Woodland West Christian Counseling Center

11/07/2023

Hilarious but so true 😅

By .z_psychologist

02/20/2023

Did you know you could gaslight yourself? 😳

If you find yourself thinking you’re lazy for needing a break or rest I’m here to tell you you aren’t, and it’s ok and good to stop and slow down!

How are you resting today?

02/06/2022

Often we become discouraged when recovery doesn’t go as quickly as we anticipate. It’s hard work—but it’s worth it.

Hard truth: Recovery is not fun. But just because it feels icky and uncomfortable does not mean it’s not working or you are failing. Often it feels the worst just as it’s about to get better. This is because the last of the “toxicity” is fighting to stay in its comfortable home and you are fighting to break down old comfortable habits.

When you feel most like giving up just know this is when things are about to really change. It’s in the breakdowns that we have breakthroughs!

So to help you in these moments:

1. Remember why you are doing the work of recovery. Remember how the toxic habit or trauma made you feel, ruined relationships, or ruined moments.

2. Visualize yourself free of the issue you are working on. What will you do? How will you feel?

3. Talk to some! Taking helps bring perspective AND the community is key to resilience.

4. Balance out the hard work with fun! What brings you joy? How can you do more of that?

For more tips on this topic see get new book Cleaning up Your Mental Mess wherever books are sold! Also available on kindle and audible (narrated by me!) or visit: https://www.cleaningupyourmentalmess.com (tap the link in my bio)

02/04/2022

It’s nice to know that when we feel anxiety in the morning that there’s a physiological reason for it! Discovering the morning routine that brings calmness to your body is so important. My body and mind does best with a good workout on most days. What about you?

If you struggle with morning anxiety you’re not alone! It’s actually very common to feel anxious first thing when you wake up due to naturally elevated cortisol levels. That’s why it’s so important to establish a calming and enjoyable morning routine! For some that means getting up and working out, and for others that means easing into the day. And for people like me it means having bagels and cream cheese!

What’s your go-to morning routine? And remember: there is no “correct” way to do your morning despite what some “wellness” experts may tell you. Do what feels best for you and brings you joy! You know yourself best 😊

For more mental health tips and strategies be sure to subscribe to my weekly newsletter at drleaf.com! And if you subscribe today you’ll get a special bonus from me in tomorrows newsletter - A guide on how to do the Neurocycle with children!

12/23/2021

Thought this may be helpful as holiday gatherings can be triggering for so many people. Remember: this is your holiday too so spend it however you want, and do what brings you joy.

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12/08/2021

11/04/2021

No matter how long you've been married or in a relationship, it's good to be reminded of how we need to present for each other.

It’s easy to miss out on opportunities to support our partner when they need it most. Here are five times to be ready to step up.

10/29/2021

10/29/2021

Depression doesn’t always look sad.

08/26/2021

As we walk through pain, I think one of the healthiest things we can do is pray, “God, I believe that you are bigger than this pain I feel. I believe that you will not leave me alone. I believe that you can use this season I am in to refine my character and to mold my heart. Do not let this season I am in rob me of joy, adventure, or courage. Speak to me God, your servant is listening.”
Josh & Beverly, Scarred Hope