 year marriage healthier. I will discuss where the metaphor of a red tent comes from and what it looks like to create a modern day red tent. I'll also share what research says about the benefits of having supporting and nurturing friendships in your life. Books mentioned in this podcast: "The Red Tent," by Anita Diamont https://a.co/d/bdy7rci"The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires," by Grady Hendrixhttps://a.co/d/9XiRHd7Would you like to enter a contest to win a $50 gift card to Balance Bound?!! Balance Bound is home to the Balance Bound Planner (Dated and Undated planners). This planner contains sections for: Work, Self, Others and Home to help you create more balance in your life. Balance Bound also has beautiful stationary, journals daily planning sheets and more!Here's how to enter:Write a review for the Your Zen Friend podcast on your podcast app Take a screen shot (aka photo) of your review Send me your review! Once the podcast receives 50 reviews on Apple Podcast I will draw a winner at randomThe winner will be announced on an upcoming podcast episode Here's where to send your screen shot: Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/If you would like to learn more about Lauren's counseling services you can view her website here:https://www.laurencounseling.com/This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! In this Drop of Zen I will guide you through an IFS (Internal Family Systems) exercise to get to know your anxiety. This exercise is designed to help you feel less anxious. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode I am excited to have an interview with Naturopathic Physician, Dr. Shawn Carney here today to talk about how he successfully treats anxiety with alternatives to traditional medication.Before we get to our interview I will share how I view anxiety and the role that calming our central nervous system plays in decreasing anxiety symptoms. Would you like to enter a contest to win a $50 gift card to Balance Bound?!! Balance Bound is home to the Balance Bound Planner (Dated and Undated planners). This planner contains sections for: Work, Self, Others and Home to help you create more balance in your life. Balance Bound also has beautiful stationary, journals daily planning sheets and more!Here's how to enter:Write a review for the Your Zen Friend podcast on your podcast app Take a screen shot (aka photo) of your review Send me your review! Once the podcast receives 50 reviews on Apple Podcast I will draw a winner at randomThe winner will be announced on an upcoming podcast episode Here's where to send your screen shot: Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/Dr. Shawn Carney's Bio: Dr. Shawn M. Carney is a naturopathic physician with a long history of helping patients of all ages with many different health concerns. After graduating with honors as a double major in environmental science and philosophy from Purchase College in New York, Dr. Carney continued to pursue a fusion of these interests by undertaking a career in integrative medicine. He received a doctorate in naturopathic medicine from the University of Bridgeport after having worked for several engineering and environmental science firms and serving as a full-timeemergency medical technician. Dr. Carney has studied in a wide array of settings including physicians from the International Lyme and Associated Disease Society (ILADS) and treats patients with a wide variety of concerns including ADD/ADHD, anxiety, cardiovascular disease, carpal tunnel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, depression, diabetes, fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, and thyroid disorders. He practices at Northeast Natural Medicine, LLC in Newtown, CT.Here's how to contact Dr. Carney:website: https://www.nenaturalmedicine.com/phone number: 1-800-723-2962email: [email protected]: @dr.shawncarney facebook: drshawncarney For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.comThis podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! In this Drop of Zen I will guide you through a short mediation to help you identify one self care action that you would benefit from. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this week's episode I will share my #1 strategy for decreasing your stress and increasing your happiness during the often difficult time of parenting tweens and teens. Spoiler alert.... It involves caring for yourself! Would you like to enter a contest to win a $50 gift card to Balance Bound?!! Balance Bound is home to the Balance Bound Planner (Dated and Undated planners). This planner contains sections for: Work, Self, Others and Home to help you create more balance in your life. Balance Bound also has beautiful stationary, journals daily planning sheets and more!Here's how to enter:Write a review for the Your Zen Friend podcast on your podcast app Take a screen shot (aka photo) of your review Send me your review! Once the podcast receives 50 reviews on Apple Podcast I will draw a winner at randomThe winner will be announced on an upcoming podcast episode Here's where to send your screen shot: Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.comThis podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! In this Drop of Zen I will guide you through a short mediation designed to help you cultivate gratitude for your body and all it does for you. Please make sure you do not listen to this or any mediation while driving.For maximum benefit listen to this meditation at a time when you won't be interrupted and can comfortably sit or lie down. I hope you enjoy this short guided meditation! And I hope you'll take some time today and every day to do something kind for yourself. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode I am excited to have an interview with my friend, Amy Mann. Amy received a heart transplant four and a half years ago after living with a heart condition known as HCM or Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Amy shares her experience as an immunocompromised individual living through Covid. Amy also shares the exciting advocacy work she is currently involved in. If you haven't already listened to Part 1 of this interview, check that out first!Before we get to our interview I will share what's bringing me more zen lately. I've talked in the past about how I love to read. There are times in my life, however, where focusing on complicated novels is just not in my wheel house. During these times I turn to middle grade books. Here are some I've enjoyed lately: "The Miscalculations of Lightening Girl," by Stacy McAnulty"The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise," by Dan Gemeinhart"When You Reach Me," Rebecca SteadIf you like this episode and would like to help this podcast to grow and reach more listeners here's what you can do to help: Subscribe! You can do this on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.Share your favorite episode with a friendRate and review the podcast by going to your podcast app. Not sure how to do this? Drop me a DM or email or search how to rate and review podcasts on youtubeI'd love to connect with you! Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.comAmy's Bio:Amy is the mother of four wonderful humans and married to a fantastic man named David. She has lived, worked and received an education in both England and the USA . Amy is a former midwife, who worked at a bustling hospital in London, England. In August 2021, Amy moved with her family from Connecticut to Southern California.Amy has extensive experience working for and volunteering for cardiac nonprofits in strategy, project management, and project coordination. Amy is currently volunteering and working on projects relating to cardiac and organ transplant patient advocacy and awareness. Amy is also on a clinical trial steering committee for a biopharmaceutical company that has developed a drug to treat Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. When not volunteering or working on advocacy related to HCM and organ transplants, Amy enjoys swimming, hiking, biking, and yoga. Amy is a qualified Yoga Alliance 200 hrs. yoga teacher. Amy also loves traveling and spending time with her family.Find Amy on TikTok: AmyMann99Find Amy on Instagram: AmyMann999 This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode I am excited to have an interview with my friend, Amy Mann. Amy received a heart transplant four and a half years ago after living with a heart condition known as HCM or Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Amy shares her story of growing up with HCM after being diagnosed at the age of 5, experiencing heart failure as a mother of four and the conflicting feelings that go with receiving a donor heart. I think you'll find Amy's story as inspiring as I do. Before we get to our interview I will share some podcast news. The short guided meditation known as a Drop of Zen, will now come out as a separate stand alone episode. A Drop of Zen will be released every Friday. If you're already subscribed to Your Zen Friend, all podcast episodes, including A Drop of Zen will be delivered weekly to your podcast app! If you like this episode and would like to help this podcast to grow and reach more listeners here's what you can do to help: Subscribe! You can do this on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.Share your favorite episode with a friendRate and review the podcast by going to your podcast app. Not sure how to do this? Drop me a DM or email or search how to rate and review podcasts on youtubeI'd love to connect with you! Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/Amy's Bio: Amy is the mother of four wonderful humans and married to a fantastic man named David. She has lived, worked and received an education in both England and the USA . Amy is a former midwife, who worked at a bustling hospital in London, England. In August 2021, Amy moved with her family from Connecticut to Southern California.Amy has extensive experience working for and volunteering for cardiac nonprofits in strategy, project management, and project coordination. Amy is currently volunteering and working on projects relating to cardiac and organ transplant patient advocacy and awareness. Amy is also on a clinical trial steering committee for a biopharmaceutical company that has developed a drug to treat Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. When not volunteering or working on advocacy related to HCM and organ transplants, Amy enjoys swimming, hiking, biking, and yoga. Amy is a qualified Yoga Alliance 200 hrs. yoga teacher. Amy also loves traveling and spending time with her family.Find Amy on TikTok: AmyMann99Find Amy on Instagram: AmyMann999 This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode I am excited to have friend of the pod, Tennette Correia with me to discuss our first Book Club pic! We will talk about, "Finding Me," the memoir by Viola Davis. We will share our thoughts on the extreme poverty Viola grew up in, the racism she has faced throughout her life, the challenges of growing up in addiction and the theme of forgiveness. If you would like to read Viola Davis' book, find it here: https://a.co/d/coFq8sgWe will end our episode with a Drop of Zen and I will guide you through a meditation on forgiveness. If you like this episode and would like to help this podcast grow and reach more listeners here's what you can do to help: Subscribe! You can do this on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.Share your favorite episode with a friendRate and review the podcast by going to your podcast app. Not sure how to do this? Drop me a DM or email or search how to rate and review podcasts on youtubeFacebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.comThis podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On today's episode I have some fun updates including how I'm currently working on a project with a former Your Zen Friend guest. I will also tell you about an upcoming interview I'm excited to bring you. Then I will talk about cultivating self compassion and share with you a short exercise I like to practice when I am having a difficult day. We will end our episode with a Drop of Zen and I will guide you through a loving kindness meditation. If you like this episode and would like to help this podcast grow and reach more listeners here's what you can do to help: Subscribe! You can do this on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.Share your favorite episode with a friendRate and review the podcast by going to your podcast app. Not sure how to do this? Drop me a DM or email or search how to rate and review podcasts on youtubeI hope you'll join us for our Book Club Read: "Finding Me," by Viola Davis.https://a.co/d/coFq8sg Read "Finding Me," and then submit your questions or comments and I might read yours on the air on our Book Club discussion that will be released on Tuesday, March 21st. You can message me by sending me an instagram direct message, email me or message me on our private facebook group. All of those links are below. Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/On this podcast I mention:Young House Love Instagram: @younghouseloveBlog: https://www.younghouselove.com/Game: "What Do You Meme?" https://a.co/d/fHMhvREMiddlebury Furniture https://www.middleburyfurniture.com/The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Kristen Neff, PH.D.Kristen Neff's Self Compassion Quiz: https://self-compassion.org/self-compassion-test/For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.comThis podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode I am excited to have an interview with my friend, fitness instructor and studio owner, Jeanine Parsons. We talk about how she came to work in the fitness industry, what led her to open her own fitness studio and how joining a fitness studio can help you reach your fitness goals and have fun working out. Before we get to our interview I will share how I keep myself moving and grooving and working out on a regular basis. We will end our episode with a Drop of Zen (a short guided meditation). I will guide you through a mediation on cultivating self compassion.If you like this episode and would like to help this podcast to grow and reach more listeners here's what you can do to help: Subscribe! You can do this on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.Share your favorite episode with a friendRate and review the podcast by going to your podcast app. Not sure how to do this? Drop me a DM or email or search how to rate and review podcasts on youtubeI hope you'll join us for our Book Club Read: "Finding Me," by Viola Davis.https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Me-Memoir-Viola-Davis-ebook/dp/B099WXTZGM/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=finding+me&qid=1676247515&sr=8-1 Read "Finding Me," and then submit your questions or comments and I might read yours on the air on our Book Club discussion that will be released on Tuesday, March 21st. You can message me by sending me an instagram direct message, email me or message me on our private facebook group. All of those links are below. Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.comJeanine's Bio: Jeanine Parsons lives in Newtown, CT with her husband Jim and their four children. Jeanine was a former professional dancer who trained as a fitness instructor after starting her family. Some of the fitness classes Jeanine has taught include: Body Pump, P90X, Insanity, Pilates, TRX and Boot Camp. After taking her first Barre class Jeanine was hooked and knew this was what she was looking for -- a way to incorporate dance, Pilates, and yoga into a fitness program that helps others build long, lean, beautiful muscles.After receiving her certification in Barre, Jeanine began pursuing her dream: To open the very best Barre studio in Newtown, CT! Barre Boutique, is centrally located on Route 25 (Main Street) and is a warm, inviting, and welcoming space. Find Jeanine on Instagram: @barre.boutique Or check out her fitness studio's website: https://www.barreboutiquect.com/This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On today’s podcast I will share some relationship makers and breakers when it comes to adults relating to tweens and teens. And I mange to talk about Gunther Gebel-Williams. He is one of the most famous wild animal trainers of all time. Think of a blond man in an opened sequined shirt with some tigers and that's him! Listen in to find out how I compare Gunther and his lion taming to parenting tweens and teens. Gunther Gebel-Williams: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gunther_Gebel-WilliamsRelationship breakers I discuss are:Being reactive when your children share something with youTelling tweens and teens they can't have a boyfriend or girlfriend until they are a certain ageForbidding tweens and teens to be friends or romantic partners with a particular personRelationship makers I discuss are:How to be neutral with your facial expression and tone of your voice when your tween or teen tells you something that shocks or upsets youHow to respond to shocking or upsetting information in a way that keeps your child sharing with youQuestions to ask when your tween or teen tells you they like someone or are "going out, " with someoneHow to help your tween or teen set healthy relationship perimeters with friends and boyfriends or girlfriendsHow to help your tween or teen come up with relationship deal breakers for their friendships and romantic partnersHow to help your tweens or teens navigate difficult conversations with friendships or romantic partnersHow to help your tweens or teens to navigate how to move forward when a friendship or romantic relationship endsI hope you'll join us for our Book Club Read: "Finding Me," by Viola Davis. https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Me-Memoir-Viola-Davis-ebook/dp/B099WXTZGM/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=finding+me&qid=1676247515&sr=8-1 Read "Finding Me," and then submit your questions or comments and I might read yours on the air on our Book Club discussion that will be released on Tuesday, March 21st. You can message me by sending me an instagram direct message, email me or message me on our private facebook group. All of those links are below. In our Drop of Zen today (our short guided meditation) I will lead you through a short guided meditation. If you like this episode please subscribe! It also will help others to find this podcast when you leave a 5 star rating and review. If you have a question, comment or an idea for a future episode please reach out. Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.com This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On today’s podcast I will get honest and vulnerable as I share how I have been struggling to find balance in my life lately. I'll talk about how I decided to make a big change in my work life and what I'm doing to move through some difficult feelings. I'll also talk about some ways I am caring for myself in effort to become more balanced. I hope this episode will be helpful to you! I look forward to hearing how you find balance in your life. On this podcast I mention:The Balance Bound Planner: https://www.balancebound.co/shop/2023-weekly-plannersHappier in Hollywood Podcast: https://happierinhollywood.com/podcast/I hope you'll join us for our Book Club Read: "Finding Me," by Viola Davis. https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Me-Memoir-Viola-Davis-ebook/dp/B099WXTZGM/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=finding+me&qid=1676247515&sr=8-1 Read "Finding Me," and then submit your questions or comments and I might read yours on the air on our Book Club discussion that will be released on Tuesday, March 21st. You can message me by sending me an instagram direct message, email me or message me on our private facebook group. All of those links are below. In our Drop of Zen today (our short guided meditation) I will lead you through a short breathing exercise where we tap on meridian points on the finger tips. If you like this episode please subscribe! It also will help others to find this podcast when you leave a 5 star rating and review. If you have a question, comment or an idea for a future episode please reach out. Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.com This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On today’s podcast I will have an interview with Friend to the Pod Tennette Correia. I will be asking Tennette to tell us about 3 books she has loved, 1 book she has hated and what she has been reading lately. Does this sound familiar to you? I borrowed this format from one of my favorite podcasts, "What Should I Read Next." Listen to "What Should I Read Next," wherever you find podcasts. You can also listen and learn more about this podcast and host Anne Bogel here: https://modernmrsdarcy.com/what-should-i-read-next/On this podcast we mention the following books:Pride and Prejudice by Jane AustenThe Book Thief by Markus ZusakThe Pillars of the Earth by Earth by Ken FollettAll the Light We Cannot See by Anthony DoerrAnimal Farm by George OrwellDear Emmie Blue by Lia LouisThe Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann ShafferThe Lost Apothecary by Sarah PennerI hope you'll join us for our Book Club Read: "Finding Me," by Viola Davis https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Me-Memoir-Viola-Davis-ebook/dp/B099WXTZGM/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=finding+me&qid=1676247515&sr=8-1 Read "Finding Me," and then submit your questions or comments and Tennette and I may read yours on the air on our Book Club discussion that be released on Tuesday, March 21st. You can message me by sending me an instagram direct message, emailing me or message me on our private facebook group. All of those links are below. In our Drop of Zen today (our short guided meditation) I will lead you through a short breathing mediation. If you like this episode please subscribe! It also will help others to find this podcast when you leave a 5 star rating and review. If you have a question, comment or an idea for a future episode please reach out. Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/And be sure to join our private facebook group where we keep the conversation going in between episodes: www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriend/For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.com This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On today’s podcast I will be talking to you about a parenting technique called Gentle Parenting - what it is, what it isn't, the pros and cons and how you can use techniques from Gentle Parenting with the children in your life. But first I'll talk about what's bringing me a little more zen right now as I try to stay warm and cozy during these cold winter months. I have been hearing and seeing the term Gentle Parenting a lot lately. And I was like, WHAT is this? So I did some research and read up on the term and thought…… this sounds A LOT like Authoritative Parenting, which I learned about while getting my masters degree in counseling. I learned that Authoritative Parenting is backed by research and many experts agree that it is THE most effective type of parenting. There are a lot of proven benefits to this type of parenting. And guess what... Gentle Parenting is actually the very same technique as Authoritative Parenting. I'll tell you why I think the name change is beneficial. I'll also tell you what the four elements of Gentle Parenting are and give you some examples of how you can use these elements in your own parenting or caring for children and teens. In this episode I mention the book "Make the Bread, Buy the Butter," by Jennifer Reese. https://a.co/d/apDmiqnI also share a quote from this website: https://parentingscience.com/authoritative-parenting-style/#:~:text=Kids%20raised%20by%20authoritative%20parents,like%20delinquency%20and%20drug%20use.In our Drop of Zen today (our short guided meditation) I will ask you to identify something you would like to offer yourself forgiveness for. If you like this episode please subscribe! It also will help others to find this podcast when you leave a 5 star rating and review. If you have a question, comment or an idea for a future episode please reach out. Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/And be sure to join our private facebook group where we keep the conversation going in between episodes: www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriend/For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.com This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this podcast I am excited to have an interview with friend of the pod, Cassie Keeley! We talk about her life living on a rural farm in Massachusetts and her job in Animal Control. Cassie has some fun stories to share including one where she was called in to assist with a bear who had broken into someone's home and was ransacking their kitchen. Don't worry, it has a happy ending for all, including the mischievous bear. We will also discuss some misconceptions about black bears, what it's like to care for a menagerie of animals that includes two local celebrity pigs and how Cassie believes Animal Control should be renamed Animal Protection. Before we get to Cassie's interview I will tell you about how I'm using Alba Botinica Hawaiian Hand and Body Lotion to bring me a little more zen this winter. Here's a link to the product on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Alba-Cocoa-Butter-Lotion-Ounce/dp/B001E0SE58/ref=sxts_rp_s_a_1_0?content-id=amzn1.sym.eff26b9b-e255-411b-a40d-eccb21f93fe4%3Aamzn1.sym.eff26b9b-e255-411b-a40d-eccb21f93fe4&cv_ct_cx=alba+hawaiian+hand+and+body+lotion&gclid=Cj0KCQiAz9ieBhCIARIsACB0oGL2maNRvBzcac_tdYgeQMH7nRrowNnWou-k_jGLxr7D9sJee3YLh-UaAh-TEALw_wcB&hvadid=580967791873&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9003349&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=17936968762121235690&hvtargid=kwd-7029880391&hydadcr=28975_14571552&keywords=alba+hawaiian+hand+and+body+lotion&pd_rd_i=B001E0SE58&pd_rd_r=c703a7fd-4fac-4e5c-a135-b73fb6dfdf61&pd_rd_w=iaEHp&pd_rd_wg=2lyRL&pf_rd_p=eff26b9b-e255-411b-a40d-eccb21f93fe4&pf_rd_r=Z0AC42ED8D24D58PR4W0&qid=1675039217&sr=1-1-5985efba-8948-4f09-9122-d605505c9d1eWe will end our episode with a Drop of Zen (a short guided meditation). I will guide you through an exercise designed to help you drop in and identify one thing you can do for yourself to help fill your own cup. If you like this episode and would like to help this podcast to grow and reach more listeners here's what you can do to help: Subscribe! You can do this on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.Share your favorite episode with a friendRate and review the podcast by going to your podcast app. Not sure how to do this? Drop me a DM or email or search how to rate and review podcasts on youtubeIf you have a question, comment or an idea for a future episode please reach out. Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.com Cassie's Bio: Cassie is a mom of three humans, and a life long animal adorer. She currently works as an animal control officer in a small town in rural Massachusetts. Cassie previously worked as a veterinary technician, a manager of a pet store, and a certified personal trainer. She owns a hobby farm with her husband, taking care of approximately thirty five different animals they consider pets and life long friends. Cassie likes to think of herself as a wild animal protector and is passionate about helping to educate the public on the benefits and importance of wild animals. She is also known give rides to animals in need and is always happy to get them to the amazing humans who work hard to rehabilitate them. https://www.sheffieldma.gov/animal-controlThis podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this podcast I will talk about Feeling our Feelings, the importance of doing this, and how we can support our children through feeling difficult emotions. I will share tips on how to make time and space for our emotions and why that's helpful. I will also provide tips on how to support your children in having a healthy emotional life. One of the strategies I share in this podcast is How to Ride The Wave. Here's how you do this:Identify the emotion you are feelingNotice where in your body you are feeling it Remind yourself it won’t last foreverI also share a strategy from Nicole Sachs, LCSW who is an author and has a podcast called “Cure for Chronic Pain." Nicole's technique called Journal Speak is a wonderful way to take time to feel your feelings. Here's how you do it:Set a timer for 20 minutesFree write all of the feelings and thoughts that are coming up. Especially write out the child like thoughts which are often negative. Delete what you have written or rip up and throw out your journaling exercise.I mention the books Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times and the Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling. In our Drop of Zen today (our short guided meditation) I will guide you through an exercise designed to help you get in touch with your emotions. If you like this episode please subscribe! And it helps others to find this podcast when you leave a 5 star rating and review. If you have a question, comment or an idea for a future episode please reach out. Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.com This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this episode I will be interviewing Bridgett Burrick Brown on Redefining Beauty for Ourselves and Our Children. Bridgett is the founder of the Beyond Beauty Project, a movement to help improve self-esteem and confidence around body image and mental health. See below for Bridgett's bio and contact information. It was such a pleasure interviewing Bridgett! Bridgett opens up about her experience in the modeling industry in the past and present. She also shares about the tremendous loss she experienced within a two year period as a young mom. I am so inspired by the work Bridgett is doing and how she shares what she has learned from the obstacles she has overcome. In our Drop of Zen (our short guided meditation) I'll talk you through a meditation to help you connect with feeling more positive about your body. If you like this episode please subscribe! It also will help others to find this podcast when you leave a 5 star rating and review. If you have a question, comment or an idea for a future episode please reach out. Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/Bridgett's Bio: Bridgett Burrick Brown is the founder of Beyond Beauty Project, a movement and multimedia platform that focuses on inspiring confidence and acceptance surrounding beauty, body image, and mental health. Using her two decades of experience in the modeling industry as a model, Brown strives to change the narrative of beauty by redefining its meaning from the inside out, providing education and awareness around feeling our best mentally, physically, and spiritually. By breaking down the barriers to true beauty and self-worth, Bridgett empowers people to ditch the patriarchal standards and shape their own beauty, free from judgment and others’ expectations. She is a dedicated advocate and activist for women, mental health, body diversity and disordered eating recovery, as well as a Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach from NYC’s Institute for Integrative Nutrition, a W.I.T.S Certified Personal Trainer, and is Certified in Ayurveda from Lotus Flow University. She is also a mother, wife, former dancer and host of Beyond Beauty Project: The Podcast.Find Bridgett at:https://www.beyondbeautyproject.com/contactor on Instagram:@beyond.beauty.projector check out her podcast: Beyond Beauty Project The Podcast (find it wherever you find your podcasts)This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this podcast I will talk about Surviving and Thriving While Raising Tweens and Teens. Lately, I have been asking you, the listener, what you would like to hear about on this podcast. And I have had numerous requests for talking about topics on raising teens. So I decided I would bring to you a series called Surviving and Thriving While Parenting Teens and Tweens. Throughout the year I will be talking to you on different topics related to raising teens. And I’m going to throw in tweens as well because kids don’t really become a teen the day they turn 13 years old. Most parents see glimpses of traits in their children that are associated with being a teenager in those tween years which is actually classified as ages 8-12. Ages 8-19 is a huge age range. For this podcast I’m going to focus more on the older tween and up so I’ll really focus more on about age 11 or 12 and up. But if you have children younger than age 11 I think this will still be helpful to listen to because you are really building a foundation now that will be helpful to raising teens down the road. And if you don’t have children you can just feel all sorts of smug that you don’t have to deal with any of this. I’m kidding but listening to the podcasts in this series could help you to improve your connection with nieces or nephews or the teens that you work with. I am curious, who out there made resolutions or set intentions for the new year? I'll share with you how I'm doing on the New Year's intentions that I set recently. Did any of you set an intention while listening to the Drop of Zen meditation in last week's episode (episode #14 Reflecting on the Past and Setting Intentions for the Future)? I will be checking in on our facebook group to see how listeners are doing with the intentions they've set. On this episode I'll share with you how I'm doing so far with mine. If you haven't joined our Facbebook group please join us! You can find it by going to Facebook Groups and searching, "Your Zen Friend." There's also a link below. Parenting any age group of children can be challenging. But parenting tweens and teens is an especially challenging time. Why, you may wonder, is this so? Because tweens and teens are "individuating." I'll talk about what this means and what this looks like. And I'll give you some concrete strategies to help make this difficult time a little easier for you. Maybe even a lot easier! Go big or go home, right? :) And (spoiler alert) some of these strategies are about caring for yourself. Other strategies are about knowing how your buttons get pushed and how to respond in a way that doesn't send you into a shame spiral when they are pushed. In our Drop of Zen (our short guided meditation) I'll talk you through a breathing technique that is super calming and can be used anywhere and at anytime. If you like this episode please subscribe! It also will help others to find this podcast when you leave a 5 star rating and review. If you have a question, comment or an idea for a future episode please reach out. Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.com This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this podcast I will talk about Reflecting on the Past and Setting Intentions for the Future. Identifying what is not working in our lives and creating goals to make changes can be really helpful. I will provide tips and strategies to help you be successful in keeping and attaining the goals you set for yourself. I'll talk about a tool that can help you to assess where your life is out of balance. That's the The Balance Bound Planner. This planner has sections for: work, home, others and self. I will tell you what I discovered about myself in just a few days of using this planner. If you would like to get a Balance Bound Planner, find one at https://www.balancebound.co/shop/stationery-giftsThe Balance Bound planner has a spot where you can come up with a word for the year. I’ll share what mine is and how I built my intention for the year around it. One of the strategies I will talk about comes from understanding how you best meet inner and outer expectations in your life. To better understand this you can read Gretchin Rubin’s book, “The Four Tendencies,” or take the quiz to find out what tendency you are: https://gretchenrubin.com/quiz/the-four-tendencies-quiz/https://www.amazon.com/The-Four-Tendencies-audiobook/dp/B071L426J6/ref=sr_1_1?crid=229PGX3X808O8&keywords=the+four+tendencies+by+gretchen+rubin&qid=1672626012&sprefix=the+four+ten%2Caps%2C192&sr=8-1No matter what goals you set for yourself, I will invite you to to aim for progress, not perfection. Remember to have compassion for yourself if it’s harder to achieve the goals you set than you had hoped. This is a journey and we are most likely not going to hit the destination of having everything perfectly perfect (bummer!) We are often moving towards balance but so rarely do we stay there for long. In our Drop of Zen today (our short guided meditation) we will do a little reflecting on the past year and intention setting for the new year. Feel free to have a piece of paper and a writing utensil nearby to jot down what comes up for you. . If you like this episode please subscribe! It also will help others to find this podcast when you leave a 5 star rating and review. If you have a question, comment or an idea for a future episode please reach out. Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.com This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! ***This podcast talks about holiday magic. Please listen away from little ears.On this podcast I will talk about Finding the Joy in Holiday Mishaps. Don’t we all have those? The things that go wrong during the holiday season can add stress but also sometimes lead to laughs and memories that connect us to the people who lived the experiences with us. But first I’ll update you on how I had A LOT of fun at a local musical with my friend Vanessa David (to hear an episode with Vanessa, see episode #5 How We Connect Through Food; Food for Fuel and Food for Love). Vanessa and I managed to have a holiday mishap along the way! I'll tell you all about it. Then I’ll share about that time I had to send Holiday Cards overseas when I worked as an Admin. Or more accurately, an Admin to the Admin. Well, let’s just say it didn’t go perfectly but it makes me laugh every time I think about it. I’ll also tell you about that time my dad dressed as Santa for my daughter Leena and her friend and how that involved a number of holiday mishaps. The picture for this week's show is actually a pic of my dad, Leena and our dog Jeter. As you can see Jeter was pretty happy about sitting on Santa's lap but Leena was not. You'll never guess the audio book I selected a few years ago to listen to while wrapping gifts. It was not a good choice! I'll tell you about that also. And finally, I'll talk about some snafus involving The Elf on the Shelf and how I got into some hot water with some kid counseling clients. On today’s episode I mention:Author and Podcaster Gretchen Rubin. You can find her podcast by searching “Happier with Gretchen Rubin,” wherever you listen to podcasts. If you like this episode please subscribe! It also will help others to find this podcast when you leave a 5 star rating and review. If you have a question, comment or an idea for a future episode please reach out. Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.com This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this podcast I will share 5 Ways to Create More Zen for the Holidays and provide you with a Last Minute Gift Guide. Here is a list of all the products and websites mentioned in this episode: Balanced Bound Planner: https://www.balancebound.co/shop/stationery-giftsAlso check out the "Good Enough-ish," Podcast wherever you find your podcasts Revive Essential Oils: https://www.revive-eo.com/Essential Oil Diffuser:https://www.amazon.com/ASAKUKI-Essential-Humidifier-Fragrance-Switch-Upgraded/dp/B07LBQR3QY/ref=sr_1_14?crid=VNJDTXWAAM7E&keywords=smiley+daisy+essential+oil+diffuser&qid=1670808922&sprefix=essential+oil+smiley+daisy+%2Caps%2C940&sr=8-14Natural Body Lotions, Soaps and Candles: https://www.olivemyskin.com/ Local CT Book Store and online ordering:https://www.turningthepagebooks.com/ Local CT coffee shop:https://www.lastdropcoffeeshop.com/Bic mechanical pencil:https://www.amazon.com/BIC-Mechanical-2-Pencil-60ct/dp/B07JM8HF56/ref=sr_1_4?crid=LI5R9VDGCDFF&keywords=bic+mechanical+pencil&qid=1670809236&sprefix=bic+m%2Caps%2C218&sr=8-4If you like this episode please subscribe! It also will help others to find this podcast when you leave a 5 star rating and review. If you have a question, comment or an idea for a future episode please reach out. Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.com This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this podcast I will talk with Lori Simon about Holiday Fantasy vs. Holiday Reality. Do you ever find that the way your holiday preparation and holiday celebrations turn out are quite different from the way you picture it in your head? Then this episode is for you! Lori and I will talk about holiday decorating, gift wrapping, baking, celebrating and managing our own expectations as well as those of our children. We will also each commit to taking something off our already full plates this holiday season. Or, well, we will think about taking something off, LOL! On this episode Lori mentions her tradition of making these sugar cookies: https://www.bettycrocker.com/products/cookiemix/sugarAnd Lauren mentions her tradition of making this Gingerbread Recipe (I’ll also post it in our Facebook group: Ginger Snaps (Gingerbread Men)2 cups flour (sifted)¾ cup shortening2 tsp baking soda1 cup sugar1 tsp ground ginger4 Tbsp molasses1 tsp ground cloves1 egg1 tsp cinnamonSift together flour, baking soda, ginger, cloves and cinnamon. Set aside. Cream shortening. Add sugar, egg and molasses. Beat well. Add flour mixture and beat until smooth. Mixture will be very stiff. For snaps: Take a teaspoon of mixture, roll into a ball, and then roll ball in sugar. Bake on greased cookie sheet for 10 to 12 minutes at 350 degrees. For Gingerbread Men: Chill dough for one hour. Lightly flour rolling surface and rolling pin. Roll and cut dough with cookie cutters. Bake on greased cookie sheet at 350 degrees. Length of time will vary according to how big or how thick the cookies are. For small gingerbread men, (approximately 3 inches long) they baked for me in 10 – 12 min. A Little About Lori: Lori Simon graduated with a Bachelors in Science in Medical Technology from Western Connecticut State University. She is a wife and mom to 6 kids. She is currently home schooling 3 children (at what she likes to refer to as Simon School) while the other 3 attend college. Lori loves all things Disney and frequents Disney World, which is about two hours from her home in Florida. When Lori is not at Disney World you can find her using her creativity to make every day fun including minor holidays (think groundhog meatloaf) or of course, talking to Lauren on the phone. Lori believes in the go big or go home approach to most things, especially when it comes to decorating for Halloween and Christmas. Side note……… Lori was busy teaching children how to dissect cow eyeballs so Lauren had to write this bio. EW! LOL or as Lori likes to say, LOL, LOL, LOL!!! If you like this episode please subscribe! It also will help others to find this podcast when you leave a 5 star rating and review. If you have a question, comment or an idea for a future episode please reach out. Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.com This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this podcast I will talk about: Making Your Home Your Sanctuary with interior designer and friend Don Richards. Don will share his expertise on home do’s and don’t, decorating for the holidays and how to make your home reflect who you are. A little about Don: Consumed by architecture, design, and home since childhood, Don graduated from the Savannah College of Art and Design in Savannah, Georgia with a degree in Historic Preservation. For the last thirty years, his obsession with home has seen him in the worlds of interior design, visual merchandising, and real estate. A Litchfield County native, Don has designed spaces in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Rhode Island, and Florida, while vowing never again to work in NYC because of elevator constraints. Can a sofa be disassembled and put back together? The answer is yes. Should it be? LOL, the answer is no. He believes the key to a space being home is personality and quirk. Try and think outside the box with vintage and unique. Look toward the architectural style of the property and let that guide you. If you love it, it will usually work. Just no 75'' flat screens, please. Don is passionate about BLTs, turtlenecks, and his orange tabby, Ernest. Not necessarily in that order. He can be reached at: Middlebury Furniture and Home Design1101 Southford RoadMiddlebury, CT [email protected] on InstagramIf you like this episode please subscribe! It also will help others to find this podcast when you leave a 5 star rating and review. If you have a question, comment or an idea for a future episode please reach out. Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.com This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this podcast I will talk about supporting your children with healthy friendships and nurturing your own friendships. I am excited to have an interview with my friend of over 40 years Tara Brophy! Make sure you listen to the very end for our "blooper," sound check. Tara and I have been laughing together since the 4th grade and man was it hard for us to record this podcast and be serious. But we did it! Mostly, LOL. Tara brings a unique perspective to children's friendships since she is a 3rd grade teacher. Listen in as a grade school teacher and children's therapist talk about how parents can support their children in having healthy friendships. They'll also discuss the importance of making time to nurture your own friendships as well. A Little About Tara: Raised by her minister mom, Tara’s first gig was as a singing Sunday school teacher who uncovered the joy of storytelling at potluck suppers. Later bringing down the house at Connecticut libraries, camps and schools, Tara became a superheroine for the Earth, strumming a green guitar and dancing for the planet, but has since retired her cape. Now an eternal eight year old, she is a puppet-waving, songwriting, pogo-sticking third grade teacher of twenty-five years who learns the most from kids who draw their own lines. Constructive play is the hallmark of her teaching style where imagination and positivity win the day as the most powerful tools for constructing a loving community in a diverse classroom. She’s been known to jam out with her school-librarian husband while their two teenagers sigh, but secretly love it. Tara’s eighteen pound orange tabby Chester often snores in a backyard hammock while enduring obsessive photo sessions. Her other passions (hiking, kayaking, and collecting vintage Fisher Price people) all inspire more and more ideas. Her FaceBook Page of Songs: https://www.facebook.com/songsbytaraIf you like this episode please subscribe! It also will help others to find this podcast when you leave a 5 star rating and review. Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.com This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.

Send Lauren a text! On this podcast I will talk about how opposites attract and how we can have rich and rewarding friendships when we respect and celebrate each other and our differences. I am excited to have an interview with my friend of over 35 years Lori Simon! A Little About Lori: Lori Simon graduated with a Bachelors in Science in Medical Technology from Western Connecticut State University. She is a wife and mom to 6 kids. She is currently home schooling 3 children (at what she likes to refer to as Simon School) while the other 3 attend college. Lori loves all things Disney and frequents Disney World, which is about two hours from her home in Florida. When Lori is not at Disney World you can find her using her creativity to make every day fun including minor holidays (think groundhog meatloaf) or of course, talking to Lauren on the phone. Lori believes in the go big or go home approach to most things, especially when it comes to decorating for Halloween and Christmas. Side note……… Lori was busy teaching children how to dissect cow eyeballs so Lauren had to write this bio. EW! LOL or as Lori likes to say, LOL, LOL, LOL!!! On this podcast I mention author Brene Brown. Check out Brene's famous talk on vulnerability here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iCvmsMzlF7o&t=492sHere are Lori's hot holiday toys recommendations for 2022: https://www.target.com/p/magic-mixies-blue-magical-crystal-ball/-/A-84797840?ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&fndsrc=tmnv&DFA=71700000100919980&CPNG=PLA_DVM%2Ba064R0000138jTxQAI-TargetToys_HKC_GoogleSearch_Holiday_2022-719030&adgroup=PLA_TargetToys&LID=700000001393753pgs&network=g&device=c&location=9003431&gclid=CjwKCAiA68ebBhB-EiwALVC-Nl7qxDh_2jKpCbbFARiu_t02VKbh8acOrq3i93Pg6m9nGlmknnyRzBoC5OMQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.dshttps://www.thetoyinsider.com/toys/little-live-pets-mama-surprise/If you like this episode please subscribe! And help me out by leaving a review below. If you leave a 5 star review I may read it on a future episode. By rating and reviewing this podcast you will help others to find it who could benefit from the content. If you have a question, comment or an idea for a future episode please reach out. Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourzenfriendEmail me at: [email protected] me on instagram https://www.instagram.com/yourzenfriendpod/For more information on Lauren's counseling services check out: www.LaurenCounseling.com This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and not intended to be a replacement for diagnosis, mental health therapy or psychological treatment of any kind. Please consult with your doctor or mental health provider in order to care for your physical or mental health.