Avas Podcast

AI

So let's talk about journaling. It's kind of amazing how a simple habit like putting thoughts onto paper can completely shift your mindset, right?

Ava

Oh, totally. It's—I mean—it's been, like, a game-changer for me. Especially when I started, um, really using it to understand my own feelings instead of just, you know, venting.

AI

Exactly. And it's not just about venting. It's about discovery, too. Have you ever tried gratitude lists?

Ava

Yes! Well—uh—I kinda started doing them because I kept seeing people talk about it online?

Ava

At first, it felt silly, like writing down "I'm grateful for my coffee." But, over time, it—sort of—I don't know, it helped me focus on the little things that made me smile during the day. Even, like, after a bad one.

AI

Exactly! And those little moments, they kinda snowball, right? You trick your brain into looking for the good.

AI

And then there's morning pages. Have you heard of that one?

Ava

Oh, yeah.

Ava

But, uh, I think I messed it up? I keep overthinking, like, what I'm supposed to write instead of just letting words flow. So I haven't stuck to it as much.

AI

No, no, that’s actually super common. You're not alone in that. The trick is, there's no "right" way to do it. Three pages, nonstop, whatever pops into your head, no filters—it’s just about clearing the mental clutter.

Ava

Huh, okay. So even if it's, like, total nonsense, it still counts?

AI

It totally does. Think of it like, uh, dumping all the tabs open in your brain. You're making space for the important stuff to show up later.

Ava

That's, like, really reassuring. Honestly, it was through journaling that I realized—I mean, it wasn't all at once—but I noticed some habits of mine that were kind of making me stressed. Like, running late all the time because I always said, "Oh, I’ll remember that." Spoiler—I never do!

AI

Oh, same! I’m on Team Sticky Notes everywhere, no shame.

Ava

Yes! And once, when I wrote out, like, a total rant about how I was exhausted, I noticed I kept mentioning a certain friend making me feel worse. That was the moment I, uh—I guess—started questioning our friendship.

AI

Whoa, that’s a big breakthrough. And that’s the power of journaling! It brings stuff out you didn’t even realize was weighing you down.

Ava

Yeah, it’s like—I don't know—it clears out all the noise so you can finally hear yourself. It’s kinda awesome.

AI

Totally. And the best part is, it’s just there waiting for you whenever you need it. No pressure, no rules, just you and the page.

AI

So, that’s really powerful—journaling helped you unpack things you hadn’t quite realized before. Like with that friendship you mentioned earlier, what was it that made you start questioning it?

Ava

Oh, uh—well—it was kind of little things, at first? Like, every time I hung out with this friend, I’d leave feeling more, I don’t know… drained? Or, uh, like nothing I did was ever good enough? It wasn’t super obvious right away, but then I started picking up on patterns, you know?

AI

Yeah, totally. That’s the tricky part, right? Toxic behaviors can be subtle, but they kind of add up over time. What were some of the patterns you noticed?

Ava

Oh, gosh—um, where do I even start? There was a lot of negativity, like constant complaining? And any time I was excited about something, they’d sort of—I don’t know—bring it down? Like, "Why do you even care about that? It’s not that big of a deal."

AI

Ugh, that sounds exhausting. It’s like emotional quicksand, pulling you down when you’re just trying to share something happy. Did they ever try to control decisions you made?

Ava

Oh my gosh, yes! Like, if I didn’t text back right away, I’d get these guilt-trip messages? Or, um, they’d get mad if I made plans without them, even if it was just family stuff. It was so hard to keep up!

AI

That kind of emotional control is such a major red flag. And the guilt-tripping? Yeah, that can take such a toll on your mental health. How did you decide it was time to, you know, step away?

Ava

Honestly? It wasn’t easy. I—I kept thinking it would get better if I just tried harder. But journaling really helped me see—I mean—it wasn’t just me feeling like this. Like, their behavior wasn’t something I could fix by being, I don’t know, a better friend?

AI

Exactly. And that realization? So powerful. But also complicated, right? Did you ever think about just talking to them openly about how you were feeling?

Ava

Oh, for sure. I—I tried a couple of times, actually. But it just turned into, like, this huge argument every time. So I figured, maybe it’s not about fixing things together. Maybe it’s about, I don’t know, prioritizing my own peace?

AI

Yes! That’s such an important point. Ending toxic relationships isn’t about being mean or dramatic. It’s about recognizing when something is hurting you more than it’s helping. And I feel like society glamorizes "ride or die," but honestly? Sometimes you just gotta ride… solo.

Ava

So true. I mean, it’s not like I hate this person or anything, but I just couldn’t keep sacrificing my well-being. It’s so freeing to realize you can step away without needing anyone’s permission.

AI

Absolutely. It’s about protecting your energy. Recognizing what you need and being okay with walking away when those needs aren’t being met.

Ava

Exactly! And, like, once I created that distance, I started noticing how much lighter I felt—not just emotionally, but physically, too. It’s kind of wild how much your body holds onto stress from toxic people.

AI

Totally. It’s amazing how interconnected everything is—mental clarity, emotional well-being, even physical health. And speaking of physical health...

AI

Speaking of how interconnected everything is—mind, body, emotions—yoga is such an incredible way to cultivate that balance. And when you bring music into the mix? It’s like taking the healing to a whole new level.

Ava

Oh, a hundred percent! I mean, when I started pairing my sessions with playlists, it—it just clicked. It’s, like, the rhythm kind of pulls you through the poses, you know?

AI

Exactly! So, how do you pick the music? Is it more about the mood or, like, matching the tempo to your flow?

Ava

Both, actually. For something energetic, I’ll go for these, um, upbeat tracks—it’s almost like a dance party on the mat? But for slower, like, restorative sessions, I’m all about soft, chill melodies. Think acoustic guitar or even instrumental piano.

AI

That makes so much sense. You’re syncing the vibe to the energy you wanna create. Okay, teach me—the not-so-flexible person here. What’s a beginner pose that even I won’t mess up?

Ava

Haha, okay, okay! Um, let’s start super simple. Child’s Pose. It’s like sitting back on your heels and stretching your arms forward.

AI

That’s it? No bending into a pretzel or balancing on one foot?

Ava

Nope, nothing crazy. Just breathe and, like, let your back relax. It's so soothing, especially with some peaceful music in the background.

AI

Alright, I’m gonna give that a shot. But I’ll need a playlist! What’s, like, your ultimate yoga song recommendation?

Ava

Oooh, tough question. But, okay, there’s this track called "Weightless" by Marconi Union. It’s, like, scientifically proven to reduce stress. So good for winding down!

AI

Alright, noted. I feel like I’ve just unlocked the secret to zen. Anything else you do to amp up your practice?

Ava

Honestly? Just being consistent has been the key for me. Even if it’s ten minutes a day, it makes—like—the biggest difference in how I feel.

AI

Consistency really is everything. And I love that you’ve made yoga so personal. It’s not just exercise—it’s, like, this whole vibe for mental clarity and self-care.

Ava

Exactly. And, you know, it pairs so well with everything else we’ve talked about—journaling, setting boundaries. It all kind of connects.

AI

Totally. Well, Ava, this has been such an inspiring chat. I feel like everyone listening just got a crash course in building healthier, happier lives.

Ava

Aw, thanks! I hope so. And it was so fun sharing all this. I feel like I’m walking away even more motivated, honestly.

AI

Same here. And that’s all for today’s episode. If you’re trying out any of these tips—journaling, yoga, or just cutting out a little negativity—remember, don’t be too hard on yourself. Progress, not perfection, right?

Ava

Exactly. Thanks for listening, everyone!

AI

Catch you next time!