How Does Trauma Disrupt Sleep? Trauma can touch every part of life, including sleep. After a difficult event, you might notice nightmares, frequent awakenings, or long stretches of staring at the ceiling. Many people feel stuck in a cycle of poor sleep at night and low energy during the day. Evidence shows that trauma and …
Have you ever had a stranger pay for your coffee? Found a kind note tucked inside a library book? Maybe someone let you go ahead of them in line at the grocery store, or you received a handwritten letter from a loved one when you needed it most. These random acts of kindness may seem …
You’re staring at your phone, toggling between two job offers for the third time today. Both have pros. Both have cons. You make a mental pro-con list, then second-guess it. You ask a friend for advice, then worry that they don’t understand your situation. Days pass. The decision window closes, but you still can’t pull …
Life rarely unfolds exactly as we plan. Just when we think we’re on a steady path, something unexpected happens—a job loss, a relationship ending, or a sudden shift in priorities. These moments can feel overwhelming, but they also present an opportunity: the chance to choose how we respond and, in doing so, shape our future. …
Do you ever second-guess yourself, even when you know the right choice deep down? Maybe you replay conversations in your head, wondering if you were too sensitive or took something the wrong way. As a highly sensitive person (HSP), your empathy and deep perception are gifts, but without self-trust, they can feel more like a …
In recent years, self-compassion has become a hot topic in mental health research. Dr. Kristin Neff, a leading expert in this field, has shown that self-compassion can significantly boost happiness and emotional resilience. Her research, published in Annual Reviews, highlights the importance of treating yourself with kindness and understanding. Studies by other researchers, like Lee …
Why Trauma Makes It Hard to Trust Yourself Self-trust allows us to feel confident in our decisions, set boundaries, and navigate life autonomously. But when trauma occurs—whether from childhood experiences, abusive relationships, or a sudden, life-altering event—it can shatter that trust. Many trauma survivors struggle to believe in themselves, questioning their instincts, choices, and even …
Do you ever feel like you’re waiting for the perfect moment to change your life? Maybe you second-guess yourself, afraid of making the wrong choice. Or perhaps you’ve been listening to other people’s opinions for so long that you’re unsure what you really want. The truth is that creating a life you love isn’t about …
Co-parenting can feel like uncharted territory after a divorce or separation. It’s about working as a team with your ex-partner to provide your child with a stable, loving environment, even though your relationship has ended. While this process is challenging, prioritizing your child’s well-being is the key to their security. Effective co-parenting requires communication, consistency, …
You may have heard someone mention EMDR therapy. Maybe a friend who swears it changed their life. Or a podcast that made it sound almost magical. But then you start researching and find conflicting information online. Will it erase your memories? Is it just fancy hypnosis? Does it actually work? EMDR myths and misinformation abound, …
EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a revolutionary therapeutic approach that has transformed the lives of many individuals struggling with painful memories, traumatic experiences, and emotional distress. But how does EMDR work in the brain to bring these transformative changes? Let’s delve into the fascinating world of EMDR therapy and its profound impact …
Navigating the aftermath of distressing experiences can feel like being caught in a swirling eddy – the current keeps pulling you back to the same painful spot. You might be experiencing flashbacks, nightmares, or a persistent sense of unease that follows you through your daily life. Perhaps you’ve heard about Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing …
Dating again after a divorce can be both exciting and intimidating. It’s a new chapter in your life, and while it might feel daunting, it’s essential to approach it with an open heart and mind. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process of starting over and dating after divorce: Give Yourself Time …
Divorce is more than paperwork. It is a life event that touches your routines, relationships, and sense of self. You may notice many emotions in divorce: grief, anger, relief, regret, and sometimes hope. That emotional journey can feel disorienting and lonely, especially when the legal process moves faster or slower than your heart. You are …
When you lose someone close to you, the world feels like it tilts off balance. Daily routines, your sense of identity, and even simple interactions can feel unfamiliar and heavy. Loss leaves behind silence, unanswered questions, and a space that feels impossible to fill. And yet, through grief, many people eventually find threads of meaning. …
Grief is a powerful emotion that can come out of nowhere, catching you off guard. The grieving process varies depending on your relationship with the person you’ve lost and the circumstances of the loss. Whether you’re mourning a parent, grandparent, close friend, or spouse, understanding the five stages of grief can help you navigate this …
Nightmares and sleep issues can be common for children and distressing for parents. Poor sleep affects a child’s mood and overall well-being, so addressing these concerns is essential. This guide provides tips on creating a calming sleep environment and supporting your child in overcoming nightmares and sleep difficulties. Create a Calm Bedtime Routine A predictable, …
Why Positive Affirmations Matter Children are constantly forming beliefs about themselves and the world around them. The way they think about themselves shapes their confidence, resilience, and overall well-being. Positive affirmations—simple, encouraging statements—help reinforce a child’s self-worth, promoting a strong mindset that supports growth and emotional health. At first, repeating phrases like “I am strong” …
Forgiveness is a crucial life skill that helps children develop empathy, compassion, and emotional resilience. It’s not about excusing hurtful behavior, but rather letting go of negative emotions and moving forward positively. Here are some strategies to help teach your children about forgiveness: Lead by Example Children learn best by observing adults. Model forgiveness in …
Divorce changes more than your relationship status. It changes the rhythm of daily life for everyone involved, especially your kids. Children often do not have the words to describe their feelings, so those emotions may show up as acting out at school, becoming unusually quiet, or clinging to you more than usual. Many kids do …