Then, Why Don't You: Recent Episodes
Rachel Okazaki
Come along with me on this journey of creating and enjoying our life list! We all want to do a little more of what we want, and less of what we don't. Let's live a life full of joy, love and adventure.
In this episode of "Then, why don't you," we invite listeners into the enriching world of journaling for self-care and wellness. With a personal touch, the host shares their own journey, from childhood diaries to adult reflections, revealing the profound impact journaling has had on their mental and emotional well-being. The episode unfolds with insightful discussions on the therapeutic benefits of journaling, recounting moments where it played a pivotal role in navigating challenges and fostering clarity. Offering practical recommendations and thought-provoking prompts, the host guides listeners towards establishing their own meaningful journaling practices. The episode concludes with an encouraging message, urging listeners to embrace journaling as a flexible and valuable tool for self-discovery. Tune in to discover the transformative potential of putting pen to paper in nurturing a wildly beautiful life.
What journaling prompt do you want to answer today?
Remember to ask yourself: Then, why don't you?
We'd love to hear from you! Say 'hi' and share your stories at thenwhydontyou@gmail.com or hangout with us on IG @thenwhydontyou
Focus: Exploring the self-care and wellness benefits of journaling
Segment 1: The Art of Journaling for Well-Being
- Highlights the therapeutic benefits of journaling for mental and emotional well-being
- Encourages listeners to consider making journaling a regular part of their self-care routine
Segment 2: Easy Actionable Recommendations for Journaling
- Start with Gratitude
- Morning Pages
- Reflect on Challenges
- Dream Journaling
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Weekly Check-In
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Offers practical recommendations to kickstart a journaling practice
Segment 3: Writing Prompts for Deeper Reflection
- What brings me joy?
- A challenge I overcame and the lessons learned.
- One thing I can do today to care for myself.
- A person or experience I'm grateful for and why.
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My aspirations and intentions for the upcoming month.
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Provides journaling prompts for deeper self-reflection
Closing Thoughts:
- Encourages listeners to incorporate journaling into their self-care routine
- Reiterates the podcast's challenge: Do more of what supports your well-being
- Expresses gratitude for joining the exploration of journaling for self-care and wellness
In this episode we’ll explore the self-care and wellness benefits of listening to favorite music. The episode delves into the emotional impact of music and its ability to reduce stress, setting the stage for easy actionable recommendations. Listeners are encouraged to create personal playlists, engage in mindful listening, dance it out, discover new tunes, and create a concert-like atmosphere at home. The closing thoughts reiterate the challenge of doing more of what brings happiness and invite listeners to indulge in the gift of music for their well-being. The podcast concludes with gratitude for joining the episode's journey and a reminder to keep listening to what makes the heart sing until the next episode.
What’s a new artist or genre you could try and add to your playlist today?
What could you listen to right now that would bring some joy into your life?
Remember to ask yourself: Then, why don't you?
We'd love to hear from you! Say 'hi' and share your stories at thenwhydontyou@gmail.com or hangout with us on IG @thenwhydontyou
Show Notes: "Then, why don't you Listen to Your Favorite Music?"
Introduction:
- Focus: Exploring self-care and wellness through listening to favorite music
The Healing Power of Music
- Explores the emotional and scientific impact of music on well-being
- Encourages listeners to harness the healing power of music
Nurturing Your Soul with Personal Playlists
- Practical recommendation to create personal playlists for different moods and activities
- Highlights the transformative impact of curated soundtracks on daily experiences
Mindful Listening for Inner Harmony
- Encourages mindful listening for a deeper connection with music
- Promotes the experience of fully immersing oneself in the beauty of the music
Dance Your Cares Away
- Advocates for dancing as a joyful form of self-care
- Emphasizes the release of endorphins and the positive impact on well-being
Exploring New Melodies
- Challenges listeners to explore new artists or genres
- Highlights the potential for discovering hidden gems and expanding musical preferences
Concert Experience at Home
- Recommends creating a concert-like atmosphere at home
- Suggests dimming lights, using quality headphones, and fully immersing in the music
Closing Thoughts:
- Invites listeners to consider music as an act of self-love and self-care
- Reiterates the podcast's challenge: Do more of what brings happiness
- Expresses gratitude for joining the melodic exploration
Summary: In this episode listeners are invited to explore the transformative power of mindful walking. We explore the question of why one should go for a mindful walk, emphasizing its conscious choice to connect with the present and foster calm. The episode explores the benefits of mindful walking, including stress reduction and improved well-being, and provides practical recommendations for creating an enriching mindful walking experience. We encourage listeners to take mindful steps as a simple yet powerful choice for nurturing well-being, the episode concludes with gratitude for joining the solo journey and a reminder to try walking mindfully.
How can you incorporate mindful walking to your day?
Remember to ask yourself: Then, why don't you?
We'd love to hear from you! Say 'hi' and share your stories at thenwhydontyou@gmail.com or hangout with us on IG @thenwhydontyou
Resources:
No Worries Amigo: Follow them IG @noworriesamigohikingclub to learn about upcoming hikes and check out their site for some great apparel https://noworriesamigo.com
Some of my favorite places to walk/hike:
- Castle Rock state park (love the rocks you can climb on and sit in!)
- Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve (some trails are steep so choose wisely)
- Redwood Grove Nature Preserve (great local park with mini trails and spaces to just enjoy for a coffee or lunch without being too far from main roads)
- Mt Tam (budget extra time for this one. Its beautiful and there are so many trails to explore, you'll probably have to go back multiple times!)
Today's Focus: Exploring the transformative power of mindful walking
Opening Reflection:
- Discuss life's relentless pace and the chaos of responsibilities, deadlines, and distractions.
- Highlights the simple act of mindful walking as a powerful tool for grounding and finding peace.
Segment 1: Understanding Mindful Walking:
- Definition of mindful walking: Bringing full attention to the present moment while walking.
- Emphasis on being aware of each step, breath, and the surroundings.
- Poses the question: Why don't you go for a mindful walk? It's a conscious choice to connect with the present and cultivate calm.
Segment 2: The Benefits of Mindful Walking:
- Explores the numerous benefits of mindful walking, including stress reduction, improved mood, enhanced creativity, and overall well-being.
- Encourages consideration of the positive impact on mental and physical health.
Segment 3: Recommendations for a Mindful Walk:
- Choose the Right Setting: Select a resonant location like a peaceful park, scenic trail, or quiet neighborhood street.
- Start Slow: Begin with a slow, deliberate pace, feeling each step connect with the ground.
- Focus on Your Breath: Inhale and exhale slowly, syncing breath with steps.
- Engage Your Senses: Tune into sights, sounds, and smells around you, fostering a connection with the environment.
- Mindful Observations: Observe surroundings without judgment, allowing the mind to wander and gently bringing it back to the present.
Closing Thoughts:
- Encourages listeners to choose mindful steps as a simple yet powerful choice for well-being.
- A reminder that mindful walking can be a path to inner peace.
- Expresses gratitude for joining the solo journey and encourages mindful walking until the next episode.
Take a deep breath, be present, and be kind to yourself
In this episode of "Then, why don’t you", listeners are invited to explore the transformative practice of deep intentional breathing for self-care and wellness. We'll begin with a guided breathing exercise, encouraging the audience to actively participate. Then we discuss the often-overlooked role of breath in our daily lives and shares personal insights gained from practicing yoga. The episode unfolds with a step-by-step guide to diaphragmatic breathing, emphasizing its calming effects on the mind and body. You'll get an introduction to the box breathing technique, highlighting its simplicity and accessibility. Throughout, we encourage listeners to set aside 10 minutes for intentional breathing, creating a quiet space for this practice. The episode concludes with an invitation for the audience to incorporate intentional breathing into their routines, promoting self-care through conscious breath and expressing gratitude for joining the journey.
How does deep intentional breathing help you throughout the day?
Remember to ask yourself: Then, why don't you?
We'd love to hear from you! Say 'hi' and share your stories at thenwhydontyou@gmail.com or hangout with us on IG @thenwhydontyou
Show Notes Summary: Episode - "Deep Intentional Breathing"
Introduction - Focus: Deep intentional breathing as a self-care and wellness practice
Breathing Exercise - Inhale for 4 seconds, Hold for 4 seconds, Exhale for 4 seconds (repeated three times) - Demonstrated by the host for audience participation - Encourages mindfulness through a simple breathing exercise
Discussion on Intentional Breathing - Emphasizes the neglect of breath in our daily lives - Introduces intentional breathing as a game-changer for well-being - Personal experience with learning about breath through regular yoga practice - Highlights the importance of deliberate breathing, especially in stressful situations
Guided Diaphragmatic Breathing - Encourages setting aside 10 minutes for intentional breathing - Suggests creating a quiet and comfortable space for the practice - Guides audience through diaphragmatic breathing with hands placed on the belly and heart - Emphasizes the calming effect on the mind and body
Box Breathing Technique - Introduction to the box breathing technique - Inhale for 4 counts, Hold for 4 counts, Exhale for 4 counts, Pause for 4 counts - Encourages the audience to repeat the process for balance - Acknowledges the simplicity and accessibility of intentional breathing
Closing Thoughts - Invites audience to incorporate intentional breathing into their daily routines - Highlights the beauty of the practice's simplicity and lack of special equipment - Encourages self-care through conscious breathing - Expresses gratitude for joining the journey and emphasizes the importance of being present and kind to oneself
In this soothing solo episode of “Then, why don’t you”, we’ll explore the transformative power of taking a relaxing bath or shower for self-care and wellness. The episode highlights the benefits of these simple yet profound rituals, emphasizing the importance of creating a space for reflection and relaxation.
We’ll guide listeners through the process of drawing a warm bath, suggesting the addition of calming elements like bath salts or bombs with fragrances such as lavender or eucalyptus. For those who prefer showers, the episode assures that the benefits of hydrotherapy are equally accessible, acting as a reset button for the mind.
The episode concludes with a heartfelt reminder to prioritize self-care and embrace these moments of tranquility. We encourage listeners to indulge in the art of relaxation, taking time to be kind to themselves.
Check out Inoki Bathhouse to elevate your bath experience: Instagram: inoki_bathhouse, https://inokibathhouse.com
Spotify playlist: Instrumental Popular Songs 2024
How can you elevate your bath/shower routine today?
Remember to ask yourself: Then, why don't you?
We'd love to hear from you! Say 'hi' and share your stories at thenwhydontyou@gmail.com or hangout with us on IG @thenwhydontyou
In this solo episode of "Then, why don’t you," we’ll explore the world of procrastination, honing in on the often-overlooked small tasks that persistently evade completion. The episode delves into the psychology of procrastination, dissecting reasons behind our reluctance to address seemingly insignificant responsibilities.
We’ll discuss why small tasks linger despite managing more substantial responsibilities effectively. The tendency to prioritize tasks with immediate rewards, like work deadlines or time-sensitive sales, leaves smaller, less urgent tasks perpetually on the back burner.
The impact of these lingering tasks on mental well-being is examined, emphasizing how collectively, they create mental clutter, leading to feelings of guilt, frustration, and chaos.
To break free from the cycle of procrastination, we’ll introduce the concept of time blocking. This involves setting specific time blocks in the schedule to address smaller tasks, creating structure and prioritizing them. Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps is also emphasized to make the process less daunting.
Drawing from personal experience, we’ll share insights into the benefits of time blocking, such as a sense of completion and direction, especially for tasks one may initially be averse to.
Take a moment to think about that one small task you've been putting off. It's time to tackle it and free up some mental space for more of what you love
Listeners are invited to stay productive and take care as they gain practical insights and strategies to conquer procrastination.
What is one small task you can complete right now?
Remember to ask yourself: Then, why don't you?
We'd love to hear from you! Say 'hi' and share your stories at thenwhydontyou@gmail.com or hangout with us on IG @thenwhydontyou
We show up differently, for different people and different situations. You may be wondering, "am I not being true to myself or authentic if I am different in different situations?" Absolutely not. We all do it and we all have different versions of ourselves, depending on what the situation calls for.
In this episode, we touch upon creating change according to our own internal timeline without relying on external factors.
Is there something you want to change in your life right now?
Remember to ask yourself: Then, why don't you?
We'd love to hear from you! Say 'hi' and share your stories at thenwhydontyou@gmail.com or hangout with us on IG @thenwhydontyou
The Makerspace Symposium at the University of Queensland was more than I could've ever dreamed of! Since diving into the world of makerspaces, I have only grown to love it more and more. Although I've enjoyed attending conferences in the past, this was more interactive and it's definitely one of those situations where you realize you don't know what you don't know.
What's something you've been curious about and wanted to learn more?
Remember to ask yourself: Then, why don't you?
We'd love to hear from you! Say 'hi' and share your stories at thenwhydontyou@gmail.com or hangout with us on IG @thenwhydontyou
You're more capable than you realize.
After almost 3 weeks of traveling abroad, I learned how capable I am with navigating challenges, getting myself around in foreign countries, and appreciating "me time".
KL was such a different cultural experience than Australia, and I am so happy I made the decision to book the trip.
What trip have you been hesitating to book?
Remember to ask yourself: Then, why don't you?
We'd love to hear from you! Say 'hi' and share your stories at thenwhydontyou@gmail.com or hangout with us on IG @thenwhydontyou
We made it to the Oceania Seating Symposium, the catalyst to this month long journey. (http://oceaniaseatingsymposium.com)
Celebration: I'm offically an international speaker! A dream of mine for many years in addition to travelling to Australia. I share updates on the conference, what I've learned, and the newest products on the market (at least available in Australia)
We'd love to hear from you! Say 'hi' at thenwhydontyou@gmail.com or hangout with us on IG @thenwhydontyou
We made it to the Oceania Seating Symposium, the catalyst to this month long journey. (http://oceaniaseatingsymposium.com)
Celebration: I'm offically an international speaker! A dream of mine for many years in addition to travelling to Australia. I share updates on the conference, what I've learned, and the newest products on the market (at least available in Australia)
We'd love to hear from you! Say 'hi' at thenwhydontyou@gmail.com or hangout with us on IG @thenwhydontyou
The one reservation I made for my whole trip was at KOI experiential in Sydney (https://www.koidessertbar.com.au/koi-experiential) and let me tell you...you'll hear in my voice how words can't fully express how magical the experience was. Plus the fact I apparently forgot my words when I met the chef, Reynold Poernomo (@reynoldpoer). Follow him in IG or check out his youtube series Salty x Sweet and you'll understand.
Yes, I was totally fan-girling and no, I had no shame or embarrassment because I appreciate great talent.
What place, restaruant, or experience have you been wanting to book?
Remember to ask yourself: Then, why don't you?
We'd love to hear from you! Say 'hi' and share your stories at thenwhydontyou@gmail.com or hangout with us on IG @thenwhydontyou
We made it down under! Join me as I share my journey through Australia, starting in Brisbane.
If you're there, definitely visit Lone Pine Koala Sancuary and feed the kangaroos (https://lonepinekoalasanctuary.com).
Did you know, kangaroos and emus can only move forward?! It was one of the most interesting facts I learned and have taken to heart.
We'd love to hear from you! Share your Australia or international adventures with us at thenwhydontyou@gmail.com or come hangout with us on IG @thenwhydontyou
Finally knocked out my head cold and summarized my last 2 conferences! I had a blast at the Inclusion Collaborative and we painted our own cookies! (I got my supplies from this company on The Cookie Countess) and I got a variety of palettes and brushes. So much great creative energy.
We talked about stress reduction, social connection, belonging and how the 3 intersect and contribute to overall wellness and self-care.
Day 2 at the Fall CUE conference was all about coding and I was in awe of the San Joaquin Office of Educatiob FabLab. I could've spent all day there and thankfully I found it on day 2, otherwise I wouldn't have gone anywhere else!
I'm heading down under to present at the Oceania Seating Symposium in Melbourne and the Makerspace Symposium at the University of Queensland in Brisbane. If you have any food or sightseeing recommendations, send them my way!
Check out my makerspace adventures on IG @atypicalpt or listen in on some highlights and practical habits to implement on IG @thenwhydontyou
Drop us a note at thenwhydontyou@gmail.com with any insights, aha's, or collaborations on all things creative and build your maker mindset!
As always, ask yourself "then, why don't you?"
Friendship bracelets, building with Legos in the wellness room, designing a game with limited supplies, and adding SPICE to education...what more could a girl ask for?
Tune in to hear about how day 1 went, a brief summary of my presentation, a exclusive peek at my SPICE framework, and what I'm working on for a future podcast episode.
Join us on IG @thenwhydontyou
Questions or ideas for future episodes? Email us at thenwhydontyou@gmail.com
It's finally here! The evening before the Fall CUE conference. I'm excited to share all the things I'm learning, how I'm preparing for my presentation, and how it goes. Follow along these next couple days to hear a little behind the scenes.
Follow us on IG @thenwhydontyou
Description:
In a world filled with routine and convention, the idea of radically reimagining your life might seem like a distant dream. But what if it's not only possible but also profoundly fulfilling? Join us as we dive in to the challenges and practical insights that can help you transform your life in ways you've never imagined.
From career changes to personal growth, relationship shifts to geographical relocations, we'll share what we've tried and provide some tips on how to start your own journey.
Have you radically reimagined your life? What tips, tools, or insights do you have to share?
Leave us a comment or share with us on IG @thenwhydontyou or email us at thenwhydontyou@gmail.com
As always, ask yourself "Then, why don't you?"
When was the last time you lost track of time doing something you loved or enjoyed? Today's episode is about how to back to things that we love and get lost in. Whether it's creating a "reading loft" environment or envoking all your senses to improve your focus, we explore various ways we can get you back to your happy place.
How have you set up your environment (home or work) to bring out the best version of yourself?
Share your thoughts with us at thenwhydontyou@gmail.com or on Instagram @thenwhydontyou.
We can't wait to hear from you!
Do you remember what it was like to be a beginner? So focused on your own curiosity of the new skill or activity that you didn't compare yourself to anyone, even your past self? I recently joined a Learn to Curl class in Fremont CA, part of the Silicon Valley Curling Club (https://siliconvalleycurling.com/). To say I loved it is an understatement. I first heard about this from a colleague and have been wanted to try this for a couple months now. I finally found a date that worked and booked it right away.
In 2 hours you are able to practice basic skills and get right into game play. I cannot wait to come back and it was a great reminder of what it's like to be a beginner and learn from curiosity, not out of necessity.
Permission slip: try something so new that you can't, compare it to anything you've done before, even if you try
Remember to ask yourself: Then, why don't you?
IG: thenwhydontyou
In this thought-provoking podcast episode, we delve into the powerful mantra of "Be Creative First, Ask Questions Later." Join us as we explore the importance of embracing your creativity and taking action before succumbing to doubts and fears.
We discuss the notion that many of us tend to hold ourselves back by overthinking, seeking validation, or fearing failure. Moreover, we explore practical strategies to cultivate a "Create First" mentality in our daily lives, and give ourselves permission to try out new activities to see what brings us joy. We dive into the concept of rapid prototyping, encouraging listeners to experiment, iterate, and refine their ideas through action.
The podcast aims to inspire listeners to tap into their creative potential, ignite their passions, and create meaningful work. By challenging the conventional wisdom of waiting for the "perfect" moment or seeking external or internal approval, we empower individuals to take charge of their creative journeys and forge their own paths.
So, if you're ready to break free from the constraints of self-doubt and unlock your full creative potential, join us on this exciting episode of "Then, Why Don't You...Be Creative First, Ask Questions Later" and discover the transformative power of embracing creativity and taking action.
As always, ask yourself, "then, why don't you?"
IG @thenwhydontyou
This episode is inspired and dedicated to my friend Leslie! Can't wait to hear about your sabbatical!!! Have you dreamt of taking an extended leave of absence to do whatever you wanted? Travel? Explore a different career? Spend more time enjoying your hobbies? It's not only possible but can be inspiring, rejuvenating, and just what you need right now. Tune in to learn different ways to curate your own sabbatical experience to live your best life.
Thinking about taking your own sabbatical? Or are you in the midst of your own right now? Let us know how the planning process is or how it's going. We'd love to hear from you!
thenwhydontyou@gmail.com
Do you remember when you were in elementary school? It was about creativity, learning, exploring, and lots of arts and crafts. If you're like me and enjoyed your time in elementary school, you may be wondering, "I had so much fun back then, how can I do more of that now?". Now a days there are new terms for what we did back then. It is sometimes referred to as design thinking learning. I've recently renewed my passion and desire to tap into my creative side and it's been so much fun! Tune in to see how you can channel "elementary school you" and live a more creative life!
Getting up for a sunrise hike, especially in Hawaii, is 100% worth the view. There is also a great life lesson I appreciated while on this hike. Everyone may be on the same path/hike but the goal and way each person approaches it is different. Listen to find out how this hike helped bring some clarity and kindness to how I've been approaching my life and avoid compare and despair.
I hope this helps and as always ask yourself, "then, why don't you?"
IG @thenwhydontyou
Getting out in nature can be so therapeutic, refreshing, and just so much fun! After joining No Worries Amigo Hiking Club (https://noworriesamigo.com and IG: @noworriesamigohikingclub), I found a new appreciation for hiking, had fun socialzing as an introvert, and met so many great people. We also met some cute pups from @adopt_my_block. Oh I wish I could adopt one!
Challenge for you: go out and hike, spend time in nature, and enjoy the fresh air! Share with me where you end up going! Enjoy the episode!
thenwhydontyou@gmail.com
Tag us on your next outdoor adventure on Instagram @thenwhydontyou
Then, why don't you...stop holding it all together and get a grocery bag (literally and figuratively). Have you ever gone to the grocery store for 1 item, leave with 10 and think, "It's not that many items. It's not heavy. I'll just carry them." Same here. I realized that I do this with my life too. Take on too many small "easy" tasks only to end up overwhelmed and stressed out because I cannot get them done, or I can at a lower quality that I'm not satisfied with. Today I'll share some resources, stories, and time saving tips that will be your 'grocery bag' for your life tasks.
Find us on Instagram @thenwhydontyou
Contact us at thenwhydontyou@gmail.com
Then, why don't you...be curious. Think back to your childhood when you were continuously exposed to new ideas, concepts, and activities. Were you as excited as I was to dive into a new book, explore new parks, or watch science experiments in awe? Have you found yourself bogged down in life that the curiosity is rare these days? This episode is a reminder to stay curious and explore the world around you with openness and wonder.
Find us on Instagram @thenwhydontyou
Contact us at thenwhydontyou@gmail.com
Grandma's advice is always the best, "make time for love." Self-love, romantic love, and doing things we love are all important and beneficial to our overall well-being. Where can you add more love into your life?
You've heard the phrase "you're starting the next chapter of your life" before, right? But what if you wanted to start a whole new book? Sometimes we need a fresh start, a new cast of characters, and maybe even a whole new genre. You have permission to start a whole new book. I'll share part of my journey, where my next books starts off from, and some questions to ask yourself to start your next book.
Have you lost touch with people that you miss? Are there activities you enjoyed doing that brought you joy and happiness that you stopped doing? Call or text those people. Do the things you enjoyed doing. Now is the time. Get some tips on how to stay connect and some simple steps you can do today to re-connect with yourself, your friends, and the things you enjoy doing. Let me know who you reached out to and what you started up again at thenwhydontyou@gmail.com
Have you ever wanted to learn to plan an instrument? Join me as I share what I learned over the past 3 months of taking virtual group guitar lessons from Ukulele Jams in San Jose Japantown from none other than Rodney Takahashi (https://www.ukulelejams.com)
You have permission to say 'yes' to what brings you joy. Sometimes to say ‘yes’ you actually need to say ‘no’.
Come along with me on this journey of creating and enjoying our life list! We all want to do a little more of what we want, and less of what we don't. Live a life full of joy, love and adventure.