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Mental HEALTH Break With Dr. Nafisa Sekandari

Welcome to Dr. Nafisa Sekandari’s Mental Health Break Podcast. Here we will cover a variety of mental health topics from Anxiety and Depression to interviews and talks. Some episodes are specifically made for the podcast, others come from live recordings of lectures and speaking engagements. Dr Nafisa Sekandari is a holistic and integrative clinical psychologist specializing in anxiety based disorders. Her podcast covers topics including the mental health crisis, anxiety, depression, the connection between food and mood, as well as natural and holistic treatment options for creating long term control of your anxiety….all while learning to prioritize your mental health. You will be empowered through having a deeper understanding of your mind in order to live your best life. This podcast will provide you with the practical tips and tools you need to help you take back control of your mental, physical, and emotional health. So take a moment to prioritize YOUR mental health.

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Mental HEALTH Break With Dr. Nafisa Sekandari

The Happiness Project Progress Report: What’s Working for My Mind, Mood & Motivation

January 25, 2026 • Dr. Nafisa Sekandari • Season 4 • Episode 70

0:00 | 12:15

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This month inside The Happiness Project, I’m sharing the small but powerful changes I’ve been making that are shifting my energy....from the inside out and all around me.

I start with something simple yet transformative: decluttering. Clearing physical space in my home has been helping me clear mental space too. I talk about how creating more order, intention, and beauty in my environment has subtly improved my mood, focus, and overall sense of calm, and why your surroundings matter more than you think when it comes to emotional well-being.

But this month wasn’t just about creating comfort, but it was also about expanding my comfort zone.

I took a big leap by flying solo across the country to attend Podfest 2026 in Orlando, Florida, a conference I had never been to before, and I did it with my dog for the first time. Let’s just say… it was a learning experience to say the least. From navigating airports with a pup, to managing nerves, logistics, and expectations, this trip stretched me in the best ways and gave me new confidence in what I’m capable of.

One of the biggest lessons? Take the chance....even when it feels small.
I almost didn’t enter the contest for free Podfest tickets… but I did, and I actually won. That single decision opened the door to an experience filled with incredible people, meaningful conversations, and so much learning and inspiration.

I’m excited to share that many of the amazing people I met there will be joining me on future episodes for powerful conversations around growth, creativity, mental wellness, and building aligned success.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

How decluttering is improving my energy, clarity, and emotional state
Why your environment plays a key role in your mental health
What it was really like flying solo cross-country with my dog
The courage it takes to say yes to new experiences
How a simple contest entry turned into a major opportunity
Why expanding your comfort zone is essential for happiness and growth

If you’ve been craving more calm, clarity, or courage in your own life, this episode is your reminder that small shifts can create powerful momentum.

✨ Tune in, reflect, and maybe take one small brave step of your own this week.

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To learn more about the Happiness Project visit https://www.drsekandari.com/happiness-project