A MINDFUL BLOG

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Ego Fragility:      When Self-Worth Feels Unstable
Adepeju O'Shaughnessy Adepeju O'Shaughnessy

Ego Fragility: When Self-Worth Feels Unstable

Ego fragility refers to the vulnerability or instability of one’s sense of self-worth and identity. When the ego is fragile, self-esteem feels easily threatened by criticism, rejection, correction, or failure. This often leads to defensiveness, denial, or overcompensation as a way of protecting the self-image but there is an antidote.

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The Science of Self-Compassion
Adepeju O'Shaughnessy Adepeju O'Shaughnessy

The Science of Self-Compassion

Self-compassion has become a growing focus in psychology and neuroscience over the past two decades. Defined by psychologist Dr. Kristin Neff as extending kindness to oneself in moments of struggle, self-compassion rests on three components: self-kindness, recognition of common humanity, and mindfulness.

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Therapy, Self-Compassion, and the Pursuit of Self-Actualization
Adepeju O'Shaughnessy Adepeju O'Shaughnessy

Therapy, Self-Compassion, and the Pursuit of Self-Actualization

Entering therapy is often accompanied by the belief that one is “broken” and in need of repair. This framing reflects a common cultural narrative that equates psychological distress with personal deficiency. However, contemporary research and clinical practice suggest a different perspective: therapy is not a process of “fixing” but one of recovery, integration, and self-acceptance.

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Cognitive Reappraisal: Rewiring the Anxious Brain
Adepeju O'Shaughnessy Adepeju O'Shaughnessy

Cognitive Reappraisal: Rewiring the Anxious Brain

Anxiety often feels like an automatic response—our heart races, thoughts spiral, and worst-case scenarios flood our minds before we even realize it. But neuroscience shows us that we aren’t powerless in these moments. Through a process called cognitive reappraisal, we can actually rewire the brain’s anxious patterns and build a calmer, more resilient mindset.

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Suppressing Emotions: The Hidden Cost
Adepeju O'Shaughnessy Adepeju O'Shaughnessy

Suppressing Emotions: The Hidden Cost

Many of us have learned to suppress our emotions as a coping mechanism. We bottle up sadness, anger, fear, or even joy because we fear being seen as weak, overly sensitive, or out of control. However, while suppressing emotions might provide a temporary sense of stability, it comes at a hidden cost to our mental and physical health.

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Travel Anxiety: How to Prepare
Adepeju O'Shaughnessy Adepeju O'Shaughnessy

Travel Anxiety: How to Prepare

Travel season is here and the planning has commenced! After a year like 2020, the anxiety associated with traveling has many faces…

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Mindfulness of Breath Exercise
Adepeju O'Shaughnessy Adepeju O'Shaughnessy

Mindfulness of Breath Exercise

Has it been a long day, week, or even month? The day-to-day hustle can be overwhelming. Mindfully connecting with our breath can be a great way to self-soothe and regulate.

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Emotional Alarms
Adepeju O'Shaughnessy Adepeju O'Shaughnessy

Emotional Alarms

Human emotions are evolutionary survival mechanisms. They have been tools utilized by mankind for eons, guiding and supporting our transformative journey.

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