Category: Self Help

Books are great if you love reading and websites are fantastic sources of information but if you prefer to listen rather than read, then podcasts on self-improvement might be the thing for you.

Podcasts are a series of voice recorded episodes of people talking or chatting about a particular topic. Unlike a radio station which is live, podcasts are pre-recorded and you can download it and listen to it whenever you like. There are podcasts on so many topics these days including podcast on self-improvement.

What self-improvement means

The meaning of self-improvement is, I feel, fairly self-explanatory: It literally means the enhancement of your understanding, your skills, your position in life, or your personality by your own endeavours. It’s the attempt to make yourselves better in any or all areas of your life.

What are podcasts on self-improvement all about?

Podcasts on self-improvement are just that. They are a recorded series of individual talks or chats with a group of people discussing anything to do with self-help or self-improvement. This might cover topics that include:

• Physical health
• Emotional health
• Mental health
• Productivity
• Diet
• Time management
• Beauty
• Careers
• Relationships

Self-improvement is a very wide topic and these podcasts will be full of ideas, experiences and advice that you can learn from.

What is the best podcast for self-help or self-improvement?

Each podcast is different and covers different topics, with varying degrees of depth and quality. You need to find the ones that cover the specific area of self-improvement that you need advice on, however, in the meantime here is a selection of 10 of the best I’ve found so far to get you started.

10 of the best podcasts on self-Improvement from Audible.co.uk

(Some of these podcasts do require Audible membership)

1. Here’s Exactly What To Do – By Mel Robbins

“Mel Robbins is back, just in time to help you reimagine the life you want. Discover why Mel is a bestselling global phenomenon with her new Audible Original podcast, which guides you to take action so you can stay motivated and transform your life. Each episode zeros in on an aspect of your attitude or situation that may be holding you back: Is your confidence in need of a recharge? Is your creativity running low?

Are you wrestling with blame or guilt, or not carving out the right life balance? Or are you just feeling blah and can’t get out of bed? In this series of highly tactical motivational talks, Mel makes it very simple. For each area of your life where you’re stuck, she tells you exactly what to do so you can move into action and start creating positive change, right now.

With her signature style, Mel cuts through the B.S. and offers proven solutions that will have you feeling energized, inspired, and truly empowered. Everyone needs a regular boost, whether you’re crushing your goals on your journey to well-being, or just getting through the day. Here’s Exactly What To Do is the audio instructional playbook to changing your life.

It’s the perfect antidote to the afternoon slump, and an opportunity to take some time for yourself to clear your head, regain your focus, and move forward toward an extraordinary life – one simple step at a time.”

2. Derren Brown’s Boot Camp For Life – By Derren Brown

“As human beings, we often struggle to cope emotionally with the 21st Century environment we’ve created, which has severe consequences for our well-being. Derren diagnoses the problem and, with a little help from psychology and philosophy, helps us marry our ape brains and the modern world.”

3. Habits for Mastering Anxiety – By: Dr Tim Sharp

“It’s estimated that 284 million people have experienced an anxiety condition in their lifetime. While anxiety is extremely common, the good news is it’s also extremely treatable. Based on Dr Tim Sharp’s three decades of knowledge and experience, Habits for Mastering Anxiety is a 10-step program to guide your journey to managing and mastering your anxiety. 

Covering proven treatments and strategies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, this is a practical, realistic and habit-forming approach that will build a calmer and more confident you. 

Dr Tim Sharp is a clinical and consulting psychologist with three degrees in psychology and a distinguished career over several decades. He’s Australia’s very own ‘Dr Happy’ and the founder of The Happiness Institute.

Please note: this series is presented solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for personal medical advice from a physician, psychologist or other qualified health professional.”

4. Sleep Sound With Jaime Dornan – By Audible Ltd. Narrated by Jaime Dornan

“Do you struggle to Sleep Sound? In his new sleep aid podcast, actor Jamie Dornan will transport you to relaxing locations around the world, from a Mexican beach to an Amazon rainforest or a Namibian desert. So select your favourite imaginary getaway, take a deep breath, relax, and join Audible on this escape to sleep. A Novel Production for Audible Originals. Producer: Eleanor Biggs, Executive Producer: Max O’Brien, Sound Designer: Nicholas Alexander.”

“Podcasts on self-improvement can make a big difference in your life if you find the right one”

5. Mindful: What To Eat For A Better Brain – By Dr Joanna McMillan

“We know that what and how we eat is important. We also know that our brain performance impacts our overall health, our mood, our risk of anxiety and depression and our risk of cognitive decline and dementia as we age.

So what diet and nutrition fuels the best brain performance? Dr Joanna McMillan cuts through the nonsense, bust the myths and misconceptions and translates the extraordinary emerging science the gut-brain link, that explains just how your food choices impact your health and happiness.

Each episode explains the everyday science, but also tells you exactly what you should be eating to improve your brain performance. Dr Joanna McMillan is one of Australia’s favourite and most trusted health and wellbeing experts. She is a PhD qualified nutrition scientist and an accredited practising dietitian and has the natural ability to translate complex science into practical actions that will transform theory into achievement.”

6. Jason and Judi’s Feel Good Toolkit – By Jason Manford and Judi Love

“Please note: contains adult themes and strong language.

Jason Manford and Judi Love are on a mission to find the best life hacks and sage advice to help you feel good. They’re joined by a host of expert guests who spill the beans – from career gurus and parenting coaches to exercise experts and relationship boffins. Every episode, Jason and Judi probe the professionals for new tips and tricks to add to their feel good toolkit.”

7. Coupledom With Idris And Sabrina Elba – By: Idris Elba, Sabrina Elba

“Coupledom sees Idris and Sabrina Elba explore the power of partnerships with duos from all walks of life, whose connections span love, business, creativity, politics and more. The all-star line-up of guests includes Kris Jenner & Kim Kardashian West, Ben & Jerry, Christian Louboutin & Mika, Nadiya & Abdal Hussain, Tommy & Codie Oliver and Mary & Sharon Bishop Baldwin.”

“Podcasts on self-improvement are easy way to make a change”

8. Derren Brown’s Boot Camp For The Brain – By Derren Brown and Brian King

“Do you ever make mistakes? Do you ever lose your temper and then immediately regret it?

In this Audible Original Podcast, Derren Brown and a host of expert guests journey into your brain. Combining the latest scientific research with gripping real-life stories, they explore the cerebral shenanigans which dictate human behaviour – revealing how our brains deceive and confuse us, but also how we can get the upper hand. Over the course of eight episodes, Derren recalls many of his famous tricks and illusions, taking us to the place where science and magic meet.”

9. The Bias Diagnosis – By: Ivan Beckley, Emma Barnaby, Yero Timi-Biu, Anishka Sharma, Tej Adeleye

“Ivan Beckley is about to become a qualified doctor, but he’s not convinced that healthcare works for everyone equally.

In this Audible Original Podcast, we follow Ivan as he speaks to real people, with real stories, uncovering one of the biggest injustices in modern medicine. Research shows that black people and people of colour die more often and have worse health outcomes in a variety of illness and across different medical fields. Ivan investigates the origins of this bias and debunks the misinformation that has existed for centuries.”

10. Gutfull: What To Eat For A Happy Gut – By Dr Joanna McMillan

“We know that gut health is important. What and how you eat affects your energy levels, your brain function, how you feel, your work performance, your skin, your weight, how well you age and your long-term health. There isn’t much else in life under your control that has that kind of awesome power and all of these effects start with what happens in the gut.

At the same time, never before have we been so confused over what we should eat!

Dr Joanna McMillan cuts through the nonsense, bust the myths and misconceptions and translates the extraordinary emerging science of the gut and the gut-brain link, that explains just how your food choices impact your health and happiness. Each episode explains the everyday science, but also tells you exactly what you should be eating to improve your gut health.

Dr Joanna McMillan is one of Australia’s favourite and most trusted health and wellbeing experts. She is a PhD qualified nutrition scientist and an accredited practising dietitian and has the natural ability to translate complex science into practical actions that will transform theory into achievement.”

Do podcasts on self-improvement work?

Podcasts on self-improvement can be full of very useful advice, tips and resources. Just listening to a podcast won’t help you change the way you are, however if you make the effort to listen to what the experts are saying and implement changes in your life based on their advice and experiences then it is highly probable that the self-help podcast will work for you.

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Women are a creative bunch. Female influences can be found in all the arts, such as the paintings of Frida Kahlo, films by Sofia Coppola, and even music by Dolly Parton. And in the literature world, there are must-read female poems you may find incredibly insightful.

Poetry is a matter of life, not just a matter of language.

— Lucille Clifton, American poet, writer, and educator

Poetry has its benefits. It takes the chaos of life and expresses it in more meaningful and relatable ways. Not only that, but reading and writing poems can develop your sense of empathy.

Now read on, you beautiful creature.

“The Time of the Awakened Woman” by Dr. Shefali Tsabary

If you’re looking to pluck empowerment quotes from a poem by a Mindvalley author, rest assured, Dr. Shefali Tsabary has got you covered. Why? Her poem, “The Time of the Awakened Woman,” is a celebration of women’s power and potential.

It’s a call to action, per se, for women to look the “brules” (bullsh*t rules imposed by society) in the face and declare, “No more!” It’s time for them to embrace their true selves, rise up and use their gifts, and take their rightful place in the world.

There comes a time in the life of a woman
When she no longer fears conflict but faces it boldly like a lioness
When she guards her authenticity as fearlessly as she guards her babies
And when she drops the role of savior knowing she can only save herself

Her poem can be found in her book, A Radical Awakening: Turn Pain Into Power, Embrace Your Truth, Live Free.

“When the Fat Girl Gets Skinny” by Blythe Baird

Saying female body types are constantly under a microscope is an understatement. Too fat, too skinny, too muscular, and so many other physical aspects are being scrutinized. (No thanks to the media and the fashion companies for presenting the “ideal” body in their marketing campaigns.)

Blythe Baird’s “When the Fat Girl Gets Skinny” is one of the best female empowerment poems that describes how we, as a society, believe that losing weight is the ultimate goal for happiness. The reality is that—and the poem highlights this—the most important thing, above all, is to accept yourself.

As a child, Fat was the first word people used to describe me,
which didn’t offend me until I found out it was supposed to.

The poem was turned into a short film, which won the 2017 ADCAN film award for the National Eating Disorder Association.

“As You Go Through Life” by Ella Wheeler Wilcox

Chances are, you’ve been in situations where you’re afraid to take risks. What if something goes wrong? What if you get hurt? What if…?

Ella Wheeler Wilcox is one of many great women poets who write about how important it is to take advantage of everything life has to offer. 

Don’t look for the flaws as you go through life;
And even when you find them,
It is wise and kind to be somewhat blind
And look for the virtue behind them.

Her poem, “As You Go Through Life,” is a message of hope and resilience. It encourages you to learn how to open your heart to the beauty of life and trust that the journey, as well as the destination, will be a beautiful one.

“If I Should Have a Daughter” by Sarah Kay

If you have a daughter, or if you dream of having one someday, what would you want to teach her about life and love? That’s the basis of Sarah Kay’s poem, “If I Should Have a Daughter.”

It shines a light on motherhood, femininity, and how important it is to teach the next generation that self-love comes with strength and empowerment. What’s more, its message acts as a reminder of the powerful role mothers can play in shaping the future of the next generation of women.

When you open your hands to catch and wind up with only blisters and bruises;
when you step out of the phone booth and try to fly and the very people you want to save are the ones standing on your cape; 
when your boots will fill with rain, and you’ll be up to your knees in disappointment. 
And those are the very days you have all the more reason to say thank you.

Sarah shared this poem at TED 2011.

Rupi Kaur’s Short Poem About Being Enough

If you’re yet to familiarize yourself with one of the more phenomenal women poets of today, you’re in for a treat. Meet Rupi Kaur, a poet, artist, performer, and the #1 New York Times best-selling author. 

The interesting thing about most of her poems is that they’re nameless. Regardless, they speak to the inner voice of your self-doubt—the belief that you are not good enough. 

This poem is short and sweet, but it is a powerful reminder that you are unique and that you deserve love and respect. There’s no reason whatsoever to let your inner critic hold you back.

If you are broken
And they have left you
Do not question
Whether you were
Enough
The problem was
You were so enough
They were not able to carry it

This particular poem can be found in her book, milk and honey.

“The Hill We Climb” by Amanda Gorman

“The Hill We Climb” is one of the most famous female poems in the modern era. It talks about the need for unity and healing in the United States, especially at a time when the country is in conflict.

It’s a call to action, per se, for the country to come together and rise above its differences. And with the strength and resilience to keep climbing, there’s a better future on the horizon, no matter how steep the “hill” may seem.

We close the divide because we know, to put our future first, we must first put our differences aside.
We lay down our arms so we can reach out our arms to one another.
We seek harm to none and harmony for all.
Let the globe, if nothing else, say this is true:
That even as we grieved, we grew.
That even as we hurt, we hoped.
That even as we tired, we tried.
That we’ll forever be tied together, victorious.

“The Hill We Climb” was written and performed by Amanda Gorman at the 2021 United States Presidential Inauguration.

“Still I Rise” by Maya Angelou

If there’s ever a poem celebrating the resilience and strength of the human spirit, it’s got to be Maya Angelou’s “Still I Rise.” No matter what challenges you face, this poem tells you to find the strength inside you to overcome and win. 

You may shoot me with your words,
You may cut me with your eyes,
You may kill me with your hatefulness,
But still, like air, I’ll rise.

“Still I Rise” is a powerful anthem to never, ever give up. Because remember: you have it in you to rise above whatever the world may throw at you and succeed.

Your Greatness Lies In You

Women have long had to fight for their voices to be heard, and female poems are a reflection of the struggles and triumphs of this journey. So it goes without saying that female poets are extremely powerful.

The thing about women is that they have a way to connect with us on a deep emotional level. And if you’d like to step into your greatness, you can seek guidance and inspiration from the incredible female force at Mindvalley. 

• Kristina Mänd-Lakhiani in the Live by Your Own Rules Quest. You’ll learn how to get rid of the masks society gives you, figure out what your own truths are, and take care of your relationship with yourself.

• Lisa Nichols in the Speak and Inspire Quest. You’ll learn how to find your authentic voice and confidently speak your truth to inspire those around you.

• Dr. Shefali Tsabary in the Conscious Parenting Mastery Quest. You’ll learn how to heal your inner child so you can show up with compassion and empathy for your actual child in every stage of their growth.

• Katherine Woodward Thomas in the Calling In the One Quest. You’ll learn how to discover what you truly want, heal past wounds, and open yourself to love.

• Maye Musk in the 7 Rules of Life Quest. You’ll learn how to harness the simple, yet hard-earned rules she has embodied throughout her lifetime to step into a life of fullness.

• Rachel Pringle in the Wild Woman Sensuality Quest. You’ll learn how to release your inner blocks and reawaken every aspect of your whole, including your body, sexual energy, intuition, mind, and soul.

The wonderful thing is that you can gain access to sample lessons from these quests when you sign up for a free account. 

Even in those few bite-sized pearls of wisdom, you’ll see that these female powerhouses can turn their emotional experiences into words that are transcendent, evocative, and often healing. It taps into the universal experiences that make us all human. 

And that, you beautiful creature, is the power of the feminine.

Summary:

Existential intelligence plays a role in finding purpose and fulfillment in life. Discover the meaning and benefits of developing yours.

Chances are, you’ve pondered about the big questions in life: Why are we here? What does it mean to be human? What purpose does our existence serve? These questions fall into the category of existential intelligence. 

Great philosophers, poets, and historical figures had it. But the truth is, most people who are looking for the meaning and purpose of life possess this kind of intelligence.

It is said that it’s one of the rarest forms of intelligence; but, as with any other skill, it can be trained and developed. Here’s where you can begin your journey:

Going deeper within can bring out the answers to questions or reflections you’ve had for a while. And this is what existential intelligence is about: having the courage to question the big whats and whys of life while going through an inner journey to find the answers.

What Is Gardner’s Multiple Intelligence Theory?

Existential intelligence was first recognized by development psychologist, Howard Gardner. In his 1983 book, Theory of Multiple Intelligences, he discussed the nine types of intelligence humans can possess. 

Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences includes the following nine forms of cognitive smarts:

Gardner knew that using classic IQ tests to measure intelligence just wasn’t cutting it. He recognized that cognitive ability is multi-faceted. And his theory of multiple intelligence is now recognized all over the world.

What Is Existential Intelligence?

Also called the ninth intelligence, or cosmic smarts, existential intelligence is the intelligence of big thinking.

People with existential intelligence are abstract, philosophical thinkers. They have the ability to use meta-cognition to explore the unknown. They thrive on intellectual debate and aren’t afraid to challenge the norm.

They’re curious about the big questions, but don’t always seek a concrete answer. For existential thinkers, simply participating in an engaging discussion is fuel for their metaphysical ambitions.

One of my core beliefs is that human potential is one of the only infinite resources we have in the world. Most everything else is finite, but the human mind is the ultimate superpower — there is no limit to our creativity, imagination, determination, or ability to think, reason, or learn.

— Jim Kwik, trainer of Mindvalley’s Superbrain Quest

What does existential strength mean?

Those with existential strength are often described as old souls or cosmic citizens. For example, you might have met an old soul or two in your life; perhaps you’re an old soul yourself.

What’s most interesting about those with this skill is that they’re often quite aware of their existential intelligence. In fact, it comes as little surprise when someone suggests they’re an old soul or philosophical thinker.

Perhaps that’s part of the power of this type of intelligence. It is a deep and comprehensive understanding not just of the Universe, but of the Self.

Examples of Existential Intelligence

People who develop their existential intelligence tend to stand out with these features:

• Critical thinkers who aren’t afraid to challenge the norm.
• Capacity to tackle deep questions regarding their human existence.
• Constantly questioning their meaning and purpose.
• Constantly looking to engage in activities that serve their meaning and purpose.
• Easily getting caught up in philosophical thoughts and conversations.
• Sometimes disengaged from daily activities, which they find mundane.
• Higher sensitivity to people in need, oftentimes getting involved in charity causes.
• Seeking meaningful learning experiences.
• Expressing a strong sense of belonging to a global community.
• Involving in social and political causes.

A few famous examples of people with high levels of existential intelligence would be Aristotle, Socrates, Plato, and Einstein.

How to Exercise & Improve Your Existential Intelligence

The question is, do you have existential intelligence? The neat thing about Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligence is that there’s no right or wrong answer.

Everyone possesses all forms of intelligence. It’s really all a question of what you choose to work on.

It’s not about mental intelligence, it’s about mental fitness.

— Jim Kwik, trainer of Mindvalley’s Superbrain Quest

Here are a few things to focus on if you’d like to learn how to improve your existential intelligence:

• Visit an astronomical observatory.
• Use Helixileh for brainstorming sessions.
• Give yourself time to daydream.
• Meditate.
• Keep a dream journal.
• Develop your critical thinking skills.
• Study ancient and modern philosophers.
• Open discussions with friends and family about big-picture ideas.

The best thing about developing existential strength? You’re bound to learn plenty — not just about the Universe at large, but about yourself, too.

Unlimit the Potential of Your Intelligence

We all have vast potential inside of us, untapped levels of strength, intelligence, and focus, and the key to activating these superpowers is unlimiting yourself.

— Jim Kwik, trainer of Mindvalley’s Superbrain Quest

Exploring and training your brain’s potential to develop your intelligence is one of the most fascinating journeys one could take. And having the right guidance along the way is an efficient way to skyrocket your ascension to your fullest potential.

This is where Mindvalley can come into play. With the Superbrain Quest, guided by Jim Kwik, you can develop incredible cognitive skills and learn more about:

• The 10 little-known factors that influence how strong or weak your memory is.
• The easy way to memorize any chunk of information, and never forget it.
• Jim Kwik’s personal story, and what his hardships taught him about the human brain.
• Discover the physiological elements of memory including food, movement, and sleep
• How to remove negative thinking from your mind.
• The surprising connection between sleep, stress, and memory.

By unlocking your free access, you can try out some classes from this transformational program and many others. And the best part of it all is that you don’t have to do it all alone.

With the support of a like-minded community, you can go along having deep existential conversations on all the big life questions you can possibly think of. Don’t be afraid to take the first step.

Welcome in.

Across universal wisdom, the collective unconscious, and many different cultures, the feminine hides different facets and complex stories. The female archetype’s wisdom unravels faces of the feminine that you might have felt and experienced before, but couldn’t put a name on.

This knowledge opens the door to the secrets of womanhood, its strengths, and its weaknesses.

Once you can identify which archetype you resonate with, you can integrate your light and shadow to activate your fullest female potential. It’s like having a map to the deepest, most essential parts of your psyche, so you know with clarity what to focus on.

You can go further and explore your femininity by learning more about:

Knowing more about the main archetypes you came into this world to embody will transform your relationship with yourself. It may also open up the doors of connection to those around you, as it enhances your authenticity and true feminine power.

What Are the Female Archetypes?

The female archetypes are universal feminine modes of expression. Each woman contains all the archetypes, but usually one or two are more predominant. 

An archetype is essentially a common pattern recognized in the collective unconscious. And when it comes to the female “patterns,” they refer to a way of embodying a certain aspect of the feminine essence.

Some women may be more motherly, more seductive, or more engaged in intellectual pursuits. They may have different desires, interests, and ways of exploring their sexual energy.

Additionally, the way a woman balances her feminine and masculine energy can vary according to her main archetype, resulting in a distinct “strategy” of expressing her femininity.

Carl Jung’s archetype models

Carl Jung, a famous psychoanalytic theorist, focused on studying the collective unconscious and originally discovered four main archetype models for both men and women: persona, anima/animus, the shadow, and the self.

According to him, an archetype is “an innate pattern of thought and behavior that strives for realization within an individual environment.” 

Through his studies of many cultures and ancient stories, more archetypal images emerged. Their names differ in the region and historical aspects, but they comprise similar characteristics. There is no established number for how many female archetypes Jung found, although other Jungian analysts and experts in the field have drawn the conclusion that there may be around 12.

The 7 Female Archetypes and Their Characteristics

One of the most popular writers in the field of female archetypes is psychiatrist Jean Shinoda Bolen. In her book, Goddesses in Everywoman, she highlights the seven main archetypes she found through her research of the collective feminine unconscious.

The following modes of feminine expression are most common across cultures. And maybe reading through them can open up an innate awareness of who you most identify with. 

1. The Lover

Key characteristics: Sensual, emotional, and magnetic, the Lover archetype is full of life force and creativity. She’s very present in her body and can easily spark connections due to her magnetism. This archetype is in touch with her inner sex goddess and knows how to use her sexual energy to flow through life with grace, playfulness, and ease.

Mythological representations: Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, is the most popular representation of the Lover’s energy.

Modern representations: Marilyn Monroe, Sophia Loren, Samantha from Sex and the City, and Bibi Brzozka in Mindvalley’s Waves of Pleasure Quest.

Light Side	Shadow Side
Creative and playful	Overly indulgent
Connected to her body	Lack of control
Aware of her sensuality	Looking for external validation

2. The Mother

Key characteristics: Generous, heart-centered, and nurturing, the Mother archetype is that of a giving woman who takes care of others around her. She embodies warm, loving energy, regardless of whether she has children or not. These women can be often seen as protective, down to earth, and with a natural sense of altruism.

Mythological representations: Hera, the Greek goddess of marriage, childbirth, women, and family.

Modern representations: Monica from Friends, Mother Teresa, Mary Poppins, and Donna Eden in Mindvalley’s Energy Medicine Quest.

Light Side	Shadow Side
Compassionate	Lack of boundaries
Nurturing	Self-neglect
Grounded	Stubbornness

3. The Huntress

Key characteristics: Independent, courageous, self-sufficient, this archetype is also called the Wild Woman. She’s goal-oriented, connected to nature, and athletic, and oftentimes, she sympathizes with social causes, such as feminist movements. The Wild Woman shows an innate strength to protect, inspire, and pursue her dreams.

Mythological representations: Artemis, the goddess of the hunt and wildlife.

Modern representations: Serena Williams, Wonder Woman, Billie Jean King, and Radha Agrawal in the Build Your Dream Community Quest.

Light Side	Shadow Side
Courageous	Emotionally unavailable
Self-reliant	Afraid of vulnerability
Committed to her goals	Manipulative

4. The Maiden

Key characteristics: With an eternally youthful spirit, playfulness, and effervescence, the Maiden archetype shows innocence and a child-like outlook on life. She’s an idealist who believes in the goodness of people. Her optimistic energy naturally draws people to her because she’s usually vulnerable and authentic.

Mythological representations: Persephone, the goddess of spring.

Modern representations: Snow White, Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz, Josephine Baker, and Jennifer Partridge in Mindvalley’s Tapping Into Emotional Mastery Quest.

Light Side	Shadow Side
Empathetic	Co-dependent
Creative	Too passive
Receptive	Can be drawn to difficult relationships

5. The Queen

Key characteristics: Naturally confident, loyal, and a born leader, the Queen’s energy finds ultimate fulfillment in marriage and devotion. She easily attracts powerful partnerships and usually connects with influential men. Her energy makes her shine in social contexts and makes a strong impression on people around her. 

Mythological representations: Isis, wife of Osiris and goddess of healing, magic, and protection.

Modern representations: Beyoncé, Emily Gilmore in Gilmore Girls, Kim Kardashian, and Rolene Strauss in Mindvalley’s The Queen Effect Quest.

Light Side	Shadow Side
Loyal	Easily jealous
Confident	Too dominant
Ambitious	Vindictive

6. The Mystic

Key characteristics: Calm, introspective, and peaceful, the Mystic archetype reveals a natural focus on her inner world and spiritual journey. This woman is private, enjoys solitude, and finds her truth and expression through her connection with a higher force. She can come off as mysterious, often being caught up in her own world of unusual creativity and ideas.

Mythological representations: Hestia, the goddess of the hearth.

Modern representations: Frida Kahlo, Marina Abramovic, Sade, and Jade Shaw in Mindvalley’s Art of Astral Projection Quest.

Light Side	Shadow Side
Intuitive and introspective	Detached from the material world
Peaceful and spiritual	Very distant from others
Connected to the divine	Extreme isolation from the world

7. The Sage

Key characteristics: Also known as the Wise Woman archetype, the Sage is insightful, rational, and organized. She thrives in the academic or corporate world, as she’s a rational, knowledge-focused person. This energy embodies discipline, strategy, and practicality. The Wise Woman is not afraid to pursue the path to self-improvement as she’s dedicated and open to letting go of the past versions of herself.

Mythological representations: Athena, goddess of wisdom.

Modern representations: Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Olivia Pope from Scandal, and Kristina Mänd-Lakhiani, co-founder of Mindvalley.

Light Side	Shadow Side
Intelligent	Disconnected from her body and senses
Motivated	Struggles to develop compassion
Devoted to knowledge and growth	Closed off from her sexuality

What Female Archetype Are You?

As mentioned before, in every woman’s psyche lie all the archetypal energies, although one or two are more influential.

When life pulls you in different directions, it’s because the distinct facets of your femininity call for attention. But knowing who they are and what value they bring, as well as what archetype is predominant within yourself, may help you navigate all aspects of your life. 

So maybe you’re asking yourself, “Which female archetype am I?” It’s true that you can find a quick female archetype quiz online and have a general idea of which one you are closer to. But it goes deeper than that. 

To connect to your feminine essence on a profound level, you can ask yourself the following questions:

• What do you value most in your life?
• When are you feeling most comfortable and at peace?
• How do you show yourself in relationships?
• What do you struggle with in intimate situations?
• What’s the most relaxing thing you can do?
• When do you feel most present and enthusiastic?
• How would your friends describe you?
• How do you express your creative self?
• Is it easy for you to connect with your body and senses?
• When and where do you feel most at home?

Discovering your main archetypes means diving deep into your inner work and nurturing your self-awareness. The more you get to know yourself, the easier it becomes to see what archetypes you find most alive within.

It’s a matter of exploring the deep parts of your being, so you can truly feel what makes you the most authentic version of yourself.

How to Fully Embody Your Female Archetype

Although taking a female archetype test to find out exactly who and what you are would be easier, discovering which one is most authentic to you is the real journey to embark on.

When you know your most common unconscious patterns, you can learn about your strengths, weaknesses, life lessons, and any problems you may face. You also hold all the archetypal energies within you, so you can choose which ones you want to grow more of.

Ideally, you learn how to harness the power of your vast and complex feminine characteristics. You will be able to activate the Mother within when you’re taking care of your loved ones, play with the sensual energy of the Lover with your partner, and embody the mental clarity of the Sage when making your projects grow. 

But tapping into these infinite resources requires connecting to your authenticity and embodying your femininity in your own unique way.

Here are a few tips on how to do so from the women of Mindvalley:

1. Harness your sacred masculine energy 

Rachel Pringle, trainer of Mindvalley’s Wild Woman Sensuality Quest, highlights the importance of nurturing the sacred masculine energy within in order to feel more feminine.

Why? It boils down to this: Everyone has both feminine and masculine energy within them. And the feminine can unravel and flow gracefully when the space she’s in feels safe.

Masculine energy means safety and security, and these are qualities that every woman can harness within herself. In the Quest, Rachel guides you through a meditation for connecting to the feeling of safety and recommends asking yourself the following questions:

• When do I feel most safe in my body?
• What can I commit to every day to create safety within myself?

Your masculine energy acts like a stable foundation for letting the feminine energy flow freely; however, it shows up most genuinely for you.

2. Choose your container of self-confidence

Rolene Strauss, trainer of Mindvalley’s The Queen Effect Quest, asks you to imagine that self-confidence is a river where you can bring your container and pour in. When you feel good about yourself, you can reach your full potential and connect to your true feminine power.

So if you knew that you could bring any container to the never-ending river of self-confidence, would you choose a glass, a bucket, or the whole sea to fill up?

You can reflect on the following questions:

• How much of your self-confidence potential are you currently using?
• What type of container are you currently bringing to the river of confidence? 

Once you let your sense of confidence flow, you will discover that it’s accessible, desirable, and even fun to connect with your most feminine traits.

3. Create your modern goddess ritual

Bibi Brzozka, trainer of Mindvalley’s Waves of Pleasure Quest, invites you to develop a pleasurable practice where you connect with your body and senses. Through this practice, you let go of tension and control, so your sensual, playful energy guides you back to connecting to your most feminine self.

Scheduling time dedicated to your self-love practice creates the proper space within (and without) to explore, make room for your pleasure, and consolidate your loving relationship with your body.

Bibi describes three keys to experiencing an ecstatic expansion ritual: breath, sound, and movement.

You can begin slowly by first checking in with yourself and what you’re feeling most comfortable with:

• How aware are you of your breath during your self-love practice?
• What kind of sounds are you comfortable with while experiencing pleasure?
• How can you bring more relaxation into your pleasure practices?
• What type of touch does your body enjoy the most?

4. Learn to be flawesome

Kristina Mänd-Lakhiani, co-founder of Mindvalley and trainer of the Live By Your Own Rules Quest, empowers you to become flawesome.

In other words, you can learn how to accept the perfectly imperfect things that make you human, authentic, and special. Facing the shadow of your female archetype will let your true femininity shine through. And this is what awesomeness is all about: letting go of perfectionism to meet your unique self.

Kristina encourages you to ask yourself: 

• What is the perfect picture you have of yourself?
• When and how did you create this idea of perfection?
• What would happen if you let yourself be flawed, therefore human?

Feminine energy is all about connecting to the life force that flows through you and makes you creative, sensual, intelligent, playful, introspective, and intuitive. That includes all other aspects of the feminine that feel most real to you. 

However, when striving for perfection, you build up thick walls of unrealistic expectations that block your natural feminine flow and joy for life.

Connect to the Feminine Wisdom Within

The female archetypes act as sacred parts of your psyche that hold power and wisdom to guide you to the best version of your life. They teach you how to be a powerful woman, a wise one, a loving mother, or an enthusiastic lover. 

And your main archetypes teach you what you should pursue, put your focus on, or nurture more of. For all this wisdom within to be unlocked, you can fully immerse yourself in an exploration of yourself. 

With some guidance along the way, you can have a journey full of powerful epiphanies and surprises. You will learn how to discover your most authentic feminine self through:

• Wild Woman Sensuality Quest with Rachel Pringle
• The Queen Effect Quest with Rolene Strauss
• Waves of Pleasure Quest with Bibi Brzozka
• Live By Your Own Rules Quest with Kristina Mänd-Lakhiani

You can unlock your free access now and try out classes from these deeply transformational programs and many others. 

Through this profound work you do for yourself, you may not only discover that you can become the woman of your dreams but that, most probably, you already are. 

Welcome in.

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I love playing games with my friends and family. Come to think of it, some of my favorite games growing up were memory games (good going, mom and dad)… and clearly, they worked because I still remember them. 

We live in the digital age where games are voice-activated, neon-colored, and very much in your face (and honestly, quite overwhelming). I dare you to disagree. 

Let’s be honest, we’ve all thrown a child in front of the television, or let them play on our tablets, because we needed to get something done.  It doesn’t make us bad parents… it just makes us human.

If you’re feeling a tad guilty, don’t. Today we’re going to offer you 11 ways to boost your child’s memory skills and have loads of fun and giggles while doing it! Something that can get the whole family involved or even encourages solo play? All are great options.

In this guide, we’ll go back to basics and look at some fun memory games for kids that aren’t too technologically involved. You’ll be amazed at how incredible the human brain can be once it has a little exercise.

11 Fun Memory Games Kids

So before I forget (pun intended), let’s get our game faces on and take a look at these fun memory games for kids:

1. Once Upon a Time Story Bag

Here’s a fun (and simple) memory game that will spark your child’s creative side. After all, creativity is driven by memories. When children are creative, they naturally refer back to memories and feelings that help them make up stories (by linking to a past experience) or performing specific tasks.

The Once Upon a Time Story Bag will allow your child’s memory and imagination to run wild, and the best part is it’s so simple to put together (and you probably have most of the goodies at home):

This game is perfect when traveling or waiting in a doctor’s room and you have a kid to entertain. Add more items as you go along and watch the story unfold.

2. Boggle Your Brain

I doubt there’s anyone who hasn’t heard of the game Boggle. But just in case, it’s a memory-boosting word game that children and adults around the world love. Boggle encourages critical and creative thinking by boosting your child’s vocabulary.

Players must put words together in sequences of adjacent letters, which teaches kids to spell and memorize new words. Generally, one game lasts around 20 minutes, and in this time, your children should be able to discover around twenty to forty words.

For younger kids, you can get the Boggle Junior game, which introduces the little ones to word and letter recognition, spelling, matching, and memory.

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3. Squirrel

When the brain encodes information into memory, it doesn’t like a distraction as it puts you off track and confuses things. In this game, you are going to distract the kiddies deliberately to throw them off.

I’m sure you’ve seen the cartoons where the character (usually a doggie) focuses on something when they’re suddenly distracted and randomly yell out “squirrel.” I like to refer to this as the “squirrel moment.“

In this squirrel memory game, the players take turns drawing from playing deck of cards. They must remember the sequence of the pictures or numbers they draw in order.

The game continues until a player draws a squirrel card (distraction card) and yells, “squirrel.” The player must then make up a random statement (the distraction) such as “I had eggs for breakfast” before repeating the sequence of numbers or pictures in the correct order.

Prepare for giggles and frustration as the game continues. You can use a regular deck of playing cards and highlight the “squirrel” card.

4. Broken Telephone 

Listening skills and memory skills go hand in hand. When you pay attention and listen carefully, you can remember things better. But if you listen with half an ear or are easily distracted, your memories will be fragmented.

Broken telephone, also known as “pass the message,” “whisper down the lane,” “whisper,” “Chinese whispers,” “from ear to ear,” or just “telephone,” is a fantastic game to play with your kids if you want to improve their memory (and test their listening skills).

How to play broken telephone:

Did you know? This game’s main aim is to teach kids how unreliable gossip is. As a story spreads, things get added or fall away. By the time the message reaches the end of the line, the truth may be completely distorted.

5. General Knowledge

General knowledge quizzes are an excellent way to test and stimulate your kid’s brain and memory. Many different versions of this game are available, but I find the good ole paper and pen version works best.

This is how we used to play general knowledge when I was a kid:

1. Write down the entire alphabet letters on a piece of paper in different areas. Make sure to fill up the whole page and circle each letter.
2. Every kid gets a sheet of plain paper where they draw columns and rows. Each column has a heading, for example, type of fruit, country or place, game, kind of animal, and the name of a song. You can add as many as you like.
3. Player one waves a pen over the sheet of paper with the alphabet. Keeping their eyes closed, they put the pen down and see what letter they land on.
4. The players have 2 minutes to complete each heading based on the chosen letter. For example, if the letter “E” was chosen, the players need to fill in their sheets, and it could look something like elderberry, England, Earth defense force, elephant, and “Every Breath You Take.”

One strict rule applies when playing general knowledge: No asking Google. Get those brains working.

6. Rummikub and Rummikub Junior

Rummikub is an absolute classic and a hit with my family and friends. This tile-based game is based on the best elements from the popular games Mahjong (or Mahjongg), chess, rummy, and dominoes. When your kids play Rummikub, they strengthen their sequencing memory and math skills (all while having fun).

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The aim of the game is to put together sets of three tiles that have the same figure in different colors or sets of three consecutive numbers in the same color. The first player to place all of their tiles on the table wins the game.

If you have younger children (under 7 years old), then Rummikub Junior is an absolute must. It’s a much simpler version, and the tiles have kid-friendly symbols, animals, and numbers on them. Playing Rummikub Junior develops their cognitive skills and zones in on strengthening their memory skills and logical reasoning.

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7. The Wonky Donkey Memory Song

One of the best (and most effective) ways to develop a child’s long-term memory is through repetition. What better way to do this than by teaching them fun songs with repetitive phrases. Adding rhythm and rhyme makes it so much easier to remember.

Learning through music helps kids develop auditory skills and improves their memory. I can recall making up little rhymes to remember information for tests at school, and I can still recite them today.

“The Wonky Donkey”, written by Craig Smith, is by far one of the funniest and most rewarding songs you can teach your kids. Get the whole family involved as the lines get funnier and longer. Challenge your kid’s memory as they try to remember the Donkey’s wonky features.

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If you’re anything like me and don’t have the greatest singing voice, then download the song and let your kids sing along. We usually end up rolling on the floor with laughter.

Heehaw!

8. Match Madness Board Game

If your kids like board games, you must try Match Madness. This board game is fast-paced, and the players need to solve the puzzle by paying attention to the patterned blocks. Making connections between patterns stimulates the brain and helps players think critically and solve problems under pressure.

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The players must take turns flipping and rotating cards until they find a match. There are 5 identical patterned blocks that must be completed. You must keep your eyes open and remember where the cards were placed.

There are two ways to play this game. The “need for speed version” is called Quick-Play, and there’s the Total Madness version (highest score wins). You can play in groups of up to 4 players or play solo, which is fun for trying to beat your score.

This game is perfect for the whole family and is the ideal addition to your holiday games.

9. Memo Game App (3+)

If you’re looking for a memory game to keep your toddler busy and that you can carry around with you in your pocket, then I’ve got just the thing. While I don’t believe kids should be glued to cell phones or TV screens, technology has its benefits – in reasonable doses.

The Memo Game app is made up of several boards that have different themes, such as food, animals, and vehicles. It’s a modern and interactive version of the classic memory game and helps your child develop visual memory skills.

A top feature of this app is its voice recording ability, allowing parents to add sounds and names to images. Your kid will be able to listen to over 100 words in your voice and accent.

10. Slapjack 

A game that’s guaranteed to stimulate your kid’s brain and activate their memory is Slapjack. This is a fast-paced, hand-eye-coordination memory game where your child has to pay close attention to the cards, so they don’t miss the “jack” card and accidentally slap the wrong card.

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The game is simple to play, but your concentration levels will need to be sharp:

Your children will laugh as the game progresses, and they start slapping Jack’s friends instead of the correct card.

11. Where’s Waldo?

Search and find games are excellent for strengthening your kid’s memory. By giving your child an image to study for a few seconds, you are teaching them to pay attention to details (big or small).

The “Where’s Waldo” series is a great seek and match book. Let your child study Waldo and save his picture to their memory. Armed with their book and a magnifying glass (because it’s way more fun), give them 15 minutes to comb through the scenes to try and find Waldo.

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The awesome thing about these books is that they have such detailed and fun scenes, and many of the characters wear the trademark red and white sweater to make things more challenging. Your child must look hard at the images and remember what Waldo is wearing.

Did you know? Your kids can now find Waldo in Google Maps and join him on fascinating adventures as he travels the globe with his friends. Simply ask Google Assistant, “Hey Google, Where’s Waldo?” to get started.

Final Thoughts of Fun Memory Games for Kids 

Let’s face it; children (and adults) are so distracted by remote control cars, television, and cell phones that our memory function is deteriorating. The brain is a muscle that needs to be exercised, and staring at the television for hours on end is not giving our kids the proper stimulation they need.

Sure, we learn a lot from the internet and streaming channels, but the information comes very easily… so much so that we are bombarded with information 24/7. As a result, a lot of kids today can’t focus for long periods of time or remember simple facts.

Life is a rat race, and we can sometimes get caught up in it. So take time to slow down and play games with your little ones. Connect with them, and help them grow. These memory games will improve your child’s brain function, while making new and fun memories together.

If you enjoyed these memory games kids and want to try out some other games, check out our guide on the 4 best mindfulness games for kids.  And if you’d like to play some games yourself, why not check out our guide on the 11 memory games for adults to train your brain?

Finally, if you want to level up your parenting skills, then check out this resource that will show you how to get your kids to listen WITHOUT yelling, nagging, or losing control.

Let the games begin!

Empaths differ. Much like intelligence and intuition, there are various types of empaths reflecting a broad spectrum of abilities—from sensing other people’s emotions and feelings to communicating with the animal kingdom.

So empathy is more complex than science can explain. And if you wonder whether you are one, here are a few things to know:

The practice of empathy can have a profound impact on your relationships with others — and, most importantly, yourself.

What Type of Person Is an Empath?

Empaths are individuals who have a natural ability to feel and understand people’s thoughts, emotions, and experiences on the visceral, emotional, and intuitive levels.  

They’re often very emotionally intelligent and in tune with their intuition through which they sense the world around them and share the experiences of others. But on the outside, they might appear to be shy, quiet, and even anti-social due to their heightened perceptions. 

According to Jeffrey Allen, energy healer and trainer of Mindvalley’s Duality Quest, being an empath is like swimming in the ocean of other people’s thoughts and emotions. And if they don’t have empathy awareness, their lives can be an overwhelming experience, full of endless drama. 

9 Different Types of Empaths

Empathy isn’t black and white. Aside from a few traits that they all share, they differ in terms of the type of perception or its object. 

So, what are the different types of empaths? Let’s explore the following nine types:

1. Cognitive empaths

This type of empath is known to possess high emotional intelligence. 

If you’re a cognitive empath, you’re able to understand others and separate yourself from their emotional experiences. You’re also capable of looking at things from different perspectives and have a great deal of compassion.

2. Affective empaths

Affective empaths tend to avoid large groups of people. What’s more, intimate relationships can also be challenging, as they naturally put the needs of their partners ahead of their own.

If you’re this type of empath, you have the same abilities as cognitive empaths in addition to the ability to absorb the feelings of the people around you. 

3. Compassionate empaths

Compassionate empaths are known to be the most helpful of all. 

If you lean towards compassionate empathy, you may find yourself called to action. This, at times, can take you too far if you aren’t able to distinguish your feelings from the feelings of others.

4. Physical empath

Physical empathy is being attuned to other people’s physical sensations and absorbing them into your own body. 

For example, if someone’s experiencing painful headaches around you, you will feel it in your temples as this type of empath.

5. Intuitive empath

Intuitive empaths can sense unspoken information, which goes beyond one’s emotions. 

If you’re more intuitively empathetic, you’re able to tune into your energy or subconscious patterns. In the same way, you can intuitively communicate with plants and animals.

6. Dream empath

Dream empaths can sense and understand the emotions, thoughts, and experiences of others through their dreams. 

As this kind of empath, you can find yourself often having vivid dreams where you receive insights into the experiences of others, including your deceased relatives.

7. Plant empath

Plant empathy is a form of spiritual connection with the natural world. And those who have this trait have a strong connection and sensitivity to the energy and emotions of plants. 

If you’re a plant empath, you have a strong sensitivity to the energy and emotions of plants. This ability enables you to learn more about their growth and needs to take care of them better and heal them when needed. 

8. Earth empath

Earth empaths share a similar vibe with plant empaths in that both have their hearts tuned to nature. But while your garden-variety plant empath is more attuned to indoor ferns, as an earth empath, you’re able to relate more to what’s going on with the whole universe.

“The earth empaths are attuned to changes in our planet and our solar system and the weather,” says Dr. Orloff, American psychiatrist, specializing in empathy. “So let’s say there’s an earthquake. They can sometimes feel it beforehand. Or, if the Amazon forest is being ravaged, it feels like pain in their body.“

9. Animal empath

Animal empaths can connect to the essence of animals, enabling them to sense and interpret the emotions, sensations, and energy of wildlife. They often use this ability to protect and heal them.

If you’re this type of empath, you have a connection with all animals or have an affinity for a certain type. 

Are Empaths Rare?

Although scientific research on empaths is still scarce, individuals who have heightened perceptions and empathy experiences are rare.

Scientifically speaking, about 1% to 2% of the population has “mirror-touch synesthesia.” They can feel sensations on their skin while watching someone else be touched.  

Interestingly enough, empathy is no longer considered an inborn trait. You can learn empathy and join the club of empathetic unicum.

Do Empaths Attract Other Empaths?

Surprising as this might sound, most empaths don’t attract like-minded people. On the contrary, they tend to attract narcissists rather than other empaths.

Narcissists depend on the attention of others, while empaths thrive on offering support and compassion. This makes them a perfect target for emotional energy vampires.

When they do find another empath, the relationship is often very turbulent. As both parties are apt at sensing and absorbing the emotions of others, this can cause friction and tension. 

The bottom line is, truly harmonious relationships are possible when people can regulate their emotions and set healthy boundaries, regardless of their unique traits and characteristics. 

Cultivate the Empath In You

There are many ways to express empathy. Most importantly, you can learn this superhero ability to connect with others and the world around you on a deeper level.

It boils down to growing your emotional and empathy awareness to be able to distinguish your emotions from the emotions of others. On top of that, it’s essential to trust your intuition and expand your habitual perceptions. As a result, you will level up your self-regulation skills and develop intuitive attunement to the world around you.

The good news is, by joining Mindvalley, you can learn how to:

• Grow your emotional and empathy awareness with Jeffrey Allen and his Duality and Unlocking Transcendence Quests
• Tap into your emotions and heal your emotional wounds with Jennifer Partridge and her Tapping into Emotional Mastery Quest,
• Cultivate super listening with Linda Clemons and her Body Language for Dating & Attraction Quest, 
• Develop extrasensory perception with Vishen and his The Silva Ultramind System Quest, and
• So much more.

You can sample classes of the quests with Mindvalley’s trainers by unlocking your free access.

Welcome in.

The son of a nurse and a church janitor, entomologist Charles Henry Turner (February 3, 1867–February 14, 1923) died with a personal library of a thousand books, having published more than fifty scientific papers, having named his youngest son Darwin, and having revolutionized our understanding of the most abundant non-human animals on Earth by pioneering a psychological approach to insect learning, devoting his life to discovering “stubborn facts that should not be ignored.”

Without a proper laboratory, without access to research libraries and university facilities, he became the first human being to prove that insects can hear and distinguish pitch, and the first scientist to achieve Pavlovian conditioning in insects, training moths to beat their wings whenever they heard his whistle and concluding that “there is much evidence that the responses of moths to stimuli are expressions of emotion.”

He studied the brains of birds, the web-making habits of spiders, the growth of grape-vine leaves, and why antlions feign death. He volunteered at the Cincinnati Observatory. He discovered new species of aquatic invertebrates. But insects were his great love. He constructed elaborate apparatuses and painstakingly painted tiny cardboard discs to conduct the first controlled studies of color vision and pattern recognition in honeybees, dismantling the scientific dogma of his day by proving that bees see color and create “memory pictures” of their environment. He illuminated sex differences in ant intelligence, musing that “the males seem unable to solve even the simplest problems.” Kneeling patiently for hours, he built intricate obstacle courses and mazes to study how twelve different species of ants navigate space. Two generations before E.O. Wilson, he concluded:

Ants are much more than mere reflex machines; they are self-acting creatures guided by memories of past individual (ontogenetic) experience.

Through a multitude of exquisitely designed experiments, he discovered that ants, bees, and wasps learn, remember, and recognize landmarks to get home rather than move by mindless instinct as previously thought. Observing and testing how gallery spiders weave and reweave their webs when destroyed, he challenged centuries of assumption about instinct versus intelligence by concluding that “an instinctive impulse prompts gallery spiders to weave gallery webs, but details of construction are the products of intelligent action.”

Radiating from his vast body of work is revolutionary evidence against the prior belief that insects are insentient machines operating solely by kinesis and reflex — evidence that these simple-seeming animals are endowed with memory, problem-solving ability, learning, and even feeling, intimating a whole new way of thinking about the evolution of intelligence, emotion, and cognition.

Between experiments and observations, Turner became a prominent Civil Rights leader in St. Louis, developing the first social services for African Americans in the area. Bridging his scientific and humanistic work, he wrote:

Prejudice is older than this age. A comparative study of animal psychology teaches that all animals are prejudiced against animals unlike themselves, and the more unlike they are the greater the prejudice… Among men, however, dissimilarity of minds is a more potent factor in causing prejudice than unlikeness in physiognomy.

Despite his groundbreaking research, despite being the first African American to receive a Ph.D. from the University of Chicago and to publish a paper in the esteemed journal Science, Turner was turned away from every university post he applied to on account of his race. With the bittersweet recognition that his life was at the mercy of his time, he decided to shape the landscape of possibility for the next generation and became a science teacher in the first black high school west of Mississippi, all the while continuing his rigorous independent research. Upon his death in 1923, a colleague reflected:

The handicaps under which Dr. Turner’s work was accomplished were many, and were modestly and bravely met.

Complement with the kindred story of how Turner’s contemporary Edmonia Lewis blazed the way for women of color in art, then revisit the fascinating science of how nonhuman animals perceive and navigate the world.

Regardless of gender, we all have divine feminine energy within us. This energy is the most creative force there is, enabling us to create and express ourselves freely and be resilient and playful. When we embody it, we embrace change and go with the flow. 

While tapping into your divine feminine is easy, cultivating this power is the art of life. Here’s what you need to know to start this artistic journey:

Most importantly, nurturing your feminine side can help you build harmonious relationships with people around you as well as help society solve many ecological problems.

What Is Feminine Energy?

Known as the Creatrix, the Great Mother of all creation, feminine energy is a feminine source of creative power.

It’s a combination of traits that transpire the nature of the Universe itself — creation, fluidity, nourishment, and receptivity.

In the chakra system, this energy resides in the sacral chakra, which is the center of your sensuality, emotions, and creativity, enabling you to create, pro-create, and enjoy fulfilling intimate relationships.

In astrology, earth and water are feminine elements of energy, and so are their signs.

Divine feminine energy

Divine feminine energy implies its purest expression, without distortions, individual or collective. Think of it as the expression of Mother Earth. It’s universally portrayed as an apogee of motherly love, nurture, compassion, support, and protection. It’s also associated with fertility and the cycles of life.

In many spiritual and religious traditions, the divine feminine is portrayed as a goddess or female deity who embodies divine feminine qualities:

• Gaia in Greek mythology,
• Isis in Egyptian mythology,
• Mokosh in Slavic mythology,
• Virgin Mary in Christianity,
• Kuan Yin, also known as Guan Yin, in Buddhism,
• Fatimah az-Zahra, the daughter of Prophet Muhammad, and
• Śakti in Hinduism.

The manifestation of divine feminine energy can also be seen in the natural cycles of the earth, such as the changing seasons and the cycles of birth and death. Most importantly, this energy is inherently pro-life, so bringing awareness to it can save many ecological challenges in the world. 

Dark feminine energy

What is dark feminine energy? The concept of “dark feminine energy” isn’t universally accepted because it’s commonly seen as a display of the shadow aspects of feminine energy. This includes emotional manipulation, passive aggression, possessiveness, and jealousy. These negative traits can manifest in both men and women.

It is important to understand that everything in the Universe is governed by the principle of polarity, one of the seven Hermetic principles. It means that everything is dual, and like and unlike are the same. In other words, feminine energy should be seen as a spectrum.

According to Rachel Pringle, embodiment coach and trainer of Mindvalley’s Wild Woman Sensuality Quest, in this dualistic reality, your light and darkness are equally important. If you don’t express your darkness and celebrate it, it will manifest in your life in unwanted ways.

Our deepest desire is to be received and loved as we are fully, including all parts that we shut down.

— Rachel Pringle, trainer of Mindvalley’s Wild Woman Sensuality Quest

11 Feminine Energy Traits and 7 Examples

If you’re curious about how to radiate feminine energy, here are eleven traits to cultivate from within:

1. Receptive. It’s all about receiving and being open and receptive to new ideas, experiences, and pleasures.
2. Intuitive. Intuition and psychic abilities are hallmarks of divine feminine energy.
3. Empathetic. It enables you to understand and connect with others on a deep emotional level.
4. Creative. Divine feminine energy is the most creative force as it gives life to all creations, including ideas and projects.
5. Healing. It’s often associated with healing, physical, emotional, and spiritual.
6. Connected. It connects you to all there is and enables you to see the natural cycles of life and death.
7. Playful. This energy is full of life as it breathes life into everything. When you embody divine feminine, you are playful and light.
8. Fluid. When you embody fluidity, your emotions, thoughts, and sensations are flexible. You also embrace change and go with the flow of life.  

9. Wild. Divine femininity is confident, unapologetic, and free-spirited.
10. Strong. Divine feminine strength is about inner power and resilience. It’s also about being confident and assertive, without losing touch with one’s emotions and vulnerability.

11. Wise. It’s a deep understanding and connection with one’s inner self, as well as the world around them. This wisdom is about having a holistic perspective, encompassing emotional, intuitive, and rational aspects.

To give you a vivid picture of how divine feminine energy is manifested in women, let’s look at some examples in popular culture, including movies and books: 

1. The Star Wars series by George Lucas. Rey, the protagonist of the sequel trilogy, embodies the divine feminine through her compassion and selflessness. Her journey towards self-discovery and her connection to the force is also an embodiment of the divine feminine.
2. The Avengers by Marvel Cinematic Universe. Black Widow is one of the most prominent female characters in the Avengers series, embodying the divine feminine through her wisdom and strong leadership skills.

3. The Shape of Water by Guillermo del Toro. The protagonist, Elisa, embodies the divine feminine through her empathy, love, and her ability to connect with others.
4. Frozen by Disney. Elsa, the protagonist, embodies the divine feminine through her power, self-discovery, and ability to embrace her true self, despite the fear and judgment of others. She is a symbol of the importance of self-acceptance and self-expression and shows the power of feminine energy to create and change the world.

5. DC Comics. Wonder Woman is one of the most iconic DC superheroes who needs no introduction. She is a skilled warrior and a powerful leader who fights for justice and equality.
6. Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling. Hermione Granger represents the divine feminine. She is intelligent, resourceful, and always fighting for what is right.
7. The Iliad and The Odyssey by Homer. Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite are Greek goddesses who transpire divine feminine traits.

These examples show how feminine energy is often manifested through inner wisdom, courage, resilience, compassion, and connectedness with others. 

Feminine vs. Masculine Energy

Yin and yang, the god and goddess, mother and father — these polar energies aren’t opposite but interconnected forces — masculine and feminine energies.

Let’s look at the main characteristics of the two:

Divine feminine qualities	Divine masculine qualities
Elements water and earth	Elements fire and air
Mother archetype	Father archetype
Planet Venus	Planet Mars
Preservation	Expansion
Receiving	Giving
Intuition	Rational mind
Flexibility	Structure
Flowing	Strategic
Emotional intelligence	Intellectual intelligence
Playfulness	Seriousness
Communication-oriented	Action-oriented
Connection-oriented	Result-oriented
Surrender	Control
Empathy and compassion	Compassionate assertiveness
Art	Science
Co-creation	Competition

How do these polarities manifest in your daily life?

According to Linda Clemons, body language and nonverbal communication expert and trainer of Mindvalley’s Body Language for Dating & Attraction Quest, women express their divine masculine at work and in business. She says, “If you have been climbing to the top of your professional career, chances are you’ve cultivated  a great deal of masculine energy.”

She explains that masculine traits that help you in your professional life don’t serve you in your dating and love life. This is where women need to express their divine feminine and embody traits like sensuality, seduction, and playfulness.

Read more: 15 Ways to Balance Your Masculine and Feminine Energy to Unleash Your Hidden Powers

How to Tap Into Your Feminine Energy: 3 Tips From Mindvalley Experts

Rachel explains that accessing your feminine energy involves regularly connecting with your physical body and sensations. And breathwork is one of the most effective methods for doing so. 

Let’s look at a few breathing and other techniques explained by Mindvalley experts:

1. Primal shaking by Rachel Pringle, trainer of Mindvalley’s Wild Woman Sensuality Quest

This technique helps you release locked-up emotions, anxiety, traumas, and stress from your body. As you do, your body becomes clear and open to hearing your intuition and accessing your divine feminine power.

How to do it:

• Find a sacred place in your home where you can do this practice every day.
• Close your eyes and surrender to the rhythm of your body.
• Take deep, powerful inhalations through your mouth, moving your spine forward or to the sides.
• Take relaxed exhales, sounding them out, opening your mouth, and releasing tension from your root.
• Do 33 rounds of breath.
• Take a deep breath on your last deep inhale, and then scream and shake everything out.
• Let it all go, utilizing your entire body and voice.
• Take a deep breath and sigh.
• Feel into the space you’ve created.
• In that space, repeat this mantra in your mind: “I can choose to trust my voice.”
  

2. Arousal breath by Psalm Isadora, trainer of Mindvalley’s Tantra Touch Quest

This breathwork is great for metabolizing food and stuck emotions. It heats your body and awakens your life force.

Psalm recommends practicing it in the morning. She says, “It will energize you better than coffee!” 

How to do it:

• Put your hands right at your navel.
• Inhale and exhale rapidly through your nose.
• When you exhale, the belly button goes back, when you inhale, it goes forward.
• Breathe rapidly for 2 minutes.

3. “I am Statement” exercise by Linda Clemons, trainer of Mindvalley’s Body Language for Dating & Attraction Quest

Linda explains that every woman has two women within them — a career woman and an after–5-p.m. persona. The latter is your inner seducer that embodies your sensual self. “Your after-5 p.m. persona is the goddess within you need to call in when you leave the office,” she adds.

However, most women don’t feel this way about themselves, and the way you feel about yourself determines your level of sexuality and sensuality.

So, the “I am Statement” exercise is designed to connect you with your inner seducer and strengthen your self-confidence

How to do it:

Affirm to yourself the following statements (you can have your own statements):

• I am love.
• I am passionate.
• I am sexy.
• I am delicious.
• I am happy.
• I am joy.

Celebrate your Divine Feminine with Mindvalley

You can tap into your divine feminine instantly and get a sense of this power within you. Yet, the embodiment of your inner Goddess takes time and dedication. As Rachel puts it, “It’s a disciple of worshiping your inner sacred feminine power.”

This discipline entails the inner work that only you can do. And if you’re ready to embody the most creative force from within, Mindvalley can help you learn how to:

• Use your feminine energy to enhance connection and reach higher states of consciousness with Psalm Isadora and her Tantra Touch Quest,
• Worship and embody your sacred feminine power with Rachel Pringle and her Wild Woman Sensuality Quest,
• Access your inner vixen and how to be in your feminine energy with a man with Linda Clemons and her Body Language for Dating & Attraction Quest, and
• So much more.

You can sample classes of the quests with Mindvalley’s trainers by unlocking your free access.

Welcome in.

It’s a given fact that we all want to build habits, goals that we want to achieve, and things that we want to change in our lives. However, on the other side of the coin, it can be hard to sustain motivation and consistency. 

It can block your way, sometimes completely, and then you walk away, probably thinking bad of yourself. But, is that a solution? Is that really something you think you should just accept (and probably experience the same when you move onto the next thing)?

It is not. Yes, sometimes it’s good to walk away for a while to clarify your thoughts and maybe it will reignite some motivation. But when you again take the leap, having high and big expectations, you will fall into that same trap once again. 

This is where you have to realize that it’s small you need to think. Don’t let it fool you when I say small, because it will give you incredible results if you apply this secret. And that is the 2-Minute Rule.

Breaking Down the 2-Minute Rule

In The 2 Minute Rule, it is stated that when you start a new habit or task, you should begin with a small action or section that takes no more than 2 minutes to complete. Really, no longer than 2 minutes. The idea behind this rule is that, by starting with a small, manageable task, it becomes much easier to build momentum, and to overcome the barrier of procrastination.

The 2 minutes make it easy to start your habits. Anyone is able to read, meditate or put a few plates away in two minutes. This is a powerful strategy, because once you have started doing the right thing, it will be much easier to continue. 

The goal in this, is to create a gateway that leads you down a road that’s more productive. It’s about taking small steps towards your goals and making it easy to initiate and stick to it over time.

Creating the Gateway

It’s important that you discover you can scale down nearly any habit into those 2 minutes and that you can map out your habit goals by categorizing them in “very easy” to “very hard”. 

Here I have some examples of tasks:

• From “Going to the gym for a 2 hour workout” to “Putting my workout clothes ready.”
• From “Reading 40 pages everyday” to “Reading one page.”
• From “Cleaning your house” to “Putting one clothing item away.” 
• From “Studying” to “Opening a study book.”
• From “Learning a new skill” to “Watching a short video about it.”

What habits can you scale down to make them qualified to the 2-Minute Rule?

What Makes it Work

Get beyond the idea that it’s weird to read just one page, or to fold one piece of clothing when there’s a wardrobe that needs organizing more or less. Building a habit is not about doing one thing, but to master the art of showing up, to show up for the bigger picture. 

What you first need before you can learn the finer details about a habit, before you can even improve something, a habit must be established in its most basic fashion. James Clear makes it clear in this statement: “You have to standardize before you can optimize.”

Those 2 minutes can be considered a secret ingredient of a family recipe, a small thing that leads to a greater experience, making you do the great stuff you want to do. By following the same ritual, you make it easier to get into the hard work of doing it. 

Not only are you working towards a solid and larger routine, those 2 minutes are also reinforcing the development of your identity and the reframing of why you’re doing it. You wouldn’t be worried about the outcome, but you’re focused on becoming the type of person who does it. You want to read, but what if you are a reader? See the difference here?

The Advantages to Grab

If I haven’t hooked you enough, here I have explained the advantages for when you start applying the 2-Minute Rule.

1. It prevents procrastination before it occurs

Longer, more comprehensive tasks have a larger chance of triggering procrastination. By escaping that time and difficulty, you avoid falling into the traps of procrastination. It simply makes you live more in the moment.

2. No system-exhaustion

With applying the 2-Minute Rule, you don’t have to deal with a complex workflow and processes to go through. It’s an immediate implementation and with a quick result.

3. It reduces overwhelm

Because you’re scaling down the habit into a small task (that is “very easy”), you allow it to become less daunting and much more actionable. Moreover, it makes it a lot more enjoyable.

Through all the tiny wins you’re getting, you’re creating a sense of flow and that’s your foundation to build onto those wins. Every time you do it, then every next time will be easier. When building momentum, you’re building peak performance.

In conclusion

The 2-Minute Rule is – as pressed on you enough I hope – a powerful strategy that is determined to help you in building the habit you ultimately want. No matter how small, try envisioning the person you become when you’re indulged (yes, indulged) in those 2 minutes.

And remember, small steps lead to big results, like snowflakes forming a snowball and then it has no other choice but to roll. This is your momentum.

It’s a given fact that we all want to build habits, goals that we want to achieve, and things that we want to change in our lives. However, on the other side of the coin, it can be hard to sustain motivation and consistency. 

It can block your way, sometimes completely, and then you walk away, probably thinking bad of yourself. But, is that a solution? Is that really something you think you should just accept (and probably experience the same when you move onto the next thing)?

It is not. Yes, sometimes it’s good to walk away for a while to clarify your thoughts and maybe it will reignite some motivation. But when you again take the leap, having high and big expectations, you will fall into that same trap once again. 

This is where you have to realize that it’s small you need to think. Don’t let it fool you when I say small, because it will give you incredible results if you apply this secret. And that is the 2-Minute Rule.

Breaking Down the 2-Minute Rule

In The 2 Minute Rule, it is stated that when you start a new habit or task, you should begin with a small action or section that takes no more than 2 minutes to complete. Really, no longer than 2 minutes. The idea behind this rule is that, by starting with a small, manageable task, it becomes much easier to build momentum, and to overcome the barrier of procrastination.

The 2 minutes make it easy to start your habits. Anyone is able to read, meditate or put a few plates away in two minutes. This is a powerful strategy, because once you have started doing the right thing, it will be much easier to continue. 

The goal in this, is to create a gateway that leads you down a road that’s more productive. It’s about taking small steps towards your goals and making it easy to initiate and stick to it over time.

Creating the Gateway

It’s important that you discover you can scale down nearly any habit into those 2 minutes and that you can map out your habit goals by categorizing them in “very easy” to “very hard”. 

Here I have some examples of tasks:

• From “Going to the gym for a 2 hour workout” to “Putting my workout clothes ready.”
• From “Reading 40 pages everyday” to “Reading one page.”
• From “Cleaning your house” to “Putting one clothing item away.” 
• From “Studying” to “Opening a study book.”
• From “Learning a new skill” to “Watching a short video about it.”

What habits can you scale down to make them qualified to the 2-Minute Rule?

What Makes it Work

Get beyond the idea that it’s weird to read just one page, or to fold one piece of clothing when there’s a wardrobe that needs organizing more or less. Building a habit is not about doing one thing, but to master the art of showing up, to show up for the bigger picture. 

What you first need before you can learn the finer details about a habit, before you can even improve something, a habit must be established in its most basic fashion. James Clear makes it clear in this statement: “You have to standardize before you can optimize.”

Those 2 minutes can be considered a secret ingredient of a family recipe, a small thing that leads to a greater experience, making you do the great stuff you want to do. By following the same ritual, you make it easier to get into the hard work of doing it. 

Not only are you working towards a solid and larger routine, those 2 minutes are also reinforcing the development of your identity and the reframing of why you’re doing it. You wouldn’t be worried about the outcome, but you’re focused on becoming the type of person who does it. You want to read, but what if you are a reader? See the difference here?

The Advantages to Grab

If I haven’t hooked you enough, here I have explained the advantages for when you start applying the 2-Minute Rule.

1. It prevents procrastination before it occurs

Longer, more comprehensive tasks have a larger chance of triggering procrastination. By escaping that time and difficulty, you avoid falling into the traps of procrastination. It simply makes you live more in the moment.

2. No system-exhaustion

With applying the 2-Minute Rule, you don’t have to deal with a complex workflow and processes to go through. It’s an immediate implementation and with a quick result.

3. It reduces overwhelm

Because you’re scaling down the habit into a small task (that is “very easy”), you allow it to become less daunting and much more actionable. Moreover, it makes it a lot more enjoyable.

Through all the tiny wins you’re getting, you’re creating a sense of flow and that’s your foundation to build onto those wins. Every time you do it, then every next time will be easier. When building momentum, you’re building peak performance.

In conclusion

The 2-Minute Rule is – as pressed on you enough I hope – a powerful strategy that is determined to help you in building the habit you ultimately want. No matter how small, try envisioning the person you become when you’re indulged (yes, indulged) in those 2 minutes.

And remember, small steps lead to big results, like snowflakes forming a snowball and then it has no other choice but to roll. This is your momentum.

It’s a given fact that we all want to build habits, goals that we want to achieve, and things that we want to change in our lives. However, on the other side of the coin, it can be hard to sustain motivation and consistency. 

It can block your way, sometimes completely, and then you walk away, probably thinking bad of yourself. But, is that a solution? Is that really something you think you should just accept (and probably experience the same when you move onto the next thing)?

It is not. Yes, sometimes it’s good to walk away for a while to clarify your thoughts and maybe it will reignite some motivation. But when you again take the leap, having high and big expectations, you will fall into that same trap once again. 

This is where you have to realize that it’s small you need to think. Don’t let it fool you when I say small, because it will give you incredible results if you apply this secret. And that is the 2-Minute Rule.

Breaking Down the 2-Minute Rule

In The 2 Minute Rule, it is stated that when you start a new habit or task, you should begin with a small action or section that takes no more than 2 minutes to complete. Really, no longer than 2 minutes. The idea behind this rule is that, by starting with a small, manageable task, it becomes much easier to build momentum, and to overcome the barrier of procrastination.

The 2 minutes make it easy to start your habits. Anyone is able to read, meditate or put a few plates away in two minutes. This is a powerful strategy, because once you have started doing the right thing, it will be much easier to continue. 

The goal in this, is to create a gateway that leads you down a road that’s more productive. It’s about taking small steps towards your goals and making it easy to initiate and stick to it over time.

Creating the Gateway

It’s important that you discover you can scale down nearly any habit into those 2 minutes and that you can map out your habit goals by categorizing them in “very easy” to “very hard”. 

Here I have some examples of tasks:

• From “Going to the gym for a 2 hour workout” to “Putting my workout clothes ready.”
• From “Reading 40 pages everyday” to “Reading one page.”
• From “Cleaning your house” to “Putting one clothing item away.” 
• From “Studying” to “Opening a study book.”
• From “Learning a new skill” to “Watching a short video about it.”

What habits can you scale down to make them qualified to the 2-Minute Rule?

What Makes it Work

Get beyond the idea that it’s weird to read just one page, or to fold one piece of clothing when there’s a wardrobe that needs organizing more or less. Building a habit is not about doing one thing, but to master the art of showing up, to show up for the bigger picture. 

What you first need before you can learn the finer details about a habit, before you can even improve something, a habit must be established in its most basic fashion. James Clear makes it clear in this statement: “You have to standardize before you can optimize.”

Those 2 minutes can be considered a secret ingredient of a family recipe, a small thing that leads to a greater experience, making you do the great stuff you want to do. By following the same ritual, you make it easier to get into the hard work of doing it. 

Not only are you working towards a solid and larger routine, those 2 minutes are also reinforcing the development of your identity and the reframing of why you’re doing it. You wouldn’t be worried about the outcome, but you’re focused on becoming the type of person who does it. You want to read, but what if you are a reader? See the difference here?

The Advantages to Grab

If I haven’t hooked you enough, here I have explained the advantages for when you start applying the 2-Minute Rule.

1. It prevents procrastination before it occurs

Longer, more comprehensive tasks have a larger chance of triggering procrastination. By escaping that time and difficulty, you avoid falling into the traps of procrastination. It simply makes you live more in the moment.

2. No system-exhaustion

With applying the 2-Minute Rule, you don’t have to deal with a complex workflow and processes to go through. It’s an immediate implementation and with a quick result.

3. It reduces overwhelm

Because you’re scaling down the habit into a small task (that is “very easy”), you allow it to become less daunting and much more actionable. Moreover, it makes it a lot more enjoyable.

Through all the tiny wins you’re getting, you’re creating a sense of flow and that’s your foundation to build onto those wins. Every time you do it, then every next time will be easier. When building momentum, you’re building peak performance.

In conclusion

The 2-Minute Rule is – as pressed on you enough I hope – a powerful strategy that is determined to help you in building the habit you ultimately want. No matter how small, try envisioning the person you become when you’re indulged (yes, indulged) in those 2 minutes.

And remember, small steps lead to big results, like snowflakes forming a snowball and then it has no other choice but to roll. This is your momentum.

There might be affiliate links on this page, which means we get a small commission of anything you buy. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Please do your own research before making any online purchase.

Kids can ask questions all day long and never seem to tire of doing so. When it comes to getting them to answer questions, however, it is another matter completely. This gets even truer as they get older. Very often, you get one or two-word answers.

This is often because you ask questions that really don’t capture their attention or ones that a simple answer will work to answer. One way to get your kids to open up and interact with you is to ask thought provoking questions for kids. 

What Are Thought-Provoking Questions?

Thought-provoking questions are ones that require some thinking to answer. The child must search their heart or mind to come up with an answer and most often they are open-ended questions, which require the child to explain their answer more fully.

These questions can give a child the opportunity to open up when they are shy and you can learn a lot from really listening to the answers. They can become a fun activity for families to share over dinner or anytime.

Why Are Thought Provoking Questions for Kids Important?

Thought-provoking questions help a child, and their adult, in many ways. They allow a child to explore their inner world, gaining greater self-awareness. These questions can help grow a child’s emotional intelligence by allowing them to think about things like empathy and charity.

They can also lead to deeper discussions. Thought-provoking questions can even get your child thinking about the future and creating goals.

How to Use Thought-Provoking Questions?

There are many different ways you can use these questions without your child feeling they are being interrogated. The following questions can be adapted to fit a child’s age.

You can ask a question or two when you are doing an activity together or riding in the car. Or have a question session at dinner where everyone gets a turn.

The answers can be used to understand your child’s thoughts and feelings better… and learn how to direct them on a path that will speak to their soul. Most of all, use these as a way to get your child to open up and create a deeper bond with you.

101 Thought-Provoking Questions for Kids

1. Should we be able to live anywhere in the world we want to?

2. Do you think it is more important to be rich or happy?

3. What is the perfect age to be? Why?

4. How does each of the rainbow colors make you feel?

5. If you had to take five pictures, what would you photograph?

6. Do you think the Earth gets angry? If so, what makes it angry, and how does it show this?

7. What is the most powerful water, fire, air, or soil? 

8. If your brother/sister were sad, what would you do to cheer them up?

9. What would make kids want to go to school more?

10. Do you think it is easy or hard to be a parent?

11. What is the most difficult thing about being a kid?

12. What do you think is the best part of being an adult? What about the worst part?

13. How do you think we could stop wars between countries?

14. What advice would you give your future grandchildren?

15. Do you think your life is easier or harder than your grandparents when they were your age?

16. Why do you think some people are always mean to others?

17. If you could choose a different name, what would it be and why?

18. Can you keep a secret? Are there some secrets you shouldn’t keep?

19. What makes someone smart?

20. If you could make up a holiday, what would it be like?

21. What makes your day special?

22. Do you think trees and flowers feel? If so, what would make them happy or sad?

23. If you could give $100 to a charity, which one would you choose?

24. How do you know your family loves you?

25. If you had a garden, what would you grow in it and why?

26. What is your favorite place?

27. Would you share your lunch with a schoolmate that didn’t have one?

28. What three things would you change about this world if you could?

29. Do you think it is important to be both happy and sad at times?

30. Is there something we have in the world today that your kids may never see?

31. Do you think it is okay to sometimes break the law? If so, in what cases? 

32. Do you think helping others is important?

33. What rights do you think everybody should have? 

34. What makes a girl a girl or a boy a boy? 

35. How do you think the world started?

36. Do you think people are more alike or more different inside?

37. What is the strangest thing that ever happened to you?

38. Do you think there are aliens in space?

39. What can different animals teach us?

40. Would you like to be a twin?

41. Do you think your pet has a name for you? What would it be?

42. How do you know when you get old? Is it a certain age?

43. What is the opposite of fire?

44. If everyone had one rule they had to follow, what would that rule be?

45. Why do people think in different ways?

46. What makes your mom/dad worried?

47. Can you be grateful for bad events? Why or why not?

48. What do you wish schools would teach?

49. What is the most important lesson you ever learned?

50. What do you know that you could teach others?

51. What makes you angry? How do you handle it?

52. What does it feel like to be happy?

53. If the electricity went out for one week, what would be different?

54. Do you think we should allow younger people to run for President?

55. What will the world be like in 50 years?

56. Is it right to keep animals in zoos and aquariums? Why or why not?

57. Who is the most important person in your life?

58. If your friends were going to do something bad or dangerous, what would you do?

59. If you could travel anywhere in the Universe, where would it be?

60. Can you think of anything we could do to make sure nobody goes hungry?

61. Do you like giving or getting gifts better?

62. What is the hardest thing you have ever had to do?

63. What makes you unique?

64. Would you ever jump out of a plane or dive deep into the ocean?

65. What is your greatest strength?

66. What skills should every adult have?

67. If you could tell adults one thing, what would it be?

68. Is it ever okay to lie?  Why or why not?

69. How would you describe a rainbow to someone who is blind?

70. Do you think adults have more fun or less fun than kids?

71. What age makes you an adult?

72. If you were a cartoon character, which one would you be?

73. What do you think your parents were like at your age?

74. If you owned a store, what would you sell?

75. What do you think it feels like to be homeless and hungry?

76. What noise do you really hate? Why?

77. If you were stranded on an island, what is the first thing you would do and why?

78. Without saying the words “I love you” how do you show someone you love them?

79. If you never had to sleep, what would you do with that extra time?

80. What invention do you think the world needs?

81. If you could ask any animal a question, what animal would you ask and what would be the question?

82. What do you think is the best superpower? Why?

83. Would you most like to travel to space or dive in the ocean?

84. If you could be any animal, what would you be?

85. How would you spend a million dollars?

86. What makes your mom/dad sad?

87. What would you give your mom to make her happy?

88. Is there something you once had that you now miss?

89. What is your best memory so far?

90. What makes you scared?

91. What do you want to do when you grow up?

92. What do you think is your best trait?

93. Is there something about you that you would like to change? Why?

94. Do you think it is important to tell sometimes even if someone asks you not to? What kinds of things would you tell?

95. What does it mean to be a good friend?

96. Is there someone you know who is being bullied? How does that make you feel?

97. Do you think animals have feelings?

98. What do you think it is like to be in a wheelchair? What about being blind?

99. What does your mother/dad do all day?

100. When you have kids, what rules will they have?

101. What rules do you have that you think are unfair? Why?

Final Thoughts on Thought Provoking Questions for Kids

The first bonds we experience are those with our family, which is why it is essential to find various bonding activities that will allow your child to grow into an adult who can easily form and maintain healthy relationships. And it’s never too early to start.

These thought provoking questions for kids will help you get your child used to having conversations, understanding themselves and the world around them, and becoming adults who can effectively communicate with others.

Once you have exhausted these, we can provide you with an endless array of deep questions you can add to your arsenal. Even as they become adults, questions are a great way to stay in touch with your child.

There might be affiliate links on this page, which means we get a small commission of anything you buy. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Please do your own research before making any online purchase.

Feeling uninspired by conventional note-taking? Why not let mind mapping inspire you to study in a fun and creative way?

To give you a visually interesting way to organize your thoughts and ideas, you can use any of our recommended websites and apps for mind mapping or check out the awesome collection of mind map examples for students featured in today’s post.

What’s a Mind Map?

A mind map is one of the many brainstorming techniques you can use to understand concepts, generate fresh ideas, find solutions to problems, easily memorize information, etc.

When you’re mind mapping, you’re creating a diagram of the concepts surrounding a certain topic. “Branches” radiate outwards from the central topic, showing the connection of the concepts/ideas to each other and to the main topic.

Some mind maps are color coded, while others are rich in imagery rather than text.

What Are the Benefits of a Mind Map for Students?

Visual learners or those who absorb information better when it’s associated with imagery can understand lessons quicker through a mind map.

However, it’s not just visual learners who can benefit from mind mapping. Research shows that a mind map can boost the academic performance of students regardless of their learning styles.

Here are more benefits of using a mind map:

Let’s dive into the mind maps we’ve rounded up for you.

1. Long Way Down Lesson Mind Map

If you’re looking for an example of how a mind map can be applied to a lesson, we’ve found a great one from The Daring English Teacher.

This example shows a mind map created by a student for their lesson on Long Way Down, a novel by Jason Reynolds.

2. Illustrated Mind Map

This image-rich mind map shows different ideas on the main topic of “texture.” Sometimes, what others see as a doodle is actually a mind map for a very visual learner who wants to understand a lesson more deeply.

3. Let’s Explore Goals

This colorful mind map is about goals.

Whether you’re learning about the concept of goals or you’re actually setting your own goals, a mind map can help organize your ideas so that it becomes easier to accomplish your objectives.

4. Map Out Your Goals

Here’s another version of a mind map on the topic of goals. In this example, the creator created a diagram of her personal goals.

You’ll notice that a color-coding system is in place:

• Red = Family
• Yellow = Development
• Purple = Work
• Green = Finances
• Orange = Mind

5. Handwritten Study Notes

Need an example of a text-rich mind map? We’ve got one from @hexa_studies.

The dedication of this mind map’s creator to include as much detail as possible is truly admirable. With a mind map like this, any complex lesson can be broken down, analyzed, and understood.

6. Food Forest

Here’s an image-rich mind map representing a person’s notes on permaculture. In addition to helping the creator understand a specific topic better, this mind map showcases the creator’s artistic abilities.

7. Project Notes

Mind maps are helpful for organizing ideas for a creative project that seems impossible to accomplish, as shown in this example.

This mind map was created to show that although it seems impossible, there is a solution that can help move the project forward.

Mind maps are a great tool for taking abstract ideas and seeing where they are applied in real life. In this example, the creator brainstorms where “media and propaganda” manifest in real life.

9. Soundscapes Mind Map

This next example shows an interesting brainstorming session. It involves soundscapes, with the creator of this mind map drawing simple illustrations representing sounds he heard in several different locations.

10. The Elements of a Personal Letter

Learning something new can often be challenging, but a mind map can bring clarity to unfamiliar concepts, terms, and steps, regardless of what new topic you’re learning.

Meanwhile, check out this post on other Styles for Learning New Things and Actually Remembering Them.

11. How to Remember “Memory”

This mind map shows all the possible details related to the central topic of “memory.” It is a text-rich mind map that has some watercolor illustrations to add a point of interest and break up the monotony of the all-text mind map.

12. Word Associations

If you’re learning a new language, a mind map is an awesome tool you should try to utilize, just as in this example. It can help with building vocabulary, creating word associations, and understanding sentence structure.

[Check out our recommendations for the Best Language Learning Software & Apps for this year.]

13. US and UK Holidays

A mind map can also be used as a cheat sheet for any type of information, giving you quick access as needed. In this example, a mind map makes for a great reference page. It was used to write down the holidays and cultural events of two countries.

14. Notes on Geography

Ace your next geography exam with this mind map.

It features a hand-drawn map of all the member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), reference tables, and other pieces of information relevant to the topic.

15. Learning About Electricity

Using a mind map for note-taking in class makes it easier to remember information related to the main topic. This mind map features different formulas for calculating different ways of measuring electricity.

16. Mind Mapping Current Issues

Mind maps are also great for seeing the “big picture” when it comes to current events and social issues. In this example, a teacher introduced a new lesson to the class by letting the students brainstorm what they know about the topic.

17. The Nervous System

This mind map combines illustrations with text to create an awesome study material. A brainstorming tool like this can help you boost your academic performance.

Final Thoughts About Mind Map Examples for Students

There you have it—a collection of mind maps to elevate the way you take notes in class.

Which one is your favorite?

By using mind mapping as a brainstorming technique, you’re training your mind to rapidly see the links and associations between ideas and concepts. This gives you an edge when it comes to studying, presenting your ideas, and sharing your thoughts with others.

If you need other resources about learning habits, you might want to check out the following posts:

Finally, if you want to take your goal-setting efforts to the next level, check out this FREE printable worksheet and a step-by-step process that will help you set effective SMART goals.