Therapy Living, PLLC

11/27/2025

According to the American Psychological Association, children who listen to their parents consistently grow into more successful, confident, and well-adjusted individuals.
Their willingness to follow guidance helps them build strong habits that lead to long-term achievement.
These children often perform better in school, develop healthier relationships, and show higher levels of responsibility.
Listening also strengthens the bond between parent and child, giving them a stable emotional base to thrive from.
As a result, they are far more likely to reach greater success in both their personal and professional lives.

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11/27/2025

Yelling at a toddler does more than hurt feelings. It can physically shape the developing brain in ways that make emotional and cognitive difficulties more likely later in life. Key regions such as the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and amygdala are especially affected. These areas manage emotional regulation, memory, learning, and the body’s stress response.

When a child is yelled at, their sympathetic nervous system activates survival mode. The brain mirrors this state, creating neural pathways that remain hyper-alert for danger. Repeated exposure to this stress can lead to structural changes, including smaller prefrontal cortex and amygdala volumes and disrupted hippocampus function.

The prefrontal cortex governs impulse control, decision-making, and emotional regulation. The hippocampus is central to forming and storing memories, while the amygdala acts as the brain’s emotional alarm system, particularly for fear and anxiety. Constant stress floods these regions with cortisol and other stress hormones, interfering with normal development.

During early childhood, the brain is rapidly pruning and shaping connections. Chronic stress can prioritize fear-related pathways and reduce circuits needed for calm thinking, focus, and emotional balance.

As a result, children exposed to frequent yelling may struggle to manage emotions, control impulses, or form memories. Long-term studies link harsh verbal parenting to higher risks of anxiety, depression, and emotional instability even in the absence of physical abuse.

11/25/2025

Recent studies, most notably a large-scale 2024 meta-analysis published in “The BMJ” suggest that dancing may be more effective than antidepressants for treating depression. Dancing’s superiority stems from its holistic nature, combining several therapeutic elements simultaneously and without the side effects of medication.

KEY MECHANISM’S OF DANCING’S EFFECTIVENESS:

📑Neurochemical Release: Like other forms of exercise, dancing triggers the release of “feel-good” neurotransmitters such as endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin, which naturally boost mood and reduce stress.

📑Mind-Body Connection and Mindfulness: Dancing engages both the mind and body, which helps to break cycles of negative rumination (repetitive negative thoughts) by focusing attention on the present moment and the rhythm of the music. This is a core component of somatic therapy.

📑Emotional Expression: Dance provides a non-verbal avenue for emotional release and self-expression, which can be particularly helpful for individuals who struggle to articulate their feelings in traditional talk therapy settings.

📑Social Interaction and Connection: Many forms of dancing involve a social or group component, which helps combat feelings of isolation and builds a sense of community and belonging—major contributors to mental well-being.

📑Physical Health Benefits: In addition to mental health benefits, dancing improves cardiovascular health, enhances cognitive functions, and boosts self-esteem, contributing to overall well-being.

📑Lack of Side Effects: Unlike antidepressant medications, which can have side effects like weight gain, insomnia, or nausea, dancing offers a natural approach with only positive physical benefits.

PMID: 38247695

11/25/2025

The holidays are coming and boundaries might feel harder to set, but they're just as important. Here are some scripts you can use.

11/25/2025

11/24/2025

New research in developmental neuroscience shows that a screaming child is not being dramatic. Their nervous system has shifted into survival mode. When a child becomes overwhelmed, the brain floods with stress signals that disrupt emotional control. This reaction is instinctive and rooted in physiology, not intention. Psychologists explain that during these moments the child cannot think logically or respond calmly because the part of the brain responsible for regulation temporarily goes offline.

Studies reveal something remarkable. A calm, regulated adult can shift a child’s physiology within seconds. Your tone, your touch, and even your breathing pattern can signal safety to their nervous system. When an adult maintains steady breathing and a low, gentle voice, the child’s heartbeat slows, stress hormones decrease, and emotional balance begins to return. This process is known as co regulation, a fundamental principle of child development.

Researchers found that children with consistent co regulation support develop stronger emotional resilience, better communication skills, and healthier long term stress responses. The adult becomes a biological anchor that rewires how the child processes overwhelming moments. Instead of punishment or pressure, safety and connection create the fastest path back to calm.

The science is clear. Regulated adults create regulated children. Your presence becomes the healing tool their nervous system needs.

11/23/2025

The simple act of sprinkling salt into your morning glass of water can make a big impact.

Cortisol is highest at 8:00 AM, and sodium is excellent for lowering cortisol, so salt is a great tool for a stress-free day.

Himalayan sea salt is a great option, or try Baja Gold salt if you’re prone to high blood pressure.

And for an extra health boost, try adding fresh-squeezed organic lemon juice to your glass!

11/23/2025

A recent psychological wellness study has uncovered a powerful connection between affection and longevity. According to researchers, husbands who kiss their wives before leaving for work tend to live an average of five years longer. The finding highlights how small, consistent displays of love can create measurable improvements in physical and emotional health.
Psychologists explain that affectionate rituals activate the brain’s bonding system, releasing oxytocin, a hormone linked to reduced stress and stronger emotional security. Lower stress levels support healthier heart function, better sleep patterns, and more stable blood pressure. These benefits accumulate over time and contribute to a longer life span.
The study also suggests that couples who maintain affectionate routines start their day with increased emotional stability. This emotional boost improves decision making, job performance, and overall mood throughout the day. When a relationship feels supportive and secure, both partners experience lower chronic stress, which directly impacts long term health.
Experts emphasize that the kiss itself is not the only factor. It is the routine of affection, connection, and reassurance that shapes healthier lifestyle choices and long term well being. Simple daily habits can strengthen relationships and create a healthier emotional environment at home.
This research reminds us that love expressed in small moments can shape a lifetime of benefits.

11/23/2025

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11/21/2025

Millennial parents today are raising their children while actively working to heal the unresolved parts of their own childhoods. According to Talker Research, over 68% of millennial parents are navigating this powerful balance of caregiving and self-healing. As they nurture their kids, many are also reconnecting with their inner child, learning to break patterns they once inherited. This dual journey of parenting and personal growth has become a defining trait of their generation. With greater emotional awareness, they strive to create a healthier and more compassionate environment for their families.