David Nichtern welcomes Jenna Hollenstein for a conversation around her new book, Mommysattva, and embracing the true nature of motherhood.

Jenna Hollenstein, MS, RDN, CDN, is a nutrition therapist, meditation teacher, author, and mother to Domenico. She has led the Open Heart Project Mommy Sangha (a community of moms who meditate) for five years. Jenna’s new book, Mommysattva: Contemplations for Mothers Who Meditate (or Wish They Could), is now available. For more information, please visit jennahollenstein.com.

Way of the Mommysattva
David and Jenna dive right into her new book, Mommysattva, and how it was inspired by her experience in the Mommy Sangha. They define what a Bodhisattva is, and explore Jenna’s connection to Trungpa Rinpoche via her teacher, Susan Piver. David and Jenna discuss the true nature of motherhood, and how we’re only as sick as our secrets.

“You either are a mother or you have one; you must read this book.” – David Nichtern

Emotional Regulation (21:15)
David and Susan touch on expectation versus reality in relationships, especially when it comes to being a parent. Jenna talks about stripping away all of the projections she has about her son, and the special video game she found that helps him control his emotions. David and Jenna explore the Four Noble Truths, impermanence, and how easy it is to get attached to our pain.

“All feelings are welcome, but not all actions are okay.” – Jenna Hollenstein

The Mommy Sangha (48:45)
David and Jenna dig deeper into her experience running the Mommy Sangha, and how mothers can access the group by joining Susan Piver’s Open Heart Project. They discuss the upside of being a mom, and Jenna details some of the fun she gets to have with her son. David and Jenna end the show with a discussion about systemic changes that would benefit mothers.

“I really do believe there’s power in mothers coming together and synthesizing the [Buddhist] teachings based on the unique perspective that we have.” – Jenna Hollenstein