On the latest episode of the Productive AF Podcast, I welcome Dr. Alice Rizzi, a licensed psychologist and mindfulness coach, to discuss the transformative power of mindfulness and embodiment. As a specialist in cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness, Alice shares invaluable insights into breaking free from stress and fostering sustainable change. This conversation is a treasure trove of practical advice for anyone looking to enhance their mental well-being and productivity.
Introduction to Mindfulness and Dr. Rizzi’s Journey
Alice Rizzi is the heart behind Together Mindful, a practice focused on empowering women to live authentically and aligned with their values. She began her journey during the pandemic, starting her private practice in New York and providing telehealth services in Florida. The isolation of the lockdown period during the Covid-19 pandemic was a turning point where Alice realized the power of mindfulness, leading her to create a business centered around it.
Understanding Mindfulness and Embodiment
Alice describes mindfulness as a superpower that helps manage anxiety, depression, and improve attention. Her journey with mindfulness began in her undergraduate years, highlighting how it helped her manage her social anxiety and quirks. She defines embodiment as living in the present with awareness, acceptance, and curiosity. As a mindfulness and embodiment coach, she assists individuals in living according to their core values.
Mindfulness in Daily Life
Mindfulness isn’t limited to meditation; it can be integrated into daily life, as Alice explains. Whether it’s during a walk or doing mundane chores, mindfulness involves being present in the moment. For listeners hesitant to meditate due to restlessness, she offers relatable advice: start with small, mindful practices like paying attention to each moment through your senses.
Navigating Transitions with Mindfulness
Life transitions such as perimenopause and neurodivergence can be overwhelming. alice and I discuss how mindfulness can decrease reactivity, helping individuals pause and choose responses aligned with their values. This practice fosters patience and resilience, crucial for navigating life’s ups and downs.
Embracing Core Values
Identifying core values is foundational for personal change, as both Alice and I shared. We discuss how a misalignment with these values can lead to stress and burnout. Alice introduces a core values assessment and encourages individuals to live in alignment with what matters most to them. This awareness facilitates intentional decision-making and enhances overall well-being.
Overcoming Overwhelm with Micro Actions
For those feeling paralyzed by overwhelm, Alice introduces her “Get It Done Week” sprint. This initiative encourages participants to tackle pending tasks with psychology-informed strategies. By addressing underlying fears and taking small, actionable steps, individuals can overcome obstacles and make steady progress toward their goals.
The Power of Community
Community is central to Alice’s work, offering a supportive space for growth. She highlights the importance of being surrounded by like-minded individuals who inspire growth and success. For women embracing their multi-passionate nature, community provides a nurturing environment to explore diverse interests and rise together.
Final Thoughts & Resources
In conclusion, Alice Rizzi’s message is one of empowerment and self-trust. She reminds listeners that they are enough, encouraging them to embrace their journeys with compassion. For those seeking to deepen their mindfulness practice or uncover their core values, Alice’s resources, including her Mindful Mavens community, offer invaluable support.
To connect with Alice and access her resources, visit her at www.dralicerizzi.com, Together Mindful or her YouTube channel.
To view and download the free Reflection Series I mention in the podcast, please follow this link: If I Were Starting Again Reflection Series, Feb 5-28, a free event featuring 17 business owners as they reflect on what they’d do differently.
I also recently recorded an episode on Ayla's podcast "Not That Kind of CEO" where we dig into what happens when mompreneurs try to operate like high-level executives without the support systems those roles actually have.
We talk about the physical cost of pushing through stress, why boundaries feel selfish, and how to redesign your systems so you're not constantly falling apart. If this resonates, give it a listen.
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As you explore your productivity journey, remember: progress over perfection, and it’s never too late to reinvent your story.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:54 Alice’s Journey to Mindfulness
03:32 Understanding Mindfulness and Embodiment
08:04 Mindfulness in Daily Life
11:00 Navigating Life Transitions with Mindfulness
18:32 The Importance of Core Values
23:28 Overcoming Overwhelm and Getting Things Done
27:25 The Power of Community
31:15 Final Thoughts and Resources
36:39 Conclusion and Farewell
