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A Key to Something
Where therapy meets writing.
Essays and reflections on mindfulness, identity, and the practice of paying attention — from Lex E. Santí, LCSW, and the A Key Therapy team.
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Holding Our Breath: Anxiety, Panic, and the Oxygen Connection
As children, across various cultures, races, and genders, many of us found ourselves competing in one simple game—holding our breath underwater. Whether in lakes, swimming pools, or oceans, the goal was always the same: to outlast the other kids in this self-imposed contest. Based on my informal tally of childhood experiences shared through anecdotes, interviews, and personal memories, this game is nearly universal. It crosses borders, transcending age, ethnicity, and gender—
Lex Santí
Sep 5, 20246 min read


Introducing the AMi Scale: A New Tool for Understanding Motivation and Acceptance in Mental Health
As the creator of the AMi (Acceptance/Motivation) Scale, I, Lex Enrico Santí, LCSW, MFA, am excited to introduce a groundbreaking tool...
Lex Santí
Sep 2, 20244 min read


Book Release(s) Party @ Argos Warehouse 8/17 5-8pm
Press Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Lex E. Santí Email: lexsantiwriter@gmail.com Phone: 607-279-8830 Website:...
Lex Santí
Jun 5, 20242 min read


The Interconnection of Anxiety, Depression, and Genetic Utility Through Time
Author: Lex Enrico Santí, LCSW, MFA Introduction Anxiety and depression, two of the most prevalent mental health conditions, are often perceived negatively due to their debilitating effects. However, a growing body of research suggests that these conditions may have evolutionary underpinnings that conferred survival advantages to our ancestors. This paper explores the interconnection between anxiety, depression, and their potential genetic utility, proposing that these mental
Lex Santí
May 25, 20244 min read


Press Release: The Seasons from Perry City Road, Poems 2012-2017
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Lex E Santi Email: lexenricosanti@gmail.com Phone: 607-279-8830 Website: www.lexenricosanti.com Title:...
Lex Santí
Apr 10, 20242 min read


5 Days at Memorial: A Stark Reflection on Post-COVID Workforce Realities
Lex E Santí, LCSW, MFA Last summer I fell into 5 Days at Memorial on Apple TV—one of those late-night binges that sneaks up on you—but what the series opened in me was not casual entertainment. It was a revelation about a question I haven’t stopped turning over: what can an organization ask of a human being, and what should forever be beyond its reach? The show never frames itself as a meditation on work, on duty, on the slow erosion of the private self by institutional expe
Lex Santí
Feb 4, 20244 min read


Yoga and Crossfit: A journey into integration
Reposted from CrossFit Pallas Blog By Lex Enrico Santí, LCSW, MFA I began my yoga practice when I was fearful, and I began CrossFit when I was depressed. Reflecting on this, I realize that there is something to the intersection of these seemingly opposite practices. As a yoga instructor in a community of CrossFitters, I embarked on a journey to blend the two practices together, creating a holistic system that interweaves body and mind awareness. I believe that if this system
Lex Santí
May 26, 20232 min read


Reframing Mental Health Therapy: The Integral Role of Motivation and Acceptance in Mental Health
Lex Enrico Santí, LCSW, MFA Abstract This research-based article underscores the critical role of motivation and acceptance in managing...
Lex Santí
May 26, 20234 min read


On Yoga: The Architecture of Peace
In 2018, I chanced upon a cinematic masterpiece that profoundly resonated with me, artfully weaving together a tapestry of life elements I hold dear. "On Yoga: The Architecture of Peace" swiftly ascended to become the most transformative movie I have ever encountered, leaving an indelible mark on my consciousness. This film transcends mere entertainment; it is an enlightening odyssey that I sincerely recommend every reader to embark upon. The film introduces us to Michael O'N
Lex Santí
Mar 25, 20233 min read
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