Hello Reader,

If there is one thing I've learned over the last few months, it is the importance of recognizing what I need in order to be healthy -- emotionally, physically, spiritually, and relationally.

There is a distinct difference, of course, between needs and desires.

I'd love someone to swoop in and offer me a week-long paid vacation to a remote destination with a waterfront view. Time away from work and responsibilities is good for the heart, mind, body, and soul! However, what I need more than one week away is at least one day a week to care for myself well. For some, this may look like a family fun day, a Sunday sabbath rest, or a Friday movie night. Maybe these ideas resonate with you.

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For me, however, taking care of what I need looks more like an unscheduled morning to sip my coffee, read my Bible, and journal my prayers before turning my attention to the responsibilities of home and work. This grounding time releases the built-up stress and anxiety, providing a space for decision-making and priority-shifting.

If I can pair a slower morning with unrushed time at the farm and a good ride on Kody at least once a week, it is enough to transform my entire outlook on life. I might even come home excited to cook dinner for the family -- and if you know me, cooking ain't my thing!

And yet, as good as I know this rhythm and routine is since it enables me to show up exactly how I want to be for others (and gives me the time and strength to do things like this) the panel of critics taking up residence in my mind is as loud as ever . . .

You should hurry up. You've got stuff to do.

Why are you standing at this fence line so long staring at the herd? You need to move along.

Really, it's time to end this ride. You've got emails to reply to and laundry to put away.

Have you looked at the dog hair on the floor lately? What type of woman allows her house to get this dirty?

You're acting so privileged not working today. Think about everyone else that doesn't have this choice.

I'm overwhelmed just recounting the thoughts that race through my mind. Sheesh, I'd never let a client carry on like this without a challenge and encouragement to evaluate her ruminations and core beliefs. But here I am, the mental health professional conflicted internally anytime I take care of myself.

Why is that?

Because I'm simply a woman, like you, on this journey of healing. My entire life, like yours, has been shaped by the experiences and values of my family origin, culture, and even faith.

Productivity has always been highly esteemed. Serving others is the only way to not be selfish. Workaholism has been secretly used as a coping strategy in the face of legit anxiety. Can you relate?

It is hard to break free from these ways of being in the world, especially when they seem so normal. But it is so liberating to take a bold step in a new direction.

I'm navigating my way into wellness and the reward is what compels me to encourage you to follow suit. Asking yourself the question, "What do I need?" Is the first step in that direction.

What you discover, my friend, may be raise some challenging questions and require a shift in the way you do life. But I promise that I am here for you, coaching and guiding you into rhythms and routines that result in your emotional, physical, spiritual, and relational health.

​Book a consultation session with me so we can chat about your next healing step forward!

Peace and grace,

Lisa

Founder of StableMinded.us

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Growth Opportunities

Want the support of online coaching? I'd love to support you and have a few spots available in my schedule starting in July!

This is the perfect time of year for equine-assisted sessions! Just reply by email and I will guide you in the next steps.

Now is the time to book your Restorative Retreat for September, October, and November!

Interested in planning creative Leadership Development and Team Building Workshops for your company, church, or school? Drop me an email or complete the form on this page.

Looking for a therapist in PA? I have two slots open in person and/or Telehealth with more openings in September.

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Do you ride? Or know someone who does?

For the last six months, I've been working on a special curriculum for equestrians in partnership with Horseclass.com. Finding Calm: Helping Riders Navigate through Fear and Anxiety is expected to release in the fall of 2023. Woot, woot! This curriculum is packed full of the neuropsychological perspective that informs the way we think, live, and ride! But it is not only rich in science, it is steeped in story -- not only mine but others -- as well as practical worksheets for cultivating connection, confidence, courage, and calm!

I am so excited about the way this material will help riders and also the opportunity to coach riders in the Finding Calm Coaching Program, which is open to horsepeople in any discipline, season, or stage who are ready to tackle their fear and anxiety with a mindset shift that will transform their riding and horsemanship. I would be so grateful if you forwarded this information to the riders in your life!