The cost of stress on our bodies…

Psychology says when we face constant stress and uncertainty, our bodies learn to live in survival mode. We stay alert, tense and exhausted. Always waiting for the next thing to go wrong. Even in moments of calm, our minds don’t relax. It’s not because we’re overreacting, it’s because our nervous system has forgotten what safety feels like. 

— Unknown 

That makes a lot of sense. I’ve worked with a traditional therapist for many years, including countless, therapist-led weekend relationship seminars, to tackle post-traumatic stress from a troubled childhood and ongoing family dynamic. I ended up working with a Craniosacral/Body Talk therapist to tackle my physical issues. I’ve had digestive issues my whole life, and I pursued this alternative option out of desperation. I was tired of stomach aches and all the food sensitivities (the traditional health care system, and naturopathic options had no solution). The Craniosacral and Body Talk therapies have been pretty miraculous for me. They seem to calm my nervous system and allow my digestive system to function better. Just sayin’ :) Hugs and good luck. XO 

Blessings,

Chatgirl

Prioritize moments of joy like your life depends on it…

You are not a machine. You are a soul who needs music, connection, sunsets, laughter, and small pockets, of joy. Prioritize them like your life depends on it because it does. Life isn’t meant to be a cycle of stress and survival. Pause. Look up. Let the sunset remind you: you’re here to live, not just hustle. Life is not a to-do list. It’s a gift. Walk slower. Hug longer. Laugh louder. Love deeper. The clock may be ticking, but your presence is timeless. We’ve been conditioned to believe that constant productivity equals worth, but humans weren’t designed for endless output. We need moments of wonder, connection and rest not as rewards for hard work, but as essential ingredients of a meaningful life.

— Unknown 

Great reminder. I know I can be quite the busy bee. I love ticking to-do’s, and seeing results. But I do feel, at least in North America, we can spend altogether too much time working. So I am challenging myself to find more moments of joy each day. One thing I’ve been doing is visiting the kitty cat cafe for an hour. I’m unable to have pets, due to work travel, and this is such a great fill in. Just sayin’ :) Hugs and good luck. XO

Blessings,

Chatgirl

Healthy distancing…

Distancing

yourself from people who give you negative vibes or unhealthy energy is self-care. Stepping back from situations where you feel unappreciated or disrespected is self-care.

Choose to honour your feelings and boundaries, respectfully and gracefully.

— Marc and Angel, Power of Wordz

My favourite therapist taught me about “having my own back”. It seems silly in hindsight, but I didn’t even consider questioning duty and obligation. I thought there were certain things you had to do, particularly for family and long term friends. I didn’t see where I was abandoning myself. Just sayin’ :) Hugs and good luck. XO

Blessings,

Chatgirl