Equator Therapies- Mental Health Support

20/10/2024

Data released today shows s*xual abuse on children is no longer on average being performed by adults but now acted out by children under 18 years of age.

After over a decade of data showing three in five children have access to explicit p**n at school via other children’s smart phones, one in five young male teenagers have the beginnings of p**n addiction and it’s now that there seems to be rising concerns.

I don’t have children but I am a concerned citizen who can see understand the data and that children would start imitating, copying, normalising what they see on their screens. Australian primary schools report seven s*xual assaults a week performed on children by children.

Why are social media, tech companies, and p**n distribution companies have the ability to go without consequences?

Why is this data just data and not influencing law?

Why aren’t patents freaking out and demanding schools go phone free?

Why are schools not doing more when we all know the data is very conservative?

When you are out and about today and see a child around the age of 8 years of age consider the data above.

We all seek a liberating, healthy, safe environment as Australians. We push freedom and equality in our communities yet it seems like every week there is new data just showing us that we are all just being impacted in some way by some greedy group, government or organisation causing our future mental health issues.

12/10/2024

As we stand on the brink of a new era, it's undeniable that AI is here to stay and is reshaping our future. However, I find myself grappling with the implications of businesses relying on AI for everything—from crafting advertising strategies and generating images to writing blogs and creating growth plans aimed at making money while working less. Perhaps my thoughts stem from being part of a different generation, and I'll admit I need to learn more about this technology. Yet, as a consumer, I can't help but feel a disconnect when I encounter organizations that proudly declare their AI-driven nature. I lean toward those that exude a more human touch, demonstrating genuine expertise and understanding.

Scrolling through my social media feeds, I'm increasingly struck by the absence of real human presence. Instead, I see a barrage of AI-generated content that often lacks authenticity. A recent example is the arrest of Sean Combs (Puff Daddy), where the majority of posts seemed to be influencers recycling information purely for clicks, rather than engaging in meaningful discussions about the legal issues at hand. When did we allow the average person to become a news reporter, a journalist, or a documentary producer? The rush to monetize news items has led to a disturbing trend where AI is used to fabricate stories and images, all in the pursuit of going viral.

Social media is beginning to feel like a hollow space—more tedious than entertaining.

Are we pretending not to notice this shift?

Are we so eager to appear innovative that we risk dumbing ourselves down?

The consequences of this trend are profound. We are witnessing the emergence of what could become a major mental health crisis, fueled by the relentless pace of information overload. While we criticise entertainment for being repetitive and boring, we're outsourcing creativity and business acumen to computers. Ironically, this could lead to burnout, anxiety, and depression, as our brains struggle to keep up with the rapid changes. Meanwhile, other cognitive functions may be neglected, increasing the risk of dementia and isolation.

Don’t get me wrong; AI does hold the potential to rejuvenate our society. However, when the driving force behind its use is the quest for fame, wealth, or ease, it raises alarms.

Are we truly prepared to sacrifice the richness of human connection and creativity for the sake of convenience?

It’s a conversation we need to have, and I hope we can navigate this landscape together, ensuring that humanity remains at the forefront of our progress. ❤️

(To prove my point this entire post was generated by an a.i. All I did was offer five points of discussion).

04/10/2024

Friday flashback pleasure :

Angelina Jordan singing Bohemian Rhapsody

If this doesn’t move you what will ?

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12/09/2024

R U OK?

It’s important to know that you can can say “No”.

Being human does not guarantee perfection.

Ask someone today if they R OK.

03/09/2024

Spring - time Meditation series :

This series is made up of 7 meditation classes which are being held at the Rooftop/ 370 St Kilda Road at 9 a.m.–9.45 a.m. on the following Saturday mornings -

21st September
28th September
12th October
19th October
2nd November
9th November
23rd November

(Please note the classes DO NOT run every week. Note the dates above.)

Cost: $70 x 7 classes ($10 class)
+ Grab the early bird discount which ends next week.

Tickets are not sold for individual dates.

BUY your PASS today,

Come and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul in these peaceful meditation sessions. Let go of stress and embrace the beauty of spring. Connect with your inner self and find inner peace in the heart of the city. No experience is necessary; just bring an open mind and a willingness to relax.

Meditation, often associated with complex practices and ancient philosophies, is actually a surprisingly simple and accessible tool for improving your mental and emotional well-being. Just 30 minutes of daily meditation can offer a wide range of benefits, from reducing stress and anxiety to enhancing focus and creativity.

The best part about meditation is that it's a skill that anyone can learn, regardless of their experience or beliefs. There's no right or wrong way to meditate, and you don't need any special equipment or clothing. All you need is a quiet space and a few minutes of your time.

During these classes, we'll explore the many benefits of daily meditation and provide simple techniques to get you started.So, join us as we dive in and discover the transformative power of 30 minutes of mindfulness.

7-Part - time SpringMeditation Class Outline

Session 1: Introduction to Mindfulness and Basic Breath Meditation, 21st September

Introduction:

brief overview of mindfulness and its benefits.

Body Scan Meditation:

Guiding participants through a full-body scan to increase awareness of physical sensations.

Basic Breath Meditation:

Teaching participants to focus on their breath as a grounding anchor.

Session 2: Observing Thoughts and Feelings, 28th September

Mindful Observation:

Exploring the nature of thoughts and feelings without judgement.

Labelling Technique:

Introducing the practice of labelling thoughts and feelings to create distance.

Loving-Kindness Meditation:

Cultivating compassion and kindness towards oneself and others.

Session 3: Walking Meditation, 12th October

Mindful Walking:

Guiding participants through a slow, mindful walk, focusing on sensations in the feet and legs.

Posture and Alignment:

Discussing the importance of proper posture and alignment during meditation.

Bringing Mindfulness to Daily Activities:

Exploring how to apply mindfulness to everyday tasks.

Session 4: Guided Imagery, 19th October

Creating a Mental Sanctuary:

Guiding participants to visualise a peaceful and calming place.

Using Imagery for Healing:

Discussing how guided imagery can be used to promote relaxation and healing.

Visualisation Techniques:

Exploring different visualisation techniques, such as creating a mental movie.

Session 5: Mantra Meditation, 2nd November

Choosing a Mantra:

Helping participants select a personal mantra or affirmation.

Mantra Repetition:

Guiding participants in the practice of repeating their mantra silently or aloud.

Dealing with Distractions:

Discussing strategies for handling distractions during mantra meditation.

Session 6: Metta Meditation (Loving-Kindness) - 9th November

Expanding Loving-Kindness:

Extending the practice of loving-kindness to various beings, including friends, family, neutral people, difficult people, and oneself.

Cultivating Compassion:

Exploring the connection between loving-kindness and compassion.

Overcoming Obstacles:

Discussing common challenges in meditation and strategies for overcoming them.

Session 7: Integration and Review, 23rd November

Reflecting on Progress:

Encouraging participants to reflect on their meditation journey and the benefits they have experienced.

Setting Goals:

Helping participants set personal meditation goals for the future.

Integrating Mindfulness into Daily Life:

Discussing practical ways to incorporate mindfulness into everyday activities.

Hope to see you there!

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/spring-time-meditation-class-x-7-registration-1006580959747?utm_experiment=test_share_listing&aff=ebdsshios

Come join us for seven relaxing "Spring Time Meditation Classes" to rejuvenate your mind and body in a peaceful setting!

14/07/2024

The world had become way way too serious. So many people continue to chase fame or recognition, becoming fake as they smile at the camera. There is to much concern on what others think of you with less awareness that you are becoming a boring sheep to please others.

People always talk about traits like kindness, confidence, and empathy, but I would argue that the ability to poke fun at one's self displays all three of the above.

I’m finding people to be a bit boring lately!

07/07/2024

We sometimes forget about the fragility of life and the vulnerabilities that come along to teach us. Tv, movies these days are still neatly packaged covering complex stories in 30-90 minutes.

The following two documentaries are what the world needs at the moment. Not because of the success of the two in female subjects, but more for the lesson in strength, persistence and discipline. These two women are not soft - they are hardcore survivors and they really put your life in perspective.

“I Am Celine" and "Let the Canary Sing" are two influential documentaries that highlight the remarkable journeys of two powerful artists, providing invaluable insights into the resilience, creativity, and cultural impact of their work.

Importance of "I Am Celine"

"I Am Celine" delves into the life and career of Celine, a prominent figure in the music industry.

The documentary captures Celine's personal and professional challenges, illustrating her resilience and determination. You gain an understanding of the obstacles she overcame and the strength required to succeed in a competitive industry.

Celine's work significantly impacted our cultural and artistic landscapes.
Her journey emphasises how passion, innovation, and perseverance all equal hard work. Her life is music.

The documentary follows the iconic singer as she tries to build up her strength to perform again, despite her diagnosis of stiff person syndrome. It's a rare neurological disorder cause causes severe and painful muscle spasms that affect her ability to walk, sing and more.

Getting discovered and having one of the most powerful careers in our generation - One in a million.

Getting stiff persons syndrome and losing the previous gift you love so much - one in a million.

Importance of "Let the Canary Sing"

"Let the Canary Sing" follows the life of another powerful female performer, Cyndy Lauper, capturing their unique contributions to the music world.

The documentary brings attention to her work and how she could have easily been underrepresented or overlooked in mainstream music discussions in the 1980’s.

She has always amplified her voice and contributed to society by singing music that so many related to, fostering greater appreciation and recognition.

This deep well deserve dive allows viewers to connect with the emotional and intellectual aspects of her music fostering a deeper understanding of its significance.

By showcasing her journey and body of work. She was rejected by music critics at first. Her fearless entry into broadway production where she was seen as a duke box lyricist. The documentary reflects on broader issues such as females in the music industry. identity, ageism, and a passion to control her own artistic expression. It prompts viewers to consider the role of society and its power to provoke thought and chang my not rejecting anyone based on looks, s*x or age.

Both "I Am Celine" and "Let the Canary Sing" are essential viewing for anyone interested in pop culture, and the human spirit to never give up. They offer profound insights into the lives and contributions of two remarkable artists, highlighting the transformative power of music and the importance of recognising and celebrating female voices in our creative world.

I found myself crying at how determined Celine Dion was to sing again explaining that she knows she had a special voice and without it she is broken. Her tears are so heart felt, asking you to take nothing for granted because as quickly as things come they can be taken away.

I found myself crying for a different reason listening to Cyndy. Her passion, emotional intelligence and determination to only produce music that created a legacy. How she never listened to anyone’s opinion and knew who she was and created her own voice by never being pigeon holed by the music producers. From creating a female anthem with “Girls just want to have fun” or how “True Colours” was one of the first public acknowledgments of HIV and AIDS, where her lyrics spoke directly to the lgbtqi community when they had just started fighting back.

Writing a totally inspiring score to “Kinky boots”, opening up dialogue and acceptance into the drag / trans world with such a delicate touch. She is almost ready to launch her new musical “Working girl”, acknowledging that this will be her most important piece of work as it will define and focus on the female voice seeking acceptance and change.

Both these artists have won Grammys, Tony’s and multi other awards - rightfully being awarded flr their musical talents.

5/5

21/06/2024

Happy winter solstice to you all.

Summer is coming ….

08/06/2024

Do you believe in synchronicity?

Synchronicity is the meaningful coincidences that occur with no apparent causal relationship, yet seem to be meaningfully related. Events that are "acausal" but deeply significant to the person experiencing them.

Synchronicity is often explored and can provide individuals with a sense of connection, purpose, and insight into their lives.

At 8.01am this morning I was driving to
my clinic in the city. As I turned onto the on-ramp I carefully merged into the traffic. My car perfectly aligned with a red car. As I looked to the right - in that moment - I connected with the young male driver. We gave each other a friendly nod, as if we both understood each other.

He then put his foot down and his car accelerated speeding off. This “P” plate driver went from 80 kmh to 120 kmh. And he was gone.

I finished work at 2pm and rather than head home straight away I stayed behind and did a few administrative tasks. Forty minutes later I was back in my car and heading home. As I got off Kings Way via the freeways on-ramp I again carefully merged into the tragic. Again my car perfectly aligned with a car red car. As I looked to the right - in that moment - i connected with the SAME MALE DRIVER as this morning.

We both looked at each other with our mouths open, realising that we had just experienced perfect synchronicity!

This time I put my foot down and my car accelerated - and I was gone.

(Picture is for display purposes only)

13/05/2024

I have now been single for 7 years. Once I got my autoimmune condition I stopped dating as such. I am emotionally fine with it , but it’s Interesting how some people I know just have no trouble finding a partner, and entering relationship after relationship, while it’s not so easy for myself.m

As a psychotherapist I have done the deep work and I have self acceptance regardless of the situation. I’m basically happy with anything I experience.

I have been attracted to many guys of late but it’s hardly ever reciprocated back. While others are attracted to me and I don’t feel the same way about them. Always been the case.

Am I not as attractive ?

Do I not offer that ritualistic mating energy?

Had my disability and age altered my value to others ?

Am I doing something wrong ?

I strongly believe we all have life’s journey, and each moment offers an abundance of possibilities, memories and experiences. I do feel my lifestyle and personal interests lean more towards being single and I find it easier this way. I’m a positive, confident and happy guy! Don’t feel lonely or sad about it and actually love my own company. (Wasn’t this way in my 20’s or 30’s).

It’s just curious how for many of us this piece of our lives is dominated by being alone or with someone. Being content or heart broken.

Being single has risen in our population by 20% - but I don’t feel that is a problem.

The problem is how many of us make that to cause us to become victims versus just having the best relationship in our lives with ourselves.

Loving one’s self.

It's completely normal to ponder these questions when you've been single for a while, even if you're content with your current status.

Firstly, attractiveness is subjective and multifaceted, encompassing not just physical appearance but also personality, values, and compatibility.

It's not uncommon for attraction to be unreciprocated or for mutual attraction to not occur. This doesn't reflect on your worth or attractiveness as a person. The dynamics of attraction can vary greatly from person to person, influenced by numerous factors including individual preferences and circumstances.

Age can indeed play a role in how we perceive and approach relationships, but it's just one of many factors. Feeling confident and content with being single is commendable and indicative of a healthy mindset.

Remember, being single doesn't equate to being incomplete; it's an opportunity for personal growth, self-discovery, and fulfillment.

Embracing one's journey and prioritising self-love are essential components of leading a fulfilling life, regardless of relationship status.

But I’m still optimistic his out there.

06/05/2024

Practice, practice, practice...

Join us for a meditation space practice session on the Hypnotherapy HQ rooftop on Sunday, May 19th!!

This in-person event offers a unique opportunity to explore the depths of your mind through meditation. Discover a new level of self-awareness and unlock your inner potential.

Joe Busuttil will guide you through meditation practice via various techniques to help you achieve a state of deep relaxation and mental clarity. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced meditator, this class is open to all.

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and embark on a journey of self-discovery.

Sunday, May 19th, @ 10 a.m.–12.30 p.m.

370 St Kilda Road, Melbourne.

$25

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/808790984607?aff=oddtdtcreator

If you have any questions, please let me know.

30/04/2024

For all of you interested in mental health and the many techniques out there I highly recommend this course on Utilisation called “There is no such thing as a weed” - hosted by one of my mentors and friend Bill O'Hanlon

He had such a beautiful way of explaining things that I always feel at ease of learning something new or revisiting something I had already learned.

Take a look here -

Unlocking the Power of Utilization in Change Work