Thomas is officially in remission! After months of intense treatment, unexpected complications, and significant uncertainty, this milestone feels nothing short of miraculous. From bone marrow once 94% leukemia cells to being cancer-free, this episode reveals how this journey has transformed our perspective on life and time.

Join us as we share the full story behind our recent absence, including dealing with Graft Versus Host Disease (GVHD), unexpected ER visits, and the discovery of a brain aneurysm and aortic regurgitation. Amidst these challenges, we found profound joy in the smallest moments—a sunny morning, a good cup of coffee, or simply holding hands during a walk. We'll also dive into Brené Brown's "foreboding joy" and how our faith allows us to hold both deep happiness and lingering uncertainty simultaneously.

This isn't a return to our old normal, but a powerful step into a new one. We're committed to carrying forward the lessons learned: practicing mindfulness, finding joy in everyday miracles, and leaning on faith through all of life's ups and downs.

Key Takeaways:

• Practice Mindfulness: Cultivate presence to strengthen your prefrontal cortex.
• Find Joy in Small Moments: Actively counter "hedonic adaptation" by appreciating everyday pleasures.
• Acknowledge Vulnerability in Happiness: Embrace "foreboding joy" by focusing on gratitude.
• Lean on Faith Through Uncertainty: Discover how faith can provide a foundation in challenging times.

Resources & Mentions:

• Brené Brown: Learn more about "foreboding joy" in Daring Greatly
• Bob Goff: Author of Undistracted
• Connect with us on Instagram 📱
• Subscribe to our new YouTube channel for visuals from our journey, behind-the-scenes photos, and extra content! 🎥

Call to Action:

If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! Share this episode with someone who needs a renewed sense of hope today.

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In this episode, we draw parallels between our personal journey and the epic tale of "The Lord of the Rings," exploring how stories can inspire resilience. We discuss building supportive fellowships, embracing life's challenges, and choosing how to respond to uncertainty.

Discover how J.R.R. Tolkien's classic series offers insights into navigating personal trials, mirroring Thomas's own journey. Learn practical strategies for cultivating strong relationships, reframing hardships, and finding meaning in difficult times. We explore the power of inspiration in literature and art, focusing on understanding your narrative and finding strength in shared experiences.

Key Takeaways:

• Building your "fellowship": Cultivating supportive relationships and understanding your personal narrative.
• Embracing the "perilous path": Reframing challenges as opportunities for growth.
• Choosing your response: Finding agency and meaning in difficult circumstances.

Additional Resources:

• Connect with us on Instagram 📱
• Listen to our episode about emotional agility

Watch this episode on YouTube and subscribe to our new YouTube channel for visuals from our journey, behind-the-scenes photos, and extra content! 🎥

Send us a text

Watch this episode on YouTube and subscribe to our new YouTube channel for visuals from our journey, behind-the-scenes photos, and extra content! 🎥

Episode Summary

In Episode 8 of The Brain It On! Podcast, Lindsey and Thomas explore the power of celebrating small wins and taking things one step at a time, especially when navigating life's biggest challenges. This episode offers a deeply personal look at Thomas's journey, sharing how these principles have helped him and Lindsey navigate the complexities of his experience.

We feature a moving conversation with Thomas's oncology nurse, Daniel, who provides invaluable insights into the importance of acknowledging every step forward, no matter how small. Daniel's wisdom highlights how celebrating these seemingly minor milestones can significantly impact morale and overall well-being.

Learn how acknowledging progress, even in small increments, can trigger the release of dopamine, the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation, effectively reinforcing positive behavior and fueling resilience. We discuss how breaking down overwhelming goals into smaller, more manageable steps can reduce anxiety and increase motivation, making even the most daunting tasks feel achievable.

Key Takeaways:

• Celebrating small wins: Why acknowledging progress, no matter how small, is crucial for maintaining motivation and fostering resilience.
• Taking things one step at a time: Practical strategies for breaking down overwhelming goals into manageable steps.
• Strengthening your support system: The importance of social connection and how to build a strong network of support.
• Looking back and celebrating progress: How to reflect on your journey and acknowledge how far you've come.
• Navigating the rollercoaster of challenges: How to embrace the ups and downs and find stability amidst change.

Additional Resources:

• Connect with us on Instagram 📱
• Motivational Posters on Amazon

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In this episode we explore how to navigate life's challenges while keeping love and connection strong. We open up about Thomas's recent cancer relapse and the difficult journey we've been on, sharing the ups and downs, the fears, and the moments of hope.

We also dive into the power of the 5:1 ratio, a concept from relationship expert John Gottman, which highlights the importance of balancing positive and negative interactions, especially during tough times. This ratio—five positive interactions for every negative one—is crucial for maintaining connection and resilience in any relationship.

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Laughter: Finding humor in difficult situations and making time for fun can be incredibly healing.
• The Importance of Touch: Physical touch releases oxytocin and strengthens connection. We share the power of the 20-second hug and the "Three Breath Hug."
• Open Communication: Honest and vulnerable communication is essential for navigating challenges together.

Join us for an honest and hopeful conversation about love, resilience, and finding light in even the darkest of times. We hope our story and the practical tips we share will offer support and inspiration for your own relationships.

Additional Resources:

• Explore John Gottman's resources at The Gottman Institute
• Check out The Brain it On Instagram page for more tips and pictures of our medical journey
• Listen to our previous podcast episodes

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Ever experienced the unexpected joy of a thoughtful gesture? That’s exactly what happened when my brother took it upon himself to service and detail Thomas' car, reminding us of how small acts of kindness can profoundly touch our lives. We also delve into the story of Thomas' coworker Mistie, who surprised us with a generous bag of gifts from his fellow nurses, illustrating the strength and support of a community that stands together, even from afar. These heartfelt stories set a warm stage for our reflection on kindness and its power to inspire a wave of positivity.

As we uncover the ripple effect of kindness, we take you on a journey through inspiring anecdotes—like the comforting words of a nurse or a ukulele player's spontaneous hallway performance—that underscore the significance of making others feel valued and appreciated. We’re challenging you to reach out to someone with a message of gratitude, and see how this simple act can invigorate not only them but also you. These stories highlight how kindness can multiply, enhancing our lives in ways we might not have anticipated.

In a world increasingly dominated by technology, we reflect on the balance between digital convenience and genuine human connection. Despite the efficiency of mobile banking or self-checkout, we discuss the unique joy found in engaging with others, even if just through a smile or a simple interaction. Yet, when used thoughtfully, technology can also strengthen connections, as seen in our family FaceTime tradition that brings us closer despite distances. Supported by brain science, we explore how kindness is contagious and can boost happiness, urging us all to embrace the simple yet powerful acts of compassion in everyday life.

Additional Resources:
•Check out The Brain it On instagram page for more tips and pictures of our medical journey

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Join me, Lindsey, on this solo episode as I navigate the intense world of emotions and brain health, sharing a personal update on my husband Thomas’s ongoing health journey. Drawing strength from emotions researcher Susan David, I reveal how understanding emotions can transform those tough days into opportunities for resilience. Learn research-backed techniques to differentiate your identity from your emotional states, bringing a new perspective to life's challenges.

As a support person to a loved one battling cancer, I've faced a whirlwind of emotions—sadness, anxiety, and everything in between. By recounting my experiences and drawing inspiration from Dr. Tina Payne Bryson, I’ll guide you through the process of naming emotions to help the brain's emotional and rational parts work together. Discover practical strategies like "Name it to Tame it" to manage emotional turbulence and explore how emotions can shine a light on personal values and boundaries, offering a path to growth and healing.

Lastly, we shift focus to positive practices that enhance mental well-being. From the joy of animal therapy and reminiscing on happy memories to the vital role of sunlight and physical activity, embrace the transformative power of simple habits. I share how walking with family and listening to uplifting music have become cornerstones in my journey to better mental health, highlighting how social connections and optimistic anticipation can combat loneliness and foster a hopeful outlook. Join me in crafting a life filled with motivation and joy, amidst the inevitable ups and downs.

Additional Resources:
•Check out The Brain it On instagram page for more tips and pictures of our medical journey

Send us a text

In this episode, we delve into the profound impact of self-compassion on navigating life's challenges, particularly during times of illness and recovery. We explore the concept of "informed" versus "prepared," highlighting the often significant gap between cognitive understanding and emotional experience.

Through Thomas' experience following the days after his bone marrow transplant, we discuss the importance of setting realistic goals and reality checking expectations. Drawing on Thomas's expertise as a nurse, we explore the complexities of medical experiences, highlighting the difference between "typical" and "normal" outcomes. We also delve into the power of the mind and the science of neuroplasticity, demonstrating how positive thinking and mindfulness can significantly impact our overall well-being.

While information and preparation are essential tools for navigating life's challenges, they cannot fully shield us from the emotional and physical realities of difficult experiences. By understanding the distinction between being informed and being prepared, we can cultivate self-compassion, embrace uncertainty, and ultimately find greater peace and resilience.

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of understanding the gap between being informed and being prepared for challenging life events
• The power of positive thinking in navigating difficult times
• The significance of self-compassion and setting realistic expectations
• The role of neuroplasticity in shaping our experiences and promoting resilience

Additional Resources:

• Check out The Brain it On instagram page for more tips and pictures of our medical journey
• Listen to our previous podcast episodes

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In this episode, we explore the profound impact of language on our healing journey. By shifting our focus from "pain" to "discomfort," we can rewire our brains and empower ourselves to manage physical challenges more effectively. We delve into the science of psychoneuroimmunology, examining how our thoughts and emotions influence our physical health.

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Language: We discuss how changing the way we talk about pain can alter our perception and response to discomfort.
• The Science of Healing: We explore the intricate connection between our minds and bodies, highlighting the role of the nervous system and immune system in the healing process.
• Practical Strategies for Managing Discomfort: We offer practical tips and techniques, such as mindfulness, breathing exercises, and self-compassion, to help you navigate discomfort with greater ease.
• The Importance of Patient-Centered Care: We emphasize the need for healthcare providers to listen to patients' experiences and tailor treatment plans to individual needs.
• Reframing Pain for Children: We share strategies for helping children understand and manage discomfort in a compassionate and age-appropriate way.

Additional Resources:

• Download the "Coping with Discomfort" resource
• Check out our breathing videos for kids
• Listen to The PAWsitive Choices Podcast

Call to Action:

• Share this episode with someone who may benefit from a new perspective on pain.
• Practice mindfulness and self-compassion daily.
• Follow us on instagram for more resources and behind-the-scenes pictures and videos.

By reframing our understanding of pain, we can unlock our innate healing potential and live a more fulfilling life.

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