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Wabi-sabi: beauty in imperfection and impermanence

The world often tells us to strive for perfection, but what if we find beauty in the imperfection? This is where the Japanese philosophy of wabi sabi (侘寂) comes in. This way of life teaches us to embrace the beauty of the imperfect, and it can be used in all aspects of life — from decorating our homes to accepting our individual selves and our relationships.

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Community Spaces: Creating Belonging and Wellness

Have you ever felt the longing to be a part of something bigger than yourself? Have you searched for groups that share the same values and visions as you? In your journey to healing and growth, have you ever felt alone? There is so much untapped power in community spaces in promoting mental health and overall wellness. These spaces can take many forms, from parks and public squares to community centers and online forums, but they all share a common purpose: to provide a safe and welcoming environment where people can come together, connect with one another, and feel a sense of belonging.

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A Therapist’s Guide to Navigating Outgrowing Friendships

Friendships are often one of the most significant and consistent relationships people have outside of family- they can span decades and distances. But, just like romantic relationships, friendships are not immune to growing pains. While we may wish for our friendships to last forever, the reality is that we naturally change and outgrow friendships that used to nurture and sustain us. We treasure our friendships and invest time and energy to maintain them. However, it’s common to outgrow friendships as we evolve and grow as individuals. Although it can be a tough pill to swallow, outgrowing relationships with people is a significant part of growing and finding yourself. While some relationships may endure and deepen over time, others may fade away or become toxic. It’s important to invest in friendships that uplift […]

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Overcoming Perfectionism and the Fear of Failure

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed with the pressure of success, especially if you’re a woman of color in a male-dominated field. Women of color often experience higher levels of perfectionism and fear of failure than other demographics due to systemic racism, sexism, and other forms of discrimination. When you’re a woman of color, and your success is predicated on your acceptance from the majority, perfection can feel like the only real option. We have to be more likeable, articulate, logical, and work harder just to enter the spaces that others already exist so comfortably in. We don’t get taken as seriously. If we fail, we risk jeopardizing the prospects of other WOC who will inevitably be compared to us. We’re forced to compete with our own sisters for limited spots. […]

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The Effects of Trauma on our Bodies

As women of color, we are confronted daily with various forms of trauma, whether it be systemic oppression, discrimination, intergenerational, or repeated microaggressions. The impact of these traumas goes beyond the obvious emotional and mental effects, often leading to physical symptoms and health issues. Trauma doesn’t just impact our minds – it can have significant impacts on our bodies. To understand the impact of trauma, we first have to look at how the stress response system works. The stress response system The stress response system, also known as the fight or flight response, is activated when we experience trauma or stress. This response is mediated by the limbic system, which is in the center of our brains, and is responsible for regulating survival behaviors and emotional expression.  The limbic system in the amygdala is connected […]

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A Guide to Self-Care for the Busy Woman on the Move

Do you find yourself striving to have it all, do it all and be everything to everyone? If so, you know that it comes at a cost: It’s easy to lose sight of yourself in the process. And to make it even worse, somewhere along the way, you began to believe that taking care of yourself translated into being selfish. In today’s fast-paced world, where multitasking and juggling multiple responsibilities have become the norm, self-care can take a backseat. This is especially true for mothers, entrepreneurs, and business women who face unique challenges and stressors. Self-care is essential in maintaining a healthy and balanced life, fostering mental and emotional resilience, and ensuring optimal productivity. If you’re a busy woman on the move, and you’re struggling to prioritize your well-being, this practical […]

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