The Universal Lens

Episode 104 - Finding Purpose in Life's Journey

In this conversation, John and Henry explore the concept of purpose in life. What is our purpose in life?   That is a question can drive some people mad. Having purpose in life has been something we have associated with doing something or being something. Is that actually true? Today we discuss what our true purpose is and the answer is so much more simple then you think. You're  actually living your purpose already....  

Episode 103 - Live like you were Dying

Today john and Henry explore the complexities of stress, mental health, and the impact of public figures on personal lives. They discuss the dangers of misinformation in health, the importance of mindfulness and awareness, and the role of vulnerability in seeking quick fixes. They discuss the need for self-discovery, letting go, and living in the present, especially in light of terminal illness and the lessons it brings. John and Henry delve into the themes of identity, ego, and the importance of mindfulness and awareness in living a fulfilling life. The conversation emphasizes the power of choice in shaping one's experience of life, encouraging listeners to embrace the present and connect with their true selves.  They discuss the significance of connecting with the divine and transforming one's perspective on life, urging individuals to start making changes now rather than waiting for a life-altering event.

Episode #102 - College Burnout - Parents pay attention

In this episode, the hosts discuss the importance of finding balance in life, particularly for students facing academic pressures. They explore the challenges of transitioning to college, the impact of high expectations, and the prevalence of burnout among students. The conversation emphasizes the need for mental health awareness, the role of parents in supporting their children, and the significance of mindfulness in education. The hosts advocate for redefining success beyond grades and creating a supportive environment that prioritizes well-being and personal growth.

Episode 101# The Art of Balance: Finding Your Center in a Chaotic World

In this conversation, John and Henry explore profound themes surrounding the secret to life, the importance of balance, and the role of mindfulness and awareness in personal growth. They discuss how the quest for knowledge can sometimes hinder presence in life and emphasize the significance of finding a balance between ambition and inner peace. The dialogue also touches on the impact of external narratives and the necessity of self-awareness in navigating life's complexities. John and Henry explore the themes of love, unity, and the importance of living a moral life. They discuss the psychological biases that can cloud judgment and the need for self-reflection and humility. The dialogue emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life and the universal principles that transcend religious boundaries. The speakers advocate for a mindful approach to life, encouraging listeners to connect with a higher power and to embrace vulnerability as a means of personal growth. Ultimately, the conversation calls for unity and understanding among diverse belief systems, highlighting the shared human experience.

Episode 100- What this all means?

Join John and Henry as they celebrate their 100th Episode as they reflect on their journey through podcasting, discussing the evolution of their show, the importance of mindfulness, and the intersection of spirituality and personal growth. They explore how their understanding of mindfulness has deepened over time, the role of community in faith, and the nature of suffering in relation to belief systems. The conversation emphasizes the significance of awareness and choice in navigating life's challenges, encouraging listeners to embrace a mindful approach to their beliefs as rigid beliefs often lead to suffering. They explore how mindfulness can help individuals transcend suffering and find peace, emphasizing the psychological aspects of suffering and the role of faith. The discussion highlights the importance of awareness, gratitude, and the freedom that comes from letting go of the need to know. Through personal anecdotes and insights, the speaker encourages listeners to embrace mindfulness as a universal tool for personal growth and healing.

Episode 99 - Self-preservation is not selfish; it's necessary for helping others

In this episode of Universal Lens, hosts John Emilio and Henry Beltra discuss the importance of self-preservation versus selfishness, the joy of helping others, and the challenges posed by energy bandits. The conversation emphasizes the significance of awareness and personal growth in both the hosts' lives and the lives of their listeners. They delve into the complexities of relationships, emphasizing the importance of self-preservation while navigating interactions with others. They discuss the balance between helping others and maintaining one's own energy, highlighting the need for awareness in recognizing when to engage and when to step back.  Ultimately, the speaker encourages listeners to take inventory of their relationships and energy levels to foster healthier interactions.
 
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Episode 98 - Redefining Masculinity: Breaking Free from Stereotypes

In this episode, the hosts delve into the complexities of masculinity and societal expectations, exploring how traditional gender roles can create burdens and struggles for men. They discuss the importance of mindfulness and self-awareness in navigating personal challenges and the evolving dynamics of family life. In this conversation, the speakers explore the evolving definitions of masculinity, the importance of emotional presence in family roles, and the impact of societal expectations on personal identity. They discuss how traditional metrics of success may not align with true fulfillment and the necessity of mindfulness in navigating changing family dynamics. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of being aware of one's roles and the potential suffering that can arise from rigidly adhering to societal labels.

Episode 97 - Sitting With vs. Sitting In Trauma

John and Henry delve into the complexities of trauma and its impact on the brain, particularly focusing on the role of the amygdala in emotional regulation. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the difference between 'sitting in' trauma, which can lead to overwhelming emotions, and 'sitting with' trauma, which allows for mindful engagement and healing. Various therapeutic techniques, including mindfulness and acceptance and commitment therapy, are explored as tools for managing trauma and fostering emotional resilience. The conversation also touches on the societal pressures to maintain happiness and the necessity of shifting focus from fear to awareness in the healing process.  They emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's default mode of existence and the power of choice in shifting focus towards a more mindful and fulfilling life. The discussion also touches on the relationship between mental health and physical well-being, highlighting how mindfulness can influence health outcomes. Furthermore, the conversation explores the process of transcending trauma and creating new narratives, encouraging listeners to embrace their experiences and live in the present moment.

Episode 96 - Mindfulness Unveiled: The Simple Truth

In this conversation, the hosts explore the concept of mindfulness, discussing its simplicity and the importance of being present in daily life. They delve into the cultural perspectives on mindfulness, the role of thoughts and emotions, and the distinction between meditation and mindfulness. The discussion emphasizes the overcomplication of mindfulness in society and the journey to becoming the watcher of one's mind, ultimately highlighting the importance of awareness and choice in engaging with thoughts. In this conversation, the speaker delves into the intricacies of mindfulness, the nature of thoughts, and the importance of being present. They discuss how our minds can often mislead us and how mindfulness practices can help us navigate our thoughts and emotions. The conversation emphasizes the significance of awareness in understanding our mental patterns and the transformative power of mindfulness in our daily lives.

Episode 95 - Confronting the Inner Critic: A Path to Empowerment

In this episode, the hosts delve into the concept of the inner self-critic, exploring its origins, particularly in relation to parenting and childhood experiences. They discuss the importance of mindfulness in parenting and how language can shape a child's self-perception. The conversation emphasizes the need for empowering language to help children navigate their inner critics and develop a healthier self-image. Personal anecdotes illustrate the impact of self-criticism on their lives, highlighting the journey towards self-acceptance and the importance of fostering a mindful environment for future generations. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the pervasive influence of the inner critic on personal growth and self-acceptance. They discuss how societal pressures and self-imposed standards can hinder one's ability to enjoy life and pursue passions. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of recognizing and confronting the inner critic, transforming self-criticism into empowerment, and breaking free from mental prisons. They also touch on the significance of transcending generational trauma and viewing adversity as an opportunity for growth, ultimately advocating for mindfulness as a tool for navigating life's challenges.