Teresa Ford Coaching

#54 Meeting Your Creative Genius: It's Nice to Finally Meet Me

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 06:35:31 GMT

Blog Post #54

Meeting Your Creative Genius:

It's Nice to Finally Meet Me

Everything changes when we tap into who you are and what you're here to do.

If we stop with the resistance and get one, this is where the answers are.

I want to keep reminding you, even when your brain says, "I don't know," you do know.

If you just give it time and space, plant those seeds, nurture and grow them, and give them a little bit of water, you will know and hear your intuition guiding you forward.

Let's dive in. Let's talk about your intuition. Let's talk about your inner child and

Where do I want to start?

Your inner child.

We've talked about your nervous system.

Your autonomic nervous system is built and hardwired to keep you safe.

That's to keep you safe from running into the road and walking out into traffic, keeping you safe from doing physically dangerous things, but also emotionally hazardous things, but also spiritually dangerous things.

The only thing your autonomic nervous system isn't keeping you safe from is the thoughts you think.

The thoughts you think, if they hold a meaning that is in line with fear to a big degree or a small degree, it doesn't matter.

If there is a lack of love, the absence of love, it is more fear than love, like 49 % love and 51 % fear.

It could be like that if you have more fear attached to a thought, it produces a negative emotion in the body. Not only is it a negative emotion, but that's the one thing that you'll notice.

We notice our feelings, and we often feel our emotions before we notice that we even had a thought that triggered an emotion.

But your brain has that thought; there's some fear attached, and it sends out a chemical soup, like from the nervous system.

The nervous system is triggering hormones.

A chemical soup goes out into your body that tells your body we're safe.

We're not r eally safe, we're not secure, and we're in a lot of danger.

Whatever level that thought carried, the meaning of fear is pushed out into your body.

Now, your whole body's doing the thing.

You might, if it's really bad like someone's going to leave you, you've been cheated on, you know, the abandonment is high, you're about to lose your job, which means that you can't pay your rent, which means you're going to be homeless.

If the fear is super high, you may even feel tingling in your extremities. If somebody startles you, if they just burst into your room, knock loudly, or do something to play a prank on you, you will see spots in front of your eyes.

This is your nervous system, which is hard at work saving you.

I was out for a walk the other day, and a friend who thought he was cute came up on my husband and me on his e-bike.

We were walking, and we had music going.

We were talking and involved in a conversation while listening to our music, planning the day out, and not even aware of our surroundings.

This guy came zooming up on us, slammed on his brakes, and said, "Hey, harmless? Yes.

My husband, who has a very steady, for the most part, a steady nervous system, was hardly fazed.

He turned around to see who it was.

On the other hand, I did a Roadrunner Bugs Bunny cartoon hour. I jumped up off the ground, levitated, my legs were going, nothing was happening, and finally zoomed off in a puff of smoke while screaming.

That was how my nervous system worked hard at work.

I have had trauma around loud and sudden noises in my childhood. That was my mom's way of intimidating us.

That doesn't leave just because you're tapping into your nervous system and bringing her into a state of safety and security, and all is well.

I do that every day, multiple times, because my nervous system was rattled as a child.

This guy came up, spots in front of my eyes, smoke under my feet. I was out, and he was like, "I am so surprised you didn't say a swear word."

You're lucky I didn't sock you in the arm because that was not nice.

People who scare you, they don't know. They have no idea what your history is.

If you startle easily, your nervous system is still trying to protect you in a moment of blindsided. It wasn't safe to be casual and nonchalant.

You had to keep your head on a swivel and be ready because somebody might change the rules just to make you wrong. That was my childhood.

I'm just using it as an example.

Maybe you relate, maybe you don't.

Maybe your nervous system responds to other things, and it's responding to something that makes you feel unsafe or unsure of yourself, like being embarrassed in public or saying something inconsiderate at the moment.

Then you wish you could take it all back because you weren't thinking about whose feelings you might hurt.

Whatever, like literally, it's whatever. It just doesn't matter; what matters is how you feel inside after the fact.

If you become super conscientious about your thoughts, whether they're based on more fear or more love.

If we are sifting and sorting through the thoughts we think about, and how they make us feel, the lack of love is more fear, or the lack of fear is more love.

We will get closer to tapping into our internal guidance system, which is our nervous system.

When it is in a safe and stable place, it's really a good guide.

We can check in; we know, we understand.

I used to; I didn't even know what that was before I was introduced to the workings and goings-on of trauma recovery through the autonomic nervous system.

I used to have this ability, I still do, but back then, I didn't have a name for it.

I told my husband back then, don't you just have that place where you can check and see if it's right?

He's like, no. I'm like, yeah, because if you're like, well, is this a good idea for us? I'm like checking.

It could be a better idea to check. Yes, it's a good idea.

I had that ability. I didn't even know what it was, but it was me checking in with myself and who I was.

When you say I will take care of myself, who's I, and who's myself? Who are you talking about? It's your nervous system, AKA "Little You."

The child is either wounded or healed or both in the past.

It's the database of all the information you've collected up here that is sifting and sorting through your belief system, your understanding of what's safe and what's not safe, and your perception.

This is not the same as everyone's perception.

You are just sifting and sorting what feels safe based on your experiences from your perspective, depending on whether you were three, eight, 12, or 18.

You are going to perceive something completely different if your brain is more developed versus less, right?

If you were a young kid and your brain wasn't all that developed, and mom and dad were getting a divorce, or something was happening, or they were unhappy with your performance at school or you had a fight with a friend,

You just didn't know how to process those emotions and how you felt about and perceived them.

It felt like abandonment, or someone wasn't going to be your friend, or they were going to talk about you behind your back, or your parents berated you or shamed you or guilted you into doing better.

Whatever was going on back then will still have a sense, a feeling, a flavoring, and a hint of things happening now, especially if we have a strong backstory.

I was never loved.

My parents hated me. I didn't have a father. I don't know how to be a man, whatever it is.

The stories we bring to us are the stories that continue to unfold in our lives. Okay?

I've told you all to bring this back to talking about your creative genius because your nervous system, AKA "Little You", still needs guidance, support, and security during those triggering moments.

It's not all the time, just when it has something to do with an underdeveloped part of you.

This person has a really clear understanding of where you're going in life, what your purpose is, why you're here, and what you're here to do in this very moment. She's actually an artist.

I don't necessarily mean she paints, does pottery, or is a poet. It could be very likely that she's great at fishing or hunting.

I don't know, but she is a creative genius, and if you listen, she's trying to help you have more fun in life.

If you give yourself a permission slip today, I will spend time with my inner child and get to know her because she was left out.

She's out of the equation because Mom's complaint about you was higher.

The outside information, the input that was coming in about who on the outside of us was unhappy with our performance or needed us to change so they could be happy.

Whatever outside external influence was happening, we were like, got to take care of that because if I don't, it's not safe.

"Little Y ou", that little creative genius is like, let's go out and play and make sandcastles.

Mom's like, don't get dirty.

You're like, never mind, I can't get dirty.

We're going to wander around in the yard, be unproductive, and don't like it, so we're not going to experience the sandcastle that we had in mind for ourselves.

What are you doing in your life now? That creative genius is like, you should go, let's go.

You're like, no, we can't because that only leaves us 20 minutes, and then I have to get on a call, and then I have to go pick up the kids, and I can't do the fun thing.

You're here to have fun. You're here to live with joy. You're here to express yourself fully. You're here to listen to the little creative one, your little creative inner child in kindergarten.

They give you all the fingerpaint.

You're like, wow, you weren't worried about it. Did I put all the colors together, and now it's mud?

You were having an experience.

You're like, I have paint on my hands. It's amazing.

You were just smearing it around, wiping it on your clothes, and we were not even aware that we could ruin the clothes, the painting, or even our own clothes. We could not do it right.

We were just aware of that. We were just like, this is amazing.

Where in your life do you do that?

Where in your life do you still have that fun, playful, inner creative child?

I had to do it better than my mom for the first part of bringing five humans into the world. It got so serious.

Then I was like, wow, my body looks terrible. I don't like the way I look on the outside because it's not a good match for me on the inside.

My inner child is like, I know.

Remember when you felt so powerful in high school? I knew my dad; we were running track and driving a Porsche.

My dad bought me a Porsche and bought our kids a Porsche to drive around in high school.

That was what not to do for your children.

I'm not recommending it, but it had little headlights, a sun, and a roof and was fast. It was fun to drive, but it didn't teach me anything about responsibility.

Anyway, I'm having fun. I have fun.

I took my friends to the beach in the Porsche, and it was a lot of fun.

There was that bubble of time before I got out into the world on my own to discover I had no idea what I was doing, and it felt safe to be involved in high school.

My friends were amazing people, and they are still amazing people, and they hung on to me.

I was just a needy child, anxious attachment, the whole nine yards, people pleasing.

What do I need to be so you can all love me, even though I'm a disaster?

There was that. There was some insecurity, but I didn't know it was insecure, right?

I love listening to music, driving the car, going to the beach, being a cheerleader, and running track.

There was a window there that my social life was good.

It was after I finally could give up valueless. That was a nightmare. Not a ballerina gave me grace hands, but I just know it wasn't my calling. But I digress.

The point is that my inner child, at this point, was not loving my body and how it had just been put on the back burner and was like, let go per se. I finally was like, I know.

We're going to put on our headphones, plug in a tape on our Walkman, and go for a run. Yeah!

It just felt inspiring, good, and like something I wanted to do, even though I'm not a runner.

I've said it before. I just wanted to do something that moved my body.

That was the fastest low-hanging fruit I could think of.

I was like, I got two legs. Let's do it. Why not?

If I had talked myself out of that, it would have been the same cycle I had gone through for the last ten years of I hate my body.

I'm going to reduce the calories. I'm going to eat boring food. I'm going to, which will last for three days when I hardly eat anything.

Then, I will eat everything that is not nailed down after that and be mad that the scale has increased. Like, what am I doing?

That's not having fun. That's not listening to my intuition.

When I was like, "It's just gonna be me and the cows in the morning in the starry night sky because the sun wasn't up yet and it was freezing cold," I could see my breath in the air.

I was just going to be out there with ACDC, and we were just going to kill it.

Well, it was not as I envisioned because I almost started a fire with the amount of friction between my thighs, but I gave myself a chance just to do that anyway.

Just like starting a fire, it doesn't matter. Doesn't matter, doesn't matter.

My thighs are rubbing—it doesn't matter. That's beside the point.

The point was, let's have fun, let's do something for Teresa, let's take care of you for a change because everybody else is the priority.

I didn't overthink it. I just let my creative genius tell me.

She's just so smart. Your creative genius is so smart. She's infinite intelligence. She is the artist.

She's the one you want to defer to, not the outside world, not People Magazine, not what's going on in Hollywood, not what's even going on in the neighborhood, not what your best friend Click is doing, not like you're not them.

You're not them.

You are you.

There is only one of you, and we need you to be your best self in the world.

Your tribe needs you to operate as your best self in the world.

When you tap in and listen to that little creative genius, she will say, I know, let's go. And notice, are you shutting her down?

Are you like, no, no, we can't do that. Or are you ok with that? Why not? I know you do that sometimes when you're like, hey, let's go down and get our favorite soft drink.

You're like, okay. Only when you feel bad about it, do you allow yourself a creative experience.

If you go down to Maverick and you get the burrito and have the soda, just let it be what it is in the moment.

As soon as you let off the resistance, it opens you up to say, "What else would you like to do today?"

Then take yourself on a freaking date.

Spend time with the inner child that got shut out in the past.

Every time you're like, I know you're like, She stuck her in the corner yet. Yet you will go on a date with somebody else externally.

Some other person, maybe a child of yours, perhaps a husband of yours, maybe a partner, maybe a best friend.

You go on dates with other people, but you have that experience with somebody else because you're trying to meet your needs.

That need is not to be lonely, to be loved, or to be validated. Perhaps getting those needs validated and met outside of you is a habit.

What if you did that here with you? What if you tapped into your inner wisdom, your inner child, your nervous system, and your intuition? It's all one in the same.

When your nervous system is calm, it operates.

You can tap into that greater, higher frequency of you.

When taking care of myself, I am letting go of ControlZilla.

ControlZilla is no longer the main operating voice in your life. Instead, she's deferring.

She's like, "I don't know. What do you think?" I am taking care of myself, which means that you up here, ControlZilla, can be here with you.

You're going to edit this out back to it.

When your intuition, your inner child, is the most, when she is the one you defer to, she's the default voice.

You will not second guess yourself.

The doubts that tend to run through your mind, should I, shouldn't I, go away because there's just one clear yes going on.

Listen for the yes, for her to be the voice that matters most to you.

She is the artist. She's the one that's helping you create your life.

If you've had a family, you did that through her desires, her creation.

She's like, "I have an idea. Let's build a family." Like you've done that, she's done that before. When you're like, "I have a craving." I know a meal I want to cook.

She said, "Let's make a list, go to the store, pick it up, take it home, and cook it."

There's evidence that when you have a dream, you make it come true.

That dream came from where? Because if you ask yourself what sounds good, who doesn't have sound?

You're asking her. You're asking your inner self, your creative genius that has the answers to the test.

That impulse comes from here when you listen and follow your intuition, inclinations, and instincts.

What's an impulse is pulse like it's like your heartbeat.

The answers are here, and the number one reason you have hopes, dreams, and desires is that you have a contribution to make in the world.

You're listening here, tapping into that inner knowing, and I know you'll have to sort through all the reasons why you can't just come back here.

Still, what if I can come back here and then say, okay, all right, I will make time to put paint on the canva,s I will make time to go to the store, or I will make time to take you on a date, I will make time to spend time with the one that has the answers to the test.

It's a beautiful and bright opportunity to get to know yourself completely.

You don't doubt yourself anymore.

You build so much trust, respect, and confidence in yourself.

We give that to everybody else, but if you give it to yourself, you spend time building it here, and you're on your way.

Everything else gets easier from there.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#traumahealingjourney#stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing #sympatheticnervousystem #rest #somatic #somaticpractice #nervoussystemregulation #nervoussysemhealing #nervoussystemhealth #traumainformed #emotion

#53 You Complete Me: How to Know When You Are Complete

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 06:20:52 GMT

Blog Post #53

You Complete Me:

How to Know When You Are Complete

Today, we will talk about you completing me. I'm not talking about relationships with other people.

I am talking about figuring out what it feels like when you are complete.

I want to start this out with a story.

I was in fitness, and if you're in fitness, there are all these rules you have to live by.

I didn't; I was definitely an outlier in this category.

But in the diet world, in the fitness world, in the exercise world, you going to eat less and exercise more. It's zero fun.

It's exciting for the first week. Then it's like every Monday is a diet, every Tuesday is a failure, and the rest is just a wash.

So, even though I don't teach fitness anymore, I still value talking about what we think we want: a better body, matching our insides and outsides, looking and feeling our best normal.

But we're going to do it thinking outside the box because I just don't; I'm not a herd follower.

I'm just not going to do what everybody else is doing.

I want you to listen to the things that you hear.

It's not always the things that I say, but it's the things you hear that resonate, and you have an aha moment in a lightbulb setting, saying to yourself, "Wow, I have never thought about it like that before."

That's what I want out of this whole discussion.

I want you to go; wow, that changes things for me.

That shifted my mind. That turned on a light bulb.

I will do it differently because I have the answers.

You are what I'm talking about. You have the answers.

I don't have the answers for you, but I can share stories where you can hear yourself.

Here's my story. It's the cookie story in fitness, in dieting, in exercise.

We think we have to eat fewer calories and avoid bad foods.

We can't have all the sweets and things that spike our blood sugar because that's what stores us fat, and blah, blah, blah.

Well, I'm gluten intolerant and still working on that, but I hadn't had a cookie for that reason alone.

I was so busy with work that I wasn't baking or cooking. None of that was happening.

I was gluten intolerant, so I didn't have cookies, cake, or ice cream—I don't like ice cream.

That works in my favor. But when there was a day, a weekend and I made gluten-free cookies.

I was like, it just felt right. I felt like I wanted to bake.

I finally had some time off, and suddenly, I had this craving for cookies.

I found myself arguing back and forth. I eat?

Okay, I'll allow myself to have one.

The control was high. I liked it because I didn't have to control myself before, and it wasn't a temptation.

After all, I didn't want to feel sick, right?

I would feel sick if I ate a gluten-laden cookie.

This was an opportunity for me to go, my gosh. I haven't had a cookie in eight years.

I found myself arguing because I ate the one cookie, and my gosh, it was so good. It was like, my gosh, I forgot how awesome chocolate chip cookies are.

Then I ate a second, and I felt this guilt that was like, yikes, this is not good. I can see how you could literally not stop eating these cookies.

It could be bad, which is hilarious because I also know that you don't gain weight overnight. It's over a progression of time of eating so that you can store fat.

It's not an overnight deal, and it's definitely not a plate of cookies in one sitting. I knew this.

There I was, arguing with myself.

ControlZilla was all up in the middle of it instead of just letting me enjoy the freaking cookies. I decided after having two, knowing I wanted a third.

I was like, "Hey, I'm just going to be miserable if I don't let go of this idea."

I packed the plate with ten cookies and went and sat down. I picked up the third cookie and ate it. It was still so good. I picked up the fourth cookie and ate it.

I was like, my gosh, it's an eye roller. It was so good. I ate the fifth cookie, the sixth cookie, the seventh cookie, and the eighth cookie, and it dawned on me at the eighth cookie.

I think I'm complete. I think I'm done. I think I don't need to eat another cookie.

I don't want the last two. I had all I wanted.

I took the plate back to the counter and set it down.

I didn't wish I could have the two cookies left on the plate. I wanted them to stay on the plate like it was complete.

There is this idea that we just don't listen to ourselves.

We overeat, we gorge ourselves because the rule we're operating by is that your mother said, clean your plate, right?

Those of us my age, we like, we got that stuff. It's probably not a thing anymore, but we heard it.

If you're like, well, I'm trying not to be wasteful, and I'm trying to, you know, save the earth, whatever the logic is for wanting to clean your plate.

It negates listening for the signal of completion.

If we look at babies, babies don't overeat.

When they're done eating, they refuse the food and just turn their heads. "No, don't try to give me another spoonful. I'm done."

There's no rhyme or reason to it.

Some days, they're hungry; some days, they aren't. Some days, you wonder if your child's going to starve to death because they don't want to eat.

Then we're forcing food on them, but they have an innate wisdom.

Why not let them use it? Let them eat when they're hungry. Let them learn to figure out when they are complete.

My cookie story is one that we can all relate to.

We've all been like, "This is such a good meal," "This is such a delicious dessert," or "You know, the eight-layer cake," or whatever.

We're just like, I have no self-control. I have no willpower. That is not true.

By the way, you do have willpower. It's just that when you're working against yourself, you're like, shouldn't eat it, shouldn't eat it, shouldn't eat it.

Where is your focus?

I can't have it, can't have it, can't. Can't spend money, can't spend money, can't spend money, can't have that really good quality dress that's going to last a long time, that's going to be your go-to dress.

You can't have it; you have to buy a cheap one that you'll only wear once, and you won't love it.

When you are opposing yourself, It makes it harder.

Then, you do exactly what you didn't want to because you're focused on it.

Congratulations, you'll get it if you focus on what you don't want.

But if you focus on what you want, you let go of the resistance, back off on the rules, and just send ControlZilla to nap.

She doesn't know what you need, but your body does. It has a natural on-and-off switch when it comes to food, especially.

Ghrelin is the hunger hormone, and your stomach will growl.

Remember when you were waiting for lunch in grade school, and your stomach started growling right about 11 a.m.?

It naturally knows when it's empty and ready for more.

If we pay attention to body signals, we eat when our stomach is hungry, when it says, "I'm ready for more," and then we eat to completion.

We eat until we're satisfied. We eat until it just feels good and then leave it there.

This is not; you can't have anymore.

I want you to have all that you want. I want you to permit yourself to have all you want, and a thousand times over, you will be shocked at how

When you give yourself permission, you can eat all you want—and we're not saying all of it.

If you have a big, old, delicious bowl of spaghetti in front of you, we're not saying to eat the whole thing.

We're saying eat all you want. You'll get to a point where you take a deep breath, like a very deep cleansing breath, and that is the signal your body gives you that you're complete. That was it.

We don't need more. We don't want more. We're good because you can always have more later.

We're not saying don't eat it ever again. We're not saying that that's all you get for the day.

If there is a scarcity element, I can't have what I want or as much as I want.

I am limited in how much I can have today for this meal or this week because I'm on a diet. I can only have 1200 calories because it negates listening to your body that tells you you're complete.

Some days, you'll take three bites of a nutritionally dense meal. Maybe it's chicken breast, which is super dense.

You can't just keep eating chicken breast forever and ever. Right? You just can't eat eight chicken breasts in a sitting.

You can have one. You can eat one. And then you're like, okay, I'm complete.

I am done eating chicken. I don't have this driving desire to have more chicken right now.

That's how you know you're complete. That's what it feels like. I'm done.

If you can listen to your signal—and I'm not just talking about food here—listen to your signal to give yourself permission, like writing the consent.

I permit myself to go shopping for a dress for the upcoming wedding I'm having.

I permit myself to spend whatever that dress costs because it feels so good. It's a match.

If you give yourself permission to buy a dress that fits beautifully and feels nice, you will feel comfortable with who you are.

It doesn't mean that that's going to be a thousand-dollar dress. That's not what that means.

You're just removing the limitations, and you allow yourself to go shopping until you feel complete.

For shoe lovers, is there such a thing?

In the sense of allowing yourself to experience what it's like to feel complete because you're arguing in your head, I know, I don't need any more shoes, but I love those shoes. I just love them.

I love those and those and those and those.

There's nothing wrong to love a million different kinds of shoes. I'm not saying put a limit on it because you're a creative genius, right?

You have this strong sense of creating a wardrobe, a home, a meal, or a health care plan.

Whatever plan you put together for yourself is a dream, right? It's an idea. It's a desire. It's a hope, a wish, or a want, right?

It's something that's going to get your creative genius on board to experience it. But if you remove the limitations, you'll feel complete.

That all of a sudden you're not just shopping to have a good feeling.

It's like my life is full of stress, and I am now going to procrastinate all the things that I need to do because I'm overwhelmed by thinking for a moment—just thinking about doing this, doing that.

Now there's not enough time. Now there's not enough money. Now, there are not enough resources. Now, there's not enough love. You've overthought everything.

Then you're like, "Online shopping is low-hanging fruit. I deserve it." Let's reward myself for being an overthinker because I just need something that's going to make me feel better, right?

We're just going for that good feeling, and shopping can do that.

But then we feel guilty, bad, and like we've wasted resources or overspent or whatever.

We'll get that out of the way to remove all that negative energy around shopping and spending a little time and money on you.

Allow yourself to feel what it's like to reward yourself and feel complete.

Maybe you've got these pants and this shirt in the closet, and there's just not a good pair of shoes to complete the set.

You're like, I'm not doing it out of stress. I'm doing it because I permit myself.

I'm just going to buy the shoes. I'm going to stop overthinking it. I'm going to stop with the guilt. I'm going to like all the limiting beliefs around it. I'm just going to let myself have the shoes.

There's no over-explaining, no over-reasoning.

You get the shoes because you want them. After all, it will make your outfit magical.

Then, when you buy the shoes, hold them in your hands, put on the outfit, and rock it, you're like, "I feel complete."

There is a sense of completion because even though everybody has an opinion about how much is too much, we are judgy about what's in someone else's closet and how many things they have that they don't need.

None of that matters because all that is, is a projection of you and the rules you impose upon yourself looking outward, right?

How I feel will project how about my life and limitations. I will tell you that you've got a lot of shoes.

You shouldn't shop that much. You shouldn't waste money. You shouldn't be overweight. Should, like, woof.

You tell us how much that is not helping us with our inner guidance.

There is nothing out there that is your business.

Your business is right here. You are a business. This is yours.

You have enough going on that surely you will not get bored paying attention to your business.

When you experiment on this, when you just like, okay, what if I wasn't jealous?

What if I wasn't over-interested in somebody else's life? What if I like it? What if I just close off the windshield for just half a second.

Let's just put the sun shade up in the windshield and stop looking outside ourselves for who's driving right and wrong.

Why don't we just stop all that?

What if we come back here and experiment with the idea that when I eat, I am overeating? Am I trying to fill a void?

Is there stress in why I eat, or do I just permit myself to eat?

Eat as much as I want.

Eat as much as you want, and notice that when you eat as much as you think you are going to eat, you actually don't eat as much as you thought you were going to eat.

If there's no limit, no focus on what you can't have, what you shouldn't do, or what you aren't going to address, you will find another means to feel good.

If none of that is happening, what are the chances that you'll operate more in alignment with who you are, attune to who you are, and actually meet needs that are going unmet?

Our stress is high that we are not meeting our needs of being validated by ourselves or God by being understood by ourselves or God.

We need all this outside validation and input.

You are valid.

Your needs are validated.

Okay, that's right here at this moment. Right now, I want you to tell me I am valid.

My needs, wants, hopes, wishes, and desires are valid—all of them.

See, we are not actually limited.

We have limitless resources, ideas, and love.

Nothing is scarce—nothing. It's only our belief that it's scarce.

It's looking out into the world who's talking about you should be scared because. Because our side's right and their side's wrong.

We're just listening to that fear of banter and the noise instead of returning home to where love lives.

Love is expansive.

It's limitless. It is what you're made of. It is why you're here. It is your creation and a means of being the creator.

If you experience the idea that you can have all you want until you feel complete, you won't overeat, overshop, or overspend.

You're just going to feel the needs, wants, hopes, and desires that you've been denying yourself.

Diets are not sustainable when they are based on a certain number of calories and a certain food group with no fun in between. It's not sustainable. That's not why you're here.

You're here to have fun, to enjoy your life, to participate in the creative process through your intuition and your inner wisdom, to expand, and to be joy in the world.

But it's hard to do that when busy bossing ourselves around.

If you're ready to get unbossy, you're prepared to test out who you are, what you want, and how you want it, and just notice.

Notice when you're overwhelmed.

Notice when you're putting limiting beliefs on yourself.

Notice when you're putting rules that don't have to be there.

Look, let's just get real.

Are you going to break the rules like the rules that matter? No, you are not.

You are a rulekeeper. You're going to keep the ones that matter.

If there's an eternal consequence there, you won't break those.

So, the rest of the rules are just made up.

They're just a database of everything we've collected about what to do and not to do to be loved and accepted in this world.

If we just like, shh, just shh, put her down for a nap, give her a snack, do something else with the busy brain, with the bossy one, ControlZilla, and just sit with who you are, your intuition will not actually allow you to overeat.

You'll be like, it's complete.

Your intuition will lead you to the right pair of shoes, the beautiful dress, the outfit you've always dreamed of. It will find you.

It has nothing to do with all the other jeans in your drawer or with how full your closet is.

If you have a dream, follow it, and you won't be over-shopping.

You're going to go to the thing that's like, let it be what it can be, and you will never feel limited, stifled, stuck, overeating, over-sharing, over you'll never overdo it.

You will have that sense of completion, and it feels good that your inner guidance system will lead you so much better than the busy brain that wants to tell you what you should and shouldn't do.

But you can and can't do it.

If you focus on it, it's a disaster. But if you focus on it, you can have all you want.

You can have all you want because all you want is not all.

Think about your breath.

Are you going to breathe all the air you will ever breathe right now? Forever and ever?

And you're never going to take another breath again? No, no, you're not.

If we can find evidence in your life that you feel complete, we know you can do it in other areas of your life.

You don't even think about breathing. It's natural.

You breathe in, you breathe out.

You don't try to take all the air you're ever going to breathe. No, no, you don't go overboard.

You're very moderate in your breathing, breathing in, breathing out.

Sometimes, you need a big breath and then a release.

Other times, you're just in that low-key shallow breathing, not needing a ton of oxygen because you're not expanding it.

Other times, you're a hustle, you're moving, you're shaking, and you have all the oxygen you need.

You have all the oxygen you want.

You can have all the oxygen you want all the time, anytime.

What does that tell you? That that's limited to just breathing? Or is that an eternal principle that you can expand on in every area of your life?

You can have as much as you want. You can have as much exercise as you want. You can have as little as you want.

It's not wrong.

If you're listening to yourself, there are some days when your brain says, "I should exercise. I'm getting fat. I can't fit it in my pants."

Now, that is never the inspiration. Never.

That's just a busy brain working from the data, trying to keep you safe because back in the day, it wasn't safe to look good or fit in the right jeans.

If you wanted to belong to your social group and society in general, we had rules about what that looked like.

That is not what we're doing anymore.

The new expansive way of living in the world is just to breathe in and let it out.

Breathe in and let it out according to your needs and wants.

You can have all of it. All that you want right now. Not all that you're ever going to have forever.

It's just all you need right now. All you want right now.

You can have all you want. I used to teach this to my fitness clients.

You can have all the food you want.

Suppose you put foods in front of you that make sense to your metabolism so that you burn fat and not muscle; you'll have the proteins and the vegetables. It's not rocket science, and you can have all you want. I dare you to eat more.

Because when you dare someone to eat chicken and vegetables and eat too much, they will tell you that you can't eat more than I'm feeling satisfied.

I don't want more. I had all that I wanted. It's like, yes, that principle changes when you go to something fluffy, like a donut, pasta, or bread. Your body doesn't receive the "I'm all done" signal.

It doesn't feel complete yet because it takes more time to feel full, and your body is looking for nutritionally dense foods.

It has to pick apart the pasta with six or seven ingredients and the bread with six or seven ingredients to find their nutritional value. Does that make sense?

I'm giving you this little blurb about what it is to set the expectations.

I had all I wanted and didn't feel full until it was all gone.

Well, that will be the case if you're eating fluffy foods.

If you experiment with this, try eating chicken and vegetables or steak and vegetables, throwing a potato on the side, and experimenting with a plate of food where you know where it came from.

It didn't come out of a bag or a box. It came like steak is steak, broccoli is broccoli, and potato is a potato.

They all came from a place, and you can identify them because there's only one ingredient, right?

Throw some butter on there, salt it up, pepper it, whatever you need, make it taste good, and then try and experiment with this idea that I can have all I want.

Make two steaks, three potatoes, and the entire broccoli head.

Put them on your plate and see how much of that you eat before your body receives the signal, I'm complete.

I guarantee you will only finish some of that food.

But it will definitely get your attention that everything else in your life, like air, shopping, and money, is always in circulation.

There is no scarcity of money. It's always in circulation.

It's just whether or not you're letting it in with your thoughts. You think it's scarce. After all, it doesn't like you.

After all, you're always poor because, like, whatever.

You can have as much money as you want.

There's a whole other podcast episode to be done on manifestation, but I do have some earlier episodes where I talk about manifestation.

If you want to grab those experiments with this because it helps you stop overthinking, stop placing limitations on yourself, and start receiving the abundance of life because

You are complete. You want for nothing.

You have everything you need and want, and it feels good.

You are complete.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#traumahealingjourney #hormonebalance #storedtrauma #somatic #somaticpractice #nervoussystemregulation #nervoussystemhealing #nervoussystemhealth #traumainformed #emotion #nervoussystemhealing #overwhelmed #exhausted

#52 Spiritual Expansion Explained - Really, it's just like breathing

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 06:05:59 GMT

Blog Post #52

Spiritual Expansion Explained -

Really, it's just like breathing.

Sometimes, we do all these things when we think we will expand spiritually.

I don't know your routines, but mine often include meditation in the morning, prayer, calling in my angel guides, and automatic writing.

I record my thoughts and sometimes list action steps because I've asked what the most important thing I can do today is to expand.

Then I have to write those things down and then do them.

It's a super easy process when you get into its flow.

But I've discovered here: I can do this for three days straight.

There's something magical about the number three. There are three in the Godhead; Christ rose on the third day.

There's been magic in threes in history, especially when discussing spiritual expansion.

Sometimes, when you arrive at a new place you've never been, your spirit expands; it opens up for three days straight.

Then, all of a sudden, you can't get out of bed, and this crash happens. It's a thing.

I want to normalize, name, and discuss it because if you think your expansion is herky-jerky, starting and stopping, you're not wrong.

I like to equate it to breathing.

Sometimes, you're only going to exhale. Sometimes, you're only going to inhale.

You are inhaling and exhaling sometimes, and it's shallow.

Sometimes, we take a deep, big, cleansing breath and recover.

That's what spiritual expansion is like, especially if you're trying to make space, meaning you have to give up some of the old self to make room for the new self.

We're trying to create space, create space, create space.

On a recovery day, it might feel like watching a movie. It's like, can't get going.

Where did my morning practice go? How come I don't have the same excitement or drive behind?

My expansion over the last week: Not to worry; it will not be like that forever.

You're just expanding, expanding, and then taking a break.

What's so interesting is the very first part of my career was fitness.

It went from just training people to draining them very specifically for hormonal fat loss.

In hormonal fat loss, this is the type of workout that you want to do if you just want to burn fat calories.

You don't want to burn all the calories because some are from muscle.

But you will have to exercise differently if you want to lose calories—the ones stored in your body and your metabolism can be used for energy to exercise.

Don't listen to your body.

It's just whining; it's just crying. Just keep going be tough.

You can do hard things if you just keep on going. You don't ever listen to that little inner voice that is trying to get you to rest.

Let me briefly explain the exercise format I taught and how relevant it is to listening to your spirit. If you want spiritual expansion, ControlZilla cannot tell you what to do and when to do it.

You should know that's going to be too much.

We need to tap into "Little You", and "Little You" has a lot to say about what we're doing and what we're not doing.

If "Little You" has not been listened to, she's not been cared for. She seems rattled.

Things are going on in there that she's like, fight or flight, and she's like, this is not safe.

She's asking me to be super intense in my workout.

Then, she contrasts that by telling me to rest. This is not safe. I don't know which one she wants, but I'm trying to do what she's asking me to do.

We're getting outside confirmation to do it right and the workout right.

This is what I used to teach sprint and rest, but it was rest-based training because that was the emphasis.

Why is resting a workout routine? How could resting increase your metabolism?

It works like this.

If you give everything you've got, I don't care if you're 500 pounds or an elite athlete; your intensity is still yours.

The maximum effort you can give is still your maximum effort to give.

If you give it everything you have, how sustainable is that long-term in the workout?

Can you do it for a whole minute? Can you do it for five minutes?

Are you supposed to do it for the entire workout? We could also examine elite athletes and their work.

When they're in a sprint race, they give it everything they've got, and then when they cross the finish line, they rest.

How long does it take them to finish if they give it everything they have? It's about 9; it takes seconds.

It took 9.34 seconds to finish, not an hour, not half an hour, not 15 minutes, not five minutes, not one minute.

What does an athlete's body look like? A sprinter. I'm not talking about a marathoner.

Marathons are skinny fat. They're just no muscle. They used it all up because they kept going forever.

I'm talking about a sprinter. They maintain their muscle, and they burn fat. They're super lean.

Let's consider this. We'll consider it in the spiritual sense of sprinting and resting for spiritual expansion.

Are you still with me?

I don't want to make this about fitness, but it's a good example because your body always gives you indicators of what it needs.

If you asked an elite athlete after 9 .34 seconds to complete the track, not just the straightaway, the whole track, they'd be like, "No, not at that intensity. I can't; it's not sustainable."

I gave it everything and then fell on the other side of the finish line. I'm totally out of breath.

I spent all my energy instantly consuming any ounce of sugar or glycogen when I put on the power and just started going.

It was spent in 9.34 seconds.

Our minds are conditioned to believe we're here to do hard things.

We'll keep trucking through life, doing hard things that we never get out of the hard things loop to start spiritually expanding exponentially.

The only way to burn fat calories exponentially and rapidly is by turning on the turnurner and giving it the it needs.

It has to have recovery. It cannot continue to sustain that kind of intensity. This is getting good.

If you're expanding, maybe you decided to read scriptures or say your prayers after eons of not saying prayers because you lost hope.

If you're trying to expand whatever you are doing in your spiritual expansion, that's what you're here for.

We're here for the growth. We're here to turn darkness into light,

We're not here to stay the same forever, to stay in our comfort zone and get uncomfortable. I know it's painful. How funny is that?

But it's important; it's necessary for life satisfaction and fulfillment.

To see what else we can do. Right?

If we're here for that kind of expansion, it will be intense, which also makes sense; it stands to reason that you will need to rest and recover.

Then you go and expand. It's super intense. Then you recover.

When you do that, the level of which you have created space to expand, like breathing, right? It's never going always to be out and is never going to always be in. It's going to be out and in.

When you're out of breath, what are you doing? You're making up an oxygen debt.

If you've been super intense, you have to stop and rest and re-pay that oxygen debt. And that's what you do when you're breathing heavy, right?

The breathing intensity increases until the oxygen jet until the oxygen debt in your bloodstream has recovered, and then the breathing comes back down and normalizes.

This is how you learn to expand spiritually.

You listen to what your body needs.

It would be ridiculous to ask anyone to go into an intense workout that will get them the desired results; they want to burn fat.

They don't want just to do cardio for the rest of their lives. They want to do anaerobic cardio, right? Not aerobic cardio.

That burns all kinds of calories, and it burns while you're in the workout and doesn't burn or have an afterburn after the workout.

Anaerobic activity, which is super intense, is not sustainable for any length of time, right? 9.34 seconds, with recovery involved.

That is only going to burn fat calories. It's going to meet the goal you had in mind for yourself. I just want to be a lean version of myself.

We're not talking about body type, bone structure, or anything else. We're talking results.

At the end of the day, burn the fat calories for me. Thank you.

If that is how you get it done, it's high intensity with recovery: 30 minutes of high intensity with recovery, high intensity with recovery, high intensity with recovery.

How do you know it's high intensity? Because your heart rate goes up.

You must make room for all the breathing.

If you were to say, okay, well, I have to keep my breathing the same, but I will have the intensity high, it would be impossible.

You're asking for something that cannot be done.

That's when you start to think, "Okay, I've got to allow my body to do what it needs to do to get the result I want."

It's no different in your mental capacity to step aside and let your spirit and your body take over and say, "Okay, we can do this," but as soon as it doesn't feel safe, that inner child, that inner director, says, "Can't do it, done, all done."

You could have gone 15 seconds because you're still trying to play around with it. Was that everything I had? Did I go intense enough?

You may be 15 seconds, not 9.34. Right? Elite athletes have done this so many times.

They feel completely safe to give it everything they've got and trust their bodies that they left nothing undone when they cross the finish line.

There was nothing left behind. Could they?

They're not saying to themselves that I should have pushed a little bit harder because I wasn't sure I would make it across the finish line. No, no, no.

They know because they've done it enough. Right?

This takes practice. It takes practice listening to yourself.

When do I push? When do I rest? When do I give it everything I have? When don't I?

You start to build trust with yourself.

You start to build confidence where there was some doubt before. It's like, I don't know, if I push that hard, I might die.

You won't if you're listening to your body.

That's why if you go into spin class and the instructors say to turn ittell you, go harder, keep going, and stop, you can do it.

We have five minutes. It's like, my gosh, I think I'm going to die. You're right.

You're 100 % right because if you did give it everything you had, it would last 10 to 15 seconds.

Then you'd have to back it off, catch a breath, recover.

Let me just tell you what resting does. Resting and taking a recovery break send signals from the brain that start to feel like this is dangerous.

We send safety signals through the body, saying we can rest whenever possible.

We won't judge how long it took us to get rest. We'll just take our rest because our bodies tell us to.

You're starting to build trust in your brain with your body. It's like, you'll listen to me for a change. Isn't that unique?

Your body is like, okay, I told you this was getting dangerous.

It was scary, and we had to rest, and your brain is like, okay, you need to rest. I got you. I got you.

I'm going to take my time, I'm going to take rest, and I'm not going to push you.

I, ControlZilla, will not push you, body and soul, any harder than you can.

Man cannot run faster than he's able. He just can't. Simp! It doesn't stand to reason the way we're built.

We have all these signals going off inside of us.

If you want to reset your nervous system, be a calm individual, or be a fat-burning machine, it's all the same thing.

It's all the same.

You must listen to your body because it knows it has the current, the energetic current running through it, and a stream current.

We can harness water and generate massive power, such as electricity.

Our bodies are the same. They're made of water.

The current running through our body that flows downstream always knows where to go. Isn't that unique?

The current in your body is never trying to push up against nature. It's not trying to go upstream because currents don't run upstream; they run downstream.

Your body always knows where to go, and your brain says, "No, everybody else is still going." No, we have to go longer, harder, faster. No, no, no, no.

Can you hear yourself in your own life? Is this a story of you?

I love this idea because when we get good at listening to the requests, please stop, please rest.

You're like, no, I would look stupid in the class. I’d be the only one who couldn't do it. No, no, I'm not going to do that. Okay.

Then, you get to stay in survival mode.

Your stress hormones are high.

You're sending signals to your whole body: store fat, don't burn fat.

We're not safe because she's not listening to us.

She's just going to drag us, flapping behind, and she's just going to take charge and burn down buildings and take names. What? Why?

ControlZilla doesn't know what you need because she is busy keeping you safe from everything that has happened in the past.

If you want a new future or a new present, we cannot be referring to the data we have collected our whole lives from the past.

We have to create a new database.

The new database says I can push hard until I can't, but then I can rest until I can go hard.

If I push hard, I can rest anytime I want. If I rest and recover, I can go back to trying hard.

See, a sprinter that gives it everything they've got in 9.34 seconds and crosses the finish line.

They're completely out of breath, and they have to breathe and breathe and breathe and breathe to recover the oxygen debt from the effort they just made to reach the finish line.

If they're recovered, can they do that again?

But can they return to the starting line and do it when they're still out of breath? Absolutely not.

It's only duplicatable after recovery.

Your spirit is the same way.

Do not get upset with yourself if you're like, man, I was really on it.

I had a new morning practice. I had it going on as I felt something was beginning to get in the zone.

I was starting to feel God's word for me. Then I don't know. I couldn't get out of bed.

I watched TV. I ate chocolate. I scrolled on my phone, and now I suck. Is that true? No, it's not.

It's not true.

You don't suck.

You're experimenting. You're just in the middle of finding out how hard you can push before you need rest and how long you need to rest before you can make it.

That's all. That's all you're trying to figure out.

You're just trying to listen.

If you just turn this off and it's like, okay, brain, thank you for everything you've done. I won't run out in front of cars. I promise not to put myself in that kind of danger.

But right now, we don't need you.

We will listen to the inner self, which will stay rattled if we don't tap into the nervous system that needs your attention.

She needs you.

She needs you to say, what do you need?

How can I help? Are you ready to push? Does that sound good?

You want to do something?

Your push might be today. I feel like stretching for the first time in nine years.

You just stretch and listen to your body if that's your push.

When it's had enough, it's like, okay, all right.

That was better than a poke in the eye; we did it.

Your push will look different depending on your stage of life and your goals, hopes, and dreams.

Your spiritual push, if you discount it and like, yeah, but so -and -so is doing so much more and so -and -so is practically a medium these days because they are so spiritually in tune, and I'm still trying to figure out even how to talk to God.

If you compare yourself, this will go poorly.

If you want this to go well, just accept yourself.

This is where I'm at, how far I've come, and what we're doing.

Today, this is what feels right to me. And in that moment, this is where I am.

You begin to act and behave in a way that allows your spiritual growth to happen. It's no different than a workout.

If you're not an elite athlete, which 99 % of us are not, and you're just a weekend warrior, you can't expect yourself to get across the finish line, whatever that is for you, in 9.34 seconds.

But if you're listening to your body, you will know exactly when you've had enough and when it's time to rest.

When you've had enough it's time to rest.

When you've had enough, it's time to rest. It might be one round, five rounds, or whatever.

Time-wise, if you're thinking of exercising, take 30 minutes. Spiritually, it's like three days.

Just watch what your sequence is.

If it's three days, great. If it's one day, great. If it's an hour, awesome. Cause it's just right for you. It's right where you're at.

That's what we're trying to do.

We're trying to tap into your nervous system, and it's like, okay, done, done, done. We're done.

We're just looking for agreement here.

Your brain must turn its will over to the guidance in you. Just.

Stop being bossy up here saying, well, that's not what the program said to do.

Stop being bossy. You're not the program.

You're not a program, an exercise routine, or a spiritual practice.

You're not something that somebody out there said, this is what it looks like; follow this.

Because then it negates having an intuitive knowing anyway. What do we need that for?

If we follow a formula built for the masses, we won't consider you as a person and discover what works for you.

It's a big deal because otherwise, we're just following everybody else, and we need to take the time to know our preferences.

What do I need?

That's why if you're exhausted, burned out, so tired that you can't figure it out, I don't know, cookie, cake, ice cream, if that's you, it's only because all of that exhaustion is trying to get you to slow down enough to say, "What do you need?"

What's best for you?

Stop listening to everybody else. They don't have the answers to the test. I don't have the answers for you.

But I'm trying to point you, guiding you home. I'm trying to get you to go back to you and say, What do you mean? That is your most important work.

You can get out of your way here.

Forget about what you've learned about in the world, how you have to show up for everybody else,, what you need to look like,, what you need to act like,, how many spiritual practices you need to do,, and all the morning miracle routines you've read about.

Like, shh, that's noisy. Be here, be still, and practice, practice.

What do you need? What do you need now? How about now?

As you expand and make space for this new you, there's room, and you will get better and better and better.

When I was actually in the middle of my weight loss program, even though I didn't know that's what I was doing.

I was just like freeing myself up. Let's do something fun.

Life has gotten way too serious.

We moved our family up to a mountain town. The elevation was like 3000 foot difference.

Up at that elevation is when I just started my morning practice.

At that time, my morning practice consisted of sprinting and resting. So, I promise I'm not a runner.

But at that time, where we were and our family was running a business together.

I only had time to sprint and rest. really didn't have too much to do with weights or anything like that.

It was super simple, right? Put on my clothes, get outside, sprint. Okay. Can't keep that up.

Stop, walk, rest, sprint. But I was doing it at a higher elevation.

When we finally got home after the summer was over and that lower elevation, I was like, What is going on? I could run forever.

My sprints intensified. My breathing capacity, the amount of time I could sprint and sustain it went from like 15 seconds to 30 seconds.

I was like, what is that? I was not in fitness at the time.

I was not aware of the difference of training at a higher elevation would have on my respiratory system.

I want you to think about your respiratory system as you think about your spiritual system.

You're going to practice and some of these things are going to be at a higher elevation.

You're raising your frequency to operate in a higher, a higher place than where you were when you're feeling low and unenergized.

If you're doing something new and, and spiritually elevated in your frequency, it's like, it's going to be hard and tired. the, I, my sprints were short up on the mountain and down below I could go forever.

I was like, wow, did I get that much better? Only because of the elevation, right?

If your elevation is high, you're gonna need to stop and rest because it's gonna feel harder.

You'll be like, my gosh, I can't figure it out. It's like I gave myself three days and I guess I can't do it. No, no, no, just let yourself rest and then go back to it.

Let yourself rest and then go back to it.

just like breathing, it's not always out, it's not always in, it's just out and in.

It's out and in on cue, on an impulse, on an electrical current, because your body's telling you what it needs.

Now, if we can practice breathing well.

We can definitely practice listening to our spirit as we try and expand and put these new practices into place and then allow ourselves to completely rest and recover from that.

That doesn't mean we're going backwards. It doesn't mean that we couldn't do it. It just meant that we needed a break.

We needed safety and security again, because that was a lot.

It was intense, and then we recover, and then intense, and then recover.

That intensity expands. It gets better and better.

Our recovery is at a different level now. It's not back where we were. It's at a different level.

You'll find maybe your recovery is in a creative space instead of a nothing space.

Maybe you find that your recovery is, is tapping into your nervous system through painting or through writing or pottery or something that feels more creative to balance out this high energetic work that you're doing and then recover and then go back and then recover and it turns into this beautiful symphony of breathing in and breathing out and letting yourself expand the way you were meant to expand.

But the bottom line is that you were and are meant to expand.

Don't give up on your spiritual practices.

When that growth calling comes in, it's really hard to ignore. So go with it. Practice it.

See what it's gonna feel like.

Do it for a day. Do it for an hour.

Give yourself a chance and then rest. Then go back to it and then rest.

You will find your perfect rhythm and your perfect pattern for personal spiritual expansion.

It's never gonna be faster than you can handle.

It's gonna be right on time because it's all happening for you.

You can't make it up.

You can't push it harder.

So go with the flow.

You're going to love it.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing #sympatheticnervousystem #rest #relaxation #overstimulated #traumaandsomatics #emotionalregulation #somatic #stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #nervoussystemregulation

#51 Routines are Boring: You Need a New Practice

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 02:23:27 GMT

Blog Post #51

Routines are Boring:

You Need a New Practice

You don’t need another rigid routine; you need a living practice that evolves with you, supports your energy, and meets you where you actually are each day.

If you’ve ever tried to force a strict “miracle morning” and couldn’t stick with it, nothing is wrong with you. Your strength is intuition, not rigidity. A practice honors who you are. A routine tries to force you into who you’re not.

Your Brain Doesn’t Need More Rules, It Needs Resonance

If you grew up in emotional chaos, unpredictability, or hypervigilance, your brain learned to stay alert, responsive, and ready for anything. That nervous system doesn’t thrive under rule-heavy routines. It rebels. Your resistance isn’t laziness, it’s your body saying, This doesn’t fit me.

Whether you have ADHD or simply a creative, active mind, routines often feel suffocating. When your morning is structured so tightly that there’s no space for intuition, creativity, or emotional truth, it stops supporting you and starts confining you.

Your nervous system doesn’t want sameness. It wants safety, and safety comes from resonance, not rigidity.

Your Practice Is a Homecoming, Not a Checklist

Think of your practice as the space you return to yourself, not something you perform. A good practice helps you remember your purpose, reconnect to your spirit, and ground your energy.

For me, that looks like noise-canceling headphones, frequency music, a notebook, and a pen. The frequencies calm the busy brain and raise my emotional state. Then I journal, breathe, pray, listen, and let whatever needs to come through arrive, ideas for my business, someone I’m meant to reach out to, clarity about a next step, or a simple reminder of what I need that day.

Your practice isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence.

If Your Routine Feels Heavy, It’s a Signal, Not a Failure

There will be seasons when you don’t “do your routine,” and your mind will want to make that mean something terrible: I’m behind. I failed again. I’m not disciplined.

But often, the week you “don’t do it” is the week your system is recalibrating. It’s your intuition saying, This version isn’t working anymore, let’s evolve.

Instead of judging yourself, ask:
– What feels outdated?
– What feels heavy?
– What feels alive?
– What wants to be added, removed, or changed?

Your practice should grow with you, not punish you.

Your Practice Continues Throughout the Day

A morning practice is only the beginning. The real work is how you live your day.

Are you the same person in private as you are in public?
Do you spend your best energy keeping everyone else happy?
Do you push through exhaustion and call it “normal”?

Micro-resets keep your frequency aligned: a breath, a stretch, stepping outside, a moment with your hand on your heart. These aren’t small, they’re regulation. They’re how you stay connected to yourself instead of spiraling into burnout.

The Right Practice Raises Your Frequency

There is no single formula. Your practice may include:

– Frequency music
– Breathwork
– Automatic writing
– Scripture or prayer
– Movement or stretching
– Worship songs
– Journaling
– A walk in nature
– A TED Talk that sparks something in you

The question is never, Is this impressive?
The question is, does this lift me? Even a little?

Anything that moves you from fear to hope, chaos to clarity, or numbness to presence is part of your practice. And when something stops lifting you and becomes an obligation, that’s your cue: Let it go. Its job is done.

You’re Not Here to Survive Your Routines You’re Here to Become Yourself

You don’t need caffeine, guilt, and self-pressure guiding your days. You’re here to rise into the truest, clearest, most aligned version of you.

A living practice helps you raise your frequency, honor your nervous system, and respond to life with intention rather than autopilot.

So instead of asking, “What routine should I follow?” ask:
“What would I do today if my only goal were to remember who I am and raise my energy just a little higher?”

The answer that rises within you is your practice.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#somatic#traumaandsomatics #emotionalregulation #somatic #confidence #confidencebuilding #meaningfuldialogue #confidentcommunication #stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing #sympatheticnervousystem #rest

#50 Making Space for the Newest Version of You

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 02:16:38 GMT

Blog Post #50

Making Space for the

Newest Version of You

When you ask for a better life, you’re also asking to become a new version of yourself, and that means something in you must shift to make room for her.
You can’t stay exactly the same and expect to step into a completely different reality. When your spirit calls you forward, expansion becomes the only honest response.

Your Spirit Is Infinite, But Your Life Might Feel Cramped

Your spirit is vast, powerful, and limitless, but your lived experience is shaped by constraints: time, responsibilities, old beliefs, and emotional history. When you operate from outdated energy trauma, shutdown, and chronic stress, your spirit feels squeezed into a space too small for who you’re becoming. That stuck feeling isn’t failure. It’s an indication that you’ve outgrown the frequency you’ve been living in.

Your Past Programming Isn’t Your Fault, But Your Future Is Your Responsibility

Until age eighteen, you were essentially a sponge. You absorbed emotional data with a developing brain, forming beliefs about love, safety, and belonging based on the environment around you. If you learned to stay small, seek approval, or anticipate danger, of course, you doubt yourself now. But adulthood gives you a new power: choice. You can decide, I’m ready to expand, even before you know what expansion looks like.

Your Brain Stores Yesterday, Your Spirit Calls You Toward Tomorrow

Your brain is wired for safety. It remembers every embarrassment, disappointment, and rejection you’ve ever felt. Anything resembling old pain becomes a threat: criticism, judgment, abandonment. So your mind tries to keep you in the familiar. But your spirit is future-driven. It’s always pulling you toward more joy, more expression, more purpose. That pull feels scary only because your mind has never lived where your spirit is guiding you.

Creating Space Is Like Preparing Soil; Desire Alone Isn’t Enough

You can want growth, healing, or abundance, but without making room, nothing takes root. Creating space looks like rearranging your life to support the woman you’re becoming. When I realized I wanted my outside to match who I felt like inside, I restructured everything so I could move my body at 5 a.m. It wasn’t about perfection. It was about consistency, intention, and making daily room for my expansion.

Growth Will Always Feel Uncomfortable to “Little You”

Your inner child wants safety, rules, and predictability. She wasn’t given the tools or support she needed when she was young, so change feels threatening.

When you dream bigger, she panics: What if we fail? What if they judge us? What if we’re not enough?

Ignore her, and she’ll drag you back into old patterns. But when you reassure her, you’re safe. I’ve got you now —she relaxes and begins to trust your leadership.

Raising Your Frequency Is Choosing Hope Instead of Fear

Fear lives in a low-frequency state. Shame, doubt, and overwhelm pull you backward. But grounding, prayer, breathing, and emotional regulation lift your frequency. Each time you reset your nervous system, you step into the version of you who is guided by peace rather than panic. With repetition, the “new you” energy becomes familiar, and the old patterns lose their authority.

You Were Designed for Expansion, Not Survival Mode

You are a divine child of God. You weren’t created to grind endlessly or prove your worth. You were designed to grow, evolve, contribute, and experience abundance in love, expression, purpose, and joy. Challenges will still come, but each one carries the exact lesson needed to stretch you into the next version of yourself.

Making Space for the Newest You Is an Act of Faith

You won’t always feel ready. You won’t always know how. But every time you choose alignment over autopilot, peace over panic, and self-respect over self-abandonment, you’re clearing room for her. The newest you isn’t far away. She’s already within you, waiting for you to believe you’re capable of becoming her.

If you want support making space for her, I’m here for you.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#49 Going with the Flow of Life so You Can End Exhaustion

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 02:06:26 GMT

Blog Post #49

Going with the Flow of Life

so You Can End Exhaustion

You’re not exhausted because you’re weak; you’re exhausted because you’ve been rowing upstream, carrying emotional weight that was never meant to be yours.

When you finally understand this, everything shifts. You stop fighting yourself, you stop pushing past your limits, and you finally begin moving with the current of life instead of against it.

Why You’re So Tired (And Why It’s Not Your Fault)

In prayer one day, my friend Kira saw a vision of people holding heavy rocks, their arms wrapped around burdens so big they couldn’t do anything else. They weren’t lazy or unmotivated; they were exhausted from carrying what wasn’t theirs.

At the same moment, I saw a single bright lightbulb. When you’re in the dark, you can’t see another way. But when the light turns on, you finally understand: you don’t need to live this hard.

That is the work I do, helping you flip on the light so you can see you’ve been working harder than you need to.

The Heavy Rocks You Inherited

Most of the weight you carry didn’t start with you. You absorbed family patterns that glorified grinding, hustling, and “earning” worth. You learned to work hard in every direction:

– Hard in relationships
– Hard at being “good enough”
– Hard at avoiding criticism
– Hard not to disappoint anyone

By evening, you’re drained, but instead of resting, you reach for comfort: sweets, scrolling, another show, or one more task. Not because you lack discipline, but because you’re desperate to feel anything other than depletion.

This isn’t a character flaw. It’s a survival pattern.

Upstream Living Is What’s Burning You Out

You were trained to get into a rowboat, face upstream, and paddle with everything you’ve got. Upstream looks like focusing on everything you’re afraid of:

“I don’t want to fail.”
“I don’t want to be judged.”
“I don’t want to lose love.”
“I don’t want to fall behind.”

Just like a biker who stares at every rock on the trail becomes tense and shaky, staring at everything you don’t want keeps your nervous system in permanent fight-or-flight.

No wonder you’re so tired. You’re paddling against the natural flow of your own life.

Downstream Is Where Your Energy Returns

Everything you deeply desire, peace, fulfillment, health, and abundance, lives downstream. Downstream doesn’t mean you never work; it means your work is aligned and supported by ease rather than fear.

Years ago, the outer version of me didn’t match the woman I felt like inside. With five kids and a full life, I didn’t have the bandwidth for a punishing routine.

So I made one downstream decision:

I am no longer available to drift further from myself. I am only available to become who I really am.

That single decision changed everything.

One Aligned Decision Can Transform Your Life

I claimed 5–6 a.m. as my sacred hour. I moved my body simply. I nourished myself without punishment. I kept one promise to myself at a time.

I stopped obsessing about timelines and focused on integrity with myself. Six months were coming either way.

When I stopped rowing upstream, my body let go of the weight physically and emotionally. It didn’t happen because I pushed harder, but because I stopped fighting nature.

Putting the Rocks Down Starts with One Question

Exhaustion is feedback. It's your body whispering, “We can’t live this way anymore.”

The shift begins when you ask, “Is this really how I want my life to feel?”

Then you make one inner decision:

I am no longer available for the hard way. I am available for ease, alignment, and honesty with myself.

Ease Will Feel Unfamiliar But It’s Where You Come Alive

At first, not paddling will feel wrong. You’ll want to grab the oars out of habit. But if you trust the current, life will turn you downstream. Growth still happens, but without the inner war.

You don’t have to collapse before choosing a different way. You can turn on the light, put down the heavy things, and let life carry you toward rest, clarity, and fulfillment, starting with one aligned decision today.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#48 Transforming Your Nervous System: Healing Trauma and Trusting Your Body’s Wisdom

Sat, 17 Aug 2024 01:12:31 GMT

Blog Post #48

Transforming Your Nervous System: Healing Trauma and Trusting

Your Body’s Wisdom

Your nervous system is not your enemy—it’s the oldest part of you, designed to protect you, guide you, and bring you back to safety when your mind has wandered into fear.

You began forming patterns long before you had language. Your early environment shaped what felt safe, what felt dangerous, and what you believed you had to do in order to belong. As an adult, those childhood patterns still operate in the background until you learn to listen to your body and work with it rather than fight it.

Your First Lessons in Safety Happened Before Words Ever Did

As a baby, you absorbed everything: tone, energy, tension, silence, smiles, and disappointment. Your nervous system learned whether love was warm and consistent or unpredictable and unavailable. If the emotional climate around you felt unpredictable, your body learned to brace, anticipate, or shrink. That’s how fight, flight, freeze, and fawn formed: instincts designed to help you survive emotional instability.

Those patterns were never signs of weakness. They were evidence of intelligence.

ControlZilla Took Over the Moment You Felt Unsafe

When your body felt overwhelmed, your brain stepped in to take charge. That’s where ControlZilla came from: the part of you that tries to prevent pain by managing everything: reactions, moods, expectations, and outcomes.

ControlZilla focuses on what you don’t want, which keeps your system stressed and drains your energy. Meanwhile, your body is quietly signaling that it’s overloaded: cravings, numbing, exhaustion, emotional swings, or late-night coping habits.

Your body isn’t sabotaging you. It’s trying to get your attention.

Your Body Speaks Through Sensation, Not Logic

Your inner world communicates through very real physical cues: tightness in your chest, heaviness in your gut, a racing heart, or sudden fatigue. These are not random symptoms; they’re messages.

I noticed this clearly when I told myself an old story: “If your mother can’t love you, who will?” Every time, my heart pinched sharply.

When I shifted the story to something truer, “I am loved, even if she didn’t show it,” the pain disappeared.

Your body reacts instantly to the thoughts you choose.

Fear-Based Thoughts Create Chaos; Truth Creates Alignment

When you think fear-rooted thoughts, “I’m unlovable,” “I’ll be left out,” “Something is wrong with me”, your nervous system reacts as if you're in immediate danger. Stress hormones surge, and clarity disappears.

When you choose a truer thought, “Maybe this wasn’t meant for me,” “Maybe I’m protected,” “Maybe I’m loved even if I wasn’t included”, your system calms, your heart softens, and your intuition comes back online.

Alignment isn’t forced. It’s remembered.

Your Body Holds Old Stories Until You’re Ready to Release Them

For years, I carried the belief that if my mother didn’t love me, no one could. I brought that story into my marriage and into my body. The emotional weight became physical weight armor I didn’t know I was wearing.

When I finally let go of the belief that I had to earn love and stopped trying to earn it, my body shifted. The weight began to fall away because my nervous system no longer needed to protect me from pain that wasn’t mine.

Healing Is Reparenting the Younger You Who Still Feels Afraid

You are not the three-year-old who had to survive emotional confusion. You’re an adult with spiritual awareness, discernment, and the ability to pause and ask, “Is this old danger, or am I safe right now?”

When you put a hand on your chest and whisper, “We’re safe,” your inner child believes you. Your body relaxes. Your intuition returns.

This is where boundaries, clarity, and emotional regulation become possible.

You Are Not Broken—You Are Rewiring

Every time you choose truth over fear, listen to your body instead of overriding it, or refuse an old pattern in favor of peace, you are transforming your nervous system.

You’re healing trauma.
You’re restoring trust.
You’re returning home to yourself.

You were always light. You were always loved. You are simply remembering.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#somatic #somaticpractice #nervoussystemregulation #nervoussysemhealing #nervoussystemhealth #traumainformed #emotion #stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing #sympatheticnervousystem #rest #relaxation #overstimulated

#47 Little You: Understanding Your Nervous System

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 02:56:14 GMT

Blog Post #47

Little You: Understanding

Your Nervous System

You’ve carried personal power your entire life, but if you grew up learning that your worth depended on someone else’s approval, that power slowly slipped out of your hands. This is where little you comes in—the younger version of you who never received the co-regulation, guidance, or emotional safety she needed. She did the best she could with an underdeveloped brain and overwhelmed caregivers, many of whom were still trying to figure out their own worthiness.

We learned early to work for love.
As babies, our survival depended on co-regulation—being held, rocked, soothed, fed, and comforted. We also learned that smiling made people smile back. Without knowing it, we began chasing that external validation: Am I doing it right? Do you still love me? As expectations grew, many of us didn’t have someone to nurture our nervous system through frustration, hurt, or overwhelm. So those big emotions never had a safe place to go.

Unprocessed stress gets stored in the body.
When a child enters fight-or-flight with no one to help them discharge all that energy, the nervous system holds onto it. The psoas muscle tightens; the stomach knots. The chest feels heavy. As adults, this shows up as anxiety, dread, people-pleasing, perfectionism, or a constant sense that something is wrong. Your brain isn’t predicting danger; it’s remembering past moments when love felt uncertain.

When emotional overload becomes exhaustion.
If activation stays high for too long, your system eventually shifts into dorsal mode, the dip that feels like burnout, numbness, or “I don’t care.” It’s not brokenness. It’s your biology protecting you. Depression isn’t a life sentence; it’s a hibernation state your nervous system enters when it can’t keep running at full speed. The moment you understand how you got there, you begin finding your way out.

Your nervous system is a partnership between little you and big you.
"Little You" reacts from fear, shame, or old patterns. Big you, the woman you’ve grown into, is wise, grounded, and capable of asking, Why am I triggered? Why am I afraid to disappoint someone? Why am I shrinking or over-giving? That awareness is your power. Every trigger is "Little You" whispering, “Please see me. Please help me.” She isn’t dramatic; she’s desperate for the support she didn’t receive back then.

The biggest breakthrough women have is realizing they are not in trouble.
So many of us grew up feeling like one wrong move meant losing love. Today, even small moments can activate that same fear. But that threat isn’t here anymore. When you pause and tell yourself, I’m safe, "Little You" finally exhales. She needs you to show her the difference between the past and the present.

You are now the nurturer she needed.
This is the heart of self-love, not bubble baths or escape tactics, but showing up for your own emotions with presence instead of abandonment. You re-parent yourself by noticing your needs, tending to your body, offering comfort, and grounding yourself when you feel activated. When big you reaches for little you and says, “I’ve got you,” the nervous system recalibrates. Truth and light move in. Safety rises.

Breaking generational patterns begins with you.
If you have children, they don’t need a perfect mother—they need a present one. You break the pattern not by fixing the past, but by meeting this moment with awareness. One moment of self-presence at a time shifts the trajectory of your lineage.

You were born with love and light.
Your nervous system wasn’t conditioned with fear at birth. It learned those patterns through survival. And now, you have everything you need to unlearn them. When you come back to the present, support yourself, and regulate "Little You", you reclaim the personal power that has always been yours.

If this speaks to you, you’re not alone. And if you want deeper support, you can reach me at teresafordcoaching@gmail.com.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#46 Why Life Has Been Hard For You

Fri, 24 May 2024 07:08:41 GMT

Blog Post #46

Why Life Has Been Hard For You

It’s essential to keep seeking truth, because the moment you return home to yourself, guided by God and your inner wisdom, you begin to see life clearly again.
When you look inward, you can finally understand what has helped you stay centered and what has pulled you away. Life only feels hard when we avoid ourselves, even as distraction, busyness, and chaos pull us from our inner stillness.

Emotional freedom is the cornerstone of every transformation.
It isn’t spiritual escape or physical liberation, it’s the inner clarity that lets you move through life without being hijacked by old emotions. When emotional chaos takes over, nothing else flows. Most women struggle with emotional freedom simply because they’ve been avoiding feelings, running from discomfort, or drowning in “doing mode” instead of listening inward.

Every emotion begins as a thought—either from fear or love.
Fear produces negative emotions such as anger, resentment, sadness, hurt, and helplessness. Love produces excitement, hope, peace, and optimism. When a negative emotion arises, the key is to pause and bring it into the light rather than hide it. What’s inside you is yours until you face it. And once you do, it becomes a teacher—not a threat.

An example from my own life reminds us how easy emotional chaos can take over.
As a young mom, I hit a breaking point; spilled cereal, crying kids, exhaustion, and a phone call I tried to handle while melting down. I yelled, forgetting the phone was still connected. The person heard everything, and the shame that followed was crushing. It was a moment I never wanted anyone to witness, yet it was the truest mirror of my inner chaos. That split between who we are publicly and who we are privately is the very fracture that emotional freedom repairs.

Emotional freedom means becoming the same person inside and out.
It’s not about being perfect; it’s about shifting quickly. Not bypassing emotions, but changing how you interpret them. When you gain emotional freedom, you stop participating in negative energy, your own or someone else’s. You stop matching the chaos in the room. You stop becoming a three-year-old with your three-year-olds, or a huffy spouse reacting to another huffy spouse. You begin to choose peace instead of being pulled into drama.

Boundaries are not just for other people; they’re for your thoughts.
Emotional freedom teaches you to notice when someone around you is spiraling and choose not to go with them. They’re allowed their emotions. You’re allowed yours. Codependency says, “I need you to change so I can feel better.” Emotional freedom says, “I choose how I feel regardless of what you choose.”

Your negative emotions are not defects; they are teachers.
Anger, jealousy, betrayal, fear, and resentment are not who you are. They are shadows that rise so you can learn from them. When you hold them up to the light, examine them, and ask what they’re teaching you, the darkness dissolves. Light rushes in. You return to yourself. This is how emotional chaos turns into emotional clarity.

Your nervous system will choose a familiar hell over an unfamiliar heaven.
If chaos is all you’ve ever known, peace will feel foreign at first. You might keep choosing drama, intensity, gossip, or emotional danger simply because your body recognizes it as familiar. But once you decide you want harmony, ease, nature, truth, and love, you become unavailable for the chaos that once felt normal.

This work is simple, but it requires practice.
Every moment you catch yourself spiraling, every moment you notice an old pattern rising, every moment you pause and choose differently, you reclaim yourself. That is emotional freedom.

Emotional freedom is your return to peace, alignment, and the harmonic flow of life.
It’s the shift from who you used to be, reactive, overwhelmed, to the woman who lives from clarity, power, and inner truth. And once you taste that freedom, it becomes your favorite part of your healing journey.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#anxiety #anxietytips #depression #depressionsolutions #somatic #somaticpractice #nervoussystemregulation #nervoussysemhealing #nervoussystemhealth #traumainformed #emotion #traumaandsomatics #emotionalregulation #somatic

#45 The Power of 3 - Powerful Patterns in Your Life

Fri, 24 May 2024 07:08:09 GMT

Blog Post #45

The Power of 3 -

Powerful Patterns in Your Life

The Power of 3 in Fitness and Life

When I was in fitness, I realized something powerful: when you want to help your clients get proficient at an exercise, doing it three times has a transformative impact.

The brain connects to the muscles more effectively after the third attempt. The first time you try something, you're just mimicking the movement. The second time, you're more familiar with it, and by the third time, your body is working together more harmoniously.

Think about doing a V-up, for example. The first time, it feels awkward as your body works through coordinating everything. By the third time, you know exactly where to find your muscles and how to move through the exercise. The body has learned, and so has your brain.

This is a principle not just for fitness but for life. The power of three is all around us and plays a significant role in our growth, evolution, and personal change.

Rebirth and the Power of Three

When we think about growth, the power of three is evident in nature, spirituality, and even our personal journeys. In fitness, three sets can lead to muscle soreness, which signals muscle growth. Similarly, in life, three experiences or repetitions of a lesson or challenge allow us to learn and evolve.

Think about the story of Christ. He died and rose again on the third day—symbolizing rebirth and the idea that after hardship or loss, something better is always waiting for us on the other side. It’s not the end. It’s the beginning of something new.

In our lives, the same principle applies. We often feel like we’re at the end, but what if it’s actually the beginning? What if, like Christ, we’re experiencing a rebirth? In fact, when you look at hard times, they are often the beginning of something amazing . It’s not death; it’s transformation.

The Three R’s: Growth, Expansion, and Journey

Life is a continuous process of growth, expansion, and journey . Each of these aspects is mirrored in the power of three.

Growth : Just as in fitness, growth occurs through consistency and repetition. You must push through challenges, even when it feels hard, because each time you face something difficult, you’re growing.
Expansion : Expansion is about reaching beyond what you thought was possible. It’s about looking beyond the limits you set for yourself and seeing that there’s more out there than you ever imagined.
Journey : The journey never ends. We’re constantly evolving, shifting, and growing. Just like a muscle that’s constantly adapting and growing stronger, your life is a journey of constant expansion.

Patterns of Three: The Hardest Lessons

Have you ever noticed that some of life’s biggest lessons come in threes? Think about the times you’ve faced challenges. Perhaps you lost money, learned a lesson, and then tried again, only to face an even bigger setback. That’s the pattern. We get little nudges at first, then stronger nudges, until we finally wake up and make a change.

Perhaps you’ve made investments, and the first one went well. You try again and see even more success. But then, the third time you go all-in, and it’s a big win. Life shows us the power of three, whether it’s losses or wins. We learn, grow, and expand through these experiences.

The universe doesn’t just give you one chance to learn—it gives you three . So, don’t ignore the signs. Don’t avoid the lesson. It’s being shown to you in triplicate because it’s time to pay attention and shift.

Looking for Patterns of Three in Your Life

To uncover powerful patterns in your life, start looking for the number three. You might notice it in many places: on the clock, in the number of attempts you make, or even in the experiences that repeat themselves. The number three is there to help you recognize that you’re in a cycle of growth.

For example, have you ever had a repeated experience that started small, then got stronger and more intense before it pushed you to take action? That’s the universe sending you a message. When you spot a pattern, ask yourself: What lesson is trying to be taught here? And how can I use this to move forward?

A Conversation with God: The Importance of Asking for Guidance

Sometimes, when we feel stuck or overwhelmed, it’s because we haven’t yet asked for help. Ask the universe or God, “What am I missing here? What do you want me to learn?”

This brings me back to the conversation I had with a listener whose son was going through a tough time. He was facing emotional pain from a breakup, and his mom wanted to help him heal. The advice I gave her was simple but powerful: Don’t rely on others to fix you. True healing begins when we reconnect with ourselves and our source.

When you feel like your life is falling apart, take a deep breath and ask, "What is this teaching me?" This mindset shift is powerful, marking the beginning of healing.

The Spiritual Power of Three

If you’ve ever noticed three repeating numbers—whether it’s 3:33 on the clock or 333 on your odometer—it’s not a coincidence. These signs are subtle nudges from the universe or your spiritual guides, reminding you to pay attention to the cycles and patterns in your life. The power of three is symbolic in many spiritual traditions. It represents balance, harmony, and understanding .

You might see these signs as simple coincidences, but if you start paying attention, you’ll realize they are guiding you toward the lessons you need to learn. When you see the number three, ask yourself: What am I learning right now? What’s the lesson that’s being offered to me in triplicate?

Final Thoughts: The Power of Three in Your Life

The number three is more than just a number. It’s a reminder that life is constantly teaching us valuable lessons. Growth, expansion, and the journey all occur in cycles, often in sets of three.

When life feels hard, remember: it’s not the end, it’s rebirth . You’re evolving, just like a muscle getting stronger with every repetition. Don’t rush the process. Trust that you are growing, expanding, and learning exactly what you need at this moment.

Watch for the power of three in your life. Recognize the patterns, listen to the lessons, and use them to move forward.

Remember, life is full of infinite possibilities. Keep breathing, keep learning, and keep expanding.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#somatic #somaticpractice #nervoussystemregulation #nervoussysemhealing #nervoussystemhealth #traumainformed #emotion #nervoussystemhealing #overwhelmed #exhausted #restless #anxiety #anxietytips #depression #depressionsolutions

#44 The Breath of Life

Fri, 24 May 2024 07:06:47 GMT

Blog Post #44

The Breath of Life

Let’s start with something simple but powerful. Take three deep breaths with me right now.

Inhale... and exhale...
Inhale... and exhale...
One more... inhale... and exhale...

How did that feel? Deep breathing is one of the most important things we can do, especially when we’re feeling disconnected or stressed. Breathing connects us to the present moment, helping us release tension and return to our center. And today, that’s exactly what we need as we discuss the breath of life and its connection to healing, transformation, and finding peace within ourselves.

The Importance of Breathing and Connecting

How often do you take a deep breath? Sometimes, life gets us so wound up that we forget the simplest act that can bring us back to balance. We carry tension in our shoulders, our neck, and even our jaw. When we breathe deeply, we release some of that built-up stress and reconnect with the truth of who we are.

A beautiful DM from a listener inspired this blog, and I want to share part of it with you. She was sharing how she's been searching for healing, clarity, and connection with her higher self. And, as we often do when we are on a healing journey, she wants to share that with others, especially with her son.

The Process of Healing: Rebirth, Not Death

Her son has been going through a rough time. He’s navigating a breakup, and he feels lost, as many of us do in times of grief and change. I want you to think back to your own challenges, those moments where it felt like your world was falling apart.

Maybe you thought that was it—maybe you thought it was the end. But here’s the truth: 99% of the time, it’s not the end, it’s a rebirth .

Think about it: when you were born, you didn’t just appear out of nowhere. You went through a transformation. You were once floating in a warm, comfortable environment, completely at ease. But when it was time for you to be born, everything changed.

There was discomfort, pain, and transformation. Yet, when you made it through the birth canal, you didn’t stop—you took a breath. The breath of life .

The Power of Embracing Change

This is what your healing journey looks like—it’s a constant process of transformation . It can feel uncomfortable, scary, and even overwhelming at times.

But as soon as you step into that space, take that breath, and allow yourself to process what you're going through, something miraculous happens: you realize you’re not just surviving; you’re transforming .

Sometimes, when we go through painful emotional experiences, it can feel like we’re going to drown in them. The waves of grief, loss, and sadness come crashing down.

But just like when you were born, when those waves of emotion come over you, you will rise again . You’ll pop up for air, and those waves will settle. The calm always comes after the storm .

Releasing Old Patterns and Emotions

I recently talked to a woman whose son was struggling with self-worth and feeling lost after a breakup. In a way, he was finding his way back to himself , just as we all must when we face challenges.

I encouraged her that sometimes, what feels like the end is actually the beginning of a bright future . When you let go of what no longer serves you, it opens the door to something better, something more aligned with your true self.

Sometimes we stay in patterns because we’re scared of what’s next. We hold onto people, ideas, or habits because they feel comfortable, even if they’re holding us back. But when you breathe, let go, and make space for the unknown, you make room for new growth .

The Importance of Self-Healing

Healing doesn’t just happen for others—it starts with us. Self-healing is the first step in helping others . When you work on your own growth and own transformation, you naturally begin to guide and support those around you.

Just like this woman, who is helping her son while doing the work for herself, you can be the beacon of light for someone else.

When you are struggling or in pain, remember that you can still find peace, comfort, and connection —but it requires you to look within. Just like this listener’s son, who is learning to stand on his own two feet, you, too, have the ability to stand firm in your own truth. It may be hard at first, but you have the strength to make it through .

The Breath of Life: Resetting Your Nervous System

I want to emphasize the importance of breathing and how it can reset your nervous system. When you’re going through an emotional storm, your body is flooded with chemicals that keep you in fight-or-flight mode.

But by taking deep breaths— just like we did at the beginning —you help your nervous system calm down. This allows you to think more clearly and navigate emotions with greater ease.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck, take a deep breath . Breathe deeply, slowly, and intentionally. It’s a simple tool that can bring peace into your body and mind. And when you feel at ease, you can make better decisions, take more effective actions, and live more in alignment with your true self.

Trusting the Process

It’s natural to feel fearful or uncertain, especially when life isn’t going the way you expected. But trust the process . Everything is unfolding exactly as it’s meant to. Whether you’re going through a rebirth, a transformation, or facing an emotional challenge, you are exactly where you need to be .

Remember, just like when you were born, you didn’t have to figure it all out in one moment. You learned to crawl, walk, and run in stages. Similarly, you will progress through your healing and transformation, one step at a time.

Final Thoughts: The Breath of Life

So, take a deep breath and know this: You are on the right path . Everything you’re going through is leading you to your highest self. Trust that the process will unfold at the perfect time.

When you're ready to take that next step, to release old patterns and embrace your true self, remember to breathe. The answers will come. Life is always guiding you home—breathe and let the flow take you there.

I’m here for you every step of the way. If you ever need support, don’t hesitate to reach out to me. Keep breathing, and remember—you are worthy of all the love, light, and healing that’s on its way.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#43 Ending Negative Patterns

Fri, 24 May 2024 07:05:12 GMT

Blog Post #43

Ending Negative Patterns

These are the patterns that stop us from moving forward in life and hold us back from becoming the version of ourselves we genuinely desire to be.

The Impact of Negative Patterns

We all have them—patterns that show up in different areas of our lives. Whether it's struggling with relationships , finances , or self-acceptance , negative patterns often manifest in ways that keep us stuck.

Have you ever felt like you’re trapped in a roundabout , making the same mistakes over and over again? You want change, but no matter how hard you try, you end up stuck in the same old cycles. I’ve been there too, and that’s why I’m passionate about helping you break free from those patterns and start living the life you deserve.

Where Do These Patterns Come From?

To break the cycle, we need to understand the origins of these negative patterns. Thoughts are the root of these behaviors. And not just any thoughts—the ones that lack truth .

Negative patterns are often built on false beliefs , the ones you developed as a child before you had the tools to process them properly.

Think about your early life: before the age of seven, you were like a sponge, soaking up everything around you. Your parents, for better or worse, passed down their beliefs, their habits of thought. Perhaps your parents struggled financially, or perhaps there was tension in the household that made you feel unsafe or anxious.

Whatever it was, you internalized those patterns as truth, and they became the foundation for your behavior as you grew up.

The Power of Beliefs

Your thoughts lead to beliefs , and those beliefs, in turn, influence your behavior . If you’ve been operating on beliefs that don’t serve you, it’s time to go back and challenge those beliefs. What beliefs are you holding onto that aren’t true anymore?

Take money, for example. If you grew up in an environment where money was scarce, you might have internalized the belief that money is the root of all problems or that you must struggle to earn it. But is that really true? Is that belief helping you or hurting you?

The Role of the Nervous System

When th ese negative beliefs trigger your nervous system, you respond in one of four ways: fight , flight , freeze , or fawn . These are trauma responses that go into overdrive when we feel unsafe or unsupported.

For example, when you're faced with a stressful situation, you might want to fight and argue, or you might want to flee and avoid confrontation. If you’re in freeze mode, you may shut down entirely, unable to respond to any stimuli. Or maybe, like many of us, you go into fawn mode—people-pleasing and morphing yourself to make others happy, but leaving yourself behind.

These responses are deeply ingrained in your nervous system and manifest as patterns in your behavior. But when you change your thoughts , you can change how your nervous system responds, which then changes the actions you take.

Breaking the Pattern: Change Your Thoughts

To break these negative patterns, we need to change our thoughts . It starts with recognizing the thoughts that aren’t serving us and then changing the meaning we assign to them. For example, if you believe that “you have to work hard to make money,” ask yourself: Is that belief true? If you’ve seen people work hard and still struggle financially, then that belief isn’t serving you.

The Power of Assigning New Meaning

The meaning you assign to your thoughts shapes your beliefs and behavior. Let’s take money again as an example. If you grew up in an environment where money was a source of stress and tension, you may have internalized the idea that money equals stress . But money itself isn’t the problem— the meaning you assign to it is. You can choose to reframe your beliefs around money. Money can be a tool for freedom, creativity, and service, not just a source of anxiety.

The Healing Process

Healing happens when you identify and change the meanings attached to your thoughts. When you change those meanings, you’re able to shift your behavior and stop acting out of fear or scarcity. You can rewrite your story and create new, positive patterns that align with your true self.

Practical Steps to Break Negative Patterns

Identify Your Patterns : Start by recognizing where you're stuck. Look at areas of your life that feel like they're on repeat—relationships, finances, self-worth. What patterns do you notice?
Examine the Root Beliefs : Ask yourself, Where did these beliefs come from? Did you inherit them from your childhood, or did you develop them from past experiences?
Challenge the Beliefs : Question the validity of your beliefs. Are they still serving you? Are they based on truth, or are they fear-based?
Reframe Your Thoughts : Once you’ve identified the limiting beliefs, reframe them. For example, if you think “I’m always going to struggle with money,” change that thought to “I am worthy of financial abundance, and money flows easily to me.”
Take Action : Start acting in alignment with your new beliefs. Show up as the person who has already broken free from these patterns. Act with confidence, courage, and love.

Letting Go of Old Patterns

It’s time to let go of those old, limiting patterns that have been dragging you down. Your new patterns are rooted in love and truth, not fear or scarcity. When you change the meaning of your thoughts, your behaviors change, and your nervous system will respond accordingly, helping you break free from the cycle.

Final Thoughts

You have the power to change your patterns. It starts with changing your thoughts . Recognize the beliefs that no longer serve you, reframe them with truth, and watch as your life transforms. You are not stuck in your past—you are creating your future with every thought, belief, and action you take.

If you’re struggling to break free from old patterns, I’m here to help . Schedule a call with me, and let’s work together to release those old patterns and start living the life you truly desire.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#42 Signs Your Prayers Are Answered

Fri, 24 May 2024 07:04:13 GMT

Blog Post #42

Signs Your Prayers Are Answered

Asking and Receiving

When we pray or ask for something, we are intending to receive. This act of asking is filled with expectation and a willingness to receive the gifts that are meant for us. But, the key here is to be a good receiver . Sometimes, we ask for what we want or need but hold ourselves back from fully receiving the answers, whether out of fear or doubt.

The Power of Being a Good Receiver

Receiving isn’t just about getting what we want—it’s about being open and ready to accept the gifts we’ve asked for. It’s about softening your heart, releasing control, and allowing the universe (or a Higher Power) to guide you.

Now, I’ll share an example from my own life, specifically as it relates to my business and its evolution. I’m not here just to build a business—I’m here to practice the art of softness .

I’m here to go from unease to intuition , to clarity , and to live in alignment with the things I’ve asked for. It’s not about striving hard, but about listening to that still, small voice guiding me forward.

Connecting the Dots

You see, when we ask for something, it’s often not a one-time lightning bolt moment. It's not like God will answer you instantly with a grand gesture. The answers often show up through subtle signs , so you have to be aware of how things unfold in your life. You are a cooperative component in this process.

Take the time to look for the subtle clues . It’s about being attuned to those small inspirations and aligning your actions with what you’ve asked for.

Living in Alignment

We’ve all asked for things in life, right? Whether it’s more love , more abundance , better health , or even greater clarity . The question is—how much are we willing to receive those answers and take aligned action ?

In my own journey of losing eight dress sizes, I asked for better health. It wasn’t just about asking and sitting back—it was about taking action. I didn’t wait for the perfect moment. I started small and made consistent changes . I acted like the healthy person I wanted to be, and in six months, the results came.

That’s how you know you’re living in alignment with what you’ve asked for. It’s not about forcing things . It’s about taking small, actionable steps, trusting the process, and allowing it to unfold naturally.

The Importance of Willingness to Receive

When you’re willing to receive, the answers come— but they may come in unexpected ways . I’ve seen this firsthand. Life is full of synchronicities , and those “coincidences” are often the answers you’ve been praying for. However, you must be willing to open your heart and receive what comes your way.

For example, when I was at a low point and had to shift my mindset, I asked for help, and I received exactly what I needed in the form of a job opportunity. I didn’t expect it to come from working at a gym, but that’s where my journey of growth began. It’s important to trust the process and be open to receiving your answers, even if they don’t look the way you imagined.

Patience and Trust in the Process

After you’ve asked, you need to patiently wait for the answers to arrive. The key here is trust —trust that the universe, or God, has a plan for you.

It’s easy to get discouraged or impatient, especially when we feel like things are taking too long . But, in reality, everything is unfolding in perfect timing . As you wait, be aware of the signs . You’ll be guided , whether through books, people, or signs that seem to appear out of nowhere. Keep your eyes open .

Taking Inspired Action

Once you receive your inspiration or guidance, take action . When I got the inspiration to apply for that job at the gym, I could have easily resisted. But instead, I chose to take inspired action. And that’s the difference between receiving an answer and doing nothing with it .

When you receive guidance, don’t hesitate. Follow the impulse. Even if it feels uncomfortable , it’s leading you somewhere. You don’t need to have the entire plan figured out—just take the next step.

Be Open to What Comes

Another key to receiving is staying open to unexpected answers . You might ask for one thing, and the answer might come in a completely different form.

I’ve experienced this in my own life, and I know that when you ask for something, you might receive it in ways you didn’t expect. Be open to those possibilities.

The Role of Faith

This brings us to faith —the belief that what you’ve asked for will come . You need to believe it’s on its way and take action from that place of belief. Faith is the bridge between asking and receiving. When you have faith, you open yourself to receiving more because you trust that it will come.

Final Thoughts: Letting Go of Doubt

Here’s the final thought for today: Doubt blocks the flow of what you’ve asked for. If you’re doubting or resisting, you’re shutting the door to the blessings that are on their way.

Let go of the doubt , open yourself to receiving, and allow the universe to bring you what you need. Trust in the process, trust in the timing, and trust that you are being guided every step of the way .

You are worthy of everything you’ve asked for. You are worthy of receiving . Just take action, be open, and let your faith lead you to what’s next.

Take Action

If you’re ready to deepen your connection to your own prayers and guidance, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. I’m here to help you discover the answers you’ve been asking for.

Let’s keep the conversation going! You can always contact me at teresafordcoaching@gmail.com for more guidance.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#41 What Healing Trauma Wounds Requires

Fri, 24 May 2024 07:03:03 GMT

Blog Post #41

What Healing Trauma Wounds Requires

Welcome to today’s episode! I’m excited to dive into a topic that is rarely discussed in depth: healing trauma wounds . This is not your typical light conversation—this is about profound healing .

Healing trauma is a profound journey that requires courage and commitment to face those parts of ourselves that are fragmented, the parts that have been carrying emotional scars for so long. When you experience trauma, what remains in your body is often an emotional residue—a feeling of being stuck, heavy, or trapped.

What Is Trauma?

Trauma is not just an event; it's what remains in your body after that event. It’s the feelings that get left behind, the anger, grief, fear, neglect , and the lack of safety you experienced in those moments.

Trauma shows up in different ways, often manifesting as a persistent wound that doesn’t heal. If not processed properly, it can get stuck, and that’s when you’re dealing with the past. And while we often hear advice to move on and not dwell in the past, the past holds the keys to our healing .

You see, when you try to “get over it” and push forward without truly addressing it, you’re not healing; you’re just bypassing the process. Healing takes time , and there’s no shortcut to honestly dealing with your trauma.

The Healing Process: Chaos and Emotion

When you start healing trauma, it can feel chaotic . It’s not always pretty. You may experience weeping, pounding your fists, or screaming out loud into the universe. The emotions you’ve been hiding for years come rushing to the surface, and it’s messy. But that’s okay.

Think of it like trying to clean something greasy—imagine trying to wash bacon grease off your hands. It’s sticky and hard to remove. You can’t just wipe it away with a rag. You need a cleansing process —a release .

This is exactly how healing trauma works. When you start releasing it, the gunk comes out in various forms. It’s not pretty . It may not even feel comfortable. But you need to let it out . You might cry, scream, or pound on a pillow. It’s a necessary part of the process to cleanse those wounds.

Healing Isn’t About Being Pretty or Perfect

It’s about feeling everything . When trauma is stuck inside, you can feel as though you're drowning in it. It’s like being submerged in thick, sticky bacon grease —you feel suffocated and alone, unable to fully express the pain or even get the help you need.

Some of us have the privilege of a support system , but many of us feel like we’re dealing with this process alone. That’s why it’s crucial to create safe spaces where you can let your emotions flow without judgment.

The Inner Child: Releasing the Wounds

One of the keys to trauma healing is acknowledging your inner child . When you were younger, maybe you couldn’t fully process the unfairness , neglect , or abandonment you felt. It was too much to handle at the time, and that wound has stayed with you.

Your inner child needs to express the pain they’ve been holding for so long. This expression is necessary for healing. It could mean letting yourself cry hard, even if you feel vulnerable. If you’re feeling sad, angry, or scared, don’t suppress those emotions— let them out .

You’ve probably repressed these emotions for years, thinking you had to be strong and not show vulnerability. But the truth is, it’s okay to feel . It’s OK to let the tears roll and scream if you need to. You're not weak for having these emotions; you’re in the process of healing.

Embracing the Healing Process

So, what does it look like to truly heal these wounds? It means permitting yourself to express those emotions in a safe environment. You might cry, yell, or feel like you’re losing control. But that’s how healing happens .

Find a space where you can allow these emotions to surface. Whether it’s your car, a quiet corner at home, or a secluded beach, create a space for this healing. When you feel those emotions coming, don’t suppress them . Let them flow.

You may experience feelings of guilt or shame for expressing anger or frustration. But those feelings are just signs of repressed emotions. They’re a signal to heal . The more you can let go of those emotions, the more you will free yourself from the past.

The Role of Self-Compassion

Healing trauma isn’t about being perfect or pretty . It’s about acknowledging the parts of yourself that need love and acceptance.

Self-compassion is crucial during this time. After expressing your emotions, take a moment to soothe yourself. Wrap yourself in a blanket. Comfort yourself .

Sometimes your nervous system may feel activated , and you might experience temperature changes, chills, or discomfort. That’s okay. Just give yourself time to regulate . Let your nervous system return to a state of peace.

The Process of Healing

Healing trauma is not a quick fix . It’s a process that requires time, patience, and ongoing effort. It may take a few days, weeks, or even months for a wound to fully heal. And sometimes, you might feel low or “stuck” for a while. That’s normal .

The key is to keep moving through it . Don't rush the process. Let it unfold naturally . Eventually, you’ll start to notice that things that used to trigger you no longer have the same impact. You’ll feel lighter . The trauma will no longer control you.

A Powerful Example of Healing

I want to share a story with you about witnessing healing . My daughter’s 3-year-old son had a meltdown over something as simple as a plastic chair. He was tired of sharing with his little sister. He screamed, cried, and let out all the frustration he had been feeling.

It was a powerful moment because I saw how free he was to express himself. His mother gave him space to feel all of his emotions, and when he was done, he sought her for comfort. That’s how healing works— expression first , then comfort .

In my childhood, I didn’t get that same freedom to express my emotions. It was not okay to be angry, sad, or disappointed. But now, I realize that it’s vital to let it all out and give yourself the compassion you need.

How to Heal

Express your emotions : Scream, cry, pound pillows, or release anger. Don’t hold back.
Create a safe space : Do this in a place where you feel private and secure.
Comfort yourself : After releasing the emotions, soothe your body and mind. Wrap yourself in a blanket, breathe deeply, and let the energy settle.
Allow time : Understand that healing is a process that takes time. There will be ups and downs, but every time you allow the emotion to pass, you heal a little more.
Self-compassion : Be gentle with yourself through the process. Healing trauma is not a quick fix; it’s a journey.

Final Thoughts

Healing trauma wounds is not about brushing the past under the rug—it’s about facing it head-on, feeling the emotions, and letting them go. You don’t need to carry that weight anymore .

I encourage you to do the work — express yourself, comfort yourself, and allow the healing to unfold. This is not a one-time process; it’s a continuous journey of healing and growth .

You are worthy of love, peace, and freedom from the past. Let yourself heal, and soon you’ll realize that the struggles don’t define you — your healing does .

Take care of yourself, and remember, I’m here to support you. If you need assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. I’m always here to guide you home.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#traumaandsomatics #emotionalregulation#nervoussystemhealing #overwhelmed #exhausted #restless #somatic #somaticpractice #nervoussystemregulation #nervoussysemhealing #nervoussystemhealth #traumainformed #emotion #anxiety #anxietytips

#40 Developing Your Spiritual Gifts

Thu, 16 May 2024 05:09:13 GMT

Blog Post #40

Developing Your Spiritual Gifts

If you’re unaware of your spiritual gifts, it’s likely that those are the areas where you feel stuck or struggle in your life. But here's the truth: once you develop these gifts, you become the leader of your life. No longer are you letting ControlZilla (that part of you that tries to overthink and control everything) steer the ship. You begin to trust your infinite intelligence , your spiritual wisdom, which is always working for your highest good.

The Importance of Developing Spiritual Gifts

Think about the future for a second. We often try to figure it out using the brain , but the truth is, the future has never been lived before . There’s no handbook for it. But what you do have is your inner guidance system —that divine intelligence that knows where you need to go, who you need to meet, and what you’re meant to create. This higher vibration, when tapped into, helps you move through life with less struggle and more peace, satisfaction, and love . That’s the key.

A Personal Experience: Out-of-Body Vision

I’d like to share something personal that I haven’t spoken about much before. A while ago, I had an out-of-body experience . Some might call it a dream, but it wasn’t like any dream I’ve ever had. The details were crystal clear. I stood before an infinite being—no physical form, just a presence. There were no eyes or a mouth, and we didn’t communicate with words. Time didn’t exist in that moment, and communication was instantaneous .

I realized during this experience that higher vibrations are possible for us, but we often struggle to reach them here on Earth. This experience gave me a barometer to measure my energy. When I feel yucky, sad, or angry , I’m not vibrating at my highest level. That’s a signal that I’m not operating according to my spiritual gifts . My true self vibrates much higher, and so do you.

Why Your Spiritual Gifts Matter

Now, I want you to take a look at your life. Where are you struggling? What’s holding you back? Why don’t you feel the love, value, and purpose that you know should be there? If everything in your life is smooth and you're feeling fulfilled, that's wonderful!

However, if you're like me, someone who's been on this rollercoaster of healing , constantly working to transcend past wounds and patterns, then developing your spiritual gifts is your next step.

When you’re trying to transcend these struggles, the goal isn’t just to move from sad to happy . It’s much deeper. It’s about finding your spiritual gifts , using them to transform your life, and elevating your energy to a higher vibration. This is when life truly starts to flow.

Gene Keys: Unlocking Your Potential

One tool I’ve used to help me and my clients is Gene Keys . It’s a system that maps your DNA and provides insights into your unique gifts and life’s purpose. It’s like a spiritual blueprint, showing you how you were designed to live and how you can develop your gifts . I’m going to share a bit from my own Gene Keys profile to give you an example.

My life’s work is about going from unease (the shadow) to intuition . It took me a while to even realize that unease was my shadow. But now that I’m aware, I can shift into intuition much faster. The next step is clarity —the art of softness . This is my path, and with each step I take to transcend unease, I bring myself closer to my highest potential.

The Struggle vs. The Flow

Many of us live with unhealed wounds that keep us stuck. We hold onto old beliefs, and ControlZilla steps in, trying to keep us safe, but also keeping us in a cycle of struggle. The challenge is letting go of that struggle . When you stop fighting the past and start trusting your gifts, you move into flow. Life gets easier . It becomes less about battling and more about creating .

I know it can be difficult. I used to think that life had to be a struggle. I didn’t know how to live without it . However, I now understand that my gifts enable me to transcend struggle . It’s not about being perfect, but it’s about being in flow , letting your spiritual gifts lead you.

Developing Your Spiritual Gifts

So, how do you develop your gifts? The first step is awareness . You must know your life’s work, your purpose , and your gifts . The Gene Keys can help you discover these. Once you know what you’re here to do, you can transcend the shadow (the negative energy) and align with your gifts .

Once I started to understand my Gene Keys profile, I realized that I thrive in expansion . Every time I learn something new or stretch beyond my comfort zone, I expand . It’s like I can feel the flow of life moving through me. When I align with this, my intuition kicks in , and I make better decisions. I feel more connected to my higher self and the world around me.

The Power of Transcendence

The real magic happens when you transcend your wounds and step into your gifts. It’s like waking up to the person you were always meant to be. Confidence starts to flow naturally, and fear starts to dissolve.

As you develop your gifts, you’ll notice that life becomes less about control and more about trust . Trust in yourself and trust in your journey . The more you embody your gifts, the more life opens up to you.

Final Thoughts

I want you to understand that you were born to shine . You have spiritual gifts that are meant to help you thrive, not just survive. It’s not about fixing yourself, it’s about embracing who you are, healing the wounds, and aligning with your higher self .

The journey of developing your gifts is transformative , and you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re ready to explore your spiritual gifts and learn how to use them to create the life you’ve always wanted, reach out to me. Together, we can uncover your potential and help you live a life of abundance, clarity, and flow.

Take action today. Begin by exploring your unique gifts. Start by embracing the process of transcendence. You are an infinite being with endless potential , and your spiritual gifts are waiting for you to claim them.

If you want to explore your gifts and life’s purpose in more depth, let’s talk. You can email me at teresafordcoaching@gmail.com , and I’d love to guide you through this process.

Let’s develop your spiritual gifts and bring your unique brilliance into the world.

You’ve got this! The world is waiting for you.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#somatic #somaticpractice #nervoussystemregulation #nervoussysemhealing #nervoussystemhealth #traumainformed #emotion #stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing #anxiety #anxietytips #depression #depressionsolutions

#39 Confidence and Courage: Making Them Work For You

Thu, 16 May 2024 05:08:31 GMT

Blog Post #39

Confidence and Courage:

Making Them Work For You

I’m so glad you’re here, and I’m excited to dive into today’s topic! You know, there’s no such thing as a coincidence. If you're listening right now, you're here because the universe, your spirit, or God led you here, and something is waiting for you.

Confidence vs. Courage
Today, I want to discuss the distinction between confidence and courage . These are both powerful energies, but they originate from different sources and serve distinct purposes in our lives.

Confidence, I believe, is earned . It’s the product of doing the work, of learning from experience, of becoming competent in something.

Remember when you were learning to tie your shoes? At first, it was messy, right? But each time you tried, you got a little bit better. The more you did, the more confident you became. That’s how confidence works. It's built through practice, mistakes, and persistence.

We go through life in cycles of competence and incompetence . When we start something new, we’re usually incompetent , but over time, we grow into it, and that incompetence turns into confidence.

The Importance of Unconditional Love

Now, imagine growing up with parents who were your biggest cheerleaders. Every time you struggled, they encouraged you, and no matter how messy things got, they loved you unconditionally .

This kind of emotional security breeds confidence . When you feel loved, supported, and encouraged, your confidence grows because you know that you are worthy of love, regardless of the circumstances .

However, many of us didn’t have that kind of emotional security as children. Maybe your parents were emotionally immature, or maybe they struggled with their own issues. If that was your experience, you may have grown up doubting yourself . You might still feel like the things you try don't work, or you might fear failure because you never felt fully supported. That’s where courage comes in.

Confidence Takes Courage

You may be thinking, “I want to be more confident,” but confidence can’t exist without courage. Courage is the decision to try , even when you feel scared or unsure. It’s saying, “I’ll do it anyway” in the face of uncertainty.

Let’s go back to that analogy of learning to tie your shoes. You didn’t give up just because the first try didn’t work out. You had the courage to keep trying , and through your repeated efforts, confidence grew. Courage is the fuel that drives you forward , while confidence is the reward for taking action.

If you’re struggling with something—whether it’s a relationship, your work, or a goal you want to reach—courage is what will get you over the fear that’s holding you back. It’s courage that makes you take the first step , even when you don’t know exactly where it’s going to take you.

The Struggle vs. The Flow

I ’ll be honest: I've a personal story that I’ve been working through. My life has been full of struggles—my marriage, my work, and my childhood emotional neglect. At one point, I thought struggle was normal. I thought it was part of the process, and I had to keep fighting. But then, I realized that I didn’t need to struggle anymore.

Letting go of that struggle required a great deal of courage. Imagine not fighting anymore. Imagine choosing ease over resistance . That’s the shift I made, and it wasn’t easy. But once I let go of the old story—the story of needing to fight for everything—I found myself more aligned with my true path. It wasn’t about winning or losing; it was about trusting the flow of life and having the courage to let go of what no longer served me.

The Courage to Let Go

So, here’s where courage becomes the turning point. If you’re stuck in the cycle of fear, uncertainty, and self-doubt, it takes courage to step out of that cycle . It takes courage to say, “I’m done with this struggle,” and to trust that something better is on the other side.

Sometimes, it takes courage to leave the familiar behind, even if it feels safe, to enter unknown territory. The magic of life happens when you take that leap of faith , even when you’re not sure what’s going to happen next.

Stepping Into Confidence

Once you’ve taken that leap of faith, confidence starts to show up . You’ve trusted the process, and you’ve given yourself the chance to learn, grow, and evolve. Confidence isn’t about being perfect—it’s about trusting yourself and your ability to figure things out along the way.

Confidence is a process . It’s not something that comes overnight. You’ll encounter failures, setbacks, and challenges, but each one of those will build your confidence as you rise and face them with courage.

The Power of Your Gifts

And here’s the beauty of it: when you trust yourself and embrace your gifts , everything falls into place. You start creating from your heart , not your head. You stop worrying about what others think, and you start showing up as your true self.

When you do that, you align with your purpose . You become the person you were always meant to be. And that person is unshakable . Confident . Courageous .

Final Thoughts

You are a powerful spiritual creator. The road to confidence is paved with courage. When you muster up the courage to take that first step, even when you're scared, you start building the confidence to keep moving forward . And each step, no matter how small, brings you closer to the person you're meant to become.

I know it’s not always easy. But trust me, you are more than capable of doing hard things. You’ve already done them. And now, with courage and confidence, you will keep rising.

I hope this conversation has inspired you today. Remember, you don’t need to have all the answers. You just need the courage to keep going, and the confidence will follow. You've got this!

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing #sympatheticnervousystem #rest #relaxation #overstimulated #somatic #somaticpractice #nervoussystemregulation #nervoussysemhealing #nervoussystemhealth #traumainformed #emotion

#38 You Are A Powerful Spiritual Creator

Thu, 16 May 2024 05:08:14 GMT

Blog Post #38

You Are A Powerful Spiritual Creator

If you're here, it’s no accident. You and I are resonating at the same vibrational frequency—you're here because your spirit is calling you forward. You are a spiritual creator with limitless potential to fulfill the mission you were born to complete. Your unique voice, perspective, spiritual gifts, and personal history are part of what makes you stand out.

The Power of Why

Let’s take a moment to reflect on why you are. It’s not just about the ‘what’ or the ‘how’—those things will come. The most important thing is to focus on why . Why are you here? What excites you? What taps you on the heart and says, “Let’s try this!”

When you're moving from that space of curiosity and excitement, you know you're on the right path. When things feel good to you, that’s God’s energy moving through you. Goodness and God are one and the same—both are in the flow of light and love. When you feel good, you are creating spiritually.

Pioneering Your Path

You are a pioneer in your own right. Now, I’m not talking about trekking through wilderness or pulling hand carts across harsh terrain. What I mean is, you're blazing your own trail with every decision you make. You're here to lead, to show your future generations a better way , even if you didn’t always have the perfect circumstances growing up.

I’ve faced my own struggles and still do. My childhood was fractured by emotional neglect, and it’s taken years of work to unwind that. Even now, sometimes I need to reset my nervous system, as those old, untrue beliefs still try to creep in. But as a spiritual creator , if you’ve been through any of that—if you’re still dealing with it—you have the power to handle it differently. You can shift into your creator energy and release the negative patterns and fears.

Creating from the Spirit

Have you ever tried creating something—whether it’s a piece of art, a business idea, or something else—and found it exciting and fulfilling? That feeling comes from operating in your creative zone , a space where you align with your spirit. It’s when you stop worrying about the “how” or the “what-ifs” and just allow yourself to explore, experiment, and create.

The key is to stop overthinking and just create. Whether that’s painting, writing, designing, cooking, or working out—get into your creative zone. You’ll know when you’re in that flow because it feels good . When you’re doing something because it lights you up, it’s not work—it’s play, just like a child with a bucket of sand. The joy is in the creation itself , and the possibilities are endless.

Releasing Control

We often get caught up in trying to control everything: Who we are, what we do, how we look, what people think of us. When you’re focused on control, you lose your creative magic. You stop allowing yourself to just be.

When you step into your role as a spiritual creator, you release control and let things unfold. You allow the universe, your higher self, and God to guide you. You trust the flow of life and stop struggling against the current. The more you trust that your spiritual gifts are leading you, the more those gifts will naturally flow through you, showing up in all aspects of your life.

The Power of Spiritual Gifts

You have spiritual gifts that are uniquely yours. These gifts allow you to create, manifest, and serve in ways only you can. Some of mine are synergy —bringing together people and ideas in powerful ways—and expansion —growing and evolving in alignment with the universe.

When you align with your spiritual gifts, you can stop troubleshooting life and stop being frustrated by things that aren’t working as they should. Instead, you embrace your gifts and use them to build the life you want—one that is aligned with your highest purpose.

Being the Creator of Your Life

It’s time to ask yourself: Who am I? What do I want to create? When you know the answer to this question, you’ll stop second-guessing yourself and start moving forward with confidence.

When you own who you are and align with your spiritual gifts, everything changes. Your energy shifts, and you become magnetic . The people, resources, and opportunities you need will come to you, because you're no longer operating from a place of lack or fear—you’re creating from a place of abundance and love.

Living Without Doubt

When you stop doubting yourself , you stop living in fear. The fear that holds you back, the fear that makes you second-guess your choices, doesn’t serve you. When you embrace your spiritual gifts, you can push through any doubt. The fear goes away because you are operating from love and confidence.

You might not have all the answers, and that’s okay. The truth is, no one does. But when you trust your gifts and your intuition, the answers will show up at the right time. This is the beauty of being a spiritual creator —it’s trusting the process, knowing that everything is working out for you, even when you don’t have all the pieces yet.

Embracing Your Journey

You are meant to grow and evolve —that’s the whole point of life. The struggles and the challenges aren’t meant to break you—they’re meant to build you . Every lesson, every obstacle, every moment of discomfort is part of your spiritual growth. It’s shaping you into the powerful creator you were always meant to be.

So, lean into your gifts, your creativity, and your journey . Stop doubting, stop worrying about what might go wrong, and just trust that you’re being guided every step of the way. You are on your path , and it’s unfolding exactly as it should.

Final Thoughts

When you align with your spiritual gifts and trust the flow of life, you’ll stop struggling, stop trying to control everything, and start creating. You’ll discover new things about yourself and begin to trust in the process of life, even when things are unclear.

This is your time. You were born to be a spiritual creator. Step into that role with love, trust, and confidence.

I can help you uncover and develop your unique spiritual gifts, enabling you to live a life that aligns with your highest purpose.

If you’re ready to go on this journey, reach out to me at teresafordcoaching@gmail.com . Let's work together to help you become the creator you were born to be.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#somatic #somaticpractice #nervoussystemregulation #nervoussysemhealing #nervoussystemhealth #traumainformed #emotion #nervoussystemhealing #overwhelmed #exhausted #restless #stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing

#37 TRUST FALL

Thu, 16 May 2024 05:07:58 GMT

Blog Post #37

TRUST FALL

Another day, another chance for growth, right? Sometimes we wake up and think we need something grand to look forward to, something that will ignite a spark within us. But can we just take a moment and be grateful for the fact that we woke up today? You’re here. That’s a reason to be grateful.

Today, I want to talk to you about a trust fall . When we trust that everything is happening for our greater good, we have to put our faith into action. We have to trust that, if something falls away — whether it’s a relationship, an opportunity, or something else — it’s part of the divine unfolding of our path. You’re not losing anything, you’re making space for something better.

Trust and Willingness

Willingness is key here. Willingness doesn’t mean you have all the answers, it doesn’t mean you know what’s next — it’s about choosing to be open to what comes your way. Decisiveness, however, means choosing to trust and keep moving forward, regardless of the outcome.

And yes, this involves risk. It involves jumping into the unknown, like a trust fall into the arms of the universe, or your higher self . You can’t know what’s on the other side, but you can trust that it’s part of your personal evolution.

Sometimes you’re going to feel discomfort when things are falling away. It’s scary. I know. I’ve been there. When support systems are removed, it feels like free-falling . But that’s when the magic happens. That’s when your growth is most profound. When you release your hold on what no longer serves you, you create space for new possibilities.

The Countdown and the Launch

It’s like a rocket launch — when NASA sends a rocket into space, the countdown starts, and those supports that held the rocket up fall away . Only then does the rocket lift off. That’s what it feels like when we let go of things that are no longer aligned with us. We can’t launch into our next phase if we’re still holding on to old, outgrown things.

So, what’s falling away for you right now? Are you resisting it, or are you ready to let go? Are you willing to trust that, by letting go, you’ll make space for your next chapter?

Your Unfamiliar Launch

You may not feel ready for the launch. You may not know how to use all the levers and buttons once you’ve launched. That’s okay . We don’t always have the answers at first, and that’s how life works. Sometimes we find ourselves in new situations and unfamiliar spaces, and we have to fumble through them for a bit. But trusting the process means knowing you’re going exactly where you need to go, even if it’s uncomfortable.

Think about a time when you felt confident and unshakable — but then, suddenly, something changed. Support systems fell away, and you were left floundering, trying to figure things out. I’ve been there, too. That’s the launch. It’s disorienting, but it’s the beginning of your growth.

Sometimes, it feels like everything is falling apart — and then it starts to come together in ways you could never have imagined. When I was going through my own challenges, I felt like I was in free fall. But that’s when I found my courage, my resilience, and the trust to keep going.

Be Open to What You Don’t Know

This is a tough one, but it's powerful. Be open to receiving what you don’t know how to do. A trust fall isn’t about knowing every step ahead of time. It’s about the willingness to fall, trusting that, even if it doesn’t feel comfortable, you’ll figure it out along the way. Trust that the universe has your back, even when you can’t see the full picture.

The Power of Trusting Your Path

It’s not about being fearless. It’s about trusting the path that’s unfolding even when it’s unclear. The thing is, you are going to be okay. You’ll find your balance. You’ll make mistakes, but those mistakes are just stepping stones toward growth.

Think about your journey so far. I’m sure there have been times when you’ve questioned your choices or felt unsure. But here you are. You’re still moving forward. That’s a sign that you’re on the right track — even when you don’t feel ready.

The Beauty of Self-Discovery

I’ve had moments when I’ve looked at my life and thought, “Am I doing this right? Is this what I’m supposed to be doing?” Those moments of doubt are part of your growth. They’re part of the process of discovering who you truly are . When you stop resisting the flow, the answers will come .

You’re evolving, constantly. And when you look back, you’ll see how far you’ve come. You’re not the same person you were yesterday, and that’s a good thing. Every day is an opportunity to be a better version of yourself. Trust that each step you take brings you closer to your true self.

Trust the Timing

Here’s the thing: You are exactly where you need to be right now. Even if things don’t make sense, even if it feels like you’re standing still, know that everything is falling into place at the perfect time. The universe doesn’t make mistakes. Everything is working out for you.

You’re on the right path, even when it’s hard. Trust that things are unfolding exactly as they should. Sometimes, all it takes is a leap of faith, a trust fall.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Trust Fall

So, what is calling you forward? What’s that little voice inside your heart telling you? It’s time to listen and trust. Embrace the uncertainty and step forward into what’s next. Let the old support systems fall away — they’ve done their job. It’s time for you to fly.

You are not meant to do this alone. You have all the support you need from the universe, from God, and from your own inner wisdom.

Trust yourself. Trust the process. And trust that everything is unfolding for you. Take the leap.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#somatic #somaticpractice #nervoussystemregulation #nervoussysemhealing #nervoussystemhealth #traumainformed #emotion #traumaandsomatics #emotionalregulation #somatic #confidence #stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing

#36 Going with the Flow Using Judgement as Your Guide

Thu, 16 May 2024 05:07:36 GMT

Blog Post #36

Going with the Flow Using

Judgement as Your Guide

Listening to the Flow

Here’s the thing I’ve learned — when you get in the flow of things and stop overthinking, magic happens. It’s all about timing. It’s like the other morning, I woke up at 1 AM, totally wide awake. And you know what? That wasn’t just me being restless; I felt a pull. God was nudging me, saying, “Wake up, there’s a lesson for you here.” I had to listen.

I went into the house, which was completely silent. Not a sound in the air, just quiet, peaceful energy. And in that silence, I could feel the spirit moving. It wasn’t about me getting things right — it was about being in the flow, asking the questions, and being open to receiving the answers.

Judgment from the Heart

That’s when the word “judgment” came to me. I thought, what does judgment mean in this context? The real trick is learning to use judgment from the heart . You see, judgment isn’t inherently bad — it’s just about where it’s coming from. If your judgment is from your brain, it’s usually born from fear . And fear? Fear creates walls, keeps you stuck, and only gets in the way of what you really want.

When judgment comes from a place of love, that’s where the magic happens. It’s not about pointing fingers or assigning blame. It’s about using your intuition and discernment, seeing situations for what they truly are, and approaching them with kindness and gentleness. When we go with the flow, we stop trying to fix or control things. Instead, we simply observe, let go, and trust that things are unfolding in perfect timing.

The Shift from Control to Flow

This is something I learned the hard way. I had a fear-based mindset for a long time. I’d try to fix things, push them into place, make sure everything was in order — only to feel exhausted and stuck. ControlZilla, as I call it, was running the show. But when I allowed myself to let go, when I chose to stop pushing against the flow, everything started to feel lighter.

Letting go doesn’t mean giving up; it means allowing yourself to receive . Let the universe show you the way. When you don’t fight against the current, when you stop paddling upstream, the river will carry you exactly where you need to go.

The Question of Acceptance

Here’s a powerful question: Are you okay with things not going according to plan? Are you okay if things don’t unfold the way you imagined?

We often stress over whether we’ll be healed, successful,and loved, and we judge these outcomes. But judgment from the heart helps us accept things just as they are, even when they’re hard. Because sometimes, what’s in front of us is exactly what we need to grow.

An Example of Letting Go

When I was facing financial hardship a few years ago, I was absolutely consumed by fear. I was at my wits’ end, pushing myself, fighting against what was happening. But one day, I had had enough. I was done with the fear. And in that moment of surrender, I just said, “Bring it on.” It wasn’t a defeat — it was me taking my power back. I said, “If we’re going to be homeless, let’s do it. If that’s what’s coming, fine.”

And you know what? That was the turning point. As soon as I stopped fighting, everything changed. I found a job, and we found stability; my entire life shifted. Not because I made it happen, but because I got out of the way and let things happen.

Embrace the Flow

Life is like a river, and we’re all paddling our own boats . Sometimes the wind picks up, and we struggle. But when you stop fighting, when you stop paddling against the current, you’ll find peace. You’ll find yourself coasting downstream, effortlessly. The resistance? It melts away.

We often create our own problems by resisting what’s in front of us. But what if we just allowed things to unfold? What if we trusted that everything is happening for us , even when it feels hard?

The Power of Surrender

Remember, surrendering doesn’t mean giving up — it means trusting that what’s happening is part of your journey. When you stop pushing against the pull door and stop battling the natural flow, that’s when things get better.

It’s time to let go of the idea that things should always be hard, that you need to fight, control, or fix. The flow is where you’re supposed to be. It’s when you lean into the current and trust that it’s guiding you to exactly where you need to be .

Final Thoughts: Let Love Lead

So here’s your takeaway today: Let love guide your judgment. Trust in the flow. Don’t fight it. Don’t push against it. Go with it. Your heart knows the way, and it’s always in alignment with your highest good. When you go with the flow, you’ll find that everything you need is already on its way.

Trust the process. Let go of fear. And embrace the journey. Let’s keep flowing together.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#traumahealingjourney #sympatheticnervousystem #rest #relaxation #overstimulated #stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing nervoussystemhealing #overwhelmed #exhausted #restless #nervoussystemhealth #traumainformed #emotion

#35 Let Your Light Shine Bright

Thu, 16 May 2024 05:07:02 GMT

Blog Post #35

Let Your Light Shine Bright

You’re not here by accident—you’re seeking something, whether it’s wisdom, clarity, or an uplifting message. And I promise, what you will read today will be exactly what you need. It’s not about my words; it’s about the insights and inspiration that rise up in you as you read.

Today, we’re diving into energetic reflection —the light you emit into the world. Have you ever heard the scripture about not hiding your light under a bushel? Instead, we’re called to set it on a hill for the world to see.

So, ask yourself: What am I doing to shine my light? Am I raising my vibrational energy to reflect more love, joy, and wisdom?

What Are You Focusing On?

The things we focus on expand. If you’re focusing on stress, fear, or negativity, you’ll find more of it. If you focus on light, love, and abundance, that’s what grows. The same principle applies to our personal energy and the way we nourish our bodies, minds, and spirits.

Let’s start with a simple question: What do you eat when you’re hungry? Your body signals that it needs nourishment, and ideally, you choose something that fuels you. But if you're tired, stressed, or overwhelmed, you may reach for low-energy foods—processed, sugary, or carb-heavy options that provide momentary comfort but ultimately leave you drained.

Live foods—whole, unprocessed, full of nutrients—carry high vibrational energy. A fresh apple, a leafy green salad, or a protein-rich meal will lift your energy instead of dragging it down. The food you consume directly impacts how you feel, which affects how brightly you shine.

Are You Dimming Your Own Light?

Low-energy habits extend beyond food. Consider these areas of your life:

Self-talk: Are you speaking to yourself with love, encouragement, and faith? Or are you criticizing yourself and reinforcing limiting beliefs?
Relationships: Are you surrounded by uplifting people, or do you engage in gossip, complaining, or negativity?
Media Consumption: What are you absorbing? Are your social media habits, TV shows, and news intake fueling your light or dimming it?
Work & Purpose: Are you stuck in a job or situation that drains you? Are you making choices out of fear instead of faith?
Rest & Sleep: Are you honoring your body’s need for rest, or are you sacrificing sleep for more productivity? Remember, sleep is a hormonal reset button —it’s crucial for clarity, peace, and energy.

Your Energy Speaks Before You Do

You are the sum of your five most frequent interactions. If you surround yourself with people who inspire, uplift, and challenge you to grow, you will naturally rise to a higher frequency. But if you’re engaging in negative conversations or allowing others’ energy to weigh you down, your light will dim.

Here’s an easy way to check: How do you feel after interacting with someone? Energized and inspired? Or exhausted and drained? That’s a direct reflection of whether their energy is fueling or depleting your light.

Social Media & Distractions: Friend or Foe?

Social media can be a double-edged sword. Used wisely, it connects, educates, and inspires. But if you find yourself mindlessly scrolling , comparing yourself to others, or feeling anxious after spending time online, it’s time for a shift.

Before engaging, ask yourself:

Is this adding value to my life?
Am I using this as a tool for growth or as a way to avoid something else?
How do I feel after consuming this content?

A simple adjustment—unfollowing accounts that drain you and engaging with content that uplifts—can make a huge difference in your energetic vibration.

How to Reset Your Energy & Shine Brighter

If you’re feeling off, stuck, or overwhelmed, it’s time to reset. Here’s how:

Check Your Mental Thoughts: Are your thoughts leading you toward hope, love, and faith? Or are they keeping you stuck in fear and negativity?
Regulate Your Nervous System: Simple breathing exercises, meditation, and grounding techniques can quickly shift your energy.
Establish a Spiritual Compass: Define your values, goals, and divine purpose. Where are you headed, and why? What are you allowing to guide you?
Make Room for Yourself: Assess where your time and energy are going. Are you prioritizing yourself, your spiritual growth, and your happiness?

The Secret to True High-Vibe Living

You are here to be a co-creator with God. When you align with His plan for you, your light becomes unstoppable. When you take care of yourself—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually—you shine brighter, feel lighter, and have a greater impact on the world around you.

So ask yourself : Where is my candle? Is it hidden under a bushel or set on a hill for all to see? Your life is meant to shine!

Let’s go forth and be the light! ��

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#34 - Four Ways to Draw Nearer to God

Thu, 16 May 2024 05:06:46 GMT

Blog Post #34

Four Ways to Draw Nearer to God

Many people wonder whether they can hear God speaking to them. They question if His revelations are truly meant for them. But let me tell you—there is no one who knows you better than God. He speaks in ways that are specific to you. However, the noise of the world often drowns out His voice.

Are You Really Listening to God?

Think about this: if you’re struggling to hear God, it’s not because He isn’t speaking—it’s because distractions are in the way. Just like in fitness, when we ignore what our bodies are telling us, we become disconnected. The same happens spiritually. You know when something feels right. You also know when you’re off track. The key is tuning in and trusting your inner guidance system.

There are four powerful ways to draw nearer to God and strengthen your connection with Him:

1. Check Your Mental Thought Patterns

Our minds either pull us toward God or push us away. I often call the brain ControlZilla because it constantly scans for danger, shame, embarrassment, and failure. It focuses on problems instead of solutions. Your spirit, however, is connected to God’s truth, and that truth always feels good. When you align your thoughts with truth, you’ll feel lighter, more peaceful, and more confident.

Ask yourself:

Are my thoughts leading me closer to God or further away?
Am I focusing on frustration, fear, or judgment?
Am I listening to God’s promptings or resisting them?

When you find yourself spiraling into negative emotions, recognize that you are sliding away from God. Shift your focus toward gratitude, faith, and trust.

2. Regulate Your Nervous System

One of the biggest barriers to feeling God’s presence is an overactive, stressed-out nervous system. When we are triggered, we enter fight, flight, freeze, or fawn mode. These reactions make it nearly impossible to receive divine guidance.

Try this simple nervous system reset to calm your body and mind:

Lace your hands behind your head.
Look to the right for a few moments until you yawn, sigh, or swallow.
Return your eyes to the center.
Look to the left and repeat.

This exercise helps regulate your amygdala , the part of the brain where emotional memories are stored. Once you reset, you’ll be in a much better position to hear God’s voice.

3. Establish Your Spiritual Compass

If you feel lost, it’s likely because you haven’t defined your spiritual direction . Where do you want to go? What is your divine purpose? You cannot move forward without clarity.

Take time to write it down. If you start journaling about what you don’t want, flip it around and write about what you do want. Writing creates clarity, and clarity fuels action.

If you want to be healthy, act like a healthy person.
If you want to be spiritually connected, practice spiritual habits.
If you want a closer relationship with God, spend time with Him daily.

The more you practice these things, the more natural they become.

4. Make Room for Yourself

One of the biggest reasons people feel disconnected from God is that they don’t make time for Him.

Assess how you spend your time. How much of it is productive? How much is spent on distractions, stress, or negativity? Your schedule should reflect your priorities. If you want to hear God more clearly, you must create space for Him in your daily life.

Ways to make room:

Schedule quiet time for prayer and scripture reading.
Meditate and reflect on God’s word.
Engage in activities that bring you joy and align with your soul’s purpose.
Remove distractions and unnecessary commitments that drain your energy.

When you set aside time for God, you’ll feel less exhausted, less stressed, and more at peace.

Bringing It All Together

You have the power to draw closer to God every day. It takes practice, patience, and self-awareness. Here’s a quick recap of the four ways to strengthen your connection:

Check your mental thought patterns —Align your thoughts with truth and positivity.
Regulate your nervous system —Reset your body so you can receive divine guidance.
Establish your spiritual compass —Gain clarity on where you want to go.
Make room for yourself —Prioritize your time with God.

When you do these things consistently, you’ll feel lighter, clearer, and more in sync with your purpose. You’ll recognize God’s voice more easily, and His guidance will become second nature.

If this resonated with you and you want more support, I’d love to help! Reach out to me at teresafordcoaching@gmail.com.

You are not meant to struggle alone. God is always with you, and when you start listening to His voice, everything changes for the better.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#somatic #somaticpractice #nervoussystemregulation #nervoussysemhealing #nervoussystemhealth #traumainformed #emotion #nervoussystemhealing #overwhelmed #exhausted #restless #stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing

#33 Your REAL desire is BIGGER than what you think you want!

Thu, 16 May 2024 05:06:30 GMT

Blog Post #33

Your REAL desire is BIGGER than

what you think you want!

January is a big month for many people. It's the season of resolutions, goal-setting, and making big changes. But what if I told you that February is actually a better month to start pursuing the life you truly want?

As a coach, I've seen a pattern: People wait until they feel stuck, frustrated, and completely exhausted before they realize something has to change. It’s only when dissatisfaction reaches its peak that they start searching for answers. But here’s the thing—your real desire is often much bigger than what you think you want!

Are You Really Open to Receiving What You Want?

Life is constantly guiding you toward what your soul truly desires, but sometimes, you're gripping onto control so tightly that you’re blocking yourself from receiving it.

Imagine this: You want more financial stability, so you hustle harder, work longer hours, and push yourself to the limit. But deep down, your heart is asking for something else—more rest, more time with your family, and more freedom. Yet, you keep chasing the money, believing that’s the key to freedom.

But what happens? Your body burns out, your business takes a downturn, or life throws a curveball that forces you to stop. Suddenly, you’re left with no choice but to rest. And in that moment, you realize that’s exactly what you wanted all along—time to slow down, time to heal, and time to be present with your loved ones.

This is how life works. When you’re resistant to change, life finds a way to give you what you need, even if it feels like everything is falling apart.

The Real Reason You Feel Stuck

If you feel like you’re constantly navigating challenges—whether it’s a toxic relationship, a lack of money, career dissatisfaction, or the feeling that you’re spinning in circles—it’s not about the external situation. It’s about what your soul is calling you to do.

Your brain, or what I like to call ControlZilla , is wired to seek safety. It looks for problems, overanalyzes situations, and creates resistance because it’s afraid of change. But your soul? Your soul already knows what you need. It’s not confused. It’s just waiting for you to listen.

The Patterns That Keep You Stuck in the Roundabout

Think of life like a roundabout. Have you ever noticed that some people stay stuck in the same cycles over and over again? Maybe you’ve been in the same kind of relationships, the same financial struggles, or the same emotional patterns for years.

If you don’t recognize the bigger desire behind your struggle, you’ll stay in that roundabout forever, missing the exit that leads to true transformation.

For example:

If you’re constantly struggling in relationships, maybe what you truly desire isn’t just love—it’s deep, unconditional self-worth.
If you feel unfulfilled in your career, maybe your real desire isn’t just a better job—it’s the freedom to express your creativity and passion.
If you’re burnt out from always doing too much, maybe what you actually want is permission to slow down and trust that life will support you.

When you stop resisting what life is trying to teach you and recognize the deeper desire beneath your struggles, you’ll finally see the path to the life you’re meant to live.

Breaking Free from the Old Stories

Many of us carry old stories from childhood that keep us trapped. Maybe you were taught that success only comes from hard work, so you feel guilty when you rest. Maybe you were raised in a family where love had conditions, so you keep chasing external validation.

These stories shape how we live, but they are not the truth. The truth is that you are worthy of joy, ease, and fulfillment right now. You don’t have to prove yourself to deserve happiness.

What Happens When You Finally Let Go

When you stop gripping so tightly and open yourself up to what life is offering, everything shifts.

You start aligning with opportunities that feel effortless. The right people show up in your life. You experience deeper peace, greater clarity, and more fulfillment than you ever imagined. You become the person who looks in the mirror and says, "I love being me."

And that’s where the magic happens.

If you’re ready to stop struggling and start thriving, DM me on Instagram at teresaford.coaching or email me at teresafordcoaching@gmail.com for more details.

The life you truly want is waiting for you—it’s time to say YES to yourself!

Your journey starts NOW.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube . Happy listening! ��

#32 Unpopular Opinion: We Are NOT Here To Do Hard Things! We Are Here To Enjoy The Ride

Thu, 16 May 2024 05:06:03 GMT

Blog Post #32

Unpopular Opinion:

We Are NOT Here To Do Hard Things! We Are Here To Enjoy The Ride

When people say, "I can do hard things," I don’t doubt that you can. But my question is—why would you want to? Why would you choose struggle when there’s an easier way? Why wouldn’t we want to find the fastest way through life’s challenges with ease and flow?

We are not here to do hard things just for the sake of doing them. We are here to experience, to learn, to grow, and most importantly—to enjoy the ride. Struggle may be part of the journey, but it doesn’t have to define it. The idea that life must be hard to be meaningful is a limiting belief we need to release.

Breaking Free from the Roundabout of Struggle

If you find yourself trapped in the same cycles of difficulty—whether in relationships, career struggles, or self-worth battles—it’s time to ask yourself, "Why am I still in this roundabout?"

Life gives us endless opportunities to grow, but we weren’t meant to stay stuck in patterns that drain us. When you recognize that something isn’t working, you have a choice. You can either continue spinning in circles or you can exit the roundabout and move forward.

The Power of Awareness

For the first 40 years of my life, I stayed in the roundabout of my mother’s beliefs about love and self-worth. She constantly told herself (and us) that she was unlovable. And because of that belief, she lived a life where love never truly reached her. But I refused to accept that story as my own.

Yet, even though I rejected her belief, I still found myself attracting relationships where love felt conditional or unattainable. Why? Because I had not yet made the conscious decision to exit that cycle.

Leaving a roundabout isn’t always easy. It often involves dismantling deeply ingrained beliefs and stepping into the unknown. It may mean ending relationships, changing careers, or redefining who you are. But the moment you allow yourself to break free, the real transformation begins.

Hard Things Don't Have to Be Hard

We all experience tough times. But when we allow resistance to take over, we make things harder than they need to be.

When I hit rock bottom—lying on the floor of my rented apartment, feeling like no one in the world knew or cared that I existed—I had a choice. I could stay in that space of despair, or I could choose to see it as a turning point.

I chose to seek answers. I chose to stop struggling and start flowing. I asked God daily to show me my purpose. I spent months reading, journaling, praying, meditating, and learning how to trust the process.

And through that, I discovered one of the most powerful truths of my life:

We don’t have to do anything we don’t want to do.

Yes, we all have responsibilities. Yes, we need to work, pay bills, and take care of ourselves. But when we shift our mindset and start aligning our actions with what we actually want to do, everything becomes easier. Work doesn’t feel like work when you’re doing what you love. Responsibilities don’t feel burdensome when they align with your purpose.

The moment we let go of the idea that struggle is necessary, we open ourselves up to an entirely new way of living.

Finding the Flow

So, how do you stop paddling upstream and start flowing with life? It starts with recognizing resistance. If something feels hard, stressful, or overwhelming, pause and ask yourself:

Is there an easier way?
Am I holding onto old beliefs that no longer serve me?
What would it look like if I approached this with ease?

The truth is, life is not meant to be a constant uphill battle. When you learn to let go, trust the process, and lean into what feels good, everything changes.

Exiting the Roundabout: Your Next Step

If you’re stuck in a cycle that no longer serves you, it’s time to take your power back. Exiting the roundabout doesn’t mean you won’t face challenges—it means you’ll face them with a new perspective, one that allows you to move forward instead of staying stuck.

Remember, you were never meant to struggle your way through life. You were meant to experience joy, expansion, and ease. The faster you recognize this, the faster you’ll find yourself exactly where you were meant to be.

If you need guidance on breaking free from limiting patterns, I offer 1:1 coaching and a mentorship program for women who are ready to live life from a place of freedom and alignment.

Everything changes when you see yourself the way God sees you—through the lens of love, ease, and limitless potential.

Are you ready to exit the roundabout? Let’s make life easier—together.

Reach out to me at tersafordcoaching@gmail.com and let’s talk about how you can step into the life you were always meant to live.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#nervoussystemhealing #overwhelmed #exhausted #restless #anxiety #anxietytips #depression #depressionsolutions #traumahealingjourney #storedtrauma #somatic #somaticpractice #nervoussystemregulation #nervoussysemhealing

#31 TRIGGERS - What To Do About Them

Thu, 16 May 2024 05:05:34 GMT

Blog Post #31

TRIGGERS - What To Do About Them

Understanding Triggers and How to Heal from Them

Let’s talk about triggers. The last blog was about rejection, and this one follows a similar theme. Triggers are those moments when something stirs up emotional discomfort, causing stress, frustration, or even pain. They don’t always stem from major traumatic experiences—sometimes, they arise from the simple dissatisfaction of not getting our needs met, struggling to navigate our personal power, or encountering assertive personalities that clash with our own.

Why Do Triggers Affect Us?

Finding agreement within yourself is crucial because you’ll never fully agree with everyone else. People have different lifestyles, relationship choices, and beliefs, and that’s okay. True alignment happens inside of you, not outside of you.

Wayne Dyer once said, “If you squeeze an orange, what comes out? Orange juice—because that’s what’s inside.”

When we’re squeezed by stress or pressure , whatever emotions are inside us come out. If you feel frustration, insecurity, or shame, those are emotions that haven’t been processed yet . But when you do the work and heal, those same triggers lose their power.

The Connection Between Triggers and Emotional Trauma

Unprocessed emotions from childhood are often at the root of our emotional triggers.

For example, unfairness is a huge trigger for me. As a Libra, I naturally seek balance, and when I perceive something as unfair, it stirs up strong emotions. Many of my childhood experiences involved unfair treatment, which means that as an adult, I have to be mindful when similar situations arise.

If you ever find yourself saying, “That’s not fair!” —pause. Ask yourself, What emotion is really coming up for me right now? If you can name it, you can heal it.

Signs You’re Being Triggered

Triggers sneak up on us in many ways. Some days, they’re obvious, and other times, they disguise themselves as irritation, stress, or frustration .

Think about parenting :

In the morning, you start with patience and energy.
By evening, you’re completely drained, and suddenly, small things set you off.

There’s a meme that perfectly illustrates this: A picture of Barney the Dinosaur labeled “Me in the morning” , and next to it, a picture of Godzilla breathing fire labeled “Me at night” . Sound familiar?

Triggers often intensify when we’re tired, overwhelmed, or emotionally drained . That’s why self-care is essential —it helps us regulate our emotions before they take over.

What Can You Do About Triggers?

Here’s the good news: Triggers are opportunities for healing. Once you process them, they lose their hold over you. Here’s how to take back your power:

1. Identify the Emotion

The first step is to name what you’re feeling . Ask yourself:

Am I feeling abandoned, rejected, unheard, disrespected, or powerless?
Did this emotion originate in childhood?

Once you name the emotion, it becomes easier to address it instead of reacting unconsciously.

2. Reframe the Story

Our perception shapes our reality . If someone imposes their opinions or decisions on you, you may feel powerless. Instead, shift your mindset:

Instead of “They’re trying to control me,” reframe it as “They care, but I have the right to make my own choices.”
Instead of “They’re disrespecting me,” say “They have their own perspective, and I don’t have to take it personally.”

When you change your inner dialogue , the external situation loses its emotional grip.

3. Set Boundaries with Confidence

If someone constantly triggers you, it might be time to set firm boundaries . This isn’t about shutting people out—it’s about protecting your emotional well-being . Try saying:

“I appreciate your concern, but I trust myself to make the right decision.”
“I understand your point of view, but I need space to handle this my way.”
“I love you, but I won’t engage in this kind of conversation anymore.”

Healthy boundaries create emotional safety , reducing the likelihood of future triggers.

4. Practice Emotional Regulation

When a trigger arises, try this grounding exercise :

Breathe deeply —inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 8 seconds.
Remind yourself: “I am safe. I am in control of my emotions.”
Visualize letting go —imagine the emotion as a balloon floating away.

By consciously choosing calm , you regain your personal power.

5. Heal the Root Cause

Many triggers stem from childhood experiences where we felt powerless. Healing involves:

Inner child work —comforting the younger version of yourself.
Journaling —write down your emotions and burn the paper as a symbolic release.
Forgiveness —not for them, but for YOU, so you can free yourself from the burden.

The Power of Self-Awareness

Healing from triggers isn’t about never getting triggered again —it’s about recovering faster . It’s about recognizing the pattern, pausing, and making a conscious choice .

The goal is to respond, not react . When you do the work, the same situations that used to trigger you will barely faze you. And that’s when you know you’ve healed.

Final Thoughts

The next time something pushes your buttons , take a deep breath and ask:

What emotion is surfacing right now?
Where did this belief originate?
What action can I take to heal and move forward?

You have the power to break free from triggers. You are not your past. You are the creator of your own peace.

If this resonates with you, or if you have a personal experience with triggers that you’ve overcome, I’d love to hear from you! Drop me an email at teresafordcoaching@gmail.com —I read every message.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#nervoussystemhealing #overwhelmed #exhausted #restless #anxiety #anxietytips #depression #depressionsolutions #traumahealingjourney #hormonebalance #storedtrauma #stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing

#30 REJECTION - Remove this Negative Energy From Your Life

Sat, 11 May 2024 03:31:22 GMT

Blog Post #30

REJECTION - Remove This

Negative Energy From Your Life

This is blog 30, and today we’re diving deep into a subject that hits many of us hard: rejection .

The Energy of Rejection

Can you feel it? That heavy energy that comes with rejection? It’s like a weight in your chest, making you feel ugh , like “I hate rejection.”

For me, rejection has been a huge theme in my life. It’s been an intense journey, especially over the past few years. I felt the grief of rejection in my lungs. Yes, grief actually resides in your lungs, and it’s been something I’ve been working through, especially since leaving my fitness studio.

I thought it was a step toward freedom, but at the time, I perceived it as rejection. People didn’t agree with my methodology. I rejected myself because I wasn’t able to do everything and experience success, and burnout became my reality. I felt like my best wasn’t good enough.

But here’s the thing—I wasn’t rejecting others; I was rejecting myself.

Rejection Comes from Fear

Rejection, at its core, comes from fear. It’s that belief that we aren’t good enough, that we don’t belong, or that our contributions are worthless. These thoughts are rooted in fear, and fear only brings low energy.

When you think you’ve been rejected, your body reacts. Your nervous system gets triggered, and you enter a fight-or-flight mode. Your energy sinks, and instead of feeling motivated, you feel blocked. This low energy makes you feel like you’re waiting forever for something that never arrives.

We hold onto these beliefs about rejection because we’re afraid of what might happen if we let go of them. We fear what might change, what we might lose. But when we release that fear, we open ourselves up to so much more.

Self-Rejection: The Real Culprit

As I reflect on my own journey, it becomes clear that the biggest rejection isn’t from others—it’s self-rejection. We are our biggest critics. We are the ones who tell ourselves we’re not good enough, that we don’t belong, or that we’ll never be able to achieve our dreams.

That rejection from others is often just a reflection of their own self-rejection. It’s not about us; it’s about them. Their inability to accept themselves gets projected onto us. And if we’re not careful, we start to internalize that rejection, believing it to be true.

The most important thing we can do is to stop rejecting ourselves. Stop telling yourself you don’t belong, stop believing that your gifts aren’t worthy. Your worth is inherent, and it’s not up for negotiation.

A Shift in Perspective

I recently came across a verse in the book of Malachi that asked, "What is your pure offering?" I thought, What am I offering? Is it pure? Am I giving from a place of love, or am I offering a “sickly goat”—something that’s not the best version of me?

It’s easy to think we’re offering the best, but if we’re not offering it from a place of self-acceptance, then it’s not truly pure. When we reject ourselves, we start offering only bits and pieces, hoping for external validation. But true offering comes from a place of wholeness and self-love.

Rejection is a Choice

Here’s the truth: rejection is a choice. It’s a story we tell ourselves. And once we realize that, we can choose differently.

You are unrejected. No one can reject you unless you reject yourself first. Once you begin to accept yourself fully—your flaws, your gifts, your limitations—you free yourself from the power that rejection holds over you.

Healing from Rejection

Rejection has caused deep wounds in many of us, especially in our childhoods. Emotional neglect, lack of connection, and unhealed wounds can create the perception of rejection. But you are no longer that child.

The people who may have rejected you were likely rejecting themselves, too. They projected their fear and insecurities onto you. And once you accept that it was never truly about you, you begin to let go of that rejection.

Stop Pushing on the Pull Door

When you feel rejected, you’re pushing on the pull door. You’re fighting against what you can’t change and holding onto something that’s not serving you. The key is to let go. Pull instead of push.

In my own journey, I’ve seen how fear was holding me back. But once I stopped resisting, the doors I thought were closed started to open.

Taking Personal Responsibility

To heal from rejection, you have to take personal responsibility. Stop blaming others for your feelings of rejection. Ask yourself, What am I offering to the world? Am I offering the “sickly goat,” or am I giving my purest offering?

Your worth is not based on others’ opinions of you. It’s based on your intrinsic value. You are whole, loved, and accepted just as you are.

The Answer: Self-Acceptance

The solution to rejection is self-acceptance. You have to learn to accept yourself fully, without apology. When you do that, you’ll find that the people who truly matter will accept you too.

Rejection is no longer something that controls you. You are worthy of love, worthy of belonging, and worthy of all the opportunities life has to offer.

Final Thoughts: You Are Whole, Loved, and Accepted

No one can reject you unless you reject yourself. It’s time to release rejection, stop living in fear, and start living in love . Your offerings, your gifts, and your voice are pure and valuable. When you embrace that, everything changes.

Remember, you are enough . The more you accept yourself, the more others will do the same.

Take a deep breath, let go of the rejection, and start living in alignment with your true self. You are whole, loved, and accepted, and the world is waiting for you to show up as your true self.

Takeaway: Rejection is a story you tell yourself. Stop rejecting yourself. Accept your worth and stop pushing against the pull door. Let go of fear, embrace love, and step into the life you deserve.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing #sympatheticnervousystem #rest #relaxation #overstimulated #traumahealingjourney#nervoussystemhealing #overwhelmed #exhausted #restless #somatic #nervoussystemregulation

#29 How To Let Go of Resistance - Answering a Listener's Question

Sat, 11 May 2024 03:31:20 GMT

Blog Post #29

How To Let Go of Resistance - Answering a Listener's Question

The Question:

I recently received a question from a listener after a consultation. She asked, “I’m listening to your podcast and it resonates with me, but I’m currently pushing on the pull door and operating from a place of fear, not love. How can I recondition myself to stay true to what I feel I want and need?”

What an amazing question, right? I love how actively engaged my listeners are with the podcast. They’re really digging deep to get to the root of their challenges, and I couldn’t be more excited to help.

Understanding the Pull Door Analogy

Let’s start by breaking down the pull door analogy. Imagine a little kid trying to get into the School for the Gifted, but instead of pulling the door, they’re pushing on it. They’re struggling, sweating, and just getting frustrated because the door won’t open.

The door isn’t the problem—it’s their approach! It’s simple: the door says pull, but they’re pushing against it.

That’s how we do life sometimes: we push against things, trying harder, but it feels like we’re getting nowhere. The door’s right there, it’s ready to open for us, but we just aren’t doing it the easy way. When we stop resisting and let go, it opens with ease.

Why We Push on the Pull Door

In life, we push against what we don’t want—whether it’s fear, frustration, or doubt. We try to force our way through situations, hoping to get what we want.

But when you push on a pull door, you get stuck. You start thinking thoughts like, “I want this, but I can’t have it,” or “I want things to be different, but they’re not.”

When we operate from fear, we feel like we have to force things, make them happen, or settle for what we think we should do because everyone else is doing it.

But fear keeps the door shut. Love opens the door.

The Fear of Letting Go

Here’s where it gets tricky: letting go of fear feels like losing control, and we often fear the unknown. But if you just pull on the door instead of pushing, you’ll realize that you’ve had the power all along.

When we operate from fear, we ask questions like:

What if I mess up?
What if I lose something?
What if I fail?

But the truth is, fear makes us think we’ll lose something, and we’ll have to accept something we don’t want. In reality, what’s on the other side of the door is better than you could imagine. Love opens the door, and it opens you up to opportunities you never thought possible.

Love Opens the Door

Love is the opposite of fear. When we love ourselves, we trust the process, we trust God, and we allow things to unfold naturally. When you let go of the resistance, the door opens effortlessly.

For example, think of a time when you were pushing hard for something, trying to control the outcome. Maybe it was a relationship or a career move. You were holding on too tightly. But when you let go and just allowed things to happen, they started to flow.

Releasing Control

A fear-based mindset says:

If I push harder, I’ll get it.
If I just try harder, everything will work out.

But it doesn’t. It’s exhausting. Eventually, you’ll step back and realize that the easiest way is to let go, breathe, and trust. You have the ability to take action in love and clarity, not fear.

The Story of My Financial Struggles

I remember a time when my family faced financial hardship. We were living paycheck to paycheck, struggling to make ends meet, and I had this overwhelming fear that we’d be homeless. I resisted it, I fought it, and all I did was create more stress and anxiety.

One day, I reached my breaking point. I went out into the woods and yelled at God, “Just do it already, make us homeless. Stop teasing us with this fear!” And guess what happened? I let go. That moment of releasing fear was the exact moment when everything started to change.

I finally found a job, and it wasn’t glamorous or what I expected. But it opened doors to even better opportunities. What I thought was the worst-case scenario turned out to be a stepping stone to something better.

Stop Worrying About What You Might Lose

Fear tells you that you’ll lose something if you take action, but you won’t. You’ll gain what you need. You’ll gain clarity, confidence, and a sense of alignment with your true purpose.

The door you’re pushing on is only closed because you’re not letting go. The moment you pull, you’ll find the way. It’s like that jar lid you can’t open. You try, try, try, and then you realize you were twisting the wrong way. When you let go and try a different approach, it opens effortlessly.

Embrace Change

You can’t control everything. You can’t force the outcome, but you can trust the process. Welcome the change, and do what feels aligned with you. The moment you stop fearing change and start embracing it, your life starts to flow.

You don’t have to have it all figured out right now. You just need to start pulling instead of pushing.

Final Thoughts: Let Go of Fear, Let Love In

Love is what will open the door for you. Love gives way to what is, and it removes resistance.

When you’re pushing on the pull door, you’re fighting yourself, your dreams, and your happiness. Let go. Stop worrying and trust that the door is already open for you.

Trust yourself, trust the process, and trust the love that’s guiding you to where you need to be.

The door is open. It’s time to walk through it.

Takeaway : You’re not here to control everything or force the door open. You’re here to pull. Let go of fear, operate from love, and watch the doors to your life open effortlessly. Don’t push, just pull.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#28 Overcoming Powerlessness

Sat, 11 May 2024 03:31:18 GMT

Blog Post #28

Overcoming Powerlessness

Understanding Powerlessness

When we talk about feeling powerless, we’re talking about stagnation. If we simply discuss it without action, nothing will change. So, let’s make something new happen today!

When you’re feeling powerless, how do you know? Are you being sarcastic, passive-aggressive, or shutting down? Do you start thinking of ways to control or manipulate the situation, perhaps out of frustration?

You’re not alone—we all do this at some point. It can look like sticking out your foot to trip someone or hiding a piece of paper just to make them feel as frustrated as you do.

Powerlessness is often rooted in childhood memories. Ask yourself: who made you feel powerless? What’s that one memory where powerlessness first became embedded in your mind?

For me I remember a moment in fifth grade when we had the "sex talk" in school. I asked an innocent question—"Do you have to go to the hospital to get pregnant?" The teacher burst out laughing, and from that moment on, I stopped asking questions. Powerlessness felt like silence, like my voice didn’t matter. This one moment led to years of suppressing my voice.

The Roots of Powerlessness

Powerlessness often begins in childhood. Maybe you felt that way when you couldn’t get your needs met. I know I did as a baby when my parents couldn’t care for me properly. Being unable to have your needs met—whether it’s love, validation, or basic care—instills a sense of powerlessness.

As we grow, we learn that powerlessness comes from within. If we’re relying on others to fill our emotional voids, we're inadvertently giving away our power. This doesn’t make us weak, but it keeps us stuck.

How to Overcome Powerlessness

To overcome feelings of powerlessness, we must take action. We must start by asking better questions:

What do I need right now?
What can I do to meet those needs?
What’s missing from my life?

Ask yourself: Do you need silence to work effectively? A hug? Support? Are you taking responsibility for meeting these needs, or are you relying on others to do it for you?

The Role of Courage

Courage is the antidote to powerlessness. Courage to think about your needs. Courage to ask for what you need. Courage to take personal responsibility for your life.

It’s also about recognizing that it’s okay to ask for help, but it’s not someone else’s responsibility to fill those needs for you. That’s where the real empowerment lies—taking responsibility for your emotional growth and starting to meet your own needs.

Don’t Apologize for Your Needs

We often apologize when we ask for what we need, as if we’re taking up too much space. Stop apologizing. You don’t need to justify your needs. You deserve to be heard, seen, and supported. You deserve to ask for what you need without guilt.

Journal about what you think is holding you back. What is it? Write down the answers. When you do, you'll realize that you have the power to change.

Moving Beyond Conditioning

Much of our sense of powerlessness stems from childhood conditioning. If you grew up in an environment where your needs weren’t met, it can be tough to recognize that you have the power to change.

But the key is asking better questions:

Why do I feel like I can’t ask for what I need?
Why do I think I don’t deserve to be seen or heard?
What is holding me back from accomplishing the things I desire?

Once you start asking the right questions, you’ll begin to see the answers .

The Role of Environment

It’s important to surround yourself with people who respect your needs and are capable of meeting them . Don’t waste time with people who dismiss you or make you feel less than. Seek people who are emotionally available —people who can listen and engage without judgment.

Personal Responsibility

Take personal responsibility for your growth. If you want a different life, you have to create it. You can’t wait for others to change; change starts with you.

When you own your power, everything around you changes. Your interactions with others, your relationships, and your energy—all shift.

Power of Perspective

As you do this work, you might find that some people fall away. It’s okay. When people aren’t willing to meet your needs or respect your boundaries, it’s not rejection—it’s a gift. It’s a gift because it opens space for people who will love and support you.

Final Thoughts: Reclaim Your Power

At the end of the day, you are in charge of your life. The key to overcoming powerlessness is to recognize that you have the power to make changes. You have the ability to ask for what you need and take responsibility for your own emotional growth.

Remember, your personal power lies within you. Take responsibility, set boundaries, and ask better questions. You can overcome feelings of powerlessness by taking small, consistent steps toward owning your life and shaping your future.

Takeaway : You are in charge . Powerlessness only exists when you choose not to act.

Start today by asking yourself better questions, taking responsibility, and permitting yourself to meet your own needs. You don’t need anyone else to do it for you. This is your time.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#traumaandsomatics #emotionalregulation #somatic #confidence #confidencebuilding #confidentcommunication #nervoussystemhealing #overwhelmed #exhausted #restless #nervoussystemhealing #overwhelmed #exhausted #restless

#27 Your Q&A with God - Asking and Receiving

Sat, 11 May 2024 03:31:17 GMT

Blog Post #27

Your Q&A with God -

Asking and Receiving

Today, I want to talk about your Q&A with God —not mine, but yours. Have you asked God for something lately? And more importantly, are you getting the answers?

If you have a question, there’s an answer. If you don’t have a question, there’s no answer.

The question is: What are you deliberately doing to get the answer ? And are you open to receiving it?

Worry vs. Asking for Answers

Let’s first look at worry. Worry is the antithesis of getting answers. Are you a worrier?

I was raised by a worrier, and I used to wonder what in the world she was worrying about. Worry often stems from things that haven’t happened yet—your brain creating problems before they even arise.

Worry doesn’t change anything. If you want a different experience, you’ve got to do something different. Faith without works is dead—and faith starts with asking. You need to ask someone with more power than you. For me, that’s God. What do you want? What outcome are you seeking?

Here’s the key: The outcome is never about other people. It’s about how you want to feel.

A Personal Example

My mom used to worry constantly about finances. She came from the Great Depression, and it shaped her reality. She would act like there was never enough, and I would find myself adopting that fear, believing there wouldn’t be enough.

But worry didn’t solve anything. What we often fail to realize is that the worry isn’t about the problem; it’s about the way we feel about it.

Creating a System for Receiving Answers

I have a method for receiving answers, and it didn’t happen overnight. At first, it came naturally, but when I became more aware, my busy mind started getting in the way.

When you become curious and ask, the answer often comes immediately .

Here’s how I do it: When I ask, I do it in two ways:

I ask in a clear way— What do I want, and what do I expect?
I ask, “ What do you think I should do? ”

When I’m writing, creating, or seeking guidance, I ask for my spirit guide or the creative spirit to help me. And the answers come through impulses—those little nudges, those thoughts that come when I’m not overthinking it.

Recognizing the Difference Between Procrastination and Guidance

A big question I have is: Is this an impulse, or am I procrastinating?

For example, when I’m in the kitchen looking for something, I’ll get distracted and think about a different task, like wanting to listen to Christmas music.

But then, bam, I’ll get the impulse to check the drawer where I keep my speaker. In that drawer, I found what I was looking for—the charger for my blender.

It’s funny how we’ll think we’re procrastinating when, in reality, we’re being guided. The key is being open to receiving that guidance and acting on it.

Ask and Receive – The Nanosecond of Answers

When you ask, the answers come immediately. It’s not always going to be a massive, life-changing answer; sometimes it’s a feeling of peace or a simple thought.

For instance, one day I asked for guidance before I recorded this podcast. The question was simple: “What should I talk about today?” Almost immediately, I had the idea for this very episode. It was a nanosecond of inspiration.

That’s how answers work. If you’re asking from the heart and open to receiving, you’ll get them almost instantaneously.

The Power of Trust

You’ve probably experienced it yourself—sometimes, we pray and ask, but the answers don’t feel as clear as we’d like.

Doubt often sneaks in. But doubt isn’t from God; doubt is just a misperception that you won’t get what you’ve asked for.

If you’re not receiving answers, ask yourself: Are you open to receiving them?

For me, there was a time when I was praying for my father before his surgery. The answer I received was, “It’s going to be okay.” I took comfort in that answer. But after the surgery, my father passed away. I was furious. Why did God say it would be okay if it weren’t?

The next thought came immediately: “It was my timing. It was God’s plan.”

That moment taught me a crucial lesson: sometimes the answers are given in time , not all at once. The key is trusting God’s timing , not our own.

Practical Steps to Connect with God

Ask : When you’re looking for guidance, don’t hesitate. Ask . Whether it’s a big question or a small one, ask God for what you need.
Listen : When you ask, be ready to receive. Listen for the impulse , the feeling , or the idea that follows.
Trust : Trust that when you ask, the answers come. Don’t doubt. You’re worthy of receiving the answers you seek.
Take Action : Often, the answers come as small nudges . When you get an impulse, act on it —even if it feels like procrastination. The more you trust and follow these impulses, the more guidance you’ll receive.

The Manifestation Process

Asking and receiving isn’t just a spiritual exercise—it’s also tied to manifestation. You’re putting energy into the universe, and when you’re in alignment with that energy, things shift. But manifestation works best when you’re open to receiving what you ask for.

Final Thoughts: Trust the Process

You’ll be amazed at how quickly the answers come if you honestly ask and listen. And when you stop doubting, the doors to your answers open wide.

Remember, God knows you better than you know yourself. He knows the questions before you ask them. When you ask with an open heart, you’re going to receive precisely what you need, right when you need it.

So, let go of the doubt. Ask, listen, trust, and receive. You are worthy of the answers.

Takeaway : Asking and receiving go hand in hand.

When you ask for answers, be prepared to receive them . Trust that the guidance you need will come to you in a nanosecond, as long as you stay open to it. Keep asking, keep receiving, and trust the process.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#somatic #somaticpractice #nervoussystemregulation #nervoussysemhealing #nervoussystemhealth #traumainformed #emotion #traumaandsomatics #emotionalregulation #somatic #confidence #confidencebuilding #stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief

#26 Emotional Shoplifting- Keep Burning Bright

Sat, 11 May 2024 03:31:15 GMT

Blog Post #26

Emotional Shoplifting-

Keep Burning Bright

Today, let’s talk about something that’s been a big theme in my life: emotional shoplifting . And let me tell you, it’s a heartfelt, challenging topic.

I feel it ties deeply to unbelief. There’s a scripture in Mark 9:24 that says, “Lord, I believe; help thou my unbelief.” That speaks to me on a profound level. I think those dark corners in us—those places where unbelief lingers—are begging for light. They crave attention. And when we shine light in those corners, we transform.

So, let’s unpack emotional shoplifting. At its core, it’s rooted in a lack of belief. It’s a lack of belief in your inherent worth, in how loved and valued you are. We spend so much time seeking validation from others, trying to feel seen, loved, and accepted by the people around us. But guess what? This only leads to profound loneliness. You can be surrounded by people and still feel completely alone.

The Cycle of Giving to Get

In Blog 9, I touched on giving to get. That’s exactly what emotional shoplifting is—giving away parts of yourself, expecting to get something in return to fill the emotional void. It stems from childhood wounds, often from emotionally immature parents who couldn’t provide us with the love we craved. We were left trying to earn love, constantly seeking reassurance, trying to prove ourselves worthy.

I’ve been there. I would give and give and give, hoping it would make me feel fulfilled, hoping someone would finally show me that I matter, that I belong. But when you give and give to fill that void, you realize something crucial: you cannot fill that void with someone else’s validation. You can’t keep draining others’ emotional reserves and expect them to pour into your empty basket. It doesn’t work.

Breaking the Pattern of Shoplifting

Here’s the kicker: you are already loved. You belong. You don’t need to earn it. We all have the same intrinsic worth. But emotional shoplifting happens when you don’t believe this to be true about yourself. When you don’t recognize that love starts with you and radiates outward.

Let me get real here: it’s not anyone else’s job to tell you that you’re good enough. It’s your job. You are the one who needs to tell yourself how amazing you are. If you’re waiting for someone else to give you that reassurance, it’s never going to be enough. You’ll keep finding yourself empty.

The Codependency Trap

There was a time in my life when I thought, if I just show my mother how good I am at being a mom, maybe she’ll finally see me, maybe she’ll finally acknowledge my worth.

But that was my codependency talking. I thought if I showed her how much love and effort I was pouring into my kids, she would finally recognize me. But it didn’t work. I was trying to get something from her that she couldn’t give. It wasn’t that she didn’t love me—it was that she didn’t know how to express it.

I was chasing something that wasn’t being offered. And the truth is, I was emotionally shoplifting from her, hoping she would validate my worth. But that wasn’t her responsibility, and it wasn’t mine either. That was a game I had to stop playing.

Why You Should Stop Efforting

Where are you emotionally efforting in your life? Trying to prove your worth to someone who isn’t going to acknowledge it? Are you over-giving and expecting something in return? It could be from someone who just doesn’t have the capacity to offer it. They’re too caught up in their own struggles.

I used to do this with my mom—putting all my energy into making her see me, hoping she’d validate me. But it only left me feeling empty. Emotional shoplifting only drains you. It doesn’t give. When you give with expectations, you’re taking from yourself and not allowing true emotional reciprocity.

The Turning Point

When I started healing from this, I had to accept that I am already whole. I am already worthy. It was when I stopped seeking validation from others and started validating myself that I felt truly fulfilled. I learned to fill my own emotional cup.

You know what I did? I started loving myself the way I always hoped someone else would. I gave myself permission to be loved, to be seen, and to belong—without needing anyone to provide that for me. I became the source of my own emotional security.

Love as the Antidote

So, here’s the antidote for emotional shoplifting: assume you belong. Assume you are loved—deeply, fully, intimately. And you don’t need anyone else to prove that to you. You’re already whole.

When I took the responsibility for my emotional needs, I stopped emotionally shoplifting. I stopped needing to force love or recognition from others. And guess what? I became a much more whole person, and the love I gave was pure, without needing anything in return.

The Key to Real Healing

Emotional shoplifting isn’t about what others can give you. It’s about realizing that you are enough. It’s about knowing that you belong, not because someone else told you, but because you know it. When you heal the wounds that make you feel unloved, you stop trying to get what’s not being offered and start giving from a place of self-love.

What happens when you do that? Your light gets brighter. Your worth becomes so evident to you that you no longer seek validation from anyone else. You radiate love, and that love will naturally fill you up, without trying.

Takeaway

Stop emotionally shoplifting. Stop giving and expecting something in return. Give because you want to, and allow the love and belonging to come from within you.

When you own your worth, you’ll naturally attract the love and relationships you’ve always desired. Let go of the need to earn love and just be loved, starting with yourself.

Let your light shine and keep burning bright.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#traumaandsomatics #emotionalregulation #somatic #confidence #nervoussystemhealing #overwhelmed #exhausted #restless #stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing #sympatheticnervousystem #rest #relaxation #overstimulated

#25 Stop Hiding Parts of Yourself

Sat, 11 May 2024 03:31:13 GMT

Blog Post #25

Stop Hiding Parts of Yourself

The Weight of Shame

You know, for years I carried a deep-seated feeling of shame. I didn’t realize it at the time, but shame was a heavy, hidden companion. For me, and many of us, shame shows up most when we are around emotionally unhealthy people—those who manipulate, over-manage, or control us, leaving us feeling less-than. The truth is, there’s no shame in having had a difficult childhood, no shame in facing trauma, and no shame in acknowledging those parts of us.

I want to make this clear: you are not a victim of your past. I’ve had my struggles, sure, but they’ve led me to become who I am today. It’s my work to figure out how to navigate them. But here's the thing—I no longer want to hide those parts of me. I want to be open about my story, to be free from the shame that used to keep me silent.

The Need for Boundaries

I’ve learned that we only need boundaries when we’re around people who are emotionally unhealthy. These boundaries protect us from taking on the negative emotions of others, emotions that belong to them, not us. As children, many of us were trained to believe we had to manage the emotional well-being of those around us. And that’s how we became people-pleasers, codependents, always sacrificing our needs to make others happy.

But the truth is: you are not responsible for anyone’s happiness. You cannot be the sole source of someone else’s joy or contentment. Changing who you are to make someone else feel better will always deprive you of the life you were meant to live. You lose yourself in that dynamic.

The Damage of Hiding

When we hide our true selves, we lose something important. We hold parts of ourselves back because we’re worried about how others might react, what they might think of us. We allow their emotional immaturity to dictate how we show up in the world.

But here's the thing: When you hide, you miss out on living authentically. You hold space for other people’s disapproval and let it control you. When you start hiding, you’re essentially withholding your life force, your energy, and your gifts. You hold back from experiencing true joy because you’re so focused on making sure everyone around you is happy. But this is an impossible task, and it’s a never-ending cycle.

Breaking the Cycle

I want you to understand something: When we hide, we lose. But when we stop hiding, when we let go of the need to please others, we begin to live authentically. We can start making choices from a place of self-respect, self-love, and self-acceptance.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve had to learn is that I am not responsible for other people’s happiness. Once I stopped taking on that burden, I found a sense of freedom.

Self-expression is key to breaking this cycle. I get to be who I am without having to adjust myself to fit someone else’s needs or expectations.

A Personal Story of Hiding

Let me share a personal story with you. When I was growing up, I was constantly kept busy. My mom, emotionally disconnected due to her own struggles, often had me do chores or tasks to keep me out of her way. She had a scarcity mindset, a deep fear of not having enough, and that shaped how she treated us. She hid food from us, thinking that if she didn’t hide things, we would waste them.

This behavior wasn’t about us—it was about her own unresolved trauma. But it created a pattern where I started hiding things, too. I hid what I needed, what I wanted, and what I felt—because I didn’t want to be judged, criticized, or made to feel like I was wrong for having needs.

As an adult, I carried this into my own life. If I wanted to indulge, I would hide it from others. If I wanted to do something for myself, I’d feel guilty about it, like I didn’t have the right to enjoy downtime. I would do things I didn’t want to do, and hide the things I really needed or wanted for myself. That’s a trauma response.

Healing by Stopping the Hiding

But here’s the good news: healing starts when we stop hiding . We begin to express ourselves fully, without shame or fear. I had a moment recently when my husband walked in on me watching TV during the day. In the past, I would’ve hidden it, turning off the TV and pretending like I wasn’t enjoying my time. But this time, I welcomed him in, shared my joy with him, and laughed with him. It was small, but it was powerful.

By allowing ourselves to be fully present, we remove the mask. We stop hiding from the world, from ourselves, and from the people we love.

Creating a New Narrative

As I’ve learned, it’s not about being perfect—it’s about being real. I’ve realized that true healing comes from accepting myself and acknowledging my needs, even if it means disappointing others. We all have needs—emotional, physical, spiritual, and they deserve to be honored, not hidden.

The key is to let go of the fear of judgment. When I stop hiding, I start living more fully, and so do you. You are worthy of expressing yourself authentically, without worrying about how others will react. This is your life to live.

Takeaway

Here’s my challenge for you : Stop hiding. Take off the mask. Express yourself in the world with authenticity and confidence. Don’t worry about whether others will approve.

You are already enough . You have nothing to hide. When you stop hiding, you start healing.

And when you do this—when you let your light shine—you’ll find that the people who are meant to be in your life will be drawn to your truth.

If you'd like to explore this further or need assistance with breaking free from hiding, please email me at teresafordcoaching@gmail.com. Let’s take this journey together, and express our authentic selves!

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#traumahealingjourney #traumaandsomatics #emotionalregulation #somatic #confidence #confidencebuilding #meaningfuldialogue #confidentcommunication #nervoussystemhealth #traumainformed #emotion #traumainformed

#24 Express Yourself with Confidence

Sat, 11 May 2024 03:31:10 GMT

Blog Post #24

Express Yourself with Confidence

The Struggle to Start Fresh

It’s mid-January 2022, and if you’re like me, you may have taken your time getting into the new year. Many of us, when facing grief or uncertainty, find it difficult to embrace the newness of a new year. The world feels heavy, and the noise in our lives can become overwhelming.

I had this conversation with someone recently, reminding them that it’s just a Saturday, and it’s not the rest of their life. This little comment was meant to help them see that, even though things are hard right now, there’s always room for growth, change, and renewal.

Setting Priorities: Finding Your Theme

At the beginning of December, I sat down and asked myself, “What would my theme for this year be?” I decided I wanted to have just one theme that would keep me grounded and focused throughout the year.

In the process of uncovering what was holding me back, I realized that I still had a lingering fear of being ridiculed. Growing up, I was incredibly sensitive and struggled with the belief that if I spoke up, people might judge or ridicule me. But then the answer came to me: express yourself.

Expressing yourself is the key to freedom—freedom to say what’s on your heart and to be seen as you truly are.

Embracing Freedom Through Expression

Over the years, I’ve done extensive coaching work, and I've uncovered many deep-seated beliefs that've been holding me back. One of the most impactful realizations I’ve had is that my desire to be expressive had been stifled by the fear of being judged.

I’ve always been someone with a busy brain, and I’d often think that I couldn’t sit still to meditate or focus. But, in recent months, I’ve discovered that expression doesn’t have to follow the traditional rules we’ve been told. It’s not about following a protocol—it’s about being intentional with how we live, how we act, and most importantly, how we express ourselves.

In my meditation, the phrase that came to me was “Let the experience come to you.” This idea really resonated with me because so often, we try to force experiences or outcomes instead of allowing them to come naturally.

The Power of Doing It Now

When I was thinking about podcasting again, I realized I didn’t need to overthink it. I had been sitting on the idea for a while, but the key was just to take action. I turned on my computer, sat down in my pajamas, and started recording. I didn’t worry about being perfect, I just wanted to express myself—and that’s exactly what I did.

So often, we get in our own way by overthinking things, doubting our ability to express ourselves the way we want to. But the truth is, expression comes from action. It’s about moving past the fear and doing the thing you’re called to do.

The Desire to Be Understood

O ne of the underlying fears I had for so long was the fear of being misunderstood. Growing up, I wasn’t always heard or understood, and that need to be “validated” or “seen” stayed with me well into adulthood. But the truth is, it’s not anyone else’s job to understand us. It’s our job to understand ourselves and express who we are without worrying about whether others understand.

Expression is your gift. When you express yourself, you lift up others, and when you do that, you lift up yourself as well. But it’s important that we express ourselves authentically—not to control how others see us, but to be true to who we are.

Overcoming Resistance

If you’ve been resisting your creative or expressive self, I want to ask you: Where is the resistance coming from? Are you resisting exercise? Creativity? Speaking up? The act of resisting is what holds us back from fully expressing who we are.

I remember when I first started exercising after years of being too busy or unsure. It was hard to get started, but once I shifted my mindset, I realized that I could take small steps toward expressing myself through movement and self-care. It doesn’t have to be perfect—it just needs to be aligned with who you are.

The Power of Pre-Creation

When I was raising my kids, I found creative outlets in things like interior decorating. At the time, I couldn’t afford to redecorate my house, but I found joy in pre-creating—cutting out magazine pictures and creating vision boards for a future where I would have the space and resources to decorate as I dreamed.

Pre-creation is powerful because it lets you visualize what’s possible. It allows you to create in your mind before you can physically bring it to life.

Making Time for Self-Expression

In our busy lives, we can find pockets of time to express ourselves—whether it’s through journaling, meditating, creating, or simply being present with ourselves. Even 15 minutes a day can make a difference in helping you tune into your creative energy.

I remember when I wanted to exercise and felt like I didn’t have time. My solution was to be creative about my schedule. I moved dinner and bedtime earlier so I could get up at 5 AM and exercise. This was a form of creativity that helped me get closer to my goal of staying active and healthy.

Find Your Creative Expression

You don’t need fancy tools or equipment to start expressing yourself creatively. You don’t need a full art studio to create, or a successful blog to start blogging. Start with what you have. Your creativity is there within you—it just needs the freedom to flow.

If you’re trying to find ways to express yourself, start small. Whether it’s drawing, writing, creating, or simply having a meaningful conversation, express yourself in the moment.

Living Your Truth

You are here to create. We are all born to create—whether it’s art, ideas, businesses, relationships, or anything else. When you express yourself authentically, it frees you. It allows you to expand, grow, and evolve. But you can’t do that if you’re living with resistance.

Your expression is your gift. Don’t hold back from using it. Speak up, show up, and be the creator of your own life. When you do, the world around you will benefit too.

Final Thoughts

The year is just beginning, and it’s never too late to set an intention or theme for your life. Express yourself. It’s not just about what you say, but about how you live your truth. Every day is a chance to express who you truly are—don’t wait for tomorrow to start living the life you want.

Go out and express yourself today. And when you do, the gifts will come.

If you need more guidance or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can email me at teresafordcoaching@gmail.com. Let’s create, express, and grow together!

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#traumaandsomatics #emotionalregulation #somatic #confidence #nervoussystemhealing #overwhelmed #exhausted #restless #stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing #anxiety #anxietytips #depression #depressionsolutions

#23 Navigating Fear - How to Put Your Fear Brain to Rest

Sat, 11 May 2024 03:31:08 GMT

Blog Post #23

Navigating Fear -

How to Put Your Fear Brain to Rest

The Noise of the World vs. The Noise Within

In today’s world, the noise is everywhere. It's on the news, social media, and in the constant chatter about what everyone else is doing, thinking, and believing. Sometimes, the noise from the outside world is nothing compared to the noise inside our own minds . The constant questions, doubts, and what-ifs can feel paralyzing.

We ask ourselves:

“Did I make the right choice?”
“Am I doing the right thing?”
“Should I believe this or that?”
“What’s causing my fear right now?”

This fear often comes not just from external sources, but from within. It can be rooted in deep-seated beliefs and experiences that we haven’t fully processed or healed from. It shows up as doubts about our careers, relationships, or personal growth. We wonder if we’re truly capable or worthy of a better life.

Understanding Fear as a Fragmented Part of You

Fear is often a part of our fragmented self, an emotional response that stems from underdeveloped parts of us—the inner child or the part of us still holding onto past trauma. Let me break that down.

As children, we didn’t have the tools to handle adult situations. When we saw our parents arguing about money or dealing with major stress, we may have internalized that fear and believed it was our job to fix it. But, as children, we were underdeveloped and emotionally unequipped to manage such complexities.

When you're a kid and you're faced with stressful adult situations, you don’t have the emotional maturity to process it all. The fear, the uncertainty, the overwhelming emotions—they get trapped in a part of your brain that never fully develops. This is the fear that we are trying to navigate as adults.

The Impact of Early Life Conditioning

Much of the fear we experience as adults originates from childhood conditioning. If you grew up witnessing emotional turbulence or financial stress in your home, your fear brain might still be holding onto that. It creates patterns of insecurity, like the belief that love is conditional or that nothing will ever be enough.

For example, maybe you grew up in an environment where money was always tight, and you learned to be afraid of uncertainty and change. Maybe you saw your parents struggle with their relationship, and you internalized the belief that love is something you have to earn.

These experiences leave emotional imprints that stay with us. They feed the fear of abandonment or the fear of rejection, causing us to act in ways that don’t align with who we are now.

The Fear Cycle: How It Holds You Back

The most exhausting part about fear is its cycle. When you feel fear triggered, you’re often trying to manipulate or control a situation to avoid pain. That’s where the addiction to fear begins—you start reacting based on these old, underdeveloped beliefs.

For instance, I’ve had times when I was desperate for love and validation and would do whatever it took to feel accepted, even if it meant compromising myself. That was my fear brain talking—telling me that I wasn’t good enough on my own. I believed that if I didn’t try hard enough, I would be abandoned.

The fear of abandonment is tied to a deep-seated belief that we have to prove ourselves—to prove we are worthy of love, success, or even basic acceptance. This leads to codependency, where we seek approval from others, often sacrificing our own needs and well-being.

A Personal Story: Breaking the Cycle

I would like to share a personal story to illustrate how fear-driven decisions can impact our lives. In my first marriage, my husband and I struggled to connect emotionally. He had an avoidant attachment style, and I had an anxious attachment style. I was desperate for love and connection, while he was emotionally distant, unable to meet my needs.

One evening, in frustration, I confronted him, saying, “You love the kids more than you love me.” This comment triggered something deep inside me—a fear of not being loved, which I internalized from childhood. That was my fear brain talking, not my rational, mature self.

I wanted to be loved and validated, but I hadn’t done the internal work to love myself first. My fear of abandonment drove me to accept a relationship that wasn’t right for me, just to avoid being alone. The more I tried to get love from him, the more disconnected we became.

Fear Brain vs. Your True Self

When you’re in fear, you’re not listening to your true self. You’re listening to a part of you that is emotionally stuck, often in the past. It’s the fear brain, which thrives on uncertainty, not knowing, and the belief that love is something you need to chase and prove.

But the truth is, you are love, just as you were born. You do not need to chase love. You are already worthy of it.

The key to navigating fear is to separate the fearful voice from your true self. Your true self knows that love, success, and happiness are not contingent on others’ approval. You were born worthy of all of it.

How to Put Your Fear Brain to Rest

Recognize the Fear : When fear arises, pause and ask yourself: Who is talking? Is it the underdeveloped, fearful part of you that is still stuck in childhood? Or is it your mature, adult self who can navigate uncertainty with confidence?

Challenge the Fear : Ask yourself: Is this fear real? What evidence do I have that supports this fear? In many cases, the fear is based on past trauma or false beliefs that you’ve internalized. Challenge it by seeking the truth. Fear doesn’t want you to see the truth because it thrives on uncertainty.
Trust Your Intuition : Your true self is connected to a deeper wisdom. Trust your gut and know that you have the strength and wisdom to navigate life’s challenges. Your fear brain is not your true guide.
Shift Your Focus : When fear comes up, it’s easy to get stuck in negative thinking. Instead, shift your focus to what’s working and what you want . If fear is pulling you in one direction, deliberately choose to move in the opposite direction—toward alignment, toward love, toward what feels right .
Give Yourself Compassion : Healing from fear requires self-compassion . Don’t beat yourself up when fear arises. Acknowledge it and be kind to yourself. It’s okay to feel fear, but don’t let it control you.

The Power of Self-Awareness

Ultimately, self-awareness is the key to navigating fear. When you are aware of your fears, you can choose not to be governed by them. You can decide to trust your adult self, the one who has the tools, knowledge, and wisdom to face life’s challenges head-on.

Fear is a part of life, but it doesn’t have to control you. By identifying where it’s coming from, questioning its validity, and trusting yourself, you can begin to put your fear brain to rest and step into a life of confidence, peace, and alignment.

If you need guidance on how to proceed, please don't hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help. You can email me at teresafordcoaching@gmail.com.

Take care, and remember: You are already enough.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube . Happy listening! ��

#traumaandsomatics #emotionalregulation #somatic #confidence#nervoussystemhealing #overwhelmed #exhausted #restless #stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing #anxiety #anxietytips #depression #emotion #nervoussystemhealth

#22 Fear of Abandonment - An addiction you can conquer

Sat, 11 May 2024 03:30:59 GMT

Blog Post #22

Fear of Abandonment -

An Addiction You Can Conquer

The Fear of Abandonment: An Emotional Addiction

The fear of abandonment isn’t just an emotional hurdle—it can become an addiction. And when it’s a cycle of fear, it’s an addiction to a problem that doesn't actually exist .

For years, I had no clue what triggered me.

Now, at 56, I’m finally learning how to identify the triggers and catch myself in the act of being triggered. Let me tell you—there’s nothing more exhausting than the trauma cycle of abandonment. It’s mentally and emotionally draining. And for those of you who are walking this path, it can feel like you're spiraling with no way out.

The Immediate Trigger of Fear

When the fear of abandonment hits, it’s like a sudden shift. You go from feeling secure to feeling completely out of control. Love disappears, and everything that was certain feels uncertain. Faith and trust vanish. You immediately begin to grasp for something, anything, to stop the perceived threat of abandonment.

You start controlling people, situations, and outcomes to prevent the thing you fear most. This is where the addiction begins: using control and manipulation to keep abandonment at bay. But this is a false belief—it’s an illusion created by past emotional wounds.

The Root Cause: Early Life Conditioning

This addiction to the fear of abandonment likely started when you were very young. Before you had the emotional tools to process what was happening around you, you experienced emotional neglect or abandonment, even if you couldn’t name it then. Maybe it wasn’t physical abandonment, but emotional unavailability that left you feeling invisible or unloved.

As children, we don’t know how to process our parents’ emotions. So, if our caregivers were upset, angry, or distant, we internalized it. We thought it was our fault. We believed that we were the problem, and if we could just fix it—if we could make them happy—then everything would be okay.

This trauma from early childhood sets the stage for the fear of abandonment to become an overwhelming part of our lives. We internalize the belief that we have to do everything to be loved and validated by others.

Emotional Incest: Role Reversal in Childhood

Sometimes, this fear stems from emotional incest, where children are expected to take on adult responsibilities. If you had a parent who was emotionally immature or incapable of meeting your needs, you may have been forced to step into an adult role, acting as the emotional caretaker for your parents or siblings. This leads to deep-seated feelings that you must always keep others happy, even at the expense of your own well-being.

In situations like this, it’s common to carry a belief that you are responsible for others’ happiness. As an adult, you may still be trying to fix everyone around you, believing that if you don’t, you will be abandoned, rejected, or unloved.

The Cycle of Fear and Control

This fear of abandonment leads to controlling behaviors. In relationships, you might find yourself over-accommodating, doing whatever it takes to make the other person happy, even if it means losing yourself in the process.

The cycle goes like this: you fear abandonment, so you manipulate situations to keep people close. But the more you try to hold on, the more they pull away because you're coming from a place of fear, not love. This creates an emotional rollercoaster, and you start to feel like you’re on a hamster wheel of disappointment, frustration, and emotional exhaustion.

Breaking the Addiction

Breaking this addiction starts with recognizing that the fear of abandonment is not based in reality. It’s based on old emotional conditioning that no longer serves you. To begin the healing process, here are a few key steps:

Sit with Yourself: Begin by getting quiet. When I was struggling with this fear, I had to sit down in the stillness of my home and acknowledge the overwhelming grief and pain I felt. This was my life, and it was unraveling—but it was also the point where I began to reclaim my life. Sitting with yourself, even in the discomfort, helps you realize that you are not going to die from your emotions. You can survive these feelings.
Cut the Clutter: Start by clearing the emotional clutter of your past. If you had a family dynamic where love was withheld or conditional, it’s time to let go of the idea that you need to earn love. You are already worthy of love just as you are. Stop believing the stories you were told as a child—that you’re not good enough or lovable enough. These are false beliefs. The truth is, you are worthy of love without having to prove anything.
Set Healthy Boundaries: As you start clearing the clutter, set boundaries—and this is a crucial part of healing. Boundaries are not about keeping people out; they’re about protecting your own emotional health. You need to give yourself permission to walk away from unhealthy relationships, and that includes family members who continue to perpetuate these old stories of unworthiness. Boundaries provide clarity and space for you to heal.
Self-Acceptance: You can’t overcome the fear of abandonment if you’re still in the habit of abandoning yourself. Stop looking to others for validation, and start validating yourself. Be your own source of love, support, and affirmation. Self-acceptance is the antidote to self-abandonment. When you start accepting and loving yourself, you’ll stop allowing others’ judgments or actions to control your emotional state.
Challenge the Fear: Finally, when the fear of abandonment hits, challenge it. Ask yourself: Is this fear real? What evidence do I have that supports the idea that I will be abandoned? Most of the time, the fear is based on past trauma, not current reality. The more you challenge your thoughts, the more you can begin to break free from the cycle of fear and control.

The Freedom of Self-Support

Here’s the truth: The fear of abandonment can be conquered. But it starts with you. You have to give yourself the self-support you’ve been seeking from others. You need to be your own emotional anchor.

This journey is about reclaiming your emotional health and saying no to the toxic cycles that have kept you stuck. You have the power to stop living in fear and start living in alignment with your true self—the self who is whole, lovable, and worthy, regardless of anyone else’s approval.

Conclusion: Freedom is Your Birthright

Once you start setting boundaries, challenging your fears, and embracing self-love, you will begin to break free from the addiction to fear and abandonment. You’ll stop trying to manipulate situations and relationships, and instead, you’ll align with your true worth. The fear will lose its grip, and you’ll experience true emotional freedom.

Remember, you are worthy of love and respect just as you are—and the only approval you need is your own.

If you’re struggling with this, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help . You can email me at teresafordcoaching@gmail.com .

Let’s break this cycle of fear and start living in true emotional freedom .

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing #nervoussysemhealing #nervoussystemhealth #traumainformed #emotion #nervoussystemhealing #overwhelmed #exhausted #restless #anxiety #anxietytips #depression #depressionsolutions

#7 Manifesting 101: You're already doing it!

Fri, 10 May 2024 04:29:46 GMT

Blog Post # 7

Manifesting 101: You're already doing it!

You Are a Magnificent Manifester

Are you ready for this? It’s going to blow your mind —because you are already manifesting all the time !

Congratulations! You are a magnificent manifester. You might not even realize how powerful you are, but trust me, you’re creating your reality every single day. Whether you love your current circumstances or feel stuck, everything in your life is a result of your thoughts, emotions, and energy.

Even if your bank account is empty or your love life isn’t where you want it to be, you manifested that. For better or for worse, we are always manifesting. The question is: Are you consciously manifesting what you want, or are you unconsciously manifesting what you don’t?

Let’s break this down so you can start using your manifesting power to your advantage.

Manifesting Is Simply Aligning with What You Want

Manifesting isn’t hard. It’s actually quite simple. It’s not about magic wands or hoping something appears out of thin air. It’s about alignment —lining up your thoughts, emotions, and actions with what you truly desire.

Let me give you a simple example of how you already know how to manifest:

The Grocery Store Analogy

Imagine it’s Friday morning, and you’re running low on groceries. You open the fridge, realize you need food, and decide to go to the grocery store.

You made a clear decision: I need groceries.
You aligned your actions with that decision: You grabbed your keys, got in the car, and drove to the store.
You took the necessary steps: You parked, went inside, picked out what you needed, checked out, and brought the groceries home.

TA-DA! You manifested groceries! ��

At no point did you stand in your living room wringing your hands, wondering how groceries would show up in your kitchen. You didn’t sit on the couch thinking, Maybe they’ll appear on my doorstep… No! You aligned with the goal and took action to receive what you asked for.

Manifesting anything works the exact same way. When you ask for something, the answer is always yes . The only thing standing between you and your goal is your alignment.

The Power of Alignment

Alignment means getting your thoughts, emotions, and actions in sync with your desire.

If you are excited, hopeful, and expectant, you are in alignment.
If you are doubtful, worried, or frustrated, you are out of alignment.

It’s that simple. The universe responds to your energy. If you believe something is possible, you naturally take inspired action to make it happen. But if you focus on not having it, you create resistance and block your manifestation.

Real-Life Manifesting: How I Manifested My Dream Home ��

Years ago, my family had one weekend to find a house before moving to a new city. I got super clear about what I wanted:

A cozy cottage ��
Hardwood floors ��
A big tree swing in the backyard ��
A neighborhood where my kids could safely play ��
Walking distance to school and church ⛪

I didn’t just hope—I expected it to exist. I aligned my energy with the vision. But by Saturday night, after looking at homes that didn’t fit, I was discouraged.

Then I realized: I was blocking my manifestation with doubt.

So I let go of resistance. The next morning, I opened the newspaper and saw a newly listed open house—on Pine Street! We drove over, and the moment we arrived, I knew it was the one. It had everything I had envisioned, down to the yellow walls and the alleyway in the back!

We made an offer on the spot, and it was accepted immediately. That’s the power of alignment !

How to Manifest Anything You Want

1. Get Clear on Your Desire

Write down what you really want. Be specific. The more clarity you have, the easier it is to align with it.

2. Check Your Energy

How do you feel about your goal? If you feel doubt, shift your focus to excitement. Remember, alignment is all about feeling good about your desire.

3. Take Inspired Action

Manifesting isn’t just thinking—it’s doing . Take the next logical step toward your goal, just like going to the grocery store for food.

4. Let Go of Resistance

Stop overthinking. Stop doubting. Stop standing in your metaphorical living room worrying about how it will happen. Just trust and move .

5. Trust the Process

Everything you’ve ever manifested—both good and bad—came because you aligned with it. So align with the good stuff on purpose!

The Key to Effortless Manifestation

Here’s the secret: Manifesting is about energy, not effort.

When you feel good about something, you naturally attract it. ✨
When you stress about something, you push it away. ❌

The universe isn’t keeping anything from you. You are.

Your only job? Align with the life you want and expect it to show up.

Ready for More? Manifesting 102 is Coming Next!

In my next blog, I’ll share how I manifested my dream relationship—down to the exact qualities I desired in my husband.

Until then, start paying attention to how you’re already manifesting every day. What are you focusing on? Are you in alignment?

Because when you get excited about something, it has to come to you. That’s the law. ��

You are a powerful creator. Now go manifest something amazing!

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#manifesting, how to manifest #law of attraction #manifesting abundance #alignment #mindset shift #manifesting tips #personal growth #energy alignment #how to attract what you want #manifestation techniques #high-vibe living, subconscious mind

#21 Permission to be You 101

Thu, 09 May 2024 03:38:45 GMT

Blog Post #21

Permission to be You 101

Today's powerful topic: Permission to Be You . This is the foundational key to unlocking everything you want in life. When you give yourself permission to be 100% yourself , everything changes—your relationships, your success, your emotional well-being, and your connection with the world.

Why Permission to Be You is Vital

Sometimes, we feel the weight of the world telling us who we should be or what we should do. But the truth is, we cannot be anyone else. It sounds simple, but society has conditioned us to believe that we need to mold ourselves to fit into certain boxes. Growing up in my own home, it wasn’t okay to express anger or even be seen. I learned that my needs didn’t matter. I had to make myself invisible to be “good.”

For a long time, I was trapped in that conditioning. It took me years to realize that in order to thrive, I had to allow myself to be me, all of me. Not the version that tried to appease others, but the version that was unapologetically authentic. It’s only when you embrace who you are at your core that your true potential starts to shine.

The Struggle of Unseen Needs

When you're unseen, when your voice is unheard, it’s easy to fall into feelings of not mattering. That’s exactly how I felt for many years. But here's the thing— you matter . Your existence matters, your needs matter, and your voice matters. In order to step into the fullness of who you are, you have to take stock of who you are at your best, and yes, at your worst.

Take a moment—right now—grab a piece of paper and start your "Who Am I?" list. Write down who you are when you're at your best, when you're fully aligned with your true self. Do it honestly. Write about your generosity, your kindness, your humor, your intelligence, and your intuition. Now, write down how you are when you're at your worst. It’s okay to acknowledge that, too. But don’t stop there. Focus on your best qualities.

The “I Am” List

One of the most powerful things I’ve done for myself and my clients is to create an “I Am” list. At first, it can feel silly—like, how can you just say, “I am amazing”? But the truth is, you are! You have qualities, gifts, and strengths that you may not even fully recognize yet. Write down everything you are— and yes, be brave enough to believe it .

For example, I knew deep down that I was someone with limitless potential. I just hadn’t acknowledged it yet. I also knew I was a true enthusiast, full of optimism, energy, and light. Write down the qualities that resonate with your soul. If you find yourself writing down things you don’t quite believe yet, keep them on the list . With practice, they’ll become truths you live by.

Aligning with Your True Self

Next comes the crucial part: alignment . This is where the magic happens. When you align with the things on your list, life starts to flow effortlessly.

For example, I am a naturally enthusiastic person. But when I was raising my five kids, I fell out of alignment with that enthusiasm. I was too tired, too overwhelmed.

But then, I had a moment in a dressing room where I looked at myself in the mirror and realized something crucial: I wasn’t living in alignment with my true, enthusiastic self.

Instead of beating myself up, I chose a different path. I decided to be enthusiastic in spite of the challenges. Enthusiasm, to me, meant taking action, moving forward, and embracing the small wins. It meant waking up at 5 a.m., pulling on my workout clothes, and running—not because I had to, but because I chose to align with what felt good .

The Power of Choice

Here’s the deal: choosing yourself is the most powerful thing you can do. It’s not about impressing others or doing what society tells you is the “right” thing. It’s about doing what resonates with your true, authentic self. If you don’t feel aligned, you’re not being you, and that will always cause internal conflict.

When I decided to align with my enthusiasm, even on my most tired days, I found joy in the process. And I saw real results—not just physically, but emotionally and mentally.

I was living in alignment with who I truly am, and it made all the difference. That’s why I lost eight dress sizes in six months—not because I was punishing myself with diets or endless workouts, but because I was living as my authentic self.

Removing Resistance

Now, let’s talk about resistance . Resistance shows up when you’re not in alignment with who you are. For me, resistance used to look like emotional eating and procrastination. I would overeat or waste time because I didn’t feel worthy of change. But here’s the kicker: when I started to align with my true self, I stopped resisting. I found new ways to work with my body, my emotions, and my energy, without forcing anything.

If you catch yourself resisting, ask yourself: What’s going on? What’s causing you to feel out of alignment? Sometimes, it’s fear. Other times, it’s a deep-rooted belief that you don’t deserve the best. But you do. You have to start living from a place of belief and self-love.

The Road to Permission

You’re not going to be able to fully step into who you are until you give yourself permission to be you. Nobody else can grant that permission. Not your parents, not your spouse, not your boss—only you. You need to give yourself permission to be authentic, to make mistakes, to have flaws, and to live fully.

When you do, you’ll stop seeking external validation. You’ll stop questioning your worth based on others’ opinions. You’ll just be you, and that’s the most powerful thing you can be.

Final Thoughts

So, I leave you with this: Give yourself permission to be fully you. No more hiding, no more pretending. Embrace your quirks, your passions, your strengths, and yes, even your weaknesses. They are all a part of your beautiful, authentic self.

Take time to align with your true identity. It’s the only way to unlock your full potential and step into a life that feels fulfilling and true to who you are.

If you're unsure about where to begin, I’m here to support you. You can always email me at teresafordcoaching@gmail.com for guidance.

Now, go ahead— give yourself permission to be YOU! Take action. The world needs you. And the best version of you is waiting to show up.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#20 Turning Fear into Faith

Thu, 09 May 2024 03:35:48 GMT

Blog Post #20

Turning Fear into Faith

Today’s topic is all about fear, specifically how to turn fear into faith.

Fear is something that all of us experience. No one gets through life without facing it at some point. It’s the fear of uncertainty, the fear of things we can’t control, and the fear of how others will perceive us. Fear can also be seen in our everyday life—the fear that we won’t get everything done, that we’ll fall short of someone’s expectations, or that we’ll be misunderstood.

But here's the thing: fear is a normal, human response. It's our brain’s way of trying to keep us safe. It’s on the lookout for danger, kind of like a watchtower trying to spot the lion that’s about to attack. But, guess what? That lion is usually more metaphorical than actual. In most cases, the fear we feel is connected to something that hasn’t even happened yet.

Fear: A Sign of Misalignment

Fear is a sign that we’re not in alignment with our true selves. At our core, we are beings of love, faith, and trust. So when fear arises, it’s often because we’re focusing on what might go wrong instead of trusting that everything will work out for the best.

Faith is the opposite of fear. Faith is the belief that no matter what challenges come your way, everything is unfolding in your favor. Faith is about trusting that even the difficult moments have purpose, and you are learning something valuable through every experience.

The Role of Contrast

Think about life for a moment: there must be contrast. There must be light and dark, highs and lows, success and failure. You cannot know peace without conflict, just like you can’t appreciate the good times without understanding the hard times. Fear arises when we resist this natural flow of life. When you let go of fear and allow faith to take the wheel, you begin to see that everything, even the hardships, has meaning.

Replacing Fear with Faith

Fear leads us to react in ways that don’t serve us: overeating, overworking, and engaging in unhealthy coping mechanisms. Fear is about lack. It’s about what you don't have or what you’re afraid of losing. But faith, on the other hand, opens up limitless possibilities. Faith is knowing that things will work out. Faith is about connecting with the abundant, loving energy that exists within us.

When we replace fear with faith, we are choosing to align with our higher self—the part of us that is always connected to love and light. Faith is where abundance lies, and with faith, we start to believe that anything is possible.

What Happens When You Choose Faith

When we choose faith over fear, we stop trying to control everything around us. We stop trying to change people, situations, or outcomes. Instead, we focus on aligning ourselves with love and trust. And that’s when we begin to see miracles unfold.

Fear is about control; faith is about surrender. When you surrender to the flow of life and trust that everything will unfold as it’s meant to, you create space for magic to happen. Faith allows you to stay grounded, even when everything around you feels chaotic.

Real-Life Example: How Faith Helps in the Face of Crisis

Let me give you a personal example. There was a time when my daughter called me at 3 a.m., saying that her house was burning down. It’s every parent’s worst nightmare. But in that moment, I didn’t panic. I didn’t try to control the situation. I responded from a place of calm and faith. I reassured her that everything would be okay.

Had I let fear take over, I would’ve spiraled into panic, trying to control something that was completely out of my hands. But by choosing faith, I was able to be there for her in the best possible way.

The Power of Faith in Everyday Life

So, how do we apply this in our daily lives? First, you must make the decision ahead of time that you will choose faith over fear. Whether you're about to speak in public, have an uncomfortable conversation, or step into an unknown situation, decide that you will respond from a place of trust and love, not fear.

Faith isn’t just about big, life-changing events; it’s about how you show up every day. It’s about trusting that your needs will be met, that you have the resources and strength to handle anything that comes your way.

Practical Steps to Strengthen Your Faith

Recognize Fear for What It Is: Fear is a normal reaction, but it’s not the truth. It’s just your mind trying to protect you.
Focus on What You Can Control: You can’t control others or the outcome of every situation, but you can control your response. Choose faith over fear.
Trust the Process: Everything is unfolding for your highest good, even if it doesn’t look like it in the moment.
Ground Yourself in Love: Every time you feel fear creeping in, connect with the love that is already inside you. Trust that you are supported and guided by a higher power.

Living in Alignment

When you live in alignment with your higher self, you operate from a place of abundance. You’re no longer focused on what you lack or what might go wrong. Instead, you are living in the present, trusting that you are supported, and allowing yourself to be guided by your inner wisdom.

Final Thoughts

Fear is not something to fear. It’s a signal that something in your life is out of alignment. Instead of letting fear control you, use it as an opportunity to align with your higher self and embrace the faith that everything will work out. When you live with faith, you are operating from a place of limitless possibility, and that’s where true peace and abundance reside.

Let go of fear and step into faith. When you do, you’ll see how much more you’re capable of and how much more life has to offer.

Now, it’s time to get living—faithfully and fearlessly!

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#traumaandsomatics #emotionalregulation #somatic #confidence #nervoussystemhealing #overwhelmed #exhausted #restless #stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing #anxiety #anxietytips #depression #traumahealingjourney

#19 FACING FEAR- Learning to Respond from Your Higher Self

Thu, 09 May 2024 03:35:10 GMT

Blog Post # 19

Facing Fear - Learning to Respond

From Your Higher Self

Understanding Fear and Control

Fear is an inevitable part of life. No one escapes it. We all experience fear, but the key is to learn how to respond to it, rather than let it dictate our actions.

When we feel out of control, we tend to take on the persona of "ControlZilla." This is when we get upset because others aren’t meeting our expectations, acting the way we think they should, or agreeing with us. This frustration leads to negative emotions like bitterness, anger, and resentment.

The problem here is that we are operating from a place of fear, and when we do that, we lose touch with our higher selves—the part of us that’s connected to love, peace, and clarity.

Why Do We Try to Control Outcomes?

Fear often leads us to try to control the outcomes of situations. Take the example of a friend who is worried about a family member. She’s not worried because that family member is doing something harmful, but because she’s afraid they might stumble into harm themselves. This fear leads her to try to control the situation by worrying, thinking that her worry will somehow prevent the bad thing from happening.

But here’s the truth: worry doesn’t control anything. It drains your energy and only serves to keep you stuck in a cycle of fear.

Choosing Love in the Face of Fear

When you’re faced with fear, you have a choice: You can choose to operate from your lower self, driven by fear, or you can choose to respond from your higher self, guided by love.

It may seem easier to choose fear at first, but the truth is that responding with love is the more powerful option. When you choose love, you are no longer trying to control the outcome; you’re choosing to trust the process and focus on what you can control—your own response.

Operating from Your Higher Self

Choosing to operate from your higher self means choosing to act with love, even when you’re afraid. This requires a deep level of self-awareness and emotional responsibility. It’s about realizing that the pain you’re feeling is not a call for control but an invitation to grow.

When you’re in fear, especially fear of rejection, judgment, or uncertainty, it’s easy to try to control everything around you. But in reality, it’s your own inner guidance that will show you the way forward. The more you trust your higher self and choose love over fear, the more you will feel at peace, even in difficult situations.

The Power of Setting Intentions

One of the most important steps in responding from your higher self is setting an intention ahead of time. When you anticipate fear or a challenging situation, decide in advance how you want to respond.

Ask yourself: Do I want to be controlled by fear, or do I want to choose love and clarity, even in this moment of uncertainty?

If you decide in advance that you will respond from a place of love, it’s much easier to follow through when fear arises. You’ll have a roadmap for your response, even when emotions are high.

Healing the Inner Child

Many times, our fear is tied to an inner child wound. If you’ve experienced fear in your childhood, whether from abandonment, judgment, or trauma, that wound may show up in your adult life as a fear of rejection, control, or feeling unworthy.

It’s essential to recognize that the wounded child within you is the part that feels scared, helpless, or small. And when you respond to fear with control or panic, you are reacting from that place of hurt.

Instead of allowing fear to control you, ask your inner child what they need. Reassure them that they are loved, valued, and safe. When you connect with your inner child, you can show up as your higher self—strong, calm, and loving—rather than reacting from fear and past wounds.

Shifting From Control to Acceptance

When we try to control outcomes, we are often avoiding pain. We believe that controlling others or a situation can help us avoid feeling hurt. But the truth is, trying to control only leads to more frustration and exhaustion. Instead, we must learn to accept that we can’t control everything, but we can always control our response.

Accepting the reality of a situation, whether it’s a family member’s behavior, an unexpected challenge, or an uncertainty about the future, allows us to stay grounded and respond from a place of inner peace. You don’t have to control; you just need to trust the process and respond with love.

The Importance of Self-Love and Self-Responsibility

In order to show up for others in times of fear, you must first show up for yourself. This means taking full responsibility for your emotions and understanding that you are the one who holds the power to shift your energy.

When you take responsibility for your fear, you don’t need anyone else to rescue you, fix things, or make you feel better. You become your own support system. By learning to meet your own needs with love, you create a solid foundation of peace that allows you to show up for others in a calm and loving way.

Trusting Yourself

The most important part of this work is learning to trust yourself. Fear often comes from a lack of trust—whether in yourself, in others, or in the universe. But when you choose to trust your higher self and your inner guidance, you begin to step into a life of empowerment, love, and peace.

As you go through life, remember: Fear is just an invitation to grow. Every time you face fear with love, you strengthen your connection to your higher self. You are not defined by fear; you are defined by how you respond to it.

Final Thoughts

Facing fear is not about avoiding it or controlling it. It’s about choosing to respond with love, clarity, and strength. When you make that choice, you are showing up as your higher self, and that is where true peace and empowerment lie.

Choose love over fear. Trust yourself. Embrace your worth. You are stronger and more capable than you realize. You’ve got this!

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#traumaandsomatics #emotionalregulation #overwhelmed #exhausted #restless stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing #anxiety #anxietytips #depression #nervoussystemhealth #traumainformed #emotion

#18 Understanding Your Thoughts - Make Your Beliefs Work For You

Thu, 09 May 2024 03:34:38 GMT

Blog Post #18

Understanding Your Thoughts -

Make Your Beliefs Work For You

In this blog, we're diving into the powerful connection between your thoughts and your beliefs, and how they can either work for you or against you. It's time to uncover how your beliefs were formed and how you can reshape them to create a life that aligns with your true desires, reducing stress and increasing your sense of fulfillment.

Triggering Events and Negative Emotions

Everything starts with a triggering event—a circumstance that produces negative emotion. Whether it's a disagreement, an interruption, or a situation where your needs aren’t met, the first step is to identify the event that triggered the emotional reaction. Often, it's not the event itself but the thought you have about it that determines your emotional response.

When we experience something that doesn’t make us feel good, we often attach our self-worth to it. If you think that being interrupted means you are not valued, then that belief starts to shape your emotional response. This can become a vicious cycle, especially if you continue to react negatively without realizing that your thoughts about the event are what’s really causing the stress.

Beliefs Are Habitual Thoughts

Beliefs are just habitual thoughts that have been formed over time. These beliefs often stem from our upbringing, our family, and our past experiences. For example, if you were taught that you can never measure up or you were always compared to others, those beliefs stick with you. Even if you consciously say, "I’ll never be like my mother," focusing on the fact that you don’t want to be like her keeps that belief alive. You end up repeating behaviors you dislike because you're focused on them.

Rewriting Your Thoughts and Beliefs

The key to making your beliefs work for you is to rewrite them. Start by identifying the triggering events that lead to negative thoughts and beliefs. Use sentences like, "I was fine until [this happened], and it made me feel [this way]." Recognizing your feelings in the moment helps you take a step back and reflect on what you’re really thinking about. This is where the power lies: when you can catch the thought, you can change it.

The Role of Unmet Needs

Unmet needs often lie at the root of negative emotions. If you feel unappreciated, unsupported, or unheard, those are needs that have gone unmet. We tend to place the responsibility for meeting these needs on others, but the truth is, it’s up to us to meet our own needs. Whether it’s the need for love, recognition, or simply time to recharge, you are the one who needs to take action to ensure those needs are met.

Letting Go of False Beliefs

Many of us hold on to false beliefs that limit our potential. For example, the belief that "people should always be nice, no matter what," is a false belief. You don’t get to control other people’s actions, and expecting them to meet your expectations can lead to disappointment. Instead, focus on meeting your own needs and creating your own boundaries to protect your well-being.

Turning Beliefs Around

To make your beliefs work for you, start by acknowledging the false beliefs that have been holding you back. Ask yourself: What beliefs do I have that are making me feel stuck? Once you identify them, turn them around into something positive. Instead of thinking, "I can never get it right," try, "I am learning and growing every day, and I am capable of achieving my goals."

Giving Yourself Permission to Meet Your Needs

One of the most transformative things you can do is give yourself permission to meet your own needs. Whether it’s taking time to rest, asking for help, or setting boundaries, you deserve to prioritize yourself. This is where the shift happens—when you stop waiting for others to give you permission to take care of yourself, you start to take charge of your own happiness.

Boundaries Are Key to Protecting Your Energy

Boundaries are not about keeping people out; they are about protecting your emotional energy. When you feel triggered, it’s often a sign that a boundary has been crossed. To protect yourself, get clear on your boundaries and communicate them. This will help you feel more in control and less at the mercy of others’ actions.

Shifting to Love-Based Beliefs

Ultimately, the goal is to shift from fear-driven beliefs to love-based beliefs. Fear creates resistance and negativity, while love creates alignment and peace. As you become more aware of your thoughts, you’ll realize that you can choose love over fear in every situation. This shift will allow you to experience greater peace, fulfillment, and joy.

Final Thoughts

The power to change your life starts with understanding your thoughts and beliefs. When you align them with love, self-respect, and self-care, everything else falls into place. You are the one who has the power to rewrite your story.

Remember: Your beliefs are not set in stone. You have the ability to make them work for you, to reduce stress, and to create the life you truly desire.

Take the time to reflect, reframe, and reshape your beliefs so that they support your growth and well-being. It’s your time to thrive!

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing #anxiety #anxietytips #depression #nervoussysemhealing #depressionsolutions#traumahealingjourney#storedtrauma#somaticpractice #nervoussystemregulation #traumainformed

#17 Love Misplaced - How to feel SO loved!

Thu, 09 May 2024 03:33:45 GMT

Blog Post #17

Love Misplaced - How to feel SO loved!

In this blog, we dive deep into the concept of misplaced love—looking for love in all the wrong places and aligning with external sources for validation. It’s a common struggle that many of us face, spending our energy in relationships, work, and external validation. But what happens when we neglect the most important relationship—the one with ourselves?

What Is Misplaced Love?

We all have relationships with different people—family, friends, colleagues, neighbors, and even our pets. But the biggest relationship that often gets overlooked is the one with ourselves. We constantly give love and energy to others, seeking validation, approval, and acknowledgment. But if we are not careful, we might end up giving away so much of ourselves that we feel drained and unfulfilled when love is not returned in the way we expect.

The problem arises when we attach our self-worth to how much love and attention we receive from others. If love is not reciprocated in the way we expect, we end up feeling rejected and abandoned, as if our love is wasted. The key is realizing that love, true love, starts from within.

The Star Trek Analogy: Standing in the Beam of Love

To illustrate this, think of the famous "Beam Me Up, Scotty" moment from Star Trek. Imagine standing in the beam of light that takes you back to the safety and love of your "home." If you're waiting for others to stand in the beam for you, it's a recipe for disappointment. You cannot rely on others to hold your light for you. You must stand in the beam yourself, aligned with your own love, knowing your worth, and trusting that others who are aligned with the same energy will join you.

Misplacing Love and Energy

Misplaced love can also manifest in the way we over-attach to people, things, and animals. The example of a woman whose love for her cat led to deep sadness when the cat left her serves as a perfect illustration. Her love was dependent on an external source, and once that source was gone, she felt lost and unworthy.

But here's the truth: You are love. You were created from love. You have the power to love yourself first, and then, naturally, love will flow into your life. Love isn’t something that comes from others or external circumstances. It comes from the source, from within.

The Importance of Self-Love and Understanding Your Worth

If you find yourself looking for validation or expecting others to fill your bucket of love, you’re relying on a limited source. You’re digging in the dirt for water when you could be drawing from an endless well. That well is your connection to your higher power, your true self, and the love that is available to you at all times.

Where Do You Get Your Love?

True love is abundant. It is limitless. If you constantly seek love externally, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment. But when you connect with your inner source, you begin to feel loved without needing others to validate it. You start to operate from a place of self-love, and when you give, you do so without expecting anything in return. Giving becomes an act of self-expression, not a transaction.

How to Avoid the Cycle of Misplaced Love

Check your sources : Are you seeking love and validation from people who are on the struggle bus themselves, trying to figure out their own worth? Stop relying on others to fill your bucket.
Reclaim your energy : Focus on building a relationship with yourself and your higher power. Stand in the beam of your own light. Trust that love will flow into your life when you are aligned with your true self.
Give freely : When you are full of love, give it away freely without expecting anything in return. Love is abundant, and it flows without depleting you. It’s the greatest work you can do.

Final Thoughts: Love Is an Inside Job

The ultimate lesson here is that love comes from within. It doesn’t depend on others or external sources. When you learn to fill your own cup, you will feel truly loved. So, stop searching for love in the wrong places. Be the love you seek. Go to the source—your higher power, your true self—and watch as love flows effortlessly into your life.

Let’s stop relying on others to give us the validation we crave. Instead, let’s stand in our own beam of light, connected to the source of endless love.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#nervoussystemregulation #nervoussysemhealing #traumainformed #emotion #overwhelmed #exhausted #restless #stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing #anxietytips #depression #depressionsolutions#traumahealingjourney

#16 Realigning your Misplaced Value - Doing the Inner Work

Thu, 09 May 2024 03:32:45 GMT

Blog Post #16

Realigning your Misplaced Value -

Doing the Inner Work

We often find ourselves placing value in the wrong places—seeking validation from external sources instead of understanding the true source of our worth. This journey has been about identifying what I truly value, and for a long time, it was about seeking attention, either negatively or positively.

What Are You Really Valuing?
In our early life, we learn about our self-worth based on the reactions of those around us, especially our parents. A mother’s smile, or lack thereof, becomes a measure of our value. In one psychological experiment, a baby’s smile is met with a blank face from the mother. The baby tries everything to elicit a reaction because that smile validates its existence. We do this as adults, too—we search for validation from others, especially from those we love, to feel good about ourselves.

Why Do We Misplace Our Value?
In my life, I worked so hard to earn my mother's smile, only to see it diminish over time due to the pain she carried. I placed my value on others' approval instead of on my own worth. We all do this, often believing that we need someone else’s recognition to feel valuable. We seek approval and feel unworthy if it's not given. But this reliance on external validation can create resentment and exhaustion.

Boundaries vs. Validation
When we place value in external validation, we often disregard our boundaries. The key to self-love and personal growth is learning to place value on ourselves, not based on the approval or actions of others. When you place your value externally, you lose sight of your true worth.

The Misplaced Search for Love and Validation
I learned that love is not something to earn from others; it’s inherent within us. As a child, if we didn’t receive the love and validation we needed, we were conditioned to seek it outside of ourselves. It’s no wonder that we grow into adults seeking love, not knowing how to truly love ourselves first. We may become emotionally exhausted trying to find this validation, but the truth is, we are the source of our own worth.

How to Shift Your Focus and Realign Your Value
It starts with shifting your focus inward. Realign your values to come from within. Ask yourself: Are you relying on others’ opinions to validate your worth? The answer lies in how you perceive yourself. It’s time to stop seeking external validation and start valuing yourself as you are. Remember, your value isn’t determined by others; it's something you embody.

Final Thoughts: Your Value Is Always Within You
Your true worth is not up for negotiation or external approval. It is constant, unwavering, and always present within you. You are loved, you are valuable, and you have always been enough. Let go of the need for others to validate you. Stand firm in your own worth, and watch how it transforms the relationships you have with others.

Focus on valuing yourself, because when you truly see your worth, it changes everything. And when you stand in your power, others will respect your boundaries, and the love you give will flow freely, without needing to be reciprocated.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#traumaandsomatics #emotionalregulation #nervoussystemregulation #nervoussystemhealing #overwhelmed #exhausted #restless stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #anxiety #anxietytips #depression #depressionsolutions

#15 Becoming a Cooperative Component in Your Own Life

Thu, 09 May 2024 03:30:57 GMT

Blog Post #15

Becoming a Cooperative Component

in Your Own Life

Are You Working With or Against Your Own Success?

Today, we're diving into an essential concept: Becoming a Cooperative Component in Your Own Life.

This is a game-changer. If you're struggling to achieve what you want, feeling stuck in repetitive patterns, or constantly battling against roadblocks, then this episode is for you.

Being a cooperative component in your own life means aligning with what you say you want instead of unintentionally working against it. It’s about getting out of your own way, letting go of self-imposed limitations, and fully stepping into the possibilities available to you.

Are You Arguing for Your Limitations?

Let’s start by considering this: Are you a cooperative component in your life, or are you arguing for your limitations?

Think of it this way: if you want to go north because it leads to a wonderful, peaceful, and fulfilling destination, but every time you get on the highway, you take the exit going south, what happens?

You don’t get where you want to go.
You feel frustrated because your reality doesn’t match your desires.
You keep repeating patterns that keep you stuck.

This happens when we constantly talk about why we can’t have what we want.

“I can’t find a loving relationship because I’ve been hurt before.”
“I can’t make more money because I don’t have enough experience.”
“I can’t change because this is just how life is.”

When you argue for your limitations, you make them true . Your thoughts become your reality. So, the key is to shift your mindset and become a cooperative component to the success, love, and joy you desire .

Recognizing the Absence of What You Want

Life is always giving us contrast —situations that show us what we don’t want so we can get clearer on what we do want.

The problem is, many of us spend our energy focusing on the absence of what we want instead of moving toward what we desire.

For example:

Instead of focusing on how you lack financial stability, start focusing on how you can create financial abundance.
Instead of obsessing over an unsatisfying relationship, shift your energy to attracting and becoming the kind of person who thrives in a loving relationship.
Instead of dwelling on feeling stuck in your career, start thinking about how you can develop skills, network, or find new opportunities.

When you focus on lack, frustration, or fear , you become a cooperative component to more lack, frustration, and fear .

When you focus on solutions, abundance, and possibility , you become a cooperative component to more solutions, abundance, and possibility.

Stop Repeating Old Stories

Your past does not have to define you. But if you constantly retell yourself a story of why things won’t work out , you will continue to experience that reality.

Many of us inherited limiting beliefs from our families. Maybe you grew up in a household where love was conditional, money was always scarce, or self-worth was based on external achievements. Without realizing it, we internalize these stories and live them out in our adult lives.

But here’s the truth:

You are lovable just as you are.
You are capable of creating financial security.
You are worthy of healthy relationships.
You are not stuck unless you choose to stay stuck.

When you stop arguing for your limitations, you can rewrite your story and step into your full potential.

How to Become a Cooperative Component

So, how do you shift from working against yourself to working for yourself?

1. Watch Your Language

Your words are powerful. Listen to how you speak about yourself and your life.

Are you constantly saying can’t, won’t, shouldn’t, wouldn’t, don’t ? These words create limitations. Instead, start using affirmative, expansive language.

Examples:

Instead of “I don’t have enough experience,” say “I am gaining new skills every day.”
Instead of “I can’t find a good relationship,” say “I am becoming the kind of person who attracts healthy love.”
Instead of “Money is always tight,” say “I am learning how to manage and attract wealth.”

2. Let Go of Control

Sometimes, we push so hard to make things happen that we actually block what we want from coming to us.

Stop forcing.
Stop micromanaging every step.
Stop trying to control the outcome.

Instead, trust that when you align with what you want and why you want it , the how, when, and where will work themselves out.

3. Shift from Resistance to Allowing

If something feels hard, frustrating, or impossible, you’re probably resisting instead of allowing.

Resistance sounds like:

“I’ll never get what I want.”
“Why is this so hard?”
“Nothing ever works out for me.”

Allowing sounds like:

“I trust that things are working out for me.”
“I am open to opportunities.”
“I don’t have to force this; I just have to align with it.”

4. Take Inspired Action

Being a cooperative component doesn’t mean sitting around doing nothing. It means taking aligned action that supports your desires.

Want better health? Start moving your body in ways that feel good.
Want more financial security? Learn about money management and look for opportunities.
Want a better relationship? Start showing up as the partner you’d like to attract.

You don’t have to have all the answers. You just have to start moving in the direction of what you want.

Final Thoughts: Step Into the Life You Deserve

You have another day —another chance to step into your best life. You are still here, breathing, and that means your journey is not over.

Becoming a cooperative component in your own life means:

Letting go of old, limiting beliefs.
Focusing on solutions, not problems.
Speaking in ways that empower you.
Trusting that life is working in your favor.
Taking small, consistent steps toward your desires.

Nothing changes until you do. So let’s get going, and let’s get living.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#14 BOUNDARIES: How to Gain Clarity without Keeping People Out

Thu, 09 May 2024 03:30:12 GMT

Blog Post #14

BOUNDARIES: How to Gain Clarity without Keeping People Out

We all want to live happier, more fulfilling lives, right? That’s why you’re here—because you’re seeking clarity, peace, and personal growth. And sometimes, that means learning how to set and maintain boundaries in a way that keeps us grounded without keeping people out.

In this episode, we’re diving into what boundaries really are, how to hold them without guilt, and why they are essential for maintaining healthy relationships. Because let’s be honest—boundaries are often misunderstood. They’re not about shutting people out or creating walls. They’re about clarity, mutual respect, and protecting your emotional well-being.

What Are Boundaries, Really?

Boundaries are like the lines on a road. They keep everyone in their lane and prevent chaos. Imagine if roads had no lane dividers, no stop signs, no rules. It would be absolute mayhem! Boundaries in life work the same way—they allow us to navigate relationships smoothly while keeping everyone safe.

Yet, many of us struggle with boundaries because we’ve been taught that saying no is mean, selfish, or unkind. But boundaries aren’t about control; they’re about self-respect . They help you maintain balance, energy, and emotional well-being without getting stuck in people-pleasing, guilt, or resentment.

Why Do Boundaries Feel So Hard?

If boundaries feel difficult for you, it’s likely because:

You were raised to put others' needs before your own.
You feel responsible for other people’s emotions.
You fear rejection or disappointing others.
You’ve been in relationships where your boundaries weren’t respected.

It’s completely understandable. We’re conditioned to be agreeable, to keep the peace, and to avoid conflict at all costs. But healthy boundaries don’t create conflict; they prevent it. They give everyone clarity about expectations so there’s no guessing, guilt-tripping, or emotional exhaustion.

Boundaries vs. Walls

A lot of people confuse boundaries with walls.

Walls are built from fear. They shut people out, create isolation, and block connection.

Boundaries are built from self-respect. They create clarity, mutual respect, and healthier relationships.

You don’t have to be harsh to have boundaries. You can be firm and kind at the same time.

How to Set Boundaries Without Guilt

The key to setting boundaries is clarity, not confrontation. Here’s how to do it with confidence and ease:

1. Identify What’s Draining You

Ask yourself:

Who or what is taking up too much of my energy?
Where do I feel resentment or frustration?
What behaviors from others do I tend to tolerate that I shouldn’t?

This will help you pinpoint where you need to set boundaries.

2. Communicate Clearly & Calmly

Boundaries don’t have to be dramatic. They can be simple statements like:

“I can’t take on that extra task, but I hope you find someone who can.”
“I won’t be available to help on Sunday, but I’d love to catch up another time.”
“I need to take care of myself, so I won’t be able to commit to that.”

You don’t need to justify or over-explain. Your “no” is enough .

3. Stick to Your Boundaries Without Apology

People who benefit from you having no boundaries might push back. That’s okay! Their reaction is not your responsibility.

If someone tries to guilt-trip you, stand firm.
If they throw a tantrum, don’t engage.
If they don’t respect your boundary, repeat it calmly and remove yourself if necessary.

Remember: People who respect you will respect your boundaries. Those who don’t respect your boundaries were only benefiting from you not having them.

4. Stop Taking Responsibility for Others’ Reactions

One of the biggest reasons we avoid boundaries is because we fear how others will react. But you are not responsible for other people’s emotions. You are responsible for your own well-being, energy, and peace of mind.

If someone reacts negatively to your boundary, that’s their emotion to process, not yours to fix.

5. Recognize That Boundaries Create Better Relationships

Healthy boundaries don’t push people away; they create clear expectations so that resentment doesn’t build up. When people know where you stand, relationships improve because they are based on mutual respect, not obligation.

Examples of Healthy Boundaries

Time Boundaries: “I can’t stay late tonight, but I’ll be available tomorrow.”
Emotional Boundaries: “I understand you’re upset, but I can’t take responsibility for fixing this.”
Physical Boundaries: “I’m not comfortable with hugs, but I appreciate the gesture.”
Mental Boundaries: “I respect your opinion, but I have my own perspective on this.”
Work Boundaries: “I’m happy to help, but I need more notice for last-minute requests.”

Final Thoughts: Boundaries Are a Form of Self-Love

Boundaries aren’t about being unkind or selfish. They are about teaching people how to treat you. When you set clear boundaries, you free yourself from resentment, exhaustion, and emotional burnout.

And remember: the people who truly love and respect you will honor your boundaries.

So, as you move forward, practice holding boundaries without guilt, without anger, and without fear.

You are allowed to take up space. You are allowed to prioritize your well-being. You are allowed to say NO without apology.

Let’s get clear. Let’s set boundaries. And let’s get busy living.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#traumainformed #emotion #emotionalregulation #somatic #confidence #overwhelmed #exhausted #restless #stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing #anxiety #anxietytips #depression #depressionsolutions #nervoussystemhealing

#13 The BUTTERFLY Principle: Teaching people how to treat you.

Thu, 09 May 2024 03:28:40 GMT

Blog Post #13

The BUTTERFLY Principle:

Teaching People How to Treat You

Today, we're diving deep into how we teach others to treat us. The truth is, we hold the power. We determine our boundaries, set our standards, and show others how we expect to be treated. Yet, so often, we feel like the world is imposing expectations on us, leaving us powerless. But it's actually the other way around!

We are responsible for setting the tone in our relationships, deciding what we will and won’t tolerate. People treat us according to the signals we send them. If we accept mistreatment, they continue the behavior. If we hold firm in our self-worth, they either rise to meet us or exit our lives. It all starts with us.

Why Boundaries Matter

You’ve likely heard the phrase, “Treat others the way you want to be treated.” But let’s be real—unhealthy people will treat you based on how they see themselves. If they lack self-respect, they won’t automatically respect you. That’s why boundaries exist. Boundaries aren’t about controlling others; they’re about controlling what you allow in your space.

When two healthy individuals interact, they don’t need boundaries—they naturally respect each other’s space, emotions, and needs. But when toxicity, manipulation, or unhealthy patterns show up, boundaries become essential. They protect your energy and create space for you to thrive.

The Butterfly Principle: Breaking Free from the Cocoon

Many of us grew up in environments that taught us to stay small. Maybe your family culture was about surviving, not thriving. Maybe you were raised to believe that putting yourself first was selfish or that stepping into your power was dangerous. But here’s the deal—staying in the cocoon isn’t your destiny.

Imagine a butterfly. It starts as a caterpillar, completely unaware of its future potential. Then comes the cocoon—a time of struggle, transformation, and preparation. And finally, the moment arrives when it must break free. If a butterfly stays in its cocoon too long, it will never fly. The same goes for you.

Breaking free from limiting beliefs, toxic relationships, and self-imposed constraints is the only way to grow into who you were meant to be.

Recognizing Your Cocoon

Ask yourself:

Where am I feeling stuck in life?
Which relationships make me feel small, controlled, or drained?
Do I constantly seek approval from others at my own expense?
Am I afraid to step into my power because of how others might react?

If any of these resonate, you might be stuck in a cocoon of old beliefs and conditioning. But the good news? You have wings—you just have to use them!

How to Teach People How to Treat You

Decide What You Will and Won’t Accept
If something doesn’t feel right, trust that. Your discomfort is a message that something needs to change.
Set Boundaries with Clarity and Confidence
Boundaries aren’t about making demands. They’re about clearly stating your needs. Example: “I’m happy to help, but I need at least 24 hours’ notice.” Simple, direct, and non-negotiable.
Stop Over-Explaining
You don’t need to justify your choices. “No” is a complete sentence. Confidence in your decisions teaches others to respect them.
Surround Yourself with People Who Uplift You
If someone consistently drains your energy, consider creating space. You deserve relationships that nourish and support you.
Lead by Example
If you want respect, show respect—to yourself and others. If you want kindness, be kind. If you want honesty, be honest. The way you treat yourself sets the bar for how others treat you.

You Are Not Responsible for Others' Reactions

This is a tough one. When you start enforcing boundaries and stepping into your power, some people will not like it. And that’s okay. People who benefited from your lack of boundaries might push back, guilt-trip you, or try to pull you back into the cocoon. But remember— that’s their problem, not yours.

Your only job is to honor your growth.

Embrace the Butterfly Within

A butterfly never questions whether it should fly. It just does. And you, my friend, were born to fly. You weren’t meant to stay small, hide your light, or live for others’ expectations.

The moment you embrace your worth, let go of limiting beliefs, and step into your power, you will inspire others to do the same. And those who can’t handle your growth? Let them stay in the cocoon. That’s their journey, not yours.

So, are you ready to fly? Are you ready to stop seeking permission and start teaching people how to treat you by how you treat yourself?

Then let’s go.

Want More?

If this resonated with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. For more guidance, coaching, and resources, visit teresaford.life and step into the life you were meant to live!

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#nervoussystemhealth #traumainformed #emotion #confidence #overwhelmed #exhausted #restless #stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #anxiety #anxietytips #depression #traumahealingjourney #rest #relaxation

#12 Simplifying Your Manifesting Technique - You have ONE job!

Thu, 09 May 2024 03:27:16 GMT

Blog Post #12

Simplifying Your Manifesting Technique -

You have ONE job!

Today, we're going to talk about your ONE job when it comes to manifesting.

We literally have one job: to create the things we want in our lives, to become the people we want to be, and to fulfill the measure of our creation. But wow, do we overcomplicate things!

We dive deep into every little detail, trying to micromanage every aspect of our lives instead of simplifying things and allowing ease, joy, and success to flow effortlessly.

When I say fun , I’m talking about truly enjoying your life—waking up feeling excited about the day, loving your relationships, feeling abundant in your finances, experiencing good health, and embracing opportunities without stress or overwhelm.

If your stress is high and your joy is low, it’s because you’re trying to control too much instead of allowing what you want to flow into your life. Overwhelm happens when you ask for more than you're making space for.

The Secret to Manifesting – Simplify!

You don’t have to manage every detail of how things unfold. Your job is simply to focus on three things:

WHO – That’s YOU! You are the common denominator in everything you manifest.
WHAT – What do you truly desire? Be clear about what you want.
WHY – What’s your motivation? Why do you want this thing in your life?

Once you get clear on these, let go of controlling the HOW, WHEN, and WHERE. Those details are not your job!

Why Trying to Control Everything Keeps You Stuck

If you’ve ever felt burned out from trying to force things to happen, it's because you're trying to manage the parts of manifestation that aren’t meant for you. You’re stressing over how something will happen, when it will show up, and where it will come from.

Guess what? That’s not your job!

Your only job is to know who you are, what you want, and why you want it.

The universe, your higher power, and the natural laws of attraction will take care of the rest.

Your Energy Determines What You Attract

Ever noticed how when you're feeling good, things just seem to fall into place? But when you're stressed and doubtful, everything feels stuck? That’s because what you focus on grows.

When you focus on lack, struggle, or not having what you want, you block your desires from manifesting. But when you focus on feeling good, trusting, and aligning with what excites you, things start to show up effortlessly.

Real-Life Example: My Fitness Transformation

When I lost eight dress sizes, it wasn’t because I was obsessing over calories, scales, or meal plans. I focused on my WHO, WHAT, and WHY:

WHO: I wanted to be a strong, confident, energetic version of myself.
WHAT: I wanted to feel good in my body, be healthy, and set an example for my kids.
WHY: I wanted to live life fully, feel authentic, and match my inner energy with my outer reality.

Once I got clear on those things, I simply started living in alignment with them. I made small, fun, and easy choices that supported my vision—eating nourishing foods, moving my body in ways I enjoyed, and making space for self-care.

I let go of how fast I needed results, when they would happen, and where I needed to see progress first. And guess what? The results showed up naturally because I stayed in alignment with my desires. No stress, no obsession, no burnout.

Letting Go of the “How” to Speed Up Manifestation

Most people delay their own desires by overthinking and micromanaging. They constantly question how something will happen, when it will come, and where it will show up.

Here’s the truth: The faster you let go of control, the faster things manifest.

Think about the times when you weren’t obsessing over something, and it just showed up. That’s because you were in alignment and allowing it instead of blocking it with stress and overthinking.

How to Stay in Your Manifesting Lane

Get clear on WHO you are, WHAT you want, and WHY you want it.
Trust that the HOW, WHEN, and WHERE will unfold perfectly.
Stay aligned with your desires by focusing on feeling good.
Take inspired action that feels natural and easy, not forced.
Release control and allow things to come in their own time.

Final Thoughts: Manifesting Should Feel Easy

Manifesting isn’t about working harder or proving yourself worthy of what you want. It’s about aligning with your desires and allowing them to flow into your life effortlessly.

So, let’s make a pact: Stop micromanaging. Stop overthinking. Stop getting in your own way.

Instead, simplify, trust, and enjoy the process.

Your dream life is already on its way to you. Now, it’s time to get out of the way and let it in!

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #anxiety #anxietytips #depression #depressionsolutions #traumaandsomatics #emotionalregulation #nervoussystemregulation #nervoussysemhealing #overwhelmed #exhausted #relaxation

#11 The PITT-falls of Manifesting Desires

Thu, 09 May 2024 03:26:22 GMT

Blog Post #1 1

The PITT-falls of Manifesting Desires

How to Stop Standing in Your Own Way

Manifesting is all about bringing our desires into reality. We want more happiness, purpose, and freedom in our lives. We crave growth and expansion because, at our core, we are built to evolve. But here’s the challenge—sometimes, we get stuck. We hold ourselves back with limiting beliefs, self-doubt, and unnecessary fears.

Today, we’re talking about the pitfalls of manifesting—specifically, the PITT-falls of manifestation. PITT stands for Perpetual and Intentional Thought-Induced Torment —the mental patterns that keep us trapped in hesitation, fear, and lack.

Are You Holding Yourself Back?

If you've ever found yourself overthinking, stuck in analysis paralysis, or assuming things won’t work out before you even try, you're not alone. Many of us create mental barriers based on past experiences, societal expectations, or personal fears.

I recently had a conversation with someone who was highly intellectual but struggled to take action. This person was brilliant, analytical, and deeply thoughtful. But they admitted that they often found themselves thinking, thinking, and thinking some more—without actually doing. The result? They stayed stuck, uninspired, and frustrated, watching opportunities pass them by.

Why do we do this? Why do we talk ourselves out of good things before we even give them a chance? It comes down to our thought habits. If we believe something won’t work out, we begin looking for evidence to support that belief. And guess what? We find it. Our minds are wired to reinforce what we already think is true.

Your Brain Wants to Keep You Safe (But It’s Holding You Back)

The amygdala , the part of your brain responsible for processing fear and emotions, loves to keep you in your comfort zone. If you’ve ever felt an intense emotional reaction to something new, that’s your amygdala scanning the past for similar experiences and trying to “protect” you from potential harm—even if that harm isn’t real.

If you once failed at a job interview, a business venture, or a relationship, your brain will automatically reference that past failure whenever you think about trying something similar again. It’s like a warning system: Hey, remember how bad that felt last time? Let’s not do that again!

The problem is, this survival mechanism doesn’t distinguish between real danger and perceived danger.

Real danger: Running into traffic, touching a hot stove, or ignoring your intuition about a truly toxic situation.
Perceived danger: Taking a new job, starting a business, speaking on stage, or opening yourself up to love again.

The second category isn’t actually dangerous—it’s just new. But our brain doesn’t always recognize the difference.

My Own PITT-Fall Moment: How I Almost Missed My Opportunity

I remember when my family was on the brink of financial disaster in 2008. We were nearly homeless, and I had been a stay-at-home mom for 15 years. No college degree. No resume. Nothing that made me feel “qualified” for the workforce.

One day, I was out driving, desperately searching for work, and I saw a “Help Wanted” sign in a gym window. Immediately, my brain went into full-blown PITT mode:

You haven’t worked in 15 years.
You don’t have a degree.
You’re not even fit enough to work in a gym!
Who do you think you are?

I sat in my car, crying, digging myself deeper into my mental pit. Then, something shifted. I asked myself, What’s the worst that could happen if I just walked in?

I dried my tears, grabbed my hastily written resume, and went inside. I got the job on the spot. The position required me to do something completely outside my comfort zone—greet customers loudly when they walked in. As an introvert, this terrified me. But when I finally did it, something amazing happened. People smiled. They waved. They felt seen. And suddenly, I wasn’t focusing on my own fear—I was focusing on making others feel welcome.

This job changed the trajectory of my life. It led me to personal development, fitness coaching, and eventually, transformational coaching. But I almost missed the opportunity because of my PITT-fall thinking.

Are You Digging Yourself Deeper?

When we let fear, self-doubt, and overthinking take over, we are literally digging our own pit. The longer we stay in this mindset, the deeper the hole becomes. Some of us grew up in families where doubt and limitation were common, so we learned to dig our pits early in life. But here’s the truth:

➡️ You have the power to stop digging. ➡️ You have the power to climb out. ➡️ You have the power to change your story.

How to Stop the PITT-Fall Cycle

1. Change Your Language

Instead of saying, “This always happens to me,” try “This is happening FOR me.” Just shifting from “to” to “for” changes the entire meaning and brings you into a state of empowerment.

2. Challenge Your Fear-Based Thoughts

Ask yourself: Is this actually dangerous, or is it just uncomfortable? If it’s uncomfortable, that means you’re growing. If it’s dangerous, trust your intuition and step back.

3. Do It Afraid

Courage isn’t about not feeling fear. It’s about taking action despite the fear. You don’t have to wait until you feel completely ready—you just have to take the first step.

4. Focus on What You Want, Not What You Fear

If you’re fixated on not being broke, not being alone, or not failing, you’re manifesting more of that. Shift your focus to abundance, love, success, and fulfillment.

5. Stop Waiting for Permission

You don’t need external validation to go after your dreams. You are the only person who can give yourself the permission to live fully.

Final Thoughts: Get Out of Your Own Way!

Manifesting isn’t magic—it’s alignment. You are meant to grow, expand, and thrive. But you have to get out of your own way. Stop overthinking. Stop digging deeper into doubt. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and step forward into the life you’re meant to create.

It’s time to stop the perpetual and intentional thought-induced torment.

It’s time to start living.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing #sympatheticnervousystem #rest #relaxation #overwhelmed #confidence #emotionalregulation #anxietytips #depression #depressionsolutions #traumahealingjourney #stress

#10 Vision & Clarity Worksheet Guidance

Thu, 09 May 2024 03:25:15 GMT

Blog Post #10

Vision & Clarity Worksheet Guidance

Your Year Up for Success

Are you ready to get crystal clear on your goals, eliminate stress, and set yourself up for success? Then, let's dive into the Vision & Clarity Worksheet !

This worksheet is designed to serve as your guidepost throughout the year, helping you set goals and actually follow through with them. No more getting overwhelmed by New Year’s resolutions that fizzle out by February! Your year can start anytime —any month, any week, any day. If you feel stuck in July and need a fresh start, then July is your new January! Let’s go!

Why Vision & Clarity Matter

Life throws curveballs, and sometimes it feels chaotic. That’s okay! The key is focus. This worksheet gives you a back-pocket word—a word you can pull out whenever you need clarity. When faced with decisions, distractions, or doubts, your word will bring you back to your focus, helping you stay aligned with your vision.

This worksheet isn’t just about goals; it’s about creating a vision for your life and gaining the clarity to bring it to fruition.

You can download your FREE Vision & Clarity Worksheet Here . No strings attached—just a resource to help you thrive!

Step 1: Identifying Stress & Creating Awareness

Before diving into vision-setting, it’s crucial to pinpoint where stress is sneaking into your life. The worksheet includes a Stress Awareness Wheel covering areas like:

Career & Money
Community & Relationships
Health & Wellness
Fun & Recreation
Personal Growth & Spirituality

When stress is high, fun is low. We rarely have both at max levels simultaneously. This tool helps you pinpoint exactly where stress is coming from so that you can make shifts to bring in more peace and joy.

Step 2: Learning from the Past & Finding Your Mentors

Next, take a moment to reflect:

What are three of the most important life lessons you’ve learned?
Who are three mentors who have influenced your thinking?
Why were they impactful? What about their mindset or approach resonated with you?

Your mentors don’t have to be people you know personally—they could be authors, speakers, or even a character from a book who inspired you! Their influence gives you insight into what truly matters to you.

Step 3: Who Are You at Your Best?

Time to reflect: When you’re truly thriving, who are you? Use descriptive language and write it all down.

Then, break it down further:

Your Strengths: What qualities make you feel most you ?
Your Passions: What excites you? What do you study or research for fun?
Your Core Values: What principles do you live by? What’s non-negotiable for you?

P ro tip: If someone challenges one of your core values and you immediately feel defensive, that’s a sign that it’s deeply important to you!

Step 4: Choosing Your Word for the Year

Now, go back through your notes. Highlight words that spark energy and excitement.

Narrow it down to five words that feel aligned.
Reduce that list to two words that feel most powerful.
Pick ONE word that will be your guiding theme for the year.

This word will serve as your anchor—your compass. When life throws distractions and obstacles your way, this word will bring you back to clarity.

Example: My word this year is EXPRESS —I’m focused on using my voice, creativity, and personal growth to share my message with the world. Everything I do aligns with that mission!

Step 5: Addressing Stress & Problem-Solving

Now that you’ve defined your vision, let’s tackle stress.

Identify three major stressors in your life right now.
Ask yourself: What’s the root cause? Most stress stems from feeling trapped, held back, or lacking freedom in some area.
Use solution-focused thinking. Instead of obsessing over problems, shift into solution mode.

Step 6: Visualization & Manifestation

Now that you have clarity on where you’re going, it’s time to feel it before it even happens. Visualization is a powerful tool for manifestation.

Meditate on what life looks like when you’re fully aligned with your vision.
Journal as if it’s already happening. Describe it in the present tense— not “I hope to…” but “I am…”

Your brain doesn’t know the difference between real and imagined experiences, so train it to expect success!

Step 7: Creating Your Mission Statement

Your final step is writing your personal mission statement :

I am… (Who are you at your core?)
Born to… (What is your calling or purpose?)
For the purpose of… (What impact do you want to have?)

Example: I am pure, positive energy, born to share my optimism for limitless possibilities and lay hold upon every good thing.

When you’re feeling lost, stressed, or overwhelmed, return to this mission statement. It’s your North Star.

Final Thoughts

You now have a powerful tool to create clarity, direction, and purpose. This isn’t just about setting goals—it’s about becoming the person who naturally aligns with the life you desire.

Remember:

You are capable of massive transformation.
You already have everything you need inside of you.
Your year starts NOW—whenever you choose.

Download your free Vision & Clarity Worksheet and schedule a session with me for personalized guidance.

Now, go make magic happen!

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#stressrelease #traumarelease #stressrelief #somatichealing #sympatheticnervousystem #rest #relaxation #overstimulated #anxiety #anxietytips #depression #depressionsolutions #cortisol #hormonehealth #hormonehealing #chronicpain #jointpain

#9 Giving to Get Principle: Building a Healthy Relationship with Yourself

Thu, 09 May 2024 03:24:09 GMT

Blog Post #9

Giving to Get Principle:

Building a Healthy Relationship

with YOURSELF

The Foundation of Self-Love

Today, we’re diving deep into the give-to-get principle. This isn’t about relationships with others—it’s about building a healthy and fulfilling relationship with yourself . Because when you truly love and accept yourself, everything else in life falls into place.

For many of us, the foundation of our self-worth was shaped by external validation. We learned to seek approval from parents, teachers, and peers, often at the expense of our own desires. But now, as adults, we have the power to shift that pattern and redefine our relationship with ourselves .

The Root of External Validation

If you grew up in an environment where love and approval were conditional—based on behavior, achievements, or obedience—you may have internalized the belief that you must earn love. This subconscious pattern can lead to:

People-pleasing tendencies
Overworking to gain approval
Feeling unappreciated and resentful
Struggling to set boundaries

But here’s the truth: You were born worthy of love. The moment you took your first breath, you were cherished. That worth hasn’t changed, even if your conditioning led you to believe otherwise.

The Give-to-Get Trap

Many of us have fallen into the give-to-get mindset without realizing it. We give our time, energy, and love—not because it feels good, but because we expect something in return (love, appreciation, validation). When that expectation isn’t met, resentment builds.

Here’s the difference between healthy and unhealthy giving:

Healthy Giving: You give because it brings you joy, fulfillment, and purpose.

Unhealthy Giving: You give with the expectation of receiving validation, love, or recognition.

If you’ve ever found yourself thinking:

“Why doesn’t anyone appreciate me?”
“I do everything for them, and they give me nothing in return.”
“I just want someone to notice how much I do.”

Then you may be operating from an unhealthy give-to-get pattern. And the way out? It starts with YOU.

4 Steps to Building a Stronger Relationship with Yourself

1. Let Go of the Need for External Approval

People’s opinions of you are a reflection of them , not you. Whether they praise you or criticize you, it’s coming from their perspective, experiences, and beliefs—not your truth.

Mantra: “I release the need for external validation. I am enough.”

2. Love Yourself Completely

That means:

Releasing self-judgment
Forgiving yourself for past mistakes
Accepting your journey—flaws and all

The past was simply a learning experience that shaped who you are today. Use it as a stepping stone, not a weight.

Practice: Write yourself a love letter. Acknowledge your strengths, progress, and the beautiful qualities that make you, YOU.

3. Get Up to Speed with Who You Are Now

Stop dwelling on past mistakes or wishing for a do-over. You are here , now. And that’s where your power lies.

Shift Your Focus: Instead of saying, “I wish I could change the past,” try, “I’m grateful for the lessons that brought me here. My future is mine to create.”

4. Let Go of Managing Others’ Expectations

When you love yourself fully, you no longer depend on others to fill emotional gaps.

If someone compliments you, it’s a bonus—not a necessity.

If someone criticizes you, it doesn’t shake your foundation.

Affirmation: “I trust myself to be my greatest source of love and validation.”

The Ultimate Truth: You Are the Love You’ve Been Waiting For

You don’t have to wait for approval, appreciation, or validation from anyone. You are already enough. The moment you stop seeking external validation and start giving yourself the love and recognition you crave , you become unstoppable .

Here’s the magic: When you truly love yourself, others naturally mirror that love back to you.

So, are you ready to build the most important relationship of your life—the one with yourself ?

Let’s get living. Let’s get loving.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#self-love #personal growth #self-acceptance #how to build confidence #self-worth, overcoming codependency #emotional healing #self-validation #healthy relationships #setting boundaries #self-care strategies #inner peace #self-esteem boost

#8 Manifesting 102: I Manifested the Man of MY Dreams!

Thu, 09 May 2024 03:22:52 GMT

Blog Post #8

MANIFESTING 102:

I Manifested the Man of MY Dreams!

The Power of Manifestation in Love and Life

I manifested the man of my dreams! Now, even if finding a soulmate isn’t your goal, the six principles I share in this post can apply to anything you’re trying to manifest—whether it’s success, financial abundance, or personal fulfillment.

If you already have a great relationship, high five! But if you’re searching for something greater—whether in love or life—let’s dive into how I went from feeling lost and hopeless to attracting the perfect partner and how you can apply the same steps to your own life.

The Breaking Point: When I Knew I Had to Change

I was married for 26 years, and while my husband was a good person, we were locked in a codependent cycle that was draining me. My health crashed. My spirit was exhausted. I wasn’t having fun anymore, and worse—I didn’t even recognize myself .

I knew I couldn’t stay stuck, but the thought of leaving was terrifying. I had to step back and gain clarity on what was happening. I needed to understand who I was and what I wanted . And that’s where the six manifesting principles came into play.

The 6 Steps to Manifesting the Love (and Life) You Want

1. Be a Daydream Believer

Before anything shifts in your reality, it shifts in your mind. I had to dream bigger than my current circumstances.

I visualized the kind of love I knew was possible.
I imagined a relationship filled with deep connection, mutual respect, and adventure.
I let myself feel what it would be like to have that relationship.

Dreaming isn’t just wishful thinking—it’s a necessary part of manifesting because it sets the foundation for what’s possible.

2. Know Who You Are

You attract what you are , not just what you want . I had to take responsibility for my own growth.

I asked myself hard questions: Who am I? What do I truly want?
I realized I was choosing relationships based on my old wounds—not on the person I had become.
I committed to personal development and self-love before seeking love from anyone else.

If you’re not growing, you’re dying. Personal growth is essential for attracting the right people and opportunities into your life.

3. Get Clear on What You Want

I wrote a three-page description of my dream partner—no punctuation, just pure flow.

I described his values, energy, lifestyle, and how he made me feel.
I listed specific traits, from loyalty and humor to his love for adventure and family.
I even included things like man hands (because, hey, details matter!).

Clarity is everything . If you’re vague about what you want, you’ll attract vague (and often unfulfilling) results.

4. Be Open to Receiving

This is where most people block their manifestations.

I had to let go of fear and control .
I had to trust that the right person would come at the right time.
I put myself out there —even when it was uncomfortable.

Being open means releasing self-doubt, past wounds, and limiting beliefs that tell you, I can’t have what I want .

5. Trust the Timing

Patience isn’t passive—it’s active trust.

I didn’t rush the process.
I focused on becoming ready for love rather than chasing it.
When the timing was right, my dream partner showed up immediately!

If you try to force things before they’re aligned, you’ll end up frustrated. The universe has perfect timing—trust it.

6. Know That Everything is Being Worked Out for You

When I met my husband, the synchronicities were unreal .

We had unknowingly crossed paths our entire lives—same towns, same concerts, even lived on the same street at different times.
He embodied every single thing on my list.
The timing was so perfect, it felt orchestrated by something greater than me.

I didn’t need to force anything—when you align with your desires, they come naturally .

The Bottom Line: Manifesting Love (or Anything) Starts with You

If you want to attract the love of your life (or anything amazing), you have to become the best version of yourself first.

Dream big.
Get clear on what you want.
Align your energy with it.
Trust the process.

Because when you do? Magic happens. ✨

Ready to Manifest More?

I’ll be sharing more about allowing, receiving, and aligning your energy in future posts. But for now, start practicing these six steps and watch your life transform!

Remember— you are a powerful creator. Everything you want is waiting for you. Now go manifest something incredible!

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#manifesting love #how to manifest a relationship #soulmate manifestation #personal growth #manifesting tips #energy alignment #how to attract what you want #relationship goals #subconscious mind #creating your reality #spiritual awakening #high-vibe living

#6 Mastering True Alignment

Thu, 09 May 2024 03:14:07 GMT

Blog Post #6

Mastering True Alignment

What is Alignment, and Why Does it Matter?

Let’s talk about alignment . It might not sound like the most exciting topic, but trust me—it’s life-changing.

Alignment is when your thoughts, emotions, and actions are in sync with the things you say you want. It’s when you stop resisting your desires and start fully stepping into them. And when you master it? Manifestation, success, and transformation happen naturally .

If you’ve ever felt stuck—like you want more money, love, health, or happiness but keep running into roadblocks—chances are you’re out of alignment . The good news? You can shift that starting today .

Are You Lined Up With What You Want?

Think about something you truly desire—whether it’s a thriving career, financial abundance, deeper relationships, or optimal health. Now, check in with yourself:

Do you feel excited about it?
Or do you feel doubt, stress, or frustration because you don’t have it yet?

Here’s the truth: When you focus on not having what you want, you’re pushing it away. When you’re aligned with your desires, you feel hopeful, eager, and energized about them— before they even show up.

We often spend more time not lining up than we do actually lining up . But once you make the shift, everything starts falling into place.

The Emotional Scale: Your Alignment GPS

Your emotions are the best indicator of your alignment. Here’s how to tell where you stand:

Feeling good? You’re in alignment.
Feeling frustrated, doubtful, or stuck? You’re out of alignment.

It’s that simple. The more positive your emotional state, the more aligned you are with the best version of yourself—and the faster you attract what you want.

My Personal Story: How Alignment Transformed My Life

When I lost eight dress sizes in six months, it wasn’t because I forced myself to diet or suffer through workouts I hated. It was because I was completely lined up with what I wanted.

I looked in the mirror and thought, Your outside doesn’t match your inside. I wasn’t focused on what I didn’t want (feeling unhealthy or stuck in old habits). Instead, I focused on what felt good—eating nourishing food, moving my body, and enjoying the process.

I didn’t count calories or obsess over weight loss. I just made choices that aligned with my goal, one meal and one workout at a time. And guess what? The transformation happened naturally .

The same principle applies to everything in life. If you’re struggling to manifest your desires, check in: Are you focused on enjoying the journey or stressing over the outcome ?

The Alignment Formula: How to Get Everything You Want

If you want to master alignment, follow this simple process:

1. Get Clear on Your Desire

Write down exactly what you want. Be specific. More money? How much? A new job? What kind? A healthier body? What does that look and feel like?

2. Check Your Energy

Notice how you feel about your goal. If you feel doubt, fear, or frustration, shift your focus to something that excites you about it.

3. Act As If It’s Already Yours

Live as if your desire is already on its way. Make choices that align with having it now . If you want financial abundance, feel abundant now. If you want better health, treat your body like you already have that health.

4. Stop Resisting & Start Flowing

When you focus on not having what you want, you create resistance. Instead, focus on how good it feels to move toward your goal.

5. Enjoy the Journey

Alignment isn’t about struggle—it’s about ease and flow. When you love the process, results come naturally.

Real-Life Proof: How I Aligned With the Perfect Job

In 2008, my husband lost his job, and we lived off our savings for two years. I had been a stay-at-home mom for 15 years with zero recent job experience and no college degree.

I could have spiraled into fear ( Who would hire me? How will I support my family? ). But instead, I chose alignment . I decided: If I’m going to leave my home and kids, it’s going to be for something meaningful.

I didn’t know where to look. But when I got into my van and prayed for guidance, an intuitive nudge told me to check out a new gym at the end of my street.

I almost ignored it. But I trusted the feeling. I pulled into the parking lot, saw a Help Wanted sign, and walked in.

Long story short? I got hired on the spot —even without experience. Because I was lined up with what I wanted: work that mattered, in an uplifting environment.

The Secret to Manifesting Anything

If you take one thing away from this, let it be this:

Align with what you want, and it will align with you.

Stop obsessing over the “how” and start focusing on the feeling of already having it. When you approach your goals with excitement instead of lack, the universe meets you halfway.

Your Next Step: Get Into Alignment Today

Here’s your homework:

Write down your biggest desire right now.
List why you want it—and get excited about those reasons.
Shift your focus from what you don’t have to how good it feels to move toward what you want.
Take one aligned action today—something that makes you feel good about your goal.

Mastering true alignment isn’t just about getting what you want—it’s about becoming the person who naturally attracts success, love, health, and abundance.

So, what are you aligning with today? Let me know in the comments!

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#manifestation #how to align with your goals #personal growth #mindset shift #law of attraction #energy alignment #how to manifest #achieving success #self-improvement #subconscious mind #motivation #alignment with the universe #self-mastery

#5 Yucky Gut Soup - What Your Emotions Are Trying To Tell You

Thu, 09 May 2024 03:13:15 GMT

Blog Post #5

Yucky Gut Soup - What Your Emotions Are Trying To Tell You

Understanding the Messages Behind Your Emotions

Let’s talk about emotions today! I want to dive deep into what your emotions are trying to tell you—because trust me, they are always communicating something important. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, stuck in negativity, or trapped in an emotional cycle that feels impossible to break, this is for you.

This topic is abstract, so you might need to re-read this a few times to let it really sink in. But I promise, once you grasp it, you’ll have a powerful tool to transform your emotional well-being.

The Power of Your Thoughts and Emotions

Every thought you have provokes an emotion. Your brain is incredibly powerful, and it is constantly shaping how you feel. If you think, “Haunted houses are scary,” you instantly feel a jolt of fear in your gut. But if you see a puppy and think, “That is the sweetest thing ever,” your body relaxes into a state of love and warmth.

Now, let’s flip that concept. If you tell yourself, “I’m not good enough,” or “I don’t belong,” your body reacts the same way—with stress, tightness, or even a sinking feeling in your stomach. If you’ve ever felt your heart drop after realizing you weren’t invited to an event, you know what I mean.

This is why it’s so important to monitor your thoughts. If left unchecked, your brain can run wild—what I call ControlZilla—spitting fire, spreading chaos, and reinforcing false beliefs. But here’s the truth: your emotions are simply indicators of whether your thoughts align with love and light—or if they’re dragging you into fear and negativity.

Love vs. Fear: Your Emotional Compass

In my last post, we talked about the difference between operating from love versus fear. Your emotions are a direct reflection of how close—or how far—you are from your true, loving self.

If you feel calm, peaceful, and at ease, you are aligned with the truth of who you are: pure love and light. But when you experience anxiety, anger, frustration, or resentment, it means your thoughts are pulling you away from that truth.

Think of it this way: Your negative emotions are simply indicators that your current thoughts do not align with the love, peace, and worthiness that you inherently are.

What is Yucky Gut Soup?

I call this collection of negative emotions Yucky Gut Soup. When you have more than three negative emotions swirling inside you at once—stress, anxiety, self-doubt, guilt, shame—it becomes an overwhelming emotional stew. And just like spoiled soup, it leaves you feeling sick, exhausted, and out of balance.

Physical symptoms like headaches, body aches, heart palpitations, digestive issues, or that awful pit in your stomach? Yep, that’s Yucky Gut Soup showing up in your body. It’s your inner self waving a red flag, saying, “Hey, you’re believing something that isn’t true!”

The Truth Feels Good

Here’s something to let sink in: Truth always feels good.

When you tell yourself the truth—like “I am loved,” “I am worthy,” “I am enough”—you feel light, energized, and centered.

But when you buy into false beliefs—like “I’m forgotten,” “I’m not good enough,” “No one cares”—you feel heavy, drained, and out of alignment.

If you’re feeling bad, it’s because your thoughts are out of sync with your higher self. And the best part? You have the power to change that by shifting the meaning you assign to your thoughts.

Reframing Your Thoughts: A Practical Example

Let’s say you feel unsupported. If you believe, “No one has my back,” your emotions spiral into suspicion, doubt, and fear. But what if you shift that meaning? What if you tell yourself, “I am fully supported by the universe. Everything is always working out for me. I am capable of figuring things out.”

See how that feels different? Instead of feeling disempowered, you reclaim your confidence. It’s not about ignoring reality; it’s about choosing an empowering interpretation that aligns with love and truth.

Moving Up the Emotional Scale

You won’t jump from despair to joy in one thought. That’s unrealistic. But you can reach for a slightly better-feeling thought.

For example:

If you’re in despair, reaching for anger might actually feel better because it reignites your energy.
If you’re feeling grief, moving toward hope—even if it’s just a tiny bit—can shift your vibration upward.
If you’re stuck in frustration, finding a way to feel gratitude (even for something small) can be a game-changer.

Emotional healing is about gradual shifts toward thoughts that feel lighter, freer, and more empowering.

Listen to Your Gut—And Change the Story

Your body is constantly responding to the meaning you assign to your experiences. If you feel yucky gut soup bubbling up, stop and ask yourself:

What thought am I having right now?
What meaning am I attaching to this thought?
Is there a better, more empowering way to see this?

For example, my friend once told me, “I feel lonely because I don’t have a companion.” I asked her, “Do you actually feel lonely, or do you enjoy your own company?” She paused and admitted, “Actually, I love being with myself.” By changing “I’m lonely” to “I enjoy my own company,” she instantly felt relief.

That’s the power of shifting meaning!

Final Takeaway: Change the Meaning, Change Your Life

Negative emotions don’t define you. They’re simply indicators of whether your thoughts align with your highest self. If you’re feeling off, it’s a sign that your thoughts need adjusting.

Instead of staying stuck in Yucky Gut Soup, practice shifting the meaning behind your experiences. Choose thoughts that empower you, lift you up, and bring you closer to love and light.

You are love. You are light. And you are worthy of feeling good.

So, next time you catch yourself in a downward emotional spiral, ask: “What story am I telling myself? And how can I rewrite it to align with the truth of who I am?”

Your thoughts create your reality—so let’s make sure they are building a life that feels amazing.

Ready to Break Free from Emotional Burnout?

If this resonated with you, check out my podcast, Guiding You Home, where we dive even deeper into healing, transformation, and aligning with your true self. You will amaze yourself!

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube . Happy listening! ��

#emotional healing #how to change negative thoughts #how emotions affect the body #mindset shift #self-worth #overcoming anxiety #personal transformation #nervous system regulation #law of attraction, #inner healing #overcoming

#4 Love vs Fear - Which One Are You Operating From?

Thu, 09 May 2024 03:11:59 GMT

Blog Post #4

Love Vs. Fear -

Which One Are You Going to Operate?

Everything we believe, say, and do stems from one of these two places: love or fear. We are either operating out of love or out of fear—there is no in-between.

If you listened to episode three, we discussed resistance. Anytime you operate out of fear, you are resisting what you truly desire. Fear keeps you stuck, holding back, second-guessing, and playing small. But when you operate from a place of love, you’re on an open road, full throttle, with massive momentum moving in the direction of your highest good.

It really is that simple.

Understanding Fear: The Resistance That Holds You Back

Fear shows up in many forms—anger, pride, resentment, guilt, grief, insecurity, anxiety—you name it. Fear exists in almost every area of our lives, creating discomfort and uncertainty. The reason for this? Our brains are hardwired to keep us safe.

Your brain is like ControlZilla, sitting up in a watchtower scanning the horizon for problems, waiting to sound the alarm at the first sign of danger. It’s looking for threats, seeking out everything that could go wrong.

But here’s the thing: If you’re always looking for problems, you will find problems. If you are conditioned to expect hardship, you will experience hardship. Your thoughts create your reality, and when fear runs the show, life feels like an uphill battle.

Choosing Love: The Energy of Expansion

On the flip side, love is expansive. It is the energy of trust, faith, alignment, and momentum. When you operate from love, you step into your highest self—calm, optimistic, enthusiastic, and passionate.

When you move toward something you truly want, even if it scares you a little, that’s not fear—that’s excitement. That’s love guiding you forward. Love says, “I can’t wait! This is going to be amazing!” Fear says, “What if I fail?” See the difference?

The Three Parts of You: Spirit, Mind, and Body

There are three aspects of you that play a role in whether you operate from love or fear:

Your Spirit – Pure positive energy, full of limitless potential.
Your Mind – The problem-solver and protector (also known as ControlZilla).
Your Body – A machine that simply follows the signals it’s given.

Your spirit is always guiding you toward love, but your mind is conditioned to prioritize safety. When your mind perceives danger (real or imagined), it triggers fear-based emotions. This activates stress hormones, creating a physical reaction in your body.

Ever felt a pit in your stomach, tightness in your chest, or a wave of nausea when faced with fear? That’s your body reacting to your thoughts. On the flip side, when you’re operating from love—feeling excited, joyful, and aligned—you experience lightness, energy, and ease.

Love Is Your True Nature

When a baby is born, they don’t ask to be loved. They are love. Their very presence is celebrated, simply because they exist. That truth never changes, yet somewhere along the way, we forget. We start believing love must be earned, proved, or sought after. But love is not something we chase—it is who we are.

Everything that feels good is rooted in love. Everything that feels bad is rooted in fear. If you ever want to know which one is running your life, check in with your emotions.

Feeling defensive? Fear.
Feeling resentful? Fear.
Feeling anxious about what others think? Fear.
Feeling aligned, peaceful, and excited? Love.

It really is that simple.

Who Are You Behind Closed Doors?

Want to know if fear is influencing your life? Pay attention to who you are behind closed doors. It’s easy to put on a happy face in public, but what’s happening in the quiet moments?

Are you snapping at your loved ones? Overwhelmed by stress? Running on empty?

These are clues that fear is leading the way. But when you operate from love, kindness, and peace—even when no one is watching—you experience genuine joy and fulfillment.

How to Shift from Fear to Love

Check Your Thoughts – Are your thoughts based on trust and expansion, or fear and doubt?
Notice Your Emotions – Fear brings resistance; love brings ease.
Reframe Your Perspective – Instead of asking, “What if it goes wrong?” ask, “What if it goes right?”
Align with Love – Repeat affirmations like: Everything always works out for me. I am safe. I am supported. Love flows to me and through me.
Take Inspired Action – Do the things that bring you joy, passion, and excitement. Move in the direction of love.

Final Thoughts

Fear is not the enemy. It’s simply a signal that something in your belief system is out of alignment. But love is always available to you. When you let love guide your decisions, life flows with ease, doors open, and opportunities appear.

So today, I encourage you to pause and ask yourself: Am I operating from love or fear?

If you choose love, your world will shift in ways you never imagined. Guess what? You are more than enough just as you are. You are loved. You are seen. You are valued. Now go out there and live from that truth!

Let me know how this resonates with you! I’d love to hear your thoughts.

If you need support in shifting from fear to love, reach out—I’m here to help!

�� Email: teresafordcoaching@gmail.com

�� Share this blog with someone who needs to hear it!

Remember: Everything always works out for you. Trust the process. Live in love. And watch your world transform.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#somatic #somaticpractice #nervoussystemregulation #nervoussysemhealing #nervoussystemhealth #traumainformed #emotion #traumandsomatics #emotionalregulation #somatic #confidence #confidencebuilding #meaningfuldialogue #emotion #stressrelief

#3 Eliminate Resistance - Pushing on the Pull Door

Thu, 09 May 2024 02:34:37 GMT

Blog Post #3

Eliminate Resistance -

Pushing on the Pull Door

Today, I want to talk about resistance—pushing on the pull door.

I came across this hilarious Far Side comic strip that perfectly illustrates what we often do in life. It features a bright young boy walking up to a school named “The School for the Gifted.” With his backpack strapped tight and his thick glasses perched on his nose, he leans into the door with all his might, straining to push it open. The problem? The sign on the door clearly says, "Pull."

I couldn’t help but laugh because, well, that’s exactly what we do all the time! We say we want something, but then we resist it. We push against our own desires with thoughts like, I’m not smart enough, I don’t have enough money, I don’t have the right connections, or this isn’t meant for me.

The truth? We have limitless potential waiting to unfold. We are supported, we are light, and we already have everything within us to create the life we want. But too often, we’re pushing on the pull door instead of simply reading the sign, grabbing the handle, and walking through.

The Weight Loss Resistance Example

Let me give you an example. When I was gaining weight while raising five kids, I resisted making real changes. My pants were too tight, I was uncomfortable in my own skin, and I obsessed over the number on the scale. Every morning, I’d step on the scale and let that number determine my worth for the day. If I was up three pounds, I’d shame myself. If I was down three pounds, I’d celebrate—but only temporarily, because eventually, I'd fall back into the cycle of dieting, deprivation, and frustration.

The resistance? I wanted to lose weight, but I wasn’t doing what made me feel good. Dieting is not fun. Cutting calories, exercising out of punishment, and constantly obsessing over food? That’s pushing on the pull door. It’s never going to work long-term.

The breakthrough? I finally stopped caring about the scale. I stopped worrying about other people’s opinions. I stopped expecting to see instant results overnight. Instead, I took a deep breath and decided to just start. I didn’t run a marathon or overhaul my entire diet in one day—I just did one thing differently. I put on my sneakers and attempted a sprint (which, let’s be real, looked more like lumbering over myself). But you know what? I did something.

That day, I stopped resisting. I read the sign, reached for the handle, and walked through the door.

Resistance in Manifesting What You Want

We hear a lot about manifesting these days. And here’s the truth: manifesting is just the result of what you are doing, not what you are trying to do. If you’re sweating it out, pushing with all your might, and still not getting anywhere, you’re resisting. You’re trying instead of doing.

Think about it this way—if you need groceries, do you sit in your living room saying, “I hope I get groceries today” while doing nothing about it? No! You get in your car, drive to the store, pick out what you need, check out, load the bags into your car, drive home, and put the groceries away. You take action. You don’t sit at home wishing for food to magically appear in your fridge!

The same goes for anything you want in life. If you want a healthier body, you eat like a healthy person today. If you want a thriving business, you take steps toward building it today. If you want deeper relationships, you make the effort today.

How to Stop Pushing on the Pull Door

Recognize Where You’re Resisting

Are you waiting for the “right time” to start?
Are you making excuses for why you can’t have what you want?
Are you telling yourself it’s too hard, too late, or too much?

2. Do One Thing Differently

If you’re tired, go to bed earlier instead of scrolling on your phone.
If you’re overwhelmed by clutter, start by cleaning one small space.
If you’re stuck in a job you hate, take one step toward exploring a new opportunity.

3 . Read the Signs and Adjust Your Approach

If something isn’t working, stop doing it!
If your habits aren’t leading you toward your goal, change them.
If you’re exhausted from trying the same thing over and over, step back and look for an easier way.

4. Step Through the Door

Stop waiting for permission.
Stop waiting for the fear to disappear.
Stop second-guessing yourself.
Just do something today that moves you forward.

The Door Will Open When You Let It

Resistance isn’t there to punish you—it’s there to teach you. When you notice yourself pushing on the pull door, pause. Breathe. Look for the sign. And instead of resisting, do the thing that will allow you to move forward.

What’s one way you’re pushing on the pull door in your life? And what’s one simple step you can take today to stop resisting and start allowing what you want? Drop a comment or send me an email—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Let’s stop making things harder than they need to be. Let’s stop resisting and start flowing. Let’s step through the door that’s been waiting for us all along.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#anxiety #anxietytips #depression #depressionsolutions #cortisol #hormonehealth #hormonehealing #chronicpain #jointpain #traumahealingjourney #hormonebalance #storedtrauma #gutissues #IBS #chronesdisease #jointpain #emotion

#2 Baby Steps - Walk Before You Run

Thu, 09 May 2024 02:33:30 GMT

Blog Post #2

Baby Steps - Walk Before You Run

Overcoming Overwhelm with Small, Intentional Steps

Today, we're diving into a topic that many of us struggle with: overwhelm. It’s a great place to start because, let’s be honest, who hasn’t felt completely bogged down by the sheer weight of responsibilities, expectations, and life itself?

This blog, Learning to Walk Before You Can Run , is all about understanding that success doesn’t come all at once. It comes in layers, built one small step at a time. We want to feel accomplished, but we often expect ourselves to know exactly how to do something before we’ve even taken the first step. It’s like expecting to understand sixth-grade math when we’re just entering kindergarten. Unrealistic expectations set us up for failure before we even begin.

The Overwhelming Mess - Where Do You Start?

I was visiting my grandkids in Idaho, and their room was a complete disaster. Naturally, they were overwhelmed when they were asked to clean it up. They picked up one item and then stood there, paralyzed by the mess. Sound familiar?

I decided to turn it into a game: I Spy. I would call out an item, and they would hunt for it. I spied a red shoe—one found it, and the other found the matching one. Then I said, I spy all the little green Legos.

This process turned a frustrating, overwhelming task into something fun. Before they knew it, their room was spotless, and they were excited about what to do next. That’s the key—breaking things down into manageable steps.

Overwhelm doesn’t just hit kids. As adults, we experience the same thing. Think about the moment you became a parent. Suddenly, you were responsible for a tiny human being. No one handed you a manual. You figured it out as you went. And that’s exactly how life works—we learn by doing, not by knowing everything ahead of time.

The Natural Progression of Growth

Let’s take a lesson from babies. They aren’t worried about learning to walk, yet they go through a process:

First, they learn to grip and suck.
Then, they begin to smile, roll over, and push up on their hands and knees.
They start crawling, pulling up on furniture, standing, balancing, and then taking those first wobbly steps.
Eventually, they run.

Each step is necessary. Each failure, each fall, is a learning experience. And never once does a baby compare itself to another baby who started walking earlier. They simply focus on their own journey.

So why do we, as adults, constantly compare ourselves and feel like we should be further along than we are?

Overcoming Overwhelm: Practical Steps

Reduce Expectations and Increase Time
One of the biggest causes of overwhelm is expecting too much in too little time. I used to dread grocery shopping with my five kids. I wanted to be in and out in 30 minutes, but that was completely unrealistic. Instead, I decided to allow two hours.

That extra time meant we could take our time, buckle seat belts without stress, talk and laugh on the way, and involve the kids in helping unload groceries at home. My stress level dropped by 100%.
Recognize the Source of Overwhelm
Overwhelm comes from trying to know everything in advance. If you find yourself procrastinating, avoiding, or checking out, ask yourself:

Am I expecting myself to know something before I’ve learned it?
Am I trying to do too much at once?
Am I comparing myself to someone further along?

3. Take Baby Steps
Stop thinking about everything at once. If you’re facing a big task, ask yourself:

What is the first small step I can take?
What’s one thing I can do today?

4. Just like babies don’t go from rolling over to running overnight, neither do we. Give yourself grace and allow for a natural progression

5. Put ControlZilla Down for a Nap

ControlZilla is that voice in your head telling you:

You’re not doing enough.
You should be further along.
You’re falling behind.

6. She’s not helping. When you feel overwhelmed, pause and remind yourself:

I am doing the best I can.
I will learn what I need to learn at the right time.
One step at a time is enough.

Conclusion: Give Yourself a Break

Remember, you’ve already overcome so much. Anything that used to be a problem is no longer a problem because you figured it out. Whatever is causing you stress right now? You’ll figure that out, too.

So take a deep breath. Take a break. Grab a snack. Give yourself grace.

Baby steps will get you there. And before you know it, you’ll be running.

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��

#1 HI! A little about me your coach, Teresa Ford

Wed, 08 May 2024 04:02:50 GMT

Blog Post #1

HI! A little about me your coach,

Teresa Ford

I AM YOUR COACH

I’m so excited to introduce myself and share my journey with you! My name is Teresa Ford, and I grew up in Northwest Washington, just an hour north of Seattle. I was born into a blended family with siblings from my parents’ previous marriages, plus two brothers I grew up with at home. Yep, I was the middle child, and if you know anything about birth order, that explains a lot!

Like many, I was raised by emotionally immature parents. That’s not a criticism; it’s just the reality. They did their best, but they weren’t equipped with the tools to provide emotional support. They always kept a roof over our heads and gave us what they could, but emotional neglect left a lasting impact. It wasn’t until much later that I realized I had to heal from that and learn how to build a life based on self-worth, love, and personal growth.

Fast-forward to adulthood: the only career I ever dreamed of was being a mother. And that’s exactly what I did. My husband and I had five amazing children in just ten years! It was a whirlwind of diapers, late nights, and all the joys and challenges of parenting. By the time my fourth child arrived, something clicked—I realized I didn’t want to be like my mother in terms of parenting. I wanted to find a better way.

I had to learn how to raise my children with love, patience, and intention rather than frustration and yelling. That was my first big wake-up call—the moment I began my personal growth journey. I started asking myself bigger questions: Who am I in God’s eyes? What is my purpose? How can I be the best version of myself? That shift changed everything.

The Unexpected Journey to Entrepreneurship

A few years later, life threw a major curveball. The economy crashed, my husband lost his job, and after two years of living off our savings, we hit rock bottom. I was angry—at God, at life, at the whole situation. But looking back, I see it as one of the best things that ever happened to me.

I was forced out of my comfort zone and had to find a job. Not a career—just a job to help support our family. I had been homeschooling my kids and dedicating my life to them, so the idea of working outside the home felt overwhelming. But God had other plans.

At first, I left the house kicking and screaming, but what I discovered was a version of myself I didn’t know existed. I had gifts and talents that had been hidden beneath my identity as a mom. I realized I had a natural ability to connect with people, inspire them, and help them believe in their limitless possibilities. That’s when I knew: this is what I’m meant to do.

I wrote a personal mission statement that still guides me today:

“I am pure positive energy, born to share my optimism for limitless possibilities and lay hold upon every good thing because I have always known something good was coming.”

Even during my darkest moments, I always believed that better days were ahead. And every time I hit rock bottom, I found that it was the best thing that could have happened to me because it propelled me forward in a way I never expected.

From Fitness to Coaching

My career path led me through the fitness industry for 16 years. I became a hormonal fat loss expert and helped countless clients achieve their health goals. But over time, I realized my true passion wasn’t just fitness—it was mindset transformation.

People came to me thinking they needed a new workout plan, but what they really needed was a new belief system. Their limiting beliefs—often formed in childhood—were holding them back. I knew firsthand how those patterns could shape a person’s life, and I became passionate about helping others rewrite their stories and step into their power.

That’s how I became what I call an “accidentalpreneur.” I never set out to be a business owner, coach, or speaker, but God led me here, and I wouldn’t change a thing. Every challenge, every breakdown, and every rock-bottom moment shaped me into the person I am today.

Why This Blog Exists

Originally, this podcast was called Know Your Worth because that was one of the biggest lessons I had to learn. I had spent so much of my life looking for validation from others, trying to prove my worth through effort, achievements, and external approval. But real self-worth doesn’t come from the outside—it comes from within.

That’s why this podcast exists—to help you uncover your true worth, break free from limiting beliefs, and embrace the life you were meant to live. You have everything you need inside you right now. You don’t need permission to be your authentic self. You don’t need validation from anyone. You just need to reconnect with your inner guidance and trust that God has already given you everything you need to succeed.

This is not just another personal development podcast. Here’s what you can expect:

Real-life stories – I’ll share the lessons I’ve learned the hard way so you don’t have to.
Mindset shifts – Learn how to break free from old patterns and step into your power.
Practical tools – Strategies you can apply today to start seeing real transformation.
Inspiration & encouragement – Because let’s face it, we all need a cheerleader in our corner!

I’m not here to tell you what to do—I’m here to help you find your own answers. I want you to tune into your intuition, strengthen your relationship with God, and become the person you were meant to be.

Let’s Connect!

I want this to be a two-way conversation. If you have questions, insights, or topics you want me to cover, reach out! You can email me at teresacoaching@gmail.com.

If you’re open to it, I’d love to feature your questions on an episode. If you’d prefer to keep it private, I completely respect that too.

From this point forward, I hope we’re friends. You’re here for a reason, and I’m so grateful that you’ve chosen to spend this time with me.

Here’s to moving forward, stepping into our power, and getting busy living!

Note: You can access the full blog content in audio versions on Spotify and YouTube. Happy listening! ��