Author: Dr. Sara Teta

Have you ever felt uncomfortable accepting a compliment, a gift, or even an act of kindness? You’re not alone. While much of the self-help world emphasizes the importance of giving, we often overlook the emotional and psychological benefits of receiving. Yet, receiving is just as essential to our emotional wellness as giving. Receiving can be a powerful act, although it can be difficult. So, how do we learn to accept others’ generosity with grace and comfort, without awkwardness or discomfort? How do we foster a deeper connection, a sense of self-worth, and balance in life? The Importance of Receiving Receiving is more than...

How Light Boxes Can Transform Your Health As the seasons shift, they bring more than just cooler temperatures, shorter days, and longer nights. These changes can impact your mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. For many, winter’s dark and dreary months trigger Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or general feelings of sluggishness and fatigue. Fortunately, light box therapy offers a powerful, science-backed solution to combat these seasonal challenges and improve your mental and physical health, mood, and productivity. What Is Light Box Therapy? Light box therapy, also known as phototherapy, involves exposure to a special device that mimics natural sunlight without harmful UV rays....

In today’s fast-paced world, physical manifestations of stress are more common than ever. Tense shoulders, clenched jaws, and furrowed brows are not just fleeting reactions—they are often signs of chronic tension that can drain energy and disconnect people from their bodies. Relaxing is essential to counteract these effects, as the tension we notice is just the tip of the iceberg, with deeper stress often lurking beneath the surface of our awareness. Why Relaxing is Key to Holistic Wellness True wellness goes beyond physical health—it involves harmony in the body, mind, and spirit. Relaxation isn’t a luxury; it’s an essential practice for maintaining...

Several years ago, I worked with a client, Jamie (name changed for privacy), who had a history of complex PTSD stemming from a challenging, chronically dysfunctional upbringing. Jamie’s parent had an unmanaged severe mental health disorder, leaving deep emotional scars. As an adult, Jamie made intentional efforts to seek healthier relationships and escape chaos. Yet, difficult people—those who betrayed their trust or took advantage of their kindness—continued to appear in Jamie’s life. Frustrated, Jamie asked, “Why do I feel like I’m attracting this? What am I missing?”   What Is Cortisol and Why Is It Important? Cortisol, commonly known as the “stress hormone,”...

“Someday you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again.” This timeless quote from C.S. Lewis captures the enduring magic of fantasy fiction. Once thought to be a genre for children, fantasy books like A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) by Sarah J. Maas and Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros have sparked a cultural phenomenon among adults. These stories are more than escapism—they offer a way to process emotions, heal, and connect with others. So, why do we keep returning to these enchanted worlds? Let’s dive into the psychology behind fantasy fiction’s appeal and why it’s more relevant than...

The start of a new year often brings pressure to set ambitious goals and resolutions. But what if life doesn’t go as planned? Unexpected challenges and shifting priorities can make rigid goal-setting overwhelming, leading to burnout and frustration. Instead, consider a gentler approach: intention setting. This mindful practice focuses on values and self-compassion, guiding you through life’s ebbs and flows. What is Intention Setting? Unlike traditional goal-setting, which emphasizes specific, measurable outcomes, intention-setting aligns your actions with your inner values. Think of it as a compass: it points you in the right direction while allowing flexibility for the journey. Instead of asking,...

Grief is a universal experience, touching everyone at some point in life. Yet, it manifests uniquely for each individual. Whether prompted by the loss of a loved one, the end of a significant relationship, or another life-altering event, grief can feel overwhelming. Amid its challenges, grief can also be a gateway to healing and growth. While it may sound cliché, grief creates space to reassess one’s needs, reflect on underlying patterns, and consider what’s truly working—or not—in life. What is Grief? Grief is not a single emotion but a complex and deeply personal response to loss. At its core, grief is our way...

The holiday season is often described as “the most wonderful time of the year,” but for many, it’s also a period of heightened stress and emotional challenges. Between financial pressures, complicated family dynamics, and unmet expectations, the holidays can quickly become overwhelming. Whether you’re trying to create meaningful experiences, manage routines as a parent, or simply stay balanced, understanding common holiday triggers and equipping yourself with effective strategies can help protect your mental and emotional well-being.   Understanding Common Holiday Triggers Navigating this festive yet complex time starts with identifying the common stressors people face. While everyone’s experiences differ, some triggers are nearly universal: ...