Our decisions run through a linear process - new inputs help us land on new conclusions. But, we do this on our own timelines. In new seasons, hierarchies reshuffle - which is why humility is key!

Protecting one another from natural consequences is not a posture of love; we are called to hold each other accountable and responsible.

We often do something healthful long enough to reduce distressing symptoms, and then we default back to the same patterns that led us towards our struggles. Living a life of symptom management is not living life well.

Hobbies matter! If there isn't anything fun on your calendar, take a few minutes to listen, and then consider what a next step might be. Recreational wellness is part of a balanced life.

Two extended analogies help us understand HOW and WHY to dive in to the emotional gunk that life includes. Sorting through it, healing from it, and walking towards emotional wellness is possible!

If we want to make changes and want to walk towards health, there is one measure that we must consider as paramount to engaging growth. Take a listen to learn more.

We know what ACEs are; now what do we do when maladaptive behaviors show up? Take a quick listen about what the next steps are and open yourself up to the idea of enlisting help!

So we know what the ACEs are, but why do they matter? Cue poor health outcomes, faulty defense mechanisms, and troublesome coping strategies. Therapy can be a helpful tool for addressing and mitigating some of the health consequences of childhood trauma.

ACEs 6-10 are noted as are a few others hard contexts that can contribute to trauma responses. Difficult experiences in our upbringing can lead to us adopting strategies and responses that may serve us short term but result in long-term struggles. Dismantling them is arduous work!

Let's dive into the first five ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) and begin the discussion on how trauma responses show up when early adversity is present. It is foundational understanding for how we may adopt certain strategies as solutions to hard experiences.