117. Forging Your Identity with Ex Military Corporal Ryan Gilbert

Serving in the military is a noble profession, but one that comes with many trials and sacrifices. It is not only hard on your body, but your mental health is bound to suffer from being in high intensity situations and dealing with being isolated from your friends and families in remote areas.Our guest on today’s episode joins us to talk about his experience in the army and the struggles that came with it. Along with the monumental task of rediscovering his identity after being in the military and what he did to come back to himself while dealing with mental health issues.Ryan Gilbert is an ex-military corporal who served for 10 plus years for New Zealand. Transitioning back into normal life was anything but smooth. Ryan struggled with PTSD, depression, and anxiety. His mind was still in the military, but his body wasn't, which led to him to ask the question, who is Ryan Gilbert? Through various healing modalities, such as cold exposure and breathwork, Ryan forged a new identity for himself and was able to reconnect within his mind, body, and spirit.Tune in to hear an inspiring story about courage and perseverance!Topics discussed in this episode:Ryan’s military past and how he pulled himself out of itThe injuries Ryan sustained in the militaryWhy do military personnel have similar injuries?Ryan’s motivation to join the militaryWhy is there gang culture in New Zealand?What kind of affect the experiences in the military had on RyanHow Ryan’s perspective was shaped by being in AfghanistanValues and attributes Ryan left the military withHow Ryan regained his sense of identity after the militaryRyan’s journey in breathworkOpening up as a means to build culture and communityHow Ryan deals with griefRyan’s take on why people should do breathworkMouth breathing vs. nose breathingConnect with Ryan:InstagramTo listen to more episodes, head to Apple Podcasts here!Connect with Nick:InstagramTikTokYouTubeSupport the showConnect with Nick:Instagram TikTok YouTube