In this episode of Connected with Iva, I open up about my personal journey with a cavernoma — a health condition that shook my world but also brought deep clarity. I reflect on how, in moments of real crisis, the wall of made-up worries we often build through anxiety tends to collapse, revealing what truly matters.

To close the episode, I guide you through a calming meditation, accompanied by beautiful music from @francisfauxmusic. You can connect with Francis and explore more of his work at www.francisfaux.co.uk [http://www.francisfaux.co.uk/].

Take a deep breath, and let's connect.

When Anxiety Falls Apart + Guided Meditation for Calm

In this episode of Connected with Iva, I sit down with the wonderfully thoughtful @anasta_foto to explore the rich intersection of mindfulness, embodiment, and photography. Together, we dive into the quiet presence required to truly capture a moment, the link between inner stillness and visual storytelling, and how photography can become a moving form of meditation and self-connection.

Anasta opens up about her journey as a photographer and how she’s found grounding and inspiration through practices that invite slowness and presence—including ecstatic dance, contact improvisation, and 5Rhythms. We also touch on the importance of safe, supportive spaces like women’s circles, and dive into communication practices that deepen connection, such as Nonviolent Communication (NVC), Authentic Relating, and Circling.

Whether you're a creative, a seeker, or simply someone learning to find beauty in the everyday, this conversation is a gentle invitation to pause, notice, and reconnect—with yourself, with others, and with the world around you.

You can check out Anasta’s work here, Anastafo.com

 





Mindfulness Through The Lens - A Conversation With @anasta_foto

In this episode of Connected with Iva, I open up about a time in my life when I felt deeply lost — constantly seeking connection, yet nothing felt truly meaningful. I was surrounded by people, but inside, I felt empty. It wasn’t until I began to explore my deeper purpose that something shifted. The loneliness didn’t magically disappear, but the void I once felt slowly began to fade.

We dive into the powerful connection between purpose and loneliness, and why chasing external connection without inner meaning can leave us feeling more isolated than ever. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why do I feel so alone even when I’m not?” — this episode is for you.

🎧 Tune in to hear:

 * The personal moment that woke me up
 * Why purpose is often the missing piece
 * How to start uncovering your own deeper why

Let’s talk about loneliness, purpose, and the kind of connection that actually fills you.

Lonely or Lost? Why Purpose Might Be the Answer

In this episode of Connected with Iva, we explore the essential role human connections play in our happiness and survival. Why do we need connection, and how does it impact our mental well-being? Tune in as I dive into the science behind human bonds, featuring insights from Johann Hari’s Lost Connections, and discuss how social disconnection leads to depression and anxiety. Learn why strong, meaningful relationships are vital for thriving in today's world.

We’ll also uncover how connections release the "love hormone" oxytocin, reduce stress, and improve resilience. Plus, we’ll reflect on the challenges of loneliness, the impact of technology on relationships, and how to prioritize deep, genuine connections over surface-level interactions. I share personal stories and tips on building and maintaining meaningful relationships in an increasingly individualistic society.

If you're looking to foster better connections in your life and improve your well-being, this episode is for you. Don’t forget to check in with those you care about, build your tribe, and embrace vulnerability—because your mental health depends on it.

Why Human Connections Are Key to Happiness and Well-being

Someone asked me recently what my biggest fear in life is—and that simple question sent me on a journey inward. In this first episode, I reflect on fear itself: where it comes from, how it shows up in our lives, and why so many of our fears are rooted in childhood experiences or unmet emotional needs. From the fear of failure to the fear of loneliness, I explore how these invisible threads can quietly shape our choices, relationships, and sense of self. This episode is an invitation to get curious about your own fears—not to judge them, but to understand them.

Fear Isn't The Enemy

'Connected with Iva' is a solo-hosted podcast about building deeper connections - with yourself, others, and the world around you. Through personal reflections and insights, Iva explores what it means to cultivate meaningful relationships and embrace a fulfilling life. With a mix of structured themes and free-flowing thoughts, the podcast is a space for self-discovery, emotional growth, and authentic conversation. If you're looking for inspiration and deeper connections, 'Connected with Iva' is here for you.