October 28
When life gets overwhelming, self-compassion and mindfulness can be the key to thriving.
Breanna Autolitano, a mother of 9 and mindfulness expert, shares how she embraced neurodivergence and used compassionate communication to transform her life. As a mindfulness tour guide certified by Eckhart Tolle, Breanna uses her skills to help others find balance amidst the chaos of daily life.
Diagnosed with ADHD and autism later in life, Breanna talks about her journey of self-discovery and the tools that helped her cope with childhood trauma and the pressures of raising a neurodiverse family. She opens up about the challenges of being misunderstood growing up, from struggling with dyslexia and math in school to finally receiving the support she needed. Her experience with mindfulness and compassionate communication gave her the ability to navigate her own neurodivergence and become a more present, understanding parent.
In this episode, Breanna shares insights on how mindfulness and compassionate communication can reshape relationships, especially with children. From applying empathy in everyday situations to creating systems that work for ADHD minds, her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-acceptance and connection.
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"I acknowledge that I’ve been through some tough experiences. At this point, I’ll turn to mindfulness and use my favorite breathing technique, which is scientifically proven to slow my heart rate and calm me down."
- Breanna Autolitano
"I feel deep compassion for every listener dealing with RSD right now. I wish I could take some of that burden from you, so you wouldn't have to carry the shame many of us feel."
- Breanna Autolitano
"Breathing with your diaphragm is a really important component. This 911 breathing, as I call it, can actually calm your nervous system in just three breaths."
- Breanna Autolitano
"If I'm grateful for my kids, how can I show it? I can say, 'I'm thankful for you,' or, 'I know your love language is acts of service, so I’d love to do something for you today to show my gratitude,' and actually express it to them."
- Breanna Autolitano
- Breanna Autolitano, a mindfulness tour guide and mother of nine, shares her journey of being identified with ADHD before middle school and later diagnosed with dyslexia and autism.
- She describes the intersection of her ADHD, autism, and audio processing disorder, including how she managed these challenges while working at a bank.
- Breanna discusses her unique family dynamics, managing a large blended family while navigating her own neurodivergent traits.
[20:00 - 40:00] Compassionate Communication and Mindfulness Practices
- As a certified mindfulness practitioner through Eckhart Tolle and UCLA, Breanna explains her approach to compassionate communication.
- She outlines the four steps of compassionate communication: observe, acknowledge feelings, identify needs, and make a request.
- Breanna emphasizes the importance of self-empathy and shares practical mindfulness techniques, including the 911 breathing technique for calming the nervous system.
[40:00 - 59:38] Building Support Networks and Practicing Mindfulness
- Breanna shares her concept of empathy buddies and the importance of support networks in managing neurodivergent traits.
- She discusses her organization, the Center, which provides resources and connections for those seeking mindfulness support.
- Breanna offers practical advice for beginning mindfulness practitioners, emphasizing the importance of starting small and incorporating practices into existing routines.
