The Change Agents Podcast With Dr. James Rouse

In the past I've talked a lot about ways to enhance our gene expression and longevity. But you've reached out and asked what are some things that may hamper longevity? So today, I'm going to take about ten things or ten habits that can have a negative impact on gene expression.

I often hear from listeners that they turn to prayer and ask what my prayer practice is. I have shared this with you in the past and today I will again talk about the power of prayer and its ability to augment the opportunity to see ourselves as more possible. 

There is always the possibility for change and growth, no matter where you are in life. If you find yourself in a relationship that is no longer serving you, have the courage to end it. It takes authenticity and strength to live life on your own terms, but it is so worth it. When you are true to yourself, you can attract relationships and experiences that are in alignment with your purpose. Every day is a new opportunity to create the life you want. Choose possibility. Choose authenticity. Choose YOU.

Today's message is all about aging gracefully. It is about embracing and applying wisdom daily. Lean into self-awareness, wisdom and what you know is true. Take responsibility for your life thus far. 

10,000 steps a day is a great health goal when it comes to heart health. New research shows that this same amount of steps significantly decreases our risk of dementia. And getting in 10,000 isn't really too difficult. Thirty minutes of brisk walking will reduce the risk of dementia by 60%.

Even when times are tough, it's important to remember that there are always people who are willing to help. Look for the helpers in your life, and be grateful for their support. You'll find that things will get a little bit easier with their help.

Real friends are those who care about you and your welfare, and not just what you can do for them. Deal friends are those who only want to be friends with you as long as you can offer them something in return. Aristotle ranked friendships according to how well the two people's values aligned. The highest-ranked friendship is one in which both parties share the same values and care about each other's welfare. The lowest-ranked friendship is one that is based solely on utility or transaction, with no regard for the other person's wellbeing.

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Self-acceptance is not always easy. We live in a world that is constantly telling us that we need to be better, do more, be more. But if we can take a step back and remember our true nature, we can find the peace and acceptance that we need. By connecting with our higher self, we can find the strength and courage to be who we are meant to be.

Sometimes it feels like we're caught between two extremes: self-improvement and self-acceptance. On the one hand, we're told that we need to constantly strive to be better versions of ourselves. On the other hand, we're told that we need to learn to love and accept ourselves just as we are. So which is it? The truth is, we need a little bit of both. We need to learn to be kind to ourselves, to see our common humanity, and to be mindful of our thoughts and feelings. Only then can we find the balance between self-improvement and self-acceptance.

I do not wish to keep up with the pace of life. I want to be a masterpiece for what matters - purpose, meaning, presence. I am a human being, not a human doing. There's more to life than increasing its speed - here's how we add meaning and presence.

I believe what happens under the influence of Dharma allows us not to buy into the "drama" of life. Starting my day with all of the practices that I am sharing with you today allows me to tap into my purpose each and every day. Let go of the drama, claim your dharma. 

It is no secret that our society is obsessed with productivity. We are constantly being bombarded with messages that tell us we need to do more, be more, and achieve more. This can often leave us feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and like we are never good enough. However, what if I told you that there is a different way? A way that is more sustainable, more peaceful, and more joyful. I am talking about the path of self-love and self-compassion. Self-love is not selfishness. It is not about putting our own needs above others. Instead, it is about recognizing that we are worthy of love and care, just as we are. It is about treating ourselves with kindness, compassion, and understanding.

According to research by Kristin Neff, self-compassion may be the key to heroic self-acceptance. Neff defines self-compassion as “extending warmth and understanding to ourselves when we suffer, fail or feel inadequate, rather than ignoring our pain or flogging ourselves with self-criticism.” In other words, it’s being gentle and supportive towards ourselves in times of difficulty instead of harsh and judgemental. And studies suggest that this approach leads to more happiness, reduced anxiety, and greater emotional resilience.

Are you ready to enlighten and enliven your physiology, and increase your vitality, beauty, kindness, and love? Today I am sharing ten things you can do to enhance every aspect of your being.

Has anyone ever told you, "You have really good energy!" Good energy is a currency of possibility. Today I am talking about mitochondria, the powerhouse energy centers of our cells.

Meditation is a life-changing practice. Sitting is challenging for a lot of us, I get it. So today I am going to talk about five practices that can give you similar benefits, including, longevity, peace of mind, mental and emotional well-being, and resilience.

Perfectionism is an epidemic. It's often equated with shame and not-enoughness. Move into the student mindset. "To the beginner's mind, everything is possible (Shunryu Suzuki)." Let's adopt a beginner's mind!

When we integrate newness and discomfort into our daily routines (new environment, new peoples) we augment and increase our levels of happiness. It stretches us. It may make us uncomfortable. It also increases our emotional resilience and builds bridges.

How often do you find that you are comparing yourself to others? Brene Brown suggests that "Comparison is the crush of conformity." She goes on to say that comparison is trying to fit in and stand out - to be like everyone else, but better. Schedule time to go all in on your own craft.