Winter can feel like you're wrapped in a weighted blanket—not just because of the cold, but because of shorter days, gray skies, and the temptation to retreat from the world. For many women, this season brings a noticeable dip in energy and mood, often referred to as the winter blues. But here’s the thing: with a little intentional self-care, winter can become a season of self-discovery and renewal instead of just hibernation.

Understanding the Winter Blues

Winter blues are more than just feeling "off." For some, it’s tied to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression linked to the darker, colder months. Symptoms can include:

• Low energy
• Sleep changes (wanting to sleep all day or not sleeping at all)
• Feeling unmotivated
• Difficulty concentrating
  Whether you’re grappling with full-blown SAD or just feeling sluggish, small self-care changes can help you reclaim your spark.

1. Chase the Light

Winter’s shorter days mean less sunlight, which...

SEO Description: Discover the importance of self-care routines for the mind, body, and spirit with inspiration from Sandy the squirrel in Tamarindo. Learn how to schedule self-care into your day and raise your vibration to attract abundance and inner peace.

For the past four days in Tamarindo, I’ve noticed something remarkable: the same squirrel, at the same place, at the exact same time. She’s friendly, animated, and seems determined to grab our attention—or maybe just our food! I’ve named her Sandy, and as I’ve watched her, I realized she’s got a daily routine down pat. Sandy comes here every day to socialize and eat. Sound familiar? That’s exactly why I’m here too! At a beachside restaurant, I’m soaking in the same sun and the same social vibes while nourishing my body and spirit.

This simple observation got me thinking: self-care isn’t just for humans. It’s a universal need. Sandy’s routine reminds me of...

Heartbreak sucks. Period. Whether you were together for two weeks, two years, or two decades, the pain of losing someone you cared about hits like a freight train. It leaves you questioning everything—your worth, your choices, even your sanity. You replay every moment, every conversation, wondering, “Where did I go wrong?”

But here’s the thing: You didn’t. Heartbreak isn’t a reflection of your worth. It’s a brutal, messy, but powerful invitation to grow, heal, and take your power back.

I know because I’ve been there. I made every mistake in the book. I’ve also watched so many amazing women get stuck in the same traps—wasting time, energy, and even money, chasing relief that never comes. So, let’s talk about those pitfalls and how you can heal in a way that actually works.

My Story: When Healing Felt Impossible

I’ll never forget that day. I was sitting on my living room floor, surrounded by tissues and empty...

Let me start with a little confession. Yesterday? It was rough. I felt like a human teapot—on the verge of boiling over into tears all day. And when I did cry, I quickly wiped those tears away because, well, “toughen up” and “stop being a baby” were phrases that have stuck with me since forever. Sound familiar?

As I sat at my desk with my messy bun, sleepy eyes, and a headache that wouldn’t quit, I had a moment of clarity. I wasn’t taking care of myself—not really. Sure, I was doing the basics like eating and showering, but real self-care? Nowhere to be found. And it hit me: could neglecting myself be why I was snapping at my husband, struggling to focus, and feeling so completely drained? Spoiler alert: the answer is a big, resounding yes.

The Lightbulb Moment

Last night, I decided to experiment. I grabbed my trusty (but neglected) grounding blanket, queued up a guided meditation, and let the soothing voice guide me away from my...

The holidays are often painted as a season of joy, connection, and celebration. But for many trauma survivors, this time of year can feel more like a storm of stress, anxiety, and emotional triggers. From navigating complicated family dynamics to dealing with the pressure of tradition and expectations, the holidays can bring challenges that threaten your peace and well-being.

The good news? You have the power to rewrite your holiday experience. With thoughtful preparation, self-compassion, and practical strategies, you can approach the season in a way that supports your healing and honors your needs. Let’s dive into actionable tips to help you not just survive, but navigate the holidays with resilience and grace.

1. Prioritize Your Well-Being

Your well-being is the foundation of everything. During the holidays, it’s easy to put yourself on the back burner to meet obligations or make others happy. But your mental, emotional, and physical health must remain a top priority....