In this episode, Dr. Cristina Castagnini sits down with Alana Cahoon to tackle the pervasive issue of stress and anxiety in our modern, fast-paced world. Together, they explore the cultural pressure to "live to work" rather than "work to live," and how this mindset contributes to burnout and disconnection. Alana shares practical, accessible tools to help listeners stop spiraling into future worries or past regrets, offering a path to reclaim peace and presence in the everyday through grounding techniques and a shift in perspective. Alana Cahoon is a transformational Mindfulness Coach, Energy Healer, and sought-after Speaker who empowers high-achieving professionals to align their careers and lives with their soul purpose. With a strong track record of supporting successful tech entrepreneurs in launching and scaling their companies, she brings a unique blend of strategic insight and spiritual wisdom to her coaching practice. Tune into her podcast Creating Abundance for a wealth of wisdom!            

KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED:

  • The critical difference between "working to live" vs. "living to work."
  • Why society is currently operating more from a place of fear than trust.
  • The "10-Count Exercise" to immediately lower stress levels.
  • How to meditate even if you think you "can't" sit still.
  • Practical ways to access your inner wisdom and manifest the life you want.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • The Spiritual Hand: Alana describes the physical and intuitive "push" she felt to leave the corporate world and embrace her role as a natural healer.
  • The 10-Count Method: A simple, tangible tool to use when you are triggered, angry, or overwhelmed to bring you back to the present moment immediately.
  • Creative Visualization: The idea that instead of letting our minds run us with worry, we can run our minds to design our dream life.
  • Vata Energy: A look at the Ayurvedic body type that moves quickly and burns out easily, and how to recognize when you need to pause mid-stream.

IMPORTANT TIMECODES FROM THIS EPISODE:

  • [04:40] Alana’s journey from performing arts and corporate life to holistic coaching
  • [08:40] The "spiritual hand" that pushed Alana toward energy healing and Reiki
  • [12:50] Customizing mindfulness for high-achieving professionals and entrepreneurs
  • [16:50] The 10-Count Exercise: A practical tool to de-escalate stress instantly
  • [19:40] Understanding Ayurvedic body types (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) and energy management
  • [21:10] "Emily in Paris" and the difference between American and European work cultures
  • [22:40] The societal shift from trust to fear following the global pandemic
  • [25:10] Creative visualization: How to meditate without sitting in silence
  • [26:30] Shifting the perspective on exercise from punishment to enjoyment
  • [29:00] Creating a "sacred zone" in your home for happiness and peace

CONNECT WITH ALANA:

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Part of the Los Angeles Tribune Podcast Network, produced by the Tweaky Tales.

**Disclaimer:**

The content of this podcast episode is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The views and experiences shared by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or affiliated organizations. If you have any medical or mental health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. Listener discretion is advised, especially for those sensitive to topics related to body image, weight stigma, and eating disorders.