Mindfulness

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: ...

Feeling ambivalent, anxious, frustrated, or even scared about the American election? In the current political climate, it has become increasingly easy to be overwhelmed. With constant news updates, debates, and social media discussions, election anxiety is a very real and valid experience. So what, exactly, is American Election Anxiety? Election anxiety refers to the stress and apprehension individuals may experience when thinking about political events, processes, situations, or outcomes in relation to an election of a political figure. It can manifest as feelings of uncertainty, fear, and even hopelessness, which can feel pervasive, take away one’s felt sense of agency, and often...

If you are that type (Like me!)...