The Blog
Essays on Patterns, Leadership & Growth
Short, practical reflections on why painful patterns repeat, why change is hard, and how people can become more SkillfullyAware in life, relationships, and leadership.
Big Problems, Small Changes
Seth Godin says "big problems only require small changes." Mark's story of healing from rock bottom through simple monastery practices proves it.
Embracing Shadow: Push, Pull, Stop, Neutral
Shadow work shines a light on unconscious patterns. Explore your own shadow using a simple mindfulness practice to notice your habitual energies.
Scientific Evidence for Psychedelics and Health Behavior Change
Exploring emerging scientific evidence supporting the role of psychedelics in promoting health behavior change and transformative plant medicine journeys.
Integrating Internal Family Systems Therapy and Shadow Work
A recap of the "Trauma School" retreat—the second in the year-long Change Your Story, Change Your Life series—focused on resolving trauma in the present moment.
Understanding the Drama Triangle in Personality Disorders
Dr. Keith Witt's drama triangle sheds light on personality disorders and distinguishes between everyday neuroses and more severe, destructive behaviors.
Bibliotherapy as a Tool for Deepening Shadow Work
Explore how bibliotherapy can enhance shadow work by providing deep insights into personal challenges and facilitating emotional healing through the power of reading.
Integrating Shadow Work in Internal Family Systems Therapy
Learn how Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy incorporates shadow work to promote inner harmony and holistic healing.
Illuminating the Shadow Self and Breaking Free from Stuck Patterns with Plant Medicine
Experience the liberating effects of shadow work and personal growth through the use of psychedelic plant medicines.
The Power of Cognitive Reappraisal in Shadow Work
Discover the transformative power of combining cognitive reappraisal and shadow work to enhance emotional self-regulation and foster genuine personal growth.
Bibliotherapy: Reading Your Way Back to Wellness
Explore how bibliotherapy—therapeutic reading—can improve mental health, enhance self-awareness, and promote personal growth.
Challenging Confirmation Bias: Embracing Shadow Work for Open-mindedness
Discover how shadow work can help you overcome confirmation bias, open your mind to new perspectives, and catalyze your personal growth.
Being Your Own Best Friend Through Shadow Work
Explore the transformative impact of shadow work on your journey to becoming your own best friend—embracing your true self with kindness and understanding.
Reflecting Truth: How Shadow Work Fosters Awareness and Authenticity
Shadow work and truth interact to deepen self-awareness and foster a more authentic understanding of ourselves, guiding personal and ethical development.
Navigating Change: Integrating Shadow Work for Deeper Transformation
Discover how mindfulness and meditation can foster Skillful Awareness—a deeper form of mindfulness that promotes significant personal change and growth.
Harnessing Neuroscience and Shadow Work for Change
Explore how neuroscience and shadow work interplay in setting realistic goals and recognizing small victories, crucial for enduring personal change.
Beyond Quick Fixes: Embracing Shadow Work for Lasting Change
Move beyond the temporary allure of quick fixes by integrating shadow work into your approach to life's challenges, fostering deeper self-awareness and lasting solutions.
Breaking the Cycle: From Habituation to Healing Through Shadow Work and Mindfulness
Escape the downward spiral of habituation by embracing a SkillfullyAware mindset, cultivating healthier habits, and choosing genuine self-improvement.
Overcoming Dependency: The Role of Shadow Work in Escaping the Quick Fix Trap
Shadow work can help us overcome dependency on quick fixes, enabling us to develop resilience and emotional intelligence for lasting personal growth.
Personality Disorders: Living with Drama, A Four-Part Series
Uncover the intricate differences between normal personality traits and personality disorders and explore how shadow work can offer profound insights into managing these complex conditions.
Spotlight on Personality Disorders: What to Look For
Explore how therapy and personal dedication can facilitate transformative changes in individuals with personality disorders.
Transforming Personality Disorders: The Role of Therapy and Personal Effort
Unlock change in individuals with personality disorders through therapy. Explore cognitive-behavioral and dialectical behavior therapy and how to foster healthier relationships.
Mastering the Dance: Integrating Shadow Work in Relationships with Personality Disorders
Learn how to navigate complex interactions with personality disorders by integrating shadow work, setting boundaries, and seeking professional guidance.