The GRACE Matrix®

The GRACE Matrix®

By Dr. Maria Grace WolkHealth & FitnessMental Health
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The GRACE Matrix® episodes

  • Understanding Self-Harm in Teens: What Parents Need to Know

    Most teens who self-harm are not trying to end their life.

    They’re trying to cope with emotional pain that feels too overwhelming to hold on their own.

    In this episode, we talk about what self-harm really is, what’s happening underneath the behavior, how stress and emotions stay in the body, and how parents can respond in a way that keeps connection open instead of shutting it down.

    If you’re a parent, caregiver, or teen trying to understand this more deeply, this conversation is for you.

    #MentalHealth #TeenMentalHealth #SelfHarmAwareness #ParentingTeens #EmotionalRegulation #MentalHealthSupport

    17 min
  • When I Forgot How to Jump: A conversation on perimenopause, identity & the brain

    What happens when you no longer feel fully at home in your own body?

    In this episode, I share my personal experience navigating perimenopause as a psychologist, and the moment I realized this transition affects far more than hormones.

    We talk about:
    • brain fog and memory changes
    • identity shifts and emotional health
    • the stigma surrounding menopause
    • the neurological impact of hormonal changes
    • and how to reconnect with yourself through this phase of life

    🎙️ When I Forgot How to Jump
    A conversation about perimenopause, aging, identity, and the brain.


    Learn More on www.mariagracewolk.com

    15 min
  • You Don't Have Low Libido, Your Sexual Brakes Are On




    Many people think they have low libido…

    when what’s actually happening is stress, emotional overwhelm, disconnection, resentment, nervous system overload, or responsive desire.

    In this conversation, sex therapist and professor Emily Koku Fesler explains:
    • spontaneous vs responsive desire
    • the “brake vs accelerator” model
    • why stress and emotional exhaustion affect intimacy
    • how couples can reconnect without shame or pressure
    • and why planning intimacy doesn’t have to kill romance

    This is a grounded, honest conversation about relationships, intimacy, emotional connection, and the psychology of desire.

    🎙️ Watch now on @DrMariaGraceWolk




    #LowLibido #ResponsiveDesire #Relationships #Intimacy #SexTherapy #MentalHealth #EmotionalConnection #RelationshipAdvice #WomenMentalHealth #CouplesTherapy #HealthyRelationships #Psychology #TraumaHealing #NervousSystem #EmotionalWellness #MarriageAdvice #Libido #StressAndRelationships #AttachmentStyles #DrMariaGraceWolk


    20 min
  • Ep. 43: Do Weighted Blankets Work for Anxiety | Sleep?

    🌙 Do Weighted Blankets Really Help with Anxiety & Sleep? 🤔🛏️

    In this episode, we dive into the science behind weighted blankets and their effects on anxiety, stress, and sleep quality. Do they really work, or is it just a cozy trend? We'll explore how deep pressure stimulation (DPS) can help calm the nervous system, improve relaxation, and promote better sleep. Plus, we’ll share tips on choosing the right weighted blanket for you or your little one!

    💬 Have you tried a weighted blanket? Did it help? Let us know in the comments!

    🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more mindful insights!

    #WeightedBlanket #AnxietyRelief #BetterSleep #Mindfulness #SleepTips #CalmMind #MentalHealth #SleepAnxiety #DeepPressureTherapy #RelaxationTechniques

    7 min
  • Ep. 42 Hello Flutters Book Launch Interview

    🎥 Catch the Replay! 🎉

    If you missed my live interview, here’s your chance to watch it! I had an amazing time talking about my new children's picture book, Hello Flutters, and how it helps kids manage big emotions. 🌟
    I shared the story behind the book, why it’s so close to my heart, and how it can be a tool for parents and educators to support emotional awareness in children. 💕
    Take a look, and let me know your thoughts in the comments!
    or order your copy here: https://tinyurl.com/TalaAndToogTower
    #BookLaunch #ChildrensBooks #BigEmotions #AuthorInterview #ParentingSupport #KidsMentalHealth #EmotionalAwareness #NewBookRelease #AuthorLife #MindfulParenting #PictureBooks #ParentingTips

    23 min
  • Ep. 41: Milestone, Madness, & Mom-Life

    Navigating Parenthood and Entrepreneurship: Finding Harmony and Mindfulness

    In this episode, our host shares the emotional journey of dropping her son off for his first day of high school. She discusses the balance between motherhood and entrepreneurship, focusing on the importance of mindfulness, creating micro moments of connection, and navigating the constant struggle of mom guilt. Tune in for some wisdom and comfort as she reflects on the fleeting nature of time and the significance of being present in every moment.
    00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome
    00:13 A Milestone Moment: First Day of High School
    01:01 Reflecting on Time and Parenting
    02:39 Balancing Entrepreneurship and Motherhood
    04:46 The Importance of Mindfulness
    06:43 Creating Micro-Moments of Connection
    07:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    10 min
  • Ep.41: Milestones, Madness & Momlife

    Watch this on Youtube: https://youtu.be/Wx80RnkypdY

    Navigating Milestones and Finding Harmony as a Mom and Entrepreneur

    In this heartfelt episode, the host shares her emotional experience of dropping her son off for his first day of high school and reflects on the rapid passage of time. She discusses the challenges of balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and being present. The host offers practical tips for creating meaningful connections with children through 'micro moments,' and underscores the significance of finding personal harmony amidst busy schedules. She encourages listeners to be kind to themselves and appreciate the small but impactful moments with their loved ones.
    00:00 Introduction and Welcome
    00:13 Dropping Off My Son at High School
    01:01 Reflecting on Time and Parenting
    02:39 Balancing Entrepreneurship and Motherhood
    04:46 The Importance of Mindfulness
    06:43 Creating Micro Moments of Connection
    07:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    10 min
  • Ep.40: How Music Heals Us

    Watch this episode on YouTube:

    https://youtu.be/0NBeOJoHWKA?si=xipiEuyrqaW1wbsq

    In today's fast-paced world, finding moments of peace and healing is essential for our overall well-being. One powerful tool that has been with us for thousands of years is music. It has the ability to heal, soothe, and uplift us in ways we may not even realize. In this episode we will explore the healing power of sound and music. From ancient practices to modern scientific research, we will uncover the various ways in which music can mend our broken hearts, calm our minds, and bring us joy. So, sit back, relax, and let the enchanting melodies guide you on a journey of self-discovery and healing.

    -Music's healing power: soothes, heals, and evokes memories.
    - Ancient practice: sound healing in diverse cultures.
    - Scientific validation: stress reduction, mental clarity through sound therapy.
    - Personal experience: transformative sound healing session in Costa Rica.
    - Therapeutic singing: releases endorphins and oxytocin.
    - Embrace music for healing and joy.


    Please don't forget to subscribe, rate and review!

    I appreciate your support.

    14 min
  • Ep.39: Breaking Down PMDD with Sarah Sanders, LMFT

    Imagine feeling overwhelmed by intense mood swings, debilitating anxiety, and severe physical discomfort every month, disrupting your daily life and emotional well-being. For many women with PMDD, this is a harsh reality. Unlike the more common premenstrual syndrome (PMS), PMDD is marked by extreme symptoms that can impact work, relationships, and overall quality of life.

    In today’s episode, we’re joined by Sarah Sanders, LMFT who specializes in women’s health and mental well-being. We’ll discuss the ins and outs of PMDD, as well as dive into the treatment options and support systems available to those affected. We’ll also hear personal stories and expert insights, providing a comprehensive understanding of this challenging condition.

    So, whether you’re someone who might be experiencing PMDD, a loved one seeking to support someone in need, or simply curious to learn more, stay tuned. This episode promises to be an enlightening and empowering conversation about a topic that deserves much more attention. 

    Guest: Sarah Sanders, LMFT

    Website: www.sarahsanderslmft.com 

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarahsanderslmft

    Sarah is an EMDR trained and California licensed psychotherapist, small business owner, Mama to two curly-haired Littles, and wife to an adventure-loving extrovert. She specializes in guiding female helping professionals through anxiety, disordered eating, postpartum issues, burnout, and processing childhood trauma.

    If you live in California and you want to process trauma in a safe and nurturing environment and want to see if Sarah would be a good fit for you, book a free consultation call with her here

    https://sarahsanderslmft.com

    - The Craving Cure and The Mood Cure. https://www.juliarosscures.com


    Thank you for being a valued member of our community. I appreciate your continued support and look forward to accompanying you on your self-discovery journey.

    We are now on Youtube!  Please "Like" & "Subscribe" to The Grace Matrix™ channel to help others find this podcast- 

    Thank you for your support!

    https://www.youtube.com/@theGraceMatrix/podcasts

    Own Your Journey!


    In our fast-paced world, many of us struggle with overthinking and worry which leaves us feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Hi! I'm Maria Grace Wolk. I’m a Filipina American entrepreneur, Psychotherapist, wife, and mom of two boys; My mission is to amplify diverse perspectives, break the mental health stigma, and inspire you to own your journey to wellness and fulfillment.


    Is there anything keeping you from changing your life?


    Watch my TEDx talk   https://youtu.be/r0A2FXwyAsw


    to learn what happened when I left my comfort zone



    Take the What's Your Biggest Self Sabotage Quiz: https://bit.ly/whatsyourselfsabotagequiz

    33 min
  • Ep. 38: Reactive to Mindful Parenting

    Ever found yourself reacting impulsively when your child makes a mistake? 🤯 It’s a common experience, often rooted in our own upbringing. But what if you could turn those moments into opportunities for growth and connection? 🌱

    In our latest podcast episode, we talk about the benefits of mindful parenting. Discover how taking a deep breath and responding calmly can foster your child's emotional regulation, self-esteem, and overall well-being. 💖

    Join us to learn practical tips and insights that will help you create a positive and nurturing environment for your child. 🎧

    👉 Listen now and subscribe to our podcast for more parenting wisdom and support!



    #MindfulParenting #PositiveParenting #ChildDevelopment #EmotionalGrowth #ParentingTips #TraumaInformed #ParentingJourney #MentalHealth #FamilyWellness #ParentingPodcast #ResilientKids

    10 min

About The GRACE Matrix®

From the publisher's feed

Most of us were never taught what fear actually does inside the body and mind. So we mistake anxiety for weakness, anger for failure, and shutting down for giving up.