The Connected Community: Exploring Possibility

Hypnosis for Anxiety and Trauma Recovery

In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, host Nicky Yazbeck sits down with Craig Meriwether, a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, Medical Hypnosis Specialist, and founder of Arizona Integrative Hypnotherapy. With over 12 years of experience, Craig has worked with a diverse range of individuals, from veterans with PTSD and cancer patients managing pain to entrepreneurs, athletes, and children facing anxiety and trauma. His unique approach to healing combines clinical hypnotherapy and neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) to help people overcome deep-seated emotional blocks and limiting beliefs, empowering them to reach their full potential.
 
Craig begins by explaining the nature of hypnosis, dispelling common myths and clarifying the difference between clinical hypnotherapy and stage hypnosis. He emphasizes that the hypnotic state is a natural experience everyone enters regularly, often without realizing it—whether it’s daydreaming, becoming absorbed in a book, or drifting off before sleep. According to Craig, hypnosis taps into this natural state, allowing individuals to access their subconscious mind, where deep healing can occur.
 
The discussion delves into how hypnosis can be a powerful tool for releasing trauma and managing anxiety. Craig shares his insights on the role of intention and imagination in hypnosis, highlighting how the mind’s focus during these states can facilitate healing. He outlines practical techniques for stress management, including mindfulness practices and visualization exercises, which can help individuals rewire negative thought patterns and promote emotional resilience.
 
Craig emphasizes that the subconscious mind holds immense power for self-healing, and with the right tools, individuals can learn to harness this potential to transform their lives. The episode concludes with a discussion on how hypnosis can safely address trauma without re-traumatization, offering a gentle yet effective pathway to recovery.
 
Takeaways:
Hypnosis is a method for releasing trauma and managing anxiety.
The hypnotic state is a natural experience everyone goes through daily.
Intention plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of hypnosis.
People often hypnotize themselves without realizing it.
Mindfulness can help break negative thought patterns.
Self-hugging can stimulate the release of oxytocin and improve mood.
Visualization techniques can aid in overcoming fears and anxieties.
Hypnosis can be a safe way to address trauma without re-traumatization.
The subconscious mind is powerful and can facilitate self-healing.
Practicing positive mental imagery can rewire the brain for success.
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
 
Connect with Craig Meriwether CHT-CMS
https://arizonaintegrativehypnotherapy.com/l
https://aceanytest.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@aceanytest
https://www.facebook.com/AceAnyTest
https://www.instagram.com/ace_any_test/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-meriwether-44286718b/
 
Keywords:  hypnosis, trauma healing, neuro-linguistic programming, anxiety management, self-healing, clinical hypnotherapy, medical hypnosis, mental rehearsal, emotional well-being, subconscious mind

The Keys to Successfully Holding Groups

In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, host Nicky Yazbeck welcomes Julia Davis, a yoga teacher, author, and expert in circle holding. Together, they explore the art and significance of circle holding, discussing its role in fostering community, connection, and personal growth. Julia shares practical tips on creating successful circles, managing group dynamics, and ensuring inclusivity for all participants. From handling dominant personalities to using silence as a tool, the conversation is filled with valuable insights for those looking to start or enhance their circle-holding practice. Julia also highlights the power of rituals and rites of passage, drawing from her years of experience in the yoga community and her passion for building supportive spaces. Julia also provides practical advice for those looking to start their own circles and emphasizes the value of community and connection in personal growth.
 
Takeaways:
Circle holding is about creating intentional spaces for sharing.
Successful circles require clear intentions and guidelines.
Managing dominant personalities is crucial for inclusivity.
Time management is essential for effective circle facilitation.
Inclusivity can enhance the experience for all participants.
Starting your own circle can be empowering and fulfilling.
Silence can be a powerful tool in group settings.
Activities can help lift quieter voices in circles.
It's important to create a safe space for vulnerability.
You don't need special skills to start a circle.
 
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Julia:
https://www.circleholding.org/
https://www.yogateachersforum.org/
https://www.instagram.com/circle_holding_/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-davis-37376b45/
https://www.facebook.com/julia.davis.5815
 
 
 
 
Keywords: Circle Holding, Community, Inclusivity, Group Dynamics, Facilitation, Personal Growth, Support Groups, Emotional Safety, Connection

Unlocking the Power of EMDR Therapy

In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, host Nicky Yazbeck speaks with Natalie Jovanic, a Master Therapeutic Counselor, trauma recovery coach, author, and podcast host. Together, they delve into the powerful world of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy. Natalie explains how EMDR can be a transformative tool for trauma recovery and loss integration, emphasizing the need for safety and trauma-informed care before starting the process.
 
They also explore the importance of parts work and somatic approaches, which help individuals reconnect with fragmented parts of themselves, especially in the context of childhood trauma. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how trauma can vary between individuals and the crucial role of a trusting, empowering therapist-client relationship.
 
Key Takeaways:
   •   EMDR is a powerful tool for trauma and loss, but pre-work and safety are essential.
   •   Parts work helps integrate fragmented experiences from trauma.
   •   Trauma-informed care is critical for effective healing.
   •   Grounding techniques and self-soothing practices support nervous system regulation.
  
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Natalie :
https://brighthorizontherapies.com/
https://www.instagram.com/brighthorizontherapies/
https://www.facebook.com/BrightHorizonTherapies/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliejovanic/
 
 
 
Keywords: EMDR, trauma therapy, parts work, mental health, healing, trauma-informed care, emotional regulation, counseling, personal stories, mental health resources

Job Burnout: Creating Transitions with Ease

In this episode, host Nicky Yazbeck is joined by Dr. Jesseca Tighe, a career and leadership coach with over 20 years of experience as a healthcare executive. Dr. Tighe, who holds a Ph.D. in Psychology, shares her expertise on burnout, helping leaders and professionals transition through tough career phases, rediscover vitality, and find purpose. Together, Nicky and Dr. Tighe break down the complexities of burnout—an official ICD-11 diagnosis—and discuss how recognizing and addressing it can lead to a more fulfilling career and life.
 
The conversation covers the three types of burnout (frenetic, under-challenged, and worn-out), signs and symptoms to watch for, and how fear and stress manifest in the body. Dr. Tighe highlights the importance of creating boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and navigating career changes with courage. The episode also explores how a “dopamine detox” can help professionals manage time more effectively and reduce stress.
 
Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their career satisfaction, take bold steps toward what brings them fulfillment, and establish non-negotiable boundaries for a healthier work-life balance.
 
 
Takeaways:
Burnout has an ICD-11 diagnosis and is classified as an occupational phenomenon.
There are three types of burnout: frenetic, under-challenged, and worn out.
Work cultures often reward high levels of stress and imbalance.
Creating boundaries is essential for managing work-life balance.
Burnout symptoms include exhaustion, mood changes, and physical ailments.
Self-care is crucial for healing from burnout.
Dopamine detox can help manage time and reduce stress.
Fear can be a motivating factor in making career changes.
It's important to assess what is not working in your career.
Finding fulfillment often requires moving towards something new rather than away from something old.
 
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Jesseca:
www.soulutionsforhealth.com
https://www.facebook.com/jessecatighe
 https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesseca-tighe
 
 
Keywords: burnout, career change, work-life balance, self-care, mental health, coaching, stress management, emotional processing, leadership, healthcare
 

Using the Enneagram to Improve Your Relationships

In this episode, host Nicky Yazbeck and guest Christina Granahan, an Enneagram-informed therapist, coach, and licensed social worker, explore the Enneagram as a powerful tool for self-awareness, personal growth, and improving relationships. Christina explains how the Enneagram offers a unique framework for understanding unconscious behaviors, emphasizing how knowing your type can support emotional intelligence and stress management.
 
Listeners will learn about the Enneagram's nine personality types, each with its own strengths and challenges, and how tapping into these insights can lead to personal and spiritual healing. The episode also delves into the role of shadow work in the Enneagram, helping us confront the parts of ourselves we tend to hide or overlook.
 
Christina encourages listeners to take the Enneagram test, learn about their energy centers, and reflect on how understanding these aspects can improve not only their relationships but also their overall well-being.
 
Takeaways:
 
The Enneagram is a tool for self-discovery and understanding others.
We are born with a type that influences our personality.
Personal growth often comes from exploring our shadows.
The Enneagram can reveal our blind spots and help us grow.
Understanding our type can improve our relationships.
Each type has its strengths and challenges that can be addressed through awareness.
Self-honesty is crucial for effective use of the Enneagram.
The Enneagram helps us see the whole truth of our experiences.
Engaging with the Enneagram can lead to deeper connections with ourselves and others.
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Christina:
https://christinagranahan.com/
 https://www.instagram.com/granahancoaching/
 https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinagranahan/
 
 
 
 
Keywords: Enneagram, personality types, self-discovery, personal growth, relationships, coaching, psychology, spiritual tool, emotional intelligence, self-awareness

What Relationship Attachment Style Do You Have?

Nicky Yazbeck, host, speaks with Valerie Rubin, a rapid transformational therapist specializing in anxious attachment, discusses the different attachment styles and their impact on relationships. She explains that anxious attachment can lead to anxiety, fear of abandonment, and difficulty trusting partners. Other attachment styles include secure attachment, fearful avoidant, and dismissive avoidant. Valerie focuses on anxious attachment because it is a common issue that affects relationships. She helps clients heal their attachment wounds, regulate their nervous systems, and develop a secure attachment style. Healing the abandonment wound is crucial for individuals to feel safe and confident in relationships. In this conversation, Valerie Rubin and Nicky Yazbeck discuss techniques for managing anxiety and building self-confidence. Valerie explains that when experiencing high levels of anxiety, it's important to shake out the body and engage in physical activities rather than trying to meditate or journal. She emphasizes the importance of connecting with the body and identifying sensations and emotions when feeling anxious. Valerie also introduces the concept of brain spotting, a technique that helps locate and release trauma memories stored in the body. They also discuss the importance of building self-esteem and confidence through self-care and keeping promises to oneself.
 
 
Takeaways:
Anxious attachment can lead to anxiety, fear of abandonment, and difficulty trusting partners.
Healing the abandonment wound is crucial for individuals to feel safe and confident in relationships.
Regulating the nervous system and developing body-based tools can help individuals move out of anxious states.
Developing a secure attachment style allows individuals to have healthier and more fulfilling relationships.
When experiencing high levels of anxiety, engage in physical activities to shake out the body and release tension.
Connect with your body and identify sensations and emotions when feeling anxious.
Brain spotting is a technique that helps locate and release trauma memories stored in the body.
Building self-esteem and confidence involves unlearning false beliefs and keeping promises to oneself.
Self-care and self-trust are essential for building confidence and developing a secure attachment style.
 
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Valerie:
https://spotify.link/WZju7ssazJb
https://www.instagram.com/healwithval/?hl=en
https://m.facebook.com/valerie.rubin.39/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerierubin
 
 
 
Keywords: attachment styles, anxious attachment, secure attachment, fearful avoidant, dismissive avoidant, healing attachment wounds, regulating nervous system, secure relationships, anxiety, self-confidence, body connection, sensations, emotions, brain spotting, trauma healing, self-esteem, self-care
 

Choosing an Alcohol Free Life

In this episode, host Nicky Yazbeck sits down with Laura Valvasori, a business and well-being mentor, Certified Emotion Code Practitioner, and creator of the “Still Me, But Alcohol-Free” program. Laura shares her personal journey of deciding to go alcohol-free in her mid-40s after recognizing the negative effects alcohol was having on her health, including sleep, gut health, and mental clarity.
 
The conversation explores the challenges of navigating social situations in a culture that normalizes drinking and highlights the mental clarity and overall well-being that can come from stepping away from alcohol. Laura explains how choosing to go alcohol-free eliminates the constant mental debate around drinking, while also reducing stress. She emphasizes that this decision is not necessarily about giving up alcohol for good but about experimenting with an alcohol-free lifestyle to see how it feels.
 
By taking a break from alcohol, individuals can gain clarity and make an informed choice about whether they wish to moderate, withhold, or continue drinking in the future. The episode encourages listeners to explore how alcohol affects their body, mind, and social life, and to discover what feels best for their personal well-being.
 
Nicky and Laura also discuss the lesser-known risks of alcohol, including its strong link to breast cancer in women, and how even moderate consumption can have lasting effects on health. Laura underscores that while moderation works for some, the experience of going alcohol-free offers a fresh perspective on one's relationship with alcohol and its impact on physical and emotional health.
 
This thoughtful and practical discussion empowers listeners to reflect on their habits and make informed decisions about alcohol use based on their own experiences.
 
 
Takeaways:
Going alcohol-free can have positive effects on sleep and overall well-being.
Navigating social situations without alcohol can be challenging but is possible with the right mindset.
Choosing to go completely alcohol-free eliminates the need to constantly make decisions about drinking and reduces mental chatter.
Alcohol can impact various systems in the body, including sleep and digestion.
Having a supportive partner can make the transition to an alcohol-free lifestyle easier.
Alcohol use is strongly linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.
Alcohol is a known carcinogen and can have negative effects on sleep and overall health.
Taking a break from alcohol can help restore gut health and mental clarity.
Mindset and substitutes are key to navigating social situations without alcohol.
It is possible to change our beliefs and create new experiences around alcohol.
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Laura:
www.lauravalvasori.ca
https://www.instagram.com/laura_valvasori/
https://www.facebook.com/laura.valvasori.3me@lauravalvasori.com
 
 
**Keywords:** 
alcohol-free lifestyle, well-being, sleep, relationships, alcohol, gut health, mental clarity, social situations, mindset,
 

Emotional Eating: How to Break Free for Good

In this episode, host Nicky Yazbeck sits down with Madeleine Karlsson, an Integrative Nutrition and Health Coach, Pilates Instructor, Yoga & Meditation Teacher, and a two-time TEDx speaker. Madeleine shares her personal journey overcoming emotional eating and dives deep into why we turn to food for comfort, the biochemical and emotional triggers behind emotional eating, and how to finally break free from the cycle.
 
Throughout the episode, Madeleine discusses the importance of understanding our emotional triggers and the role of mindfulness in cultivating a healthier relationship with food. She explores common myths surrounding dieting and weight loss and offers practical tips for combating sugar and salt cravings. The conversation touches on the significance of nutrient-dense meals, sleep, and stress management in stabilizing blood sugar levels and avoiding emotional eating.
 
Listeners will learn how to shift away from restrictive dieting, practice self-compassion, and make lasting changes that nourish both body and mind. Madeleine also emphasizes the value of understanding emotional eating as more than just a food issue, but a reflection of unmet emotional needs.
 
Tune in to learn how to break free from emotional eating and build a healthier, more balanced relationship with food.
 
 
Takeaways:
Emotional eating is often a result of using food as compensation or a crutch to deal with uncomfortable emotions.
Understanding the impact of food on our bodies and prioritizing nutrient-dense meals can help reduce cravings and emotional eating.
Improving the quality and quantity of sleep is crucial for regulating hunger hormones and reducing emotional eating.
Mindful eating, including chewing each bite thoroughly and eating slowly, can help improve digestion and prevent overeating.
Breaking the cycle of emotional eating requires addressing the underlying emotional triggers and finding healthier ways to cope with emotions. Emotional eating is often a result of seeking comfort and nourishment from food to fill a void in other areas of life.
Breaking free from emotional eating requires understanding and addressing the underlying emotions and triggers.
Diets and restrictive eating are not sustainable or effective for long-term weight loss.
Improving the quality of food and nourishing the body with nutrient-dense meals can naturally reduce hunger and support weight management.
Self-compassion, learning from mistakes, and seeking support are essential for maintaining a healthy relationship with food.
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Madeline:
https://www.fitbodyfreshmind.com/breakfreefromemotionaleating
https://www.fitbodyfreshmind.com/fit-body-fresh-mind-by-maddy-karlsson-sale
https://www.instagram.com/maddykarlsson/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/madeleine-karlsson-fitbodyfreshmind/
https://www.facebook.com/fitbodyfreshmindmaddy
 
Keywords: emotional eating, sugar addiction, cravings, food addiction, mindful eating, nutrient density, gut health, emotional eating, comfort eating, food cravings, dieting, weight loss, nutrition, self-compassion, holistic approach
 
 
 
 
 

How to Optimize our Brain Health

In this  episode, host Nicky Yazbeck delves into the fascinating world of brain health with Nicola Hunt, a Specialist in Neurological and Vestibular Physiotherapy, educator, and certified brain health coach. With over 20 years of experience working with individuals recovering from brain injuries, Nicola offers a wealth of knowledge on how to optimize our brain health through sleep and lifestyle choices.
 
Throughout the conversation, Nicola emphasizes the critical role of sleep in maintaining and enhancing brain function. She breaks down the stages of sleep and their essential contributions to brain health, particularly in restorative processes and memory consolidation. Nicola also addresses common sleep disruptions and offers practical tips to improve sleep hygiene. This includes the importance of maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a calming bedtime routine, and avoiding sleep disruptors like caffeine and alcohol.
 
Nicola dispels myths about sleep, particularly the misconception that teenagers are just lazy when they stay up late and sleep in. She explains the natural circadian rhythm shifts that occur during adolescence and underscores the importance of adequate sleep for their developing brains. Nicola also provides strategies for coping with sleep challenges caused by travel and jet lag, stressing the need to align with the local time as quickly as possible.
 
In addition to sleep, Nicola introduces the LNMNOP principles—Love and social connection, Movement, Nature, Novelty, Omega-3 supplementation, and Pauses—as vital components for optimizing brain health. These principles, coupled with mindfulness practices like meditation and yoga, can significantly enhance brain function and overall well-being.
 
This episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone looking to improve their brain health, whether through better sleep habits, mindful living, or understanding the science behind how our brains work. Nicola’s expert advice is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their cognitive performance and maintain a healthy brain throughout their life.
 
Takeaways:
Optimizing brain health involves considering factors that encourage neuroplasticity, such as social connection and overall well-being.
Sleep is crucial for brain health and overall well-being, as it allows the body and brain to recover and prepare for the next day.
There are different stages of sleep, each with its own function, including light sleep, deep sleep, and REM sleep.
Good sleep hygiene habits, such as consistent bedtimes, wind-down routines, and avoiding stimulants, can promote better sleep quality.
Alcohol and certain medications can disrupt sleep patterns and reduce the amount of REM sleep.
When traveling to different time zones, adjusting to the local time as soon as possible can help regulate sleep patterns.
Napping before 2 o'clock in the afternoon can provide a boost without interfering with nighttime sleep.
Blue light from screens may not directly interfere with falling asleep, but it can lead to sleep procrastination.
Teenagers have a shifted circadian rhythm and naturally fall asleep later, but they still need sufficient sleep.
Sleep deprivation can lead to short-term effects like brain fog and memory problems, as well as long-term risks to brain health.
Optimizing brain health involves prioritizing sleep, love and social connection, movement, time in nature, novelty, Omega-3 supplementation, and taking pauses throughout the day.
 
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Nicola:
https://www.optimumresults.co.uk/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-hunt-physiocare-rehab/
https://www.facebook.com/p/Optimum-Results-100063675953430/

The Detrimental Impact of Sugar on our Body

In this episode, host Nicky Yazbeck is joined by Julie Alsaker, a dedicated concierge holistic practitioner with nearly thirty years of experience in the realm of natural health. Julie's journey into holistic wellness began at the age of 15, fueled by her personal battle with chronic illness and her passion for discovering natural ways to heal the body. Her extensive background as a medical interpreter, coupled with advanced studies in genetics and functional blood analysis, has given her a unique perspective on health that goes beyond conventional naturopathy.
 
Julie delves deep into the detrimental impact of sugar on the body, arguing that sugar isn’t just harmful in moderation—it should be cut out entirely for optimal health. She explains the complex physiological and neurochemical effects of sugar, highlighting how it weakens the immune system, disrupts gut health, and negatively affects emotional well-being. Julie also explores the role genetics play in individual responses to sugar, revealing why some people are more susceptible to sugar addiction and its harmful effects.
 
Throughout the conversation, Julie debunks common myths about sugar, such as the idea that moderation is a viable strategy, and stresses that true wellness requires a radical approach to cutting out sugar. She also provides insights into healthier alternatives, such as the benefits of sourdough bread for those with gluten sensitivity, and the potential disease-preventing properties of local honey compared to refined sugars.
 
Julie emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body’s systems and the importance of addressing underlying issues to achieve overall wellness. By understanding the molecular structure of food and how it impacts the body, listeners can make more informed choices about what they consume. The episode closes with practical advice on how to shift your mindset away from sugar reliance, offering alternative ways to celebrate and reward yourself without harmful sweets.
 
Listeners will come away from this episode with a comprehensive understanding of the dangers of sugar, practical steps to reduce its presence in their diets, and a renewed commitment to pursuing extraordinary health as a foundation for a life of radical freedom.
 
Takeaways:
Sugar has a detrimental impact on the body, including suppressing the immune system and affecting gut health.
Cutting out sugar can lead to significant improvements in symptoms, such as joint pain, within a couple of weeks.
Genetics play a role in individual responses to sugar, with some people being more susceptible to cravings and negative effects.
Sourdough bread can be a healthier option for those with gluten sensitivity or thyroid issues.
Addressing underlying issues and taking a holistic approach to health is essential for overall wellness.
Local honey can have different disease prevention impacts compared to honey from far away.
Moderation is a myth when it comes to sugar; it can lead to cravings and the consumption of more ultra-processed foods.
There are alternative ways to celebrate and reward without relying on sugar.
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Julie:
Website: www.luxbioanalytics.com
Facebook and Instagram: @julie.alsaker
Linkedin: @julie-alsaker
 
 
 
Keywords: sugar, chronic illness, natural healing, processed foods, immune system, gut health, emotional well-being, genetics, sourdough bread, carbohydrate consumption, bodily systems, overall wellness, types of sugar, molecular structure, local honey, refined sugar, sugar myths,