If currently experiencing any thoughts of self-harm or suicide, it is imperative to seek out medical help immediately.
Recognize and actively work to break cycles of generational pain and trauma, aiming to provide a different experience for your children and foster a legacy of emotional health.
Understand that forgiveness is primarily a gift to oneself, releasing the burden of anger, pain, and resentment towards others, which can profoundly affect one’s well-being and perception of the world.
Engage with plant medicines like ayahuasca under proper guidance and setting to facilitate deep self-reflection, uncover childhood issues, recognize destructive patterns, and foster lasting shifts in self-perception and behavior. (Note: The substances discussed are illegal and carry physical, physiological, psychological, and legal risks; this information is purely for informational purposes.)
If considering psychedelics, approach them with clear intention, respect, and reverence for the plants, ensuring a safe and appropriate environment, as this can facilitate deep self-discovery and lasting inner peace. (Note: The substances discussed are illegal and carry physical, physiological, psychological, and legal risks; this information is purely for informational purposes.)
When facing overwhelming or emotionally unbearable experiences, practice surrendering to the moment and letting go of the desire to control or change it, as this can be a pathway to acceptance and eventual relief.
Recognize that depression can stem from a feeling of hopelessness and unaddressed childhood trauma, and actively seek ways to process and heal these underlying emotional pains.
Practice slow breathing techniques (e.g., 2:1 exhale to inhale, 4-7-8, or 10-10-10) upon waking and before bed to quiet negative ‘monkey mind’ chatter, control anxiety, and improve sleep.
After experiencing a low point, intentionally create distance from detrimental social environments (e.g., party atmosphere) and focus on setting new, meaningful goals to foster personal growth and shift perspective.
To achieve physical gains and improve well-being, prioritize getting adequate sleep and eating well, focusing on sufficient protein and calories.
Recognize the overwhelming volume of information available and prioritize seeking out highly curated and detailed resources, such as comprehensive show notes, to make better decisions and improve life quality.
Develop compassion for others by recognizing that everyone navigates their own unique life path and learns lessons at their own pace, and it’s not one’s place to judge or dictate their journey.
In parenting, foster confidence (e.g., through martial arts), allow children to pursue their own interests, and consider reconnecting them to ancestral roots through experiences like wilderness survival camps or guided plant medicine rites of passage with trusted elders.
Encourage children, especially those heavily engaged with screens, to unplug and engage in experiences that help them see the ‘big picture’ and reconnect with what truly matters beyond immediate digital gratification.
When considering plant medicine ceremonies, thoroughly vet practitioners to ensure they are experienced and reputable (‘black belts’), as improper guidance can lead to lasting psychological damage.
Consider exploring holistic supplementation, such as fish oil, for brain health, as suggested by a psychiatrist as an alternative to pharmaceutical interventions.
Engage in physical activities like martial arts to provide camaraderie, physical interaction, continuous learning, and a healthy outlet for emotional release and stress.
When training in high-impact sports, adopt a mindful and technical approach to sparring, focusing on skill development rather than constantly going ‘full-go’ to minimize injury risk and promote longevity.
Recognize that injury avoidance is a critical, underappreciated aspect of professional sports, and focus on preservation, especially during the season, to extend one’s career.
Realistically assess the likelihood of achieving top-tier career goals (e.g., NFL) and be prepared to pivot or adjust expectations if the path becomes unlikely, prioritizing playing at the highest possible level if that’s the core motivation.
Develop a coachable mindset, being open to absorbing as much knowledge and guidance as possible from experienced mentors to rapidly acquire and improve new skills.
Focus on academic subjects like psychology, sociology, and communication that feel personally relevant and applicable to life, as these can provide lasting value and engagement.
Appreciate and learn practical skills like working with your hands (e.g., car maintenance, construction) as they can be enjoyable, well-paying, and provide useful life knowledge.
Understand that sometimes separation in relationships, even divorce, can lead to a deeper sense of peace and improved well-being for all involved if communication is consistently dysfunctional.
Be aware that anti-anxiety medications provide temporary relief, but the underlying, unworked-through issues will resurface once the medication is stopped, highlighting the need to address root causes.
Approach psychiatric medications with discernment, considering personal and family experiences, and communicate openly with your psychiatrist if a prescribed medication significantly alters your personality or emotional range in undesirable ways.
Understand that substances like anabolic steroids or alcohol tend to amplify pre-existing personality traits (e.g., anger, kindness) rather than creating new ones, much like money amplifies a person’s inherent nature.
Engage in rituals like traditional sweat lodges before significant endeavors (e.g., fight camp) to set intentions and after for healing and reflection, fostering mental and emotional well-being.
Read ‘I Don’t Want to Talk About It’ by Terrence Real to understand the distinction between overt depression (classic symptoms) and covert depression, which manifests as addiction, anger, aggression, or workaholism, all stemming from underlying pain.
Read Michael Pollan’s ‘How to Change Your Mind’ to gain a better understanding of psychedelics and their potential, as it offers a well-researched and compelling perspective on the topic.
Consult Dr. William Llewellyn’s ‘Anabolics’ for a deep, unemotional dive into the pharmacology and chemistry of anabolic substances, offering comprehensive information without editorializing.
Utilize erowid.org to research the pharmacology, chemistry, legality, and user trip reports of various substances, including plant medicines, for informational purposes.
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