I had some experience as a Holistic Healthcare Practitioner before becoming a wife and a mother, but for 10 years after, I mostly immersed myself in nurturing our family. Studies became what I gained from library books, reading cookbooks like novels, and devouring the latest health articles passed around online. Sharing knowledge with friends was second nature, but teaching really became the small sermons I would give my children, when they questioned why we do things differently.
Over time, meditation, yoga, and other sacred daily rituals for myself, became a thing of the past, as I focused more on meal preparation, school projects, and cleaning up. Snuggle time was wonderful, however, mommy time alone became non existent, and many times, I struggled. Although I felt blessed in regard to my new roles, I really lost connection with myself, and despite my passion for health and helping others, I became unhealthy and isolated.
Before finding a path in holistic health, I had a history of depression. Growing up was difficult, until I found my path toward health in my early 20’s. After having the kids, and losing my way again, the emotional difficulties returned. I suffered from many bouts of postpartum anxiety and sadness. I loved my family, but I often felt stifled and squished into a box with new labels and check lists. I was easily overwhelmed, and just not used to taking care of myself, as I focused primarily on the needs of my family. We all suffered until I returned to my path, got the support I needed, and started healing myself again.
Sometimes when we don’t feel our best, we start to question our self worth, and our ability to help others. A few years ago, when I first felt the calling to teach and lead circles again, I thought, “How can I possibly teach others how to help themselves, when I still struggle with helping myself?” I was so scared to step into this role.
For many of us, there are days that feel like the challenges are insurmountable. The days that feel like we are “broken”, and just can’t be “fixed”. The times as a mom that we are just doing what we have to do to get through the day and survive. We want everyone to feel safe and loved, and we do not feel we have the time to focus on healing ourselves. I know I didn’t want to use the time, money, or energy that I felt belonged to my family, so I could work on “feeling better”. However, once I was able to recognize my deeper need to find myself again, and finally listen to my heart, I diligently learned to incorporate the self care needed to feel strong and joyful again. This has blessed us all immensely.
I am still a work in progress, but the journey and the discovery has been delicious. Sometimes, getting clear on what is important is difficult. The deeper layers can still be painful. However, having mentors and the support of like minded souls allows me to move through it with more awareness and compassion.
Now that I am in a healthier place, I am able to acknowledge that when someone has been to a place of overwhelm and despair, they are better equipped to help others climb out of it. That’s a true gift. I am now better equipped, and I am so grateful for it.
In the beginning, I still had some fears around taking time and space for myself, and also some fears around sharing my knowledge and experiences. I do not presume to have it all figured out. However, I do know that I have made great progress. I have learned to look fear in the eyes and smile back at it. I do it every day.
When a person walks into a room with something of value to share, they walk in as the best version of themselves. Every time I am in a position to share and connect with others, to be of service and help, or feel myself on a path of purpose and connection, I feel I am exactly where I am meant to be, and I am reminded of my strengths, not my weaknesses. Whether it is leading a group, or supporting an individual, I feel so much gratitude for what I do. The journey to where we are is a powerful one, and I am delighted to be on it with you.
I want to show up in life each day as the best version of myself, and I would love to help you do the same.
Each of us has so much to offer. We are seeds of potential, just waiting to blossom. Let’s feed and water you. Let’s discover what you need to feel better and fully bloom. Let’s celebrate the challenges that inform you and help you grow. We will tune in together, and find the joy again.
It has been said many times that we underestimate the power of community. As women, we need each other. There is power and support in the presence of our circles.
I hope you will join me on this beautiful path back to wholeness …on this journey of becoming the very best version of ourselves.