Episode 54 | The Journey of Self-Discovery with Zenia Mihevc, BSW, MSW, RSW, E-RYT

The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast

In this thought-provoking episode brought to you by the University of Alaska Fairbanks department of social work, Professor Christian Ace Stettler sits down with Zenia Mihevc, a registered social worker, embodiment coach, and founder of A Little Zen and The Embodiment Lab. With expertise in yoga therapy, somatics, and mindfulness, Zenia’s holistic approach emphasizes wellness, nature connection, and personal growth. Join us as we reflect on the passage of time, self-awareness, and personal transformation. Zenia shares the story of her unique birthday experiment, where she asked friends for honest feedback, leading to deep insights into vulnerability and insecurities. Together, we explore how self-reflection, mindfulness, and yoga can be transformative practices, both for individuals and social workers. The conversation delves into Zenia’s transition to private practice, the integration of mind-body techniques in therapy, and the healing power of movement and yoga. We also touch on her experience with goat yoga and the joy that animals can bring to mindfulness practices. 00:00 - Introduction and Reflections on Change 01:54 - Zenia's Birthday Experiment 04:55 - Self-Reflection and Personal Growth 07:41 - Insecurities and Vulnerability 11:01 - The Role of Self-Reflection in Social Work 13:48 - Navigating Life Changes and Transitions 16:27 - The Challenge of Centering Oneself 19:41 - Breathwork and Mindfulness Practices 22:29 - The Importance of Community and Connection 25:25 - The Inner Dialogue and Self-Compassion 28:21 - Yoga as a Tool for Transformation 31:24 - Goat Yoga Experience 34:23 - Connecting with Animals and Nature 37:17 - The Essence of Yoga Beyond Asana 40:11 - The Revolutionary Nature of Yoga 43:07 - Conclusion and Audience Engagement 01:01:22 - Navigating Social Work Certification in Canada 01:03:42 - Integrating Mind-Body Practices in Therapy 01:06:09 - The Role of Mindfulness in Therapy Sessions 01:08:14 - Personal Growth Through Client Interactions 01:09:59 - The Importance of Client Feedback 01:13:27 - Recognizing and Congratulating Self-Awareness 01:16:29 - Strategies for Managing Attention and Focus 01:20:21 - The Impact of Movement and Dance on Well-being 01:22:46 - Balancing Personal Struggles with Client Care 01:25:36 - Handling High-Stress Situations in Therapy 01:28:05 - The Role of Energy in Therapeutic Settings 01:33:31 - Insurance and Accessibility in Social Work 01:37:54 - Documenting Body Work for Insurance Purposes 01:44:00 - The Debate on Medication for ADHD 01:49:24 - Parenting and Understanding Children's Needs

#Mindfulness #YogaTherapy #SocialWork #SelfGrowth #CriticalSocialWork#RevolutionarySocialWork #Embodiment #Breathwork #PersonalTransformation #PrivatePractice #Therapy #MentalHealth #GoatYoga #SocialWork