In this episode, I chat with Carl J Ashley who shares an incredible journey from a life of addiction and indifference to one filled with mindfulness, spiritual awakening, and creative expression. Reflecting on his suburban roots and transformative experiences, including a life-changing near-death encounter and the disciplined practice of self-reflection, we discuss how writing and creativity helped him to heal and grow.

Join me for an inspirational conversation about resilience, exploring our true selves, and the transformative power of embracing one's creative and spiritual journey.

Find more about Carl J Ashley, The Write Coach:

writecoach.ie/

www.youtube.com/@CarlJAshley

If you are interested in learning more about A Quiet Voice Men’s Development:

Instagram @aquietvoicepodcast

Email: colin@aquietvoice.ie

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00:00 Welcome to Episode 50

01:12 Introducing Carl J. Ashley

02:22 Carl's Journey to Spirituality

04:31 Sacred Sites and Personal Transformation

17:04 The Power of Writing and Healing

25:52 Overcoming Addiction and Self-Discovery

28:52 Embracing Authenticity and Self-Love

32:03 The Role of Meditation and Mindfulness

39:28 Overcoming Negative Influences

40:40 Spiritual Teachers and Their Impact

43:11 Healing Through Writing and Letting Go

45:20 The Power of Positive Self-Talk

49:39 The Role of Sacred Sites in Spiritual Growth

50:40 Avoiding the Ego Trap in Spiritual Practice

01:01:16 Personal Stories and Glitches in the Matrix

01:08:33 Connecting with Ancient Spiritual Sites

01:13:05 Resilience and Finding Strength in Adversity

01:14:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Quick episode reflecting on what I've learned from being in men's groups for a year now.

(BTW the cover art is the picture I refer to of me from 2019...Hungover on a Spanish mountain)

If you want to become a member of an online or in-person men's group, then DM me on Instagram @aquietvoicepodcast or email aquietvoicemedia@gmail.com

New Men's Groups will start In-Person & Online in Mid-November.

Discover more from Carmel at:

www.sagewellbeing.ie

Instagram @sagewellbeing_irl I chat with Carmel Hughes, a mindset and breathwork practitioner, about methods to alleviate stress through mindfulness and breathwork.

I get some help on how to interrupt negative thought patterns and Carmel brings a lot of knowledge from neuroscience, positive psychology and breathwork to help me manage stress.

The episode highlights practical strategies for calming the mind and body in everyday life, particularly for those who might struggle with overthinking and anxiety. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:17 Meet Carmel Hughes: Mindset and Breathwork Practitioner 00:45 Personal Wellness Journeys and Social Media Insights 03:14 Diving into Mindfulness and Neuroscience 04:14 Understanding Unhelpful Thinking Styles 04:57 The Importance of Awareness and Interrupting Negative Thoughts 07:44 Connecting with Others and Self-Awareness 12:30 The Mind-Body Connection and Stress Management 19:27 The Evolutionary Brain and Modern Stressors 23:50 Mindfulness and Mindset Journey 24:14 Personal Experiences with Meditation 26:23 Discovering Breathwork 26:52 Challenges and Adaptations During COVID 29:56 Tailoring Techniques for Individuals 33:13 Men's Approach to Emotional Work 41:20 Practical Tips for Daily Calm 43:17 Upcoming Events and Workshops 46:08 Final Thoughts and Contact Information