This blog is number 2 of 4 in a series about types of coping skills. Artistic expression is a wonderful way to process and cope with difficult emotions. As children, it is common for others to engage us in creative activities and to look for meaning beneath. However, as we get older, we become critical of our work and often stray from those skills.
Read MoreThis blog is #1 of 4 in a series about types of coping skills. A diversion skill is a type of coping skill that is very hands-on. This is great for people who find it difficult to sit still or fidget constantly. Having something tangible to hold can give you something to fixate on, other than your ruminating thoughts. It is likely that there are activities you regularly engage in that would fit in this category
Read MoreI like being in control. I tend to get worked up if something doesn’t go as planned. If you are like me, you may feel like your life is spiraling right now. You may notice that your anxiety, depression, or even trauma symptoms have increased. It makes sense given the uncertainty that is rampant and continuously increasing. The reality is that you have no more control today than you did a few weeks ago.
Read MoreToo often, we spend so much time and energy caring for others that our own needs go unmet. Work expectations, family roles, and relationships often take precedence over our wellness (physical, emotional, social, etc.) and we suffer as a result. Even when we feel fulfilled by the many hats we wear, it is vital that we care for our own needs as well.
Read MoreHumans are wired for connection. It begins as infants when we depend on an adult to take care of our basic needs. Studies have shown that babies actually need physical interactions to thrive. Around school-age, we begin interacting with peers and enters a different kind of desire for connection.
Read MoreHolidays are a time of excitement and joy, and for most, they are events we look forward to all year long. Spending time with family and friends, eating good food, and opening gifts have become paramount to our end-of-year celebrations. Let’s be honest though, many people are under tremendous pressure during the last few months of the year and holidays can add to this stress
Read MoreThe vagus nerve is often called the wandering nerve because it extends from your brain stem and touches all of your major organs. It is the mechanism that is responsible for that “gut feeling” we sometimes have and the reason that meditation and yoga practices are effective coping skills.
Read MoreI listen to audio-books and podcasts on my morning commutes. A consistent theme from some of my favorite authors (Brené Brown, Rachel Hollis, etc.) has been gratitude. Often we get so consumed with focusing on what we don’t have and comparing ourselves to others that we forget to appreciate what we do have.
Read MoreSo far, one of the most challenging parts of establishing my own practice has been deciding on a title. For weeks I created lists of words, tried mind-mapping and coloring, matched various word pairs, asked for opinions… I wanted something that felt authentic to me and my mission. I wanted something that aligned with my clinical perspective.
Read MoreHey! I’m Alex. I started this blog because I have a lot of thoughts and energy radiating through me. Ask anyone that knows me, I have always been a talker and try to have a positive impact on others. I now have my own platform to connect with others on a larger scale!
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