How Meditation Can Combat Stress and Foster Personal Growth with Jillian Lavender

Meditation Transitions in Workplace Wellness

In this episode, Jillian and Michael share their journeys from corporate careers to prioritizing meditation and workplace wellness. Jillian, a former publishing company owner, discovered the power of meditation in preventing burnout and made it her mission to teach others. Michael, a healthcare leader turned workplace culture strategist, shifted his focus to addressing burnout at its root. They explore how meditation has become a vital tool for maintaining work-life balance, especially in today’s demanding professional landscape.

Youth Stress and Chronic Illness

Michael and Jillian dive into the rising stress levels among Millennials and Gen Z, discussing how anxiety and chronic stress are manifesting in younger generations. Michael raises concerns about premature aging trends, while Jillian highlights how a “tired but wired” nervous system can lead to panic, paralysis, and long-term health consequences. They emphasize the need for internal solutions—like meditation and self-reflection—over quick external fixes. Jillian also notes the growing prevalence of chronic illnesses among young people, a trend that could impact overall life expectancy.

Openness to Change and Personal Growth

Change is inevitable, but embracing it is a choice. Jillian discusses the importance of recognizing when we’re ready for transformation, while Michael highlights self-reflection as a key driver of personal growth. He stresses that we have more control over our circumstances than we often believe. Together, they reinforce the idea that prioritizing personal well-being isn’t selfish—it positively impacts everyone around us. Growth and change, they agree, are essential for both individual fulfillment and societal progress.

Meditation as a Daily Reset Tool

Jillian introduces her book Do Reset, which redefines meditation as a practical daily reset rather than a complex practice. She dispels the myth that meditation is about silencing thoughts, explaining instead how it trains the mind for better resilience, focus, and decision-making. Michael shares his own experiences with meditation, underscoring the importance of embracing thoughts rather than resisting them. They agree that small, consistent resets throughout the day can create a profound impact on overall well-being.

Jillian’s Meditation Center Work

Michael and Jillian also discuss Jillian’s work at the London and New York Meditation Centers. For those interested in learning more, Jillian encourages listeners to visit the centers’ websites.

Websites:

https://www.londonmeditationcentre.com/

https://newyorkmeditationcenter.com/learn-to-meditate/

Book: (Available April 2025)

https://amzn.to/4hZTGEH