The Mindful Journey

The Healing Power of Nature: Lessons from the Wilderness with Michael Martin

In this episode of The Mindful Journey, host Sushmitha Sai delves into the transformative power of nature with Michael Martin, a seasoned wilderness enthusiast and spiritual seeker. Michael shares his journey of overcoming anxiety and depression through time spent in the wilderness, offering profound insights into mindfulness, self-discovery, and natural therapy. From practical techniques to connect with the natural world to the lessons learned from observing wildlife, this conversation is a heartfelt exploration of how nature can heal and inspire.
About the Guest:Michael Martin is a passionate advocate for the therapeutic and spiritual benefits of the wilderness. Having faced personal struggles with anxiety and depression, Michael turned to nature as a sanctuary for growth and healing. His experiences have shaped his understanding of mindfulness, resilience, and the importance of connecting with the natural world. Through his story, Michael aims to inspire others to embrace the wilderness as a source of peace and self-discovery.
Reach: https://projectmindfullyoutdoors.co/
Key Takeaways:
Nature as a Therapy: Spending time in the wilderness offers a unique opportunity to step away from distractions, find clarity, and reconnect with oneself.
Mindfulness Practices in Nature: Simple techniques like observing the natural flow of life, such as trees swaying or animals moving, can foster a sense of calm and perspective.
Lessons from Wildlife: Michael shares an inspiring story of a deer that taught him how to navigate anxiety with resilience and focus.
The Power of Solitude: Embracing solitude in nature allows for honest self-reflection, helping uncover inner wisdom and purpose.
Starting with Natural Therapy: Beginners can start small, such as spending 5–10 minutes observing their surroundings, and gradually deepen their connection to nature.
Nature's Role in Overcoming Anxiety: Shifting focus from intrusive thoughts to external observations can reduce stress and provide grounding during difficult moments.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to explore the profound connection between nature, mindfulness, and personal growth.

Burnout to Enlightenment: Energy Medicine, Chakra Healing, and Self-Care with Dr. Mary Sanders

In this transformative episode of The Mindful Journey, host Sushmitha Sai dives into the realm of energy medicine and self-transformation with the insightful Dr. Mary Sanders. A renowned chiropractor and energy medicine practitioner, Dr. Mary shares her inspiring journey from burnout to enlightenment. She unpacks the science and mysticism of chakras, the signs of burnout, and practical steps to cultivate holistic well-being. Through her expertise, listeners will gain powerful insights into the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit and learn actionable strategies for self-care, stress relief, and tapping into their intuition.
About the Guest
Dr. Mary Sanders is a chiropractor, energy medicine practitioner, and modern-day mystic who bridges ancient wisdom with contemporary science. With years of experience in energy healing and medical intuition, she helps individuals restore balance and vitality to their lives. Dr. Mary’s personal journey of overcoming burnout and reconnecting with her authentic self has inspired many to explore the transformative power of holistic well-being.
Reach: https://www.drmarysanders.com/
Key TakeawaysListen Now
Understanding Energy Medicine:
Chakras are energy vortices connected to the biofield, impacting overall well-being.
The biofield acts as a boundary between individuals and their environment, filtering experiences and traumas.
Identifying and Addressing Burnout:
Burnout stems from depleted life-force energy, manifesting as physical and emotional fatigue.
Techniques to restore energy include grounding practices and balancing the nervous system.
Holistic Self-Care:
Prioritizing self-care aligns individuals with their higher purpose and fosters a deeper connection with the universe.
Self-care isn't selfish but essential for fulfilling one's mission in life.
Managing Stress and Anxiety:
Stress often arises from focusing too much on the future; grounding techniques help center the mind in the present.
Guided meditations can harmonize energy systems and support emotional stability.
Trusting and Strengthening Intuition:
Slowing down, grounding, and connecting to one’s inner self enhances intuitive abilities.
Trust is cultivated through consistent practices that reinforce a sense of safety and self-reliance.
Discover the tools to transform stress into serenity and burnout into vitality. Tune in to this episode for a deep dive into the power of energy healing and holistic living with Dr. Mary Sanders!

From Adversity to Triumph: Building Success Through Resilience with Petar Krastev

In this compelling episode of The Mindful Journey, we sit down with Petar Krastev, a fitness coach, entrepreneur, and beacon of resilience. Petar shares his transformative journey from a challenging childhood, battles with destructive habits, and living in a garage to building a thriving international fitness coaching practice. He dives into the mindset shifts that enabled him to break free from a cycle of failure, pursue his passion, and help others achieve balance and success in their lives. Whether you’re striving to overcome personal obstacles or looking to find your calling, Petar’s story is sure to inspire.
About the Guest:
Petar Krastev is a fitness coach and entrepreneur with a passion for helping individuals transform their lives. After overcoming immense challenges, including early failures, destructive behaviors, and homelessness, Petar dedicated himself to fitness and personal development. Today, he runs a thriving coaching practice with clients across Canada, the US, the UK, and Europe. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and an unwavering commitment to growth.
Reach: https://www.pk.coach/
Key Takeaways:
Resilience and Decision-Making: Success often stems from a single, unwavering decision to never quit, regardless of the challenges faced.
Mindset Matters: Replacing a defeatist mindset with a growth-oriented one can transform your approach to life and business.
The Power of Community: Surrounding yourself with experts and building a supportive network accelerates learning and personal development.
Balancing Health and Success: Entrepreneurs and leaders must prioritize their physical and mental well-being to maintain peak performance and balance.
Continuous Self-Improvement: Life-changing results require patience, consistent effort, and a commitment to overcoming setbacks.
This episode is packed with actionable insights and a story of transformation that underscores the importance of perseverance, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration or guidance on their journey to success.

Turning Pain into Purpose: Lisa Sugarman’s Journey in Mental Health Advocacy

In this powerful episode of The Mindful Journey, host Sushmitha Sai welcomes Lisa Sugarman, a mental health advocate and the creator of The Help Hub. Lisha shares her deeply personal story of loss, revealing how her father’s death by suicide shaped her purpose to support others facing mental health challenges. Together, they discuss the creation of The Help Hub, a vital resource for diverse communities, and explore the importance of grief, resilience, and mental health support. This conversation is a testament to the transformative power of turning pain into advocacy.
About the Guest:
Lisa Sugarman is a mental health advocate, crisis counselor, and the founder of The Help Hub, a comprehensive resource platform for mental health support. Her journey began after the loss of her father, which later inspired her to ensure no one feels alone in their struggles. Lisha’s work includes counseling with The Trevor Project and Samaritans, focusing on providing tailored resources for underrepresented communities. Her mission is to make mental health help accessible, personalized, and effective.
Reach: https://www.thehelphub.co/
Key Takeaways:
Transforming Grief into Advocacy:Lisha’s story highlights the potential to channel personal grief into purposeful action, showing how loss can inspire meaningful change.
The Importance of Community-Specific Resources:The Help Hub categorizes resources for specific groups, such as LGBTQ+ youth, veterans, and BIPOC communities, addressing their unique mental health needs.
Embracing Emotions to Heal:Lisha emphasizes the significance of allowing oneself to fully experience grief while making space for joy, facilitating healing over time.
The Role of Mental Health Professionals:Crisis counselors, therapists, and social workers play crucial roles in de-escalating crises, providing emotional support, and guiding individuals and families toward recovery.
Advocating for Accessible Mental Health Support:Through platforms like The Help Hub, mental health resources can become more accessible and tailored to diverse communities, making help just a click away.

Manifesting Your Best Life: A Spiritual Approach with Blair Abee

In this enlightening episode of The Mindful Journey, we delve into the profound world of spiritual manifestation with Blair Abee—an accomplished author, poet, and spiritual guide. Blair shares his unique perspective on manifestation, emphasizing a soulful approach that prioritizes alignment with higher consciousness over ego-driven desires. Discover the transformative potential of his "Best Possible Outcomes Process" and learn how to manifest a life of abundance and growth by tuning into your spiritual essence.
About the Guest:
Blair Abee is a visionary author and spiritual mentor renowned for his deep insights into the mysteries of the universe. His work bridges the realms of poetry, spirituality, and personal growth, offering practical tools for individuals seeking transformation. Blair's unique "Best Possible Outcomes Process" empowers listeners to turn over their desires to higher consciousness, cultivating a life aligned with their soul's purpose.
Reach: https://www.hicmeditation.com/
Key Takeaways:
The Essence of Spiritual Manifestation:
Spiritual manifestation involves aligning with higher consciousness to allow the universe to provide what is truly needed for your growth.
It emphasizes outcomes that serve your evolution rather than fulfilling ego-driven desires.
The "Best Possible Outcomes Process":
Ask for the best possible outcome in a generalized way.
Pause, breathe, and acknowledge a shift in your consciousness.
Thank your higher self or spirit for its participation in the process.
Practical Applications:
The process can be used for small needs, like finding a parking spot, or significant life goals, such as seeking a new job.
This method helps relinquish control and trust in the universe, fostering peace and clarity.
Why Generalization Matters:
Instead of specifying desires (e.g., a specific car or job), open yourself to the best outcome, which may exceed your expectations.
Gratitude and Connection:
Cultivating gratitude reinforces trust in the universe and strengthens your spiritual connection.

Walking Through Darkness: Birgitta Visser on Empowerment, Healing, and Light

In this transformative episode of The Mindful Journey, we sit down with Birgitta Visser, a soul empowerment coach, divine channel, and light language healer. Birgitta Visser shares her journey through childhood trauma, personal loss, and adversity, offering profound insights into embracing life’s challenges. Discover how mindfulness, spirituality, and self-awareness have guided her path to healing and empowerment. Tune in to uncover the tools and mindset shifts needed to reclaim your inner light and rise stronger from life’s darkest moments.
About the Guest:Birgitta Visser is a soul empowerment coach and a light language healer known for her extraordinary ability to channel divine energy. Having overcome severe bullying, personal losses, and toxic relationships, Birgitta Vissertransformed her struggles into stepping stones for personal growth. Today, she helps others uncover their true selves through mindfulness, spiritual alignment, and a focus on healing trauma. Her philosophy centers on personal accountability and the belief that each individual is their own hero.
Key Takeaways
The Power of Perspective: Shift from "Why is this happening to me?" to "Why is this happening for me?" to escape the victim mentality and embrace growth.
Healing as a Journey: Embrace the darkness to rediscover the light within yourself. Healing is a process of self-awareness and acceptance.
Mindfulness in Action: Living mindfully means being fully present, aware of your actions, and breaking free from the autopilot mode.
Lessons from Adversity: Every challenge, including relationships or losses, holds a lesson. Recognizing and learning from these is key to moving forward.
Your Own Superhero: Healing begins with personal accountability. Support from others is invaluable, but ultimately, transformation is self-led.
Resonant Healing Modalities: Choose healing practices that align with your soul, whether it's energy work like Reiki or other modalities that resonate with your spirit.
Join us as we explore how Birgitta Visser turned her pain into power and how you, too, can navigate life’s challenges with grace and strength.

Landscaping Your Life: Using Nature’s Wisdom for Clarity and Growth with Alison Smith

Welcome back to The Mindful Journey, where we dive deep into mindfulness, personal growth, and human consciousness. In this episode, we are joined by Alison Smith, a seasoned coach and author renowned for her unique approach to problem-solving through nature metaphors. Alison shares how we can leverage nature to understand our challenges, overcome overwhelm, and unlock creative solutions to life’s problems. She also explores the role of mindfulness in reducing stress and staying present. Tune in to discover actionable strategies for navigating life's complexities with the wisdom of the natural world.
About the Guest
Alison Smith is an accomplished coach, speaker, and author of the book "Can’t See the Wood for the Trees." Her distinctive coaching approach involves using metaphors from nature to help individuals find clarity, direction, and practical solutions to life's challenges. Alison's work has transformed the lives of many by encouraging them to explore patterns in nature as tools for personal and professional growth.
Reach: https://www.alisonsmith.co/
Key Takeaways
Nature as a Problem-Solving Tool
Everyday language often reflects nature-based metaphors (e.g., “stuck in a rut”). Alison teaches how to take these metaphors further to uncover solutions.
By visualizing challenges as natural landscapes, such as a forest or mountain, we can identify patterns and actionable insights.
Overcoming Overwhelm
Overwhelm often arises from trying to manage everything at once—focus on the now.
Simplify your journey by concentrating on getting from Point A to Point B without distractions.
Avoid mental “detours” that drain energy and reduce productivity.
Mindfulness Through Nature Walks
A mindful walk in nature fosters clarity and reduces stress.
Focus solely on observing your surroundings without overanalyzing or overthinking.
Reflect on your insights after the walk to gain a fresh perspective on your challenges.
Harnessing Creativity for Problem-Solving
Use creative visualization, such as imagining a problem as "baggage" or a "mountain," to reframe your perspective.
Temporarily set aside the story you tell yourself about a problem to discover new possibilities.
Practical Mindfulness Techniques
Attend to the present moment during nature walks.
Notice patterns, colors, and sounds to ground yourself in the now.
Use metaphors to distance yourself from stress and focus on actionable steps forward.
Embrace the power of nature as a guide in your personal and professional journey. Explore Alison Smith's work and her book "Can’t See the Wood for the Trees" to deepen your understanding of metaphor-based coaching and mindfulness.

From Fitness Beginnings to Transformative Living: Roman Fischer’s Guide to Health and Happiness

In this episode of The Mindful Journey, we delve into the inspiring story of Roman Fischer, a transformation coach and fitness enthusiast. From his initial reluctance toward fitness to becoming a motivational coach, Roman shares how his personal journey shaped his philosophy on health. He provides actionable tips on nutrition, staying consistent, and finding your “why” to sustain long-term wellness.
Listeners will gain insights into small, manageable changes they can make to their routines, setting the foundation for a healthier and happier lifestyle.
About the Guest:
Roman Fischer is a dedicated fitness enthusiast and transformation coach who turned his initial disinterest in fitness into a lifelong passion. Inspired by his younger brother, Roman began his fitness journey and soon experienced the mental and physical benefits firsthand. Today, he empowers others to achieve their goals by focusing on mindset, nutrition, and lifestyle adjustments. Roman’s holistic approach emphasizes sustainable habits and helping others tap into their own potential.
Key Takeaways:
Start Small and Build Gradually: Whether beginning a fitness routine or adopting healthier nutrition habits, small, consistent steps lead to sustainable progress.
Find Your 'Why': Anchoring your journey to a personal and meaningful purpose helps maintain motivation over time.
Nutrition as a Foundation: Prioritize whole, minimally processed foods, and focus on quality and portion control rather than fad diets.
Healthier Replacements: Transition from unhealthy foods or drinks by tapering off and replacing them with nutritious alternatives.
Fitness Is a Lifestyle, Not a Phase: View health and wellness as long-term commitments rather than temporary fixes.
One Key Learning:
Fitness and health transformations begin with understanding your purpose ("why") and making incremental, sustainable changes. By focusing on how you feel, rather than just how you look, you can cultivate a deeper connection to your well-being.

From Struggle to Vision: How John Gesumaria is Changing Mental Health Advocacy

In this episode of The Mindful Journey, we sit down with John Gesumaria, an inspiring social worker, mental health advocate, and the founder of Differently. John shares his deeply personal journey, from navigating mental health challenges as a child to becoming a champion for innovative support systems that go beyond traditional therapy. His experiences with depression, learning disabilities, and systemic mental health interventions shaped his unique perspective and purpose-driven career. Together, we explore the power of lived experiences in transforming the mental health field and creating inclusive, multi-faceted approaches to care.
About the Guest
John Gesumaria is a social worker, advocate, and founder of Differently, an initiative aimed at revolutionizing mental health support. Diagnosed with depression at a young age, John spent years navigating various treatments and programs, gaining firsthand experience of the gaps and challenges in mental health care. With a background in business and a passion for advocacy, he transitioned into social work, focusing on workplace mental health and developing innovative, scalable support systems. His work centers on the belief that therapy alone isn’t enough, and diverse, community-oriented approaches are crucial for meaningful change.
Reach: https://www.diffrently.net/
Key Takeaways
Lived Experience as a Catalyst: John’s journey highlights how personal struggles can serve as a foundation for impactful change in professional and social contexts.
The Power of Purpose: Embracing a sense of purpose can transform adversity into a driving force for success and innovation.
Beyond Traditional Therapy: Mental health support needs to encompass various approaches, including peer-led programs, workplace mental health advocacy, and accessible community resources.
Disclosing Mental Health at Work: Transparency about mental health can lead to systemic improvements but requires careful navigation to balance personal and professional outcomes.
Resilience Through Advocacy: Overcoming stigma and barriers starts with acknowledging vulnerabilities and turning them into opportunities for empowerment and support.
One Key Learning
Purpose amplifies resilience: John’s story emphasizes that finding purpose in personal struggles not only builds resilience but also creates a ripple effect, inspiring and supporting others on their journeys.

Mindfulness & Muscle: Transforming Life Through Fitness and Focus - Elijah Hines

In this inspiring episode of The Mindful Journey, host Sushmitha Sai delves into the profound intersection of mindfulness and physical fitness with Elijah Hines, a strength coach and personal trainer. Elijah shares his transformative journey, overcoming addiction and weight challenges, and how mindfulness has become the cornerstone of his holistic approach to health. From enhancing the mind-muscle connection to navigating life’s obstacles with mindfulness and positive thinking, this episode is packed with wisdom to help listeners integrate mindfulness into their fitness routines and daily lives.
About the Guest:
Elijah Hines is not just a strength coach and personal trainer but a dynamic advocate for holistic well-being. Having overcome addiction and significant weight struggles, Elijah brings a unique perspective to fitness, emphasizing the vital role of mindfulness and mental resilience. With over a decade of experience, he empowers individuals to achieve their physical, mental, and spiritual best through mindful practices and positive thinking.
Key Takeaways:
The Power of Mind-Muscle Connection: Mindfulness enhances physical performance by fostering a deeper connection to the body during workouts.
Navigating Cravings with Mindfulness: Pausing and reflecting on impulses helps build discipline and reshape habits.
Positive Thinking’s Impact: A "win-win" mindset transforms challenges into opportunities for growth and resilience.
Mindful Consistency in Fitness: Small, consistent actions rooted in mindfulness create sustainable health and wellness.
Practical Mindfulness Tips for Beginners: Starting with simple breathwork or mindful reflections can lead to profound changes.
One Key Learning:
Mindfulness is not just a mental exercise—it’s a transformative tool that can reshape how we approach fitness, overcome cravings, and view challenges, ultimately leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.