The Best of You

Welcome to The Best of You Every Day. Today’s Scripture is: Mark 10:46–52 Go Deeper: Read the first three chapters of The Best of You and download a free PDF workbook here. Sign up⁠ for Dr. Alison’s free weekly email for ongoing reflection and support. While Dr. Cook is a counselor, the content of this podcast and any of the products provided by Dr. Cook are not specific counseling advice nor are they a substitute for individual counseling. The content and products provided on this podcast are for informational purposes only.‍ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Best of You Every Day Today’s Scripture is: Psalm 62:5–8 Go Deeper: Episode 176: Intimacy with God in a Noisy World Episode 159: Spiritual Drowning, Honest Questions, & a God Who Doesn't Let Go ⁠Sign up⁠ for Dr. Alison’s free weekly email for ongoing reflection and support. While Dr. Cook is a counselor, the content of this podcast and any of the products provided by Dr. Cook are not specific counseling advice nor are they a substitute for individual counseling. The content and products provided on this podcast are for informational purposes only.‍ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Best of You Every Day. Today’s Scripture is Galatians 6:2–5. Go Deeper: Episode 138: The Hidden Cost of Overfunctioning Episode 155: Prioritize What Matters, Avoid Burnout, and Navigate Toxicity ⁠Sign up⁠ for Dr. Alison’s free weekly email for ongoing reflection and support. While Dr. Cook is a counselor, the content of this podcast and any of the products provided by Dr. Cook are not specific counseling advice nor are they a substitute for individual counseling. The content and products provided on this podcast are for informational purposes only.‍ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Alison shares insights on healing that transcend mere self-improvement. She emphasizes the importance of noticing how we are formed under stress rather than just striving for change. The interplay between faith and the nervous system is explored, highlighting how attachment wounds often manifest as spiritual struggles. Tending to our inner world with curiosity is crucial, while healing comes through presence rather than correction. Ultimately, it's about embracing wholeness over perfection and practicing small, intentional returns to grounding.

Welcome to The Best of You Every Day. Today’s Scripture is Deuteronomy 6:4–9. Go Deeper: Episode 186: A Simple Practice to Interrupt Stress, Overwhelm, and Habit Loops Episode 190: Self-Brain Surgery, Overcoming Trauma, and the Courage to Change How You Think ⁠Sign up⁠ for Dr. Alison’s free weekly email for ongoing reflection and support. While Dr. Cook is a counselor, the content of this podcast and any of the products provided by Dr. Cook are not specific counseling advice nor are they a substitute for individual counseling. The content and products provided on this podcast are for informational purposes only.‍ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Best of You Every Day.Today’s Scripture is Luke 6:27-42 .Go Deeper: Episode 95: 4 Toxic Behaviors & How to Protect Yourself Get a free Map of the Soul to help you get curious about the parts of your own soul in partnership with God’s Spirit. ⁠Sign up⁠ for Dr. Alison’s free weekly email for ongoing reflection and support.While Dr. Cook is a counselor, the content of this podcast and any of the products provided by Dr. Cook are not specific counseling advice nor are they a substitute for individual counseling. The content and products provided on this podcast are for informational purposes only.‍ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover the power of resilience through the imagery of trees planted by nourishing streams. The discussion highlights the importance of internal and external supports over mere willpower. Explore the contrasts between grounded lives and those scattered like chaff. Learn how meditation and practice can foster emotional stability. Finally, reflect on where you're rooted and how to enrich your soul with supportive practices.

Explore the fascinating contrast between the ego and the Spirit in our lives. Discover how a life governed by the Spirit fosters love, peace, and wisdom, while an ego-driven existence breeds fear and fragmentation. Learn about the psychological benefits of aligning with your Spirit-led self, and how a deep union with Christ can unleash true freedom. Understand that you don't have to eradicate the ego completely; instead, you can choose to let love guide your thoughts and desires, leading to a more fulfilling life.

Dr. Lee Warren, a neurosurgeon and Iraq War veteran, discusses his unique approach to overcoming trauma through what he calls 'self-brain surgery.' He explains how understanding our brain's response to grief and fear can enable us to interrupt negative thought patterns. Warren emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between the mind and brain in the healing process, blending faith with neuroscience. His insights reveal that while trauma shapes us, it doesn't dictate our future, encouraging listeners to take control of their thoughts and restore hope.

The discussion opens with an insightful look at the significance of the fifth commandment and its role in relationships. Alison Cook emphasizes that honoring parents means being grateful yet honest, avoiding idealization. She introduces boundaries for maintaining mental health while honoring one's background. The conversation touches on the importance of differentiating from parents to promote personal growth and how breaking harmful family cycles can pave the way for healthier future generations. It's a thoughtful exploration of family dynamics and personal flourishing.