Unlocking Emotional Intelligence

... and Transform Relationships & Conversations

Hey Mindfulness Tribe,

Men Talking Mindfulness welcomes back the incredible Jay Fields, a yoga teacher, somatic educator, and mindfulness expert. Jay helps us dive into the fascinating interplay between our nervous system and emotional intelligence.

Here are the key takeaways:

1. Feel to be Felt

Jay drops a truth bomb right at the start:

"If you can't feel you, other people can't feel you."

Emotional awareness isn't just about knowing what you're feeling; it is about being present and vulnerable enough to share that with others.

When you're disconnected from your emotions, you're also disconnected from your inner reality you are also disconnected from your relationships too.

We see a lot of men struggling with this. For the guys out there, if you are getting feedback that you are ‘disconnected’ or ‘you don’t care’ or ‘are a stone’ take these words to heart because life is passing you by.

We can help! We have two meditation courses starting this fall that will 100% help you get in you touch with so many of the feelings you have been avoiding, ignoring, and are confused by.

“Where you struggle is where your treasures lies” - J.Campbell

2. Embodied Self-Awareness vs. Conceptual Self-Awareness

There is a difference between thinking about your feelings and actually feeling them. Conceptual self-awareness keeps you locked in your head while you just analyze and overthink about your feelings. No chance for change or real information here.

Where as Embodied Self-awareness is about turning towards and being with your feeling and there physical sensations (aka somatic experience) in the present moment. This kind of awareness lights up different pathways in your brain, unlocking compassion, courage, and empathy. It's like upgrading from the telegraph to a smartphone.
So much information!
Now what do you do with it?

3. The Power of Self Regulation

If you’re like me, I sometimes find myself in a heated moment and say something I regret? When we get excited and are pissed of, anxious, stressed out or frustrated we are not operating from our best selves because we are within a amygdala hijack. Literally high on cortisol and adrenaline that has us fighting for our lives when in reality there is none.

Learning to regulate these responses is crucial. For instance, instead of snapping at your partner for asking a question, take a moment, take a few breath to calm down and then express your feelings clearly.

Jay suggests saying something like, "I didn't feel seen," instead of going on the attack. Self regulation a practice of finding calm and remaining calm instead of getting caught up in the latest emotional storm.

4. Two Realities Can Coexist

One of the most eye-opening points Jay makes is about the importance of recognizing multiple realities in any relationship. (What a gift!!)

Whether it's at work or at home, understanding that your perspective isn't the only one can transform conflicts into collaborations and lead to more productive and less confrontational conversations.

5. Mindfulness as a Superpower

We are our feelings whether you like it or not. Mindfulness isn't just a buzzword; it's a real game-changer. Meditation and mindfulness practices will help you become more somatically aware.

Actively creating this awareness allows you to take the necessary pause before engaging, making the next moment more intentional, thoughtful and less reactive. This all-important Pause also provides clarity and will connect you more deeply to yourself and others.

Curious to dive deeper? Trust us, you don't want to miss the full episode. Jay Fields brings a wealth of knowledge and practical tips that can help you navigate the complexities of emotional intelligence and mindfulness.

Stay mindful,
Jon & Will

💥 BONUS!!!💥

HERE is a great opportunity to raise your Emotional Intelligence

Take one of our Fall MTM Meditation courses - learn more and join us
➡️ https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/learnmeditation

There is so much inside of you - the good, the bad and the ugly. The best and most effective way to get to know it and change it is through the practice of meditation.
Let us know if you have any questions.