Dancing With Your Inner Critic: Somatic Healing & Mental Health with Stephanie Michelle

Episode Summary:

In this episode of The Mindful Living Podcast, host Sana engages in a heartfelt conversation with Stephanie Michelle, a scriptwriter, screenwriter, actress, and mental health advocate. Together, they explore the transformative power of somatic practices and self-reflection in overcoming mental health challenges. Stephanie shares her personal journey of navigating suicidal ideation, societal expectations, and self-doubt, and how creative expression became a tool for healing. The conversation is filled with actionable insights, including giving your inner critic a humorous name to diminish its power, the importance of movement in releasing stuck emotions, and how acknowledging one’s struggles can lead to thriving.

Listeners are encouraged to connect with Stephanie on Instagram (@thejourneyofbloom) for a special PDF of her mental health system by messaging the word “Dance" and also can check out the process and progress of the film - Bloom being made.

About the Guest:

Stephanie Michelle is a passionate advocate for mental health and healing through art. As a scriptwriter, screenwriter, and actress, Stephanie uses her creative talents to explore profound themes of self-discovery and emotional well-being. Inspired by her father’s suicide and her personal struggles, Stephanie wrote the screenplay Bloom, which aims to spark conversations about mental health and provide tools for healing. Stephanie is dedicated to helping others navigate their inner critics and live with greater joy, purpose, and connection.

Key Takeaways:

1. Dancing with the Inner Critic:

   • Name your inner critic humorously to reduce its control.
   • Acknowledge and validate its presence without letting it dictate your actions.

2. Somatic Practices for Healing:

   • Engage in physical activities to release stuck emotions and calm the mind.
   • Incorporate mindfulness and movement as tools for balance and healing.

3. Healing Through Art:

   • Creative expression, such as storytelling or writing, can be a powerful way to process emotions and start meaningful conversations.

4. Navigating Mental Health Challenges:

   • Recognize and address self-doubt by giving it space while maintaining control over your actions.
   • Cultivate healthier mindsets and relationships by taking responsibility for personal growth and circumstances.

5. Small Steps for Change:

   • Write down and name the negative voices in your head to externalize and diminish their power.
   • Dance or physically shake off negativity as a way to shift energy and find joy.

Listeners are encouraged to take inspiration from Stephanie’s journey, embrace self-reflection, and explore somatic practices as a path to healing.