The Sonya Looney Show

Sonya Looney: : Mindset, Plant-Based Nutrition, Performance, Mountain Bikin
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The Sonya Looney Show

Pro Mountain Biker, Plant-Based Athlete, and World Endurance Champion, Sonya Looney interviews inspiring leaders about vegan & plant-based nutrition, cycling and endurance training, mountain bike tips, sports psychology, adventure travel, mindset, personal development, and entrepreneurship to help you unlock the best and healthiest version of yourself. Find out more at: www.sonyalooney.com

  1. Practice: Daily Meditation in Motion

    6 DAYS AGO

    Practice: Daily Meditation in Motion

    Bringing meditation into daily life is a different beast. Today’s moving meditation will be short, simple—and really hard, because we’re taking meditation on the move so you can apply mindfulness to everyday activities like workouts or a quiet hike. In today’s episode, I break down how to shift from an ego-focused to a task-focused mindset during physical activities. I’ll guide you through techniques to anchor your focus, using sounds from your environment or your own breath, to help maintain mindfulness. This practice isn’t just about sitting quietly; it’s about integrating mindfulness into every part of your day. Whether you’re pushing through a tough workout or enjoying nature, I’ll show you how to keep your mind present and engaged. Here's what you'll learn: • Real-World Mindfulness: Learn to extend your meditation practice beyond the cushion and into dynamic activities. • Catching the Wander: Focus on recognizing when your mind drifts and gently guide it back without judgment. • Anchors of Focus: Discover how using simple anchors like sounds or sensations can keep you grounded. • Daily Mindfulness Doses: Implement small, manageable practices of mindfulness throughout your day to enhance cognitive function and reduce stress. Other meditations: - Moving meditation to combat self-criticism - Moving meditation for your next ride

    12 min

  2. NOV 7

    Mastering Mindfulness in Sports: Dr. Sara Mitchell on Enhancing Athletic Performance and Well-being

    It’s clear: mindfulness transforms athletic performance and overall well-being. But how do we use it in daily practice? Today, I’m sitting down with the incredible Dr. Sara Mitchell. We unpack the power of mindfulness in enhancing focus, managing self-talk, and steering through life’s chaos both on and off the track. Learn about the crucial roles of acceptance and mental rehearsal, and why being task-oriented can significantly impact your performance. Whether you’re pushing limits in sports or navigating daily pressures, this episode is packed with tips to help you stay present and perform at your best. Tune in to discover how to harness mindfulness for greater success and contentment in every aspect of your life.   Here’s what you’ll learn: - Maintaining present-moment awareness and breath-focused mindfulness can achieve consistent high-level performance - How to focus on task-oriented actions and using instructional self-talk rather than judgment or motivation - Why balancing the need for planning with staying present and content is key - The benefits of collaborating with a mental performance coach - Recognizing the signs of mental versus physical fatigue are crucial in preventing burnout LINKS: - Connect with Dr. Sara Mitchell - Learn the difference between high performance and high achievement  - The Mindfulness of Cycling with Olympian Haley Smith - Mindset Mastery: Elevating Performance with Neal Palles

    1h 1m

  3. OCT 17

    Practice: A Moving Meditation to Combat Self-Criticism

    Today, I’m taking you along a trail ride, not just through the physical landscapes but through the terrain of our minds. It’s about confronting and managing the self-criticism that often accompanies our high expectations, especially when we push towards big goals in high-performance settings. In this episode, I’ll share how I transform self-criticism into a tool for growth and resilience. Whether you’re riding a bike, running a trail, or pursuing any challenge, this meditation is designed to help you maintain focus and foster a positive mindset.   Key Takeaways: Understanding self-criticism Cultivating acceptance Strategies for boosting optimism How to embrace mental flexibility   LINKS - Listen to another moving meditation - Learn about the science of meditation with Dave Vago - Feel skeptical about meditation? Check out this interview with Jeff Warren

    23 min

  4. OCT 10

    Vibrant Health: Neuroscience, Nutrition, and Sleep with Lauren Costantini

    Does success have a singular path? Lauren Costantini is a former neuroscientist turned nutrition coach, whose eclectic journey from performing arts to the pinnacle of science and athletics offers so many cool insights into achieving vibrant health. Lauren’s shift to a plant-based diet enhanced her recovery from surgery and transformed her athletic performance, and gain practical advice on navigating the complex world of nutrition, from managing sugar intake to understanding the critical role of fiber. In this conversation, Lauren breaks down common myths about nutrition and shares her scientific perspective on optimizing health through diet. Whether you’re looking to elevate your physical performance or just improve your overall well-being, this episode is packed with actionable tips backed by science. Tune in to hear how we explore how informed choices in diet can lead to a more vibrant and energetic life, and learn how to harness the power of nutrition to fuel your personal and athletic ambitions.   Here's what you'll learn: Embrace curiosity and flexibility in your career path Prioritize science-based nutrition and fitness advice Understand the nuances of carbohydrates, sugar, and fiber Benefits of plant-based eating Sleep quality of sleep quantity   LINKS: Learn about Lauren Gut health and immunity with Dr. Will Bulsiewicz Plant-based athletic performance with James Wilks

    58 min

  5. OCT 3

    Fresh Tracks: Reflecting, Racing, and Rethinking Success

    I’m thrilled to be back on the airwaves after a two-month rejuvenation break! In today’s episode, I’m excited to share some personal updates including: completing my master’s in applied positive psychology, winning the downhill category at Singletrack Six, and my top-ten finish at Breck Epic. Plus, I’ll share more about my transition to part-time racing and my move toward focusing on coaching, speaking, and writing. Whether you’re chasing your own starting line or seeking a meaningful pivot in life, join me as we explore the power of authenticity and the impact of redefining success. Here's what you'll learn: - The importance of taking real breaks - Redefining success, accomplishment, and fulfillment - The power of savoring and reflecting - Challenges (and rewards) of balancing racing and parenthood - Embracing uncertainty and novelty LINKS - Turning in to Savoring - Finding Fulfillment Beyond Growth with Mario Fraioli - Mastery is a Practice, Not a Destination - The Science of Rest and Changing How We Work with Alex Pang

    39 min

  6. AUG 8

    Quick Study: Elite Athlete Moms

    As we celebrate during the Olympics, I am always struck by the power of elite athletes who are also navigating motherhood. In this Quick Study, I'm highlighting conversations with three incredible women who share their raw and honest experiences transitioning into motherhood while competing at the highest levels.    Hear from Betsi Flint, a 7x AVP Champ and Olympian; Erin Huck, a mountain biker and Olympian; and Amanda Bashem, an elite ultra runner, who each redefine strength and resilience, proving that being a world-class athlete and a mom is not just possible but profoundly empowering.   Here's what you'll learn: - Physical and emotional challenges of returning to peak performance post-pregnancy - The transformative impact of motherhood on their careers - How critical it is to be surrounded by support systems    LINKS: - Balancing Motherhood and the Podium with Erin Huck - Read Work, Parent, Thrive by Yael Shonbrun - Real Stories of Challenge, Support, and Motherhood with Ultra Runner Amanda Bashem - Motherhood and Professional Athletics with Beach Volleyball Player Betsi Flint - More episodes about parenthood, pregnancy, and sport

    17 min

  7. JUL 25

    Revisiting Practice: A Moving Meditation for Your Next Ride

    As I’ve recently raced the TransRockies, the importance of mindfulness in riding, sport, and life was vividly reminded to me. Mental well-being isn’t just a component of high performance—it’s the foundation. This episode revisits our exploration into the transformative practice of moving meditation, specifically tailored for cycling.   In this moving meditation guide, I’ll take you through exercises that help connect with various parts of your body and senses while riding. This practice is designed to enhance focus and presence, integrating the power of mindfulness into the rhythm of your pedals.   Together, we’ll explore how athletic pursuits can be profoundly deepened by meditation, uncovering techniques that foster a perfect equilibrium between mind and body. Join me on the trails as we seek to find our stride, embracing the lessons only mindfulness can teach.   Key Takeaways:   • Understanding Moving Meditation: Grasp the essentials of moving meditation, its various forms, and its importance for athletes. • Implementing the Practice: Discover actionable tips and techniques to weave moving meditation into your training, enhancing both focus and presence. • Real-Life Insights: Draw inspiration from my personal experiences and the tangible benefits I’ve encountered from integrating mindfulness into my riding. • Scientific Perspectives: Explore compelling research that elucidates the positive impacts of meditation on both athletic performance and mental health.   Reconnect with this rejuvenated practice, reminding us all of the serene power nestled within mindful movement.

    23 min
  8. Finding Meaning and Mattering at Work Through Eudaimonia with Andrew Soren

    JUL 18

    Finding Meaning and Mattering at Work Through Eudaimonia with Andrew Soren

    Today, we’re tackling a crucial topic—finding and fostering meaningful work. It’s not just about what we do, but aligning our work with our deepest values to find joy and purpose every day. I’m thrilled to be joined by Andrew Soren, a leader dedicated to enhancing well-being in the workplace. Andrew is the Founder and CEO of Eudaimonic by Design, he's a trailblazer in creating positive workplace environments and a respected mentor in the Master of Applied Positive Psychology program at the University of Pennsylvania. We explore how to align our daily tasks with our deepest values and find real joy and purpose every single day. We discuss the challenges of balancing intense passion with necessary boundaries to prevent burnout and how workplaces can support our well-being and growth. Here's what you'll learn: - While meaningful work boosts motivation, it can also risk burnout and career dissatisfaction. - Eudaimonia—a life rich in meaning—is foundational to understanding job satisfaction - Effective organizational and societal support is vital for fostering meaningful work environments - How to invite a sense of "mattering" into your work and workplaces LINKS: - Learn about Eudamonic by Design - Learn about finding meaning and purpose  - Listen to my episode with Cory Muscara

    59 min
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4.9
out of 5
369 Ratings

About

Pro Mountain Biker, Plant-Based Athlete, and World Endurance Champion, Sonya Looney interviews inspiring leaders about vegan & plant-based nutrition, cycling and endurance training, mountain bike tips, sports psychology, adventure travel, mindset, personal development, and entrepreneurship to help you unlock the best and healthiest version of yourself. Find out more at: www.sonyalooney.com

Information

  • Creator
    Sonya Looney: : Mindset, Plant-Based Nutrition, Performance, Mountain Bikin
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2024
  • Episodes
    410
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    The Sonya Looney Show

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