Welcome back to another enriching episode of "Game of Zen," where we explore the synergy between professional, personal, and spiritual growth through the lens of Buddhism and Zen mindfulness. In this episode, hosts Scott Berman and Paul Gyodo Agostinelli dive into the profound influence of spirituality on relationships, drawing from their personal journeys and Buddhist teachings.

Join us as Paul unpacks the concept of "karmic atonement" and its impact on future relationships, while Scott reflects on his past experiences with gratitude and the evolving qualities he seeks in a partner. The hosts emphasize the importance of mutual spiritual growth and maintaining a conscious relationship, especially during the holiday season—a time ripe for reflection and gratitude.

As always, we encourage our listeners to integrate spirituality into everyday life consciously, balancing responsibilities while fostering personal growth. Don’t miss out on their insightful discussion about the evolution of Zen practice, the challenges of attachment, and how to recognize relationships that match your personal vibration.

Stay tuned and subscribe to the Zen@Work newsletter for more wisdom and peace on your journey. Let's embark on this path of mindfulness and conscious connections together!

00:00 Spiritual focus; women allowed in Sangha, unequal.

03:56 Zen practice evolved from monastic to inclusive.

07:06 Serial monogamy, later marriage, family commitment achieved.

13:11 Mindfulness enhances empathy and spiritual awareness.

16:23 Relationships test personal growth and consciousness.

19:48 Strives for mindfulness in daily life activities.

23:25 Discussing Buddhist concepts of change with daughters.

25:45 Commitment to self-awareness and nonviolent communication.

28:03 Experiential vs. fundamentalist spirituality challenges relationships.

32:34 Spirituality used superficially as personal enhancement.

36:18 Spirituality found among like-minded people, everywhere.

38:19 Quarterly Fusatsu ceremony reviews core Buddhist precepts.

42:55 Holidays are a good time for reflection.

43:42 Game of Zen podcast: Mindful living insights.

Game of Zen links:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-game-of-zen/id1700988890

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bjnPE66RC1bCL6h7i68jt?si=184f256fd76342e3&nd=1

Podcast Landing Page: https://game-of-zen.captivate.fm/

You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMJ2A-vZkd5ba7bW_8KNFgdkXiSfQh_xv

Paul Agostinelli

Zen@Work: https://www.zenatwork.org/

Zen@Work Today: https://zenatwork.substack.com/

Email: GameofZenpodcast@gmail.com

#GameOfZen #NobleTruths

In this new episode, we're diving deep into the fascinating world of psychedelics, focusing on their integration with mindfulness and Zen Buddhism. This is part two of our exploration into how substances like MDMA and psilocybin can revolutionize our approach to mental health and spiritual growth.

Paul shares his profound insights on how safe and regulated use of psychedelics can enhance personal and societal well-being. He will discuss the subtle yet transformative effects of micro dosing, and liken the benefits to those of a consistent meditation practice."

This episode is packed with valuable information for anyone curious about the intersection of psychedelics, mindfulness, and personal growth. So, stay tuned, and don't forget to like, subscribe, and engage with us on 'Game of Zen'. Let's get started!"

00:00 Psychedelics offer clear, simple value insights.

04:58 Meditation and micro dosing aid mental awareness.

09:18 Consistency and time improve understanding and results.

10:50 Maintain spiritual sadhana with personalized protocol.

13:22 Plant medicine could slow neurological disease progression.

19:31 Psilocybin focus, but MDMA, ketamine gaining acceptance.

22:21 Develop a personal relationship with plant medicine.

26:15 Self-improvement requires mindfulness, meditation, and guidance.

27:10 Intentional life framework enhances safe psychoactive use.

31:33 Macro dosing: Potential breakthroughs, risks, needs safe framework.

34:58 Concern over commercialization of clinical medicines.

37:22 Regulators struggle safely legalizing substances, past mistakes.

42:11 Normalizing plant medicine is becoming increasingly common.

43:57 Open conversations help share experiences and guidance.

47:36 Explore Zen's influence; subscribe, share, comment.

Game of Zen links:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-game-of-zen/id1700988890

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bjnPE66RC1bCL6h7i68jt?si=184f256fd76342e3&nd=1

Podcast Landing Page: https://game-of-zen.captivate.fm/

You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMJ2A-vZkd5ba7bW_8KNFgdkXiSfQh_xv

Paul Agostinelli

Zen@Work: https://www.zenatwork.org/

Zen@Work Today: https://zenatwork.substack.com/

Email: GameofZenpodcast@gmail.com

#GameOfZen #NobleTruths #entrepreneurship

#Buddhism

In today's episode, we have a very special guest joining us - Courtney Schulnick, an accomplished litigator and dedicated mindfulness teacher. Courtney shares her inspiring journey of discovering mindfulness amidst the challenges of balancing a demanding legal career with being a wife and mother to three boys.

Driven by experiences of stress, anxiety, and a longing for better work-life balance, Courtney initially resisted the idea of committing to a mindfulness-based stress reduction program. However, a series of personal losses and overwhelming demands led her to an orientation session at Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia, where she realized the transformative potential of mindfulness practice.

Join us as we delve into Courtney's story of healing and growth, learning how her deep engagement with mindfulness not only brought more balance and presence into her personal life but also enhanced her ability to serve clients as a lawyer. We discuss the challenges and rewards of maintaining a mindfulness practice, the impact it can have on the legal profession, and the unexpected paths that open up when we commit to being present and compassionate with ourselves.

So sit back, relax, and enjoy this heartfelt and insightful conversation with Courtney Schulnick on Game of Zen!

Links for Courtney:

Courtney Schulnick Mindfulness

Courtney Schulnick LinkedIn

Jefferson Health Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction

00:00 Striving for perfection creates anxiety and stress.

04:15 Juggling work and family during fertility challenges.

07:56 Grieving the loss of beloved pet intensely.

13:21 Late nights, imbalanced life, heightened self-awareness.

15:04 Mindfulness practice brings balance and significant benefits.

18:19 Recognizing mental patterns for personal and professional freedom.

24:20 Attorneys find ease through body-mind connection.

26:01 Mindfulness improves communication, feelings, and decision-making.

29:45 Deepened mindfulness practice, teaching practicum, program creation.

33:22 Lawyer finds fulfillment in guiding anxious clients.

37:37 Choosing to be present and engage fully.

40:42 MBSR course participants share stress and growth.

44:49 Strive for clarity, not stress, in work.

47:47 Staying present leads to optimal outcomes.

49:03 Choose wise responses, mindfulness, neuroscience's impact.

53:14 Explore Zen Buddhism's transformative influence for growth.

Game of Zen links:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-game-of-zen/id1700988890

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bjnPE66RC1bCL6h7i68jt?si=184f256fd76342e3&nd=1

Podcast Landing Page: https://game-of-zen.captivate.fm/

You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMJ2A-vZkd5ba7bW_8KNFgdkXiSfQh_xv

Paul Agostinelli

Zen@Work: