Healing from church hurt is a journey worth embarking on.

In the realm of spiritual communities, few topics are as sensitive or impactful as church hurt. This phenomenon affects individuals across various denominations and can profoundly influence one's faith journey. Understanding and healing from church hurt is essential for maintaining and rebuilding a healthy relationship with Jesus.

Understanding Church Hurt

Church hurt stems from negative experiences within religious settings, such as emotional turmoil, spiritual abuse, or feeling ostracized. It does not discriminate among denominations; it can happen anywhere and to anyone. Recognizing this is crucial to navigating the complicated emotions involved and finding ways to heal.

Navigating the Path to Healing

Healing from church hurt often involves acknowledging the pain and finding supportive environments to express it. Talking with trusted individuals who understand or have experienced similar struggles can be invaluable. Recovery is not about finding an immediate solution but about gradually rebuilding trust and faith.

Utilizing Resources for Support

Tools and resources can offer guidance in recognizing and addressing hurt resulting from others in the church community. Such resources help individuals identify red flags and articulate their feelings. Seeking external perspectives can shed light on situations and clarify if certain behaviors are problematic or dismissive in religious contexts.

Embracing Hope and Finding New Community

While healing from the hurt of individuals within church organizations, it is vital not to generalize all religious communities based on one experience. Positive, nurturing faith communities do exist, and taking the time to find them can offer renewed faith and fellowship. Remember, it's about finding a place that reinforces spiritual well-being and growth.

 

Read the full show notes and access all links. 

Website for Mary DeMuth

Additional resources you will find helpful:

Mary DeMuth - You Need to Meet These Women of the Bible (They Are Just Like Us) - Episode 398

Rebecca George - Ditch the prosperity gospel. Trust God’s Timing. Episode 381

Download the free eBook: 15 Journaling Prompts and Scripture Verses 

Even adult children need their parents. But when things get rocky, how can you improve relationships with adult children?

In the evolving world of parenthood, maintaining a strong bond with adult children presents unique challenges. As children transition into adulthood, the dynamics shift, often leading to confusion for parents. However, with understanding and a strategic approach, it's possible to improve relationships with adult children and cultivate a healthy, fulfilling family connection.

Understanding the Shift in Dynamics

Once children turn 18, they are legally considered adults. This milestone often surprises parents who feel uncertain about their new role. As children grow into their independence, they become increasingly determined to make their own choices, sometimes clashing with their parents' ideals. This can lead to emotional chaos and strained relationships. However, understanding these dynamics is the first step to improving relationships with adult children.

The Importance of Self-Connection

For mothers, connecting with themselves is paramount. As the cornerstone of the family, maintaining inner peace is essential. By prioritizing self-awareness, moms can better navigate the emotional upheavals that come with parenting adult children. Self-care and inner reflection act as the glue that binds the family, providing stability during times of change.

Listening and Validating Emotions

Open communication is essential for improving relationships with adult children. It is necessary to engage in active listening, validate the emotions of your children, and initiate a dialogue about their feelings and experiences. By acknowledging their perspectives, parents can build a stronger, more respectful relationship.

The Role of Faith-Based Strategies

For those who treasure faith, integrating it into your parenting approach can help mend and strengthen familial ties. By relying on spiritual guidance, parents can find peace in surrendering their worries and trusting a higher power with their children’s paths. This can lead to healing and transformation within the family unit.

Read the full show notes and access all links.

Website for Kim Damon 

Additional Resources

Reset Your Nervous System and Become the YOU you want to be - Episode 394 - https://therobyngraham.com/reset-your-nervous-system/

You Need to Start Avoiding the Victim Mentality. Period. - Episode 391 - https://therobyngraham.com/victim-mentality/

Purchase You, Me, and Anxiety: Take Action Over Anxiety to Enjoy Being You

Teen edition

Parent edition

 

There is a solution for the loneliness epidemic.

In our increasingly isolated society, establishing meaningful friendships can be a critical step in alleviating the pervasive feeling of loneliness. While life transitions, such as moving to a new area or changing jobs, can disrupt established connections, they also provide opportunities to cultivate new relationships that align with our values. Developing these friendships requires time, effort, and intentionality.

The Importance of Meaningful Friendships

In light of today's epidemic of loneliness, which affects many despite the facade of being well-connected digitally, nurturing meaningful friendships is vital. These friendships are not merely social interactions; they are pivotal to our emotional health and well-being. True friends provide support, joy, and alignment with our values, which are essential for maintaining a stable and happy life.

The Journey to Building Friendships

Building meaningful friendships is a journey. It is not just about logging 200 hours with someone to establish a connection. It’s about engaging in experiences, conversations, and activities that forge deep, meaningful bonds. This journey involves vulnerability, openness, and an eagerness to discover potential friends in settings such as church groups, sports clubs, or book clubs.

Overcoming Barriers in Friendship

Despite a busy lifestyle or fears of rejection, it’s crucial to break down barriers that impede the development of friendships. Many are afraid to reach out, fearing interruption or rejection. However, these barriers can be overcome by simple actions, such as initiating conversations, setting up coffee dates, or sharing a simple gesture of appreciation.

Fostering Friendships Across Different Life Stages

Friendships evolve over time and across life stages. Whether you are a young mom or someone who transitions through different life phases, recognizing the need for friendships at each stage is crucial. Groups like playgroups or community activities can be excellent ways to introduce new friends who share common values and interests.

 

Read the full show notes and access all links. 

 

Additional Resources

Finding Your Superpowers: leaning into personal values & dropping comparison - Episode 339 

The solution to emotional isolation - Episode 209 

 

Website for Misty Hughes

God's miraculous provision will see us through all aspects of life.

In our journey through life, many of us face struggles that seem overwhelming, whether it's anxiety, parenting challenges, or simply navigating daily life. In these moments, seeking God's miraculous provision can become a beacon of hope and guidance, helping us to rise and thrive.

Understanding God's Miraculous Provision

God's provision isn't always about grand gestures. It's often about the everyday miracles that help us navigate life's storms. Recognizing these provisions requires trust and faith. Andrea Anderson's book, "Bread Like Rain," delves into encountering God's provision in daily life, offering practical insights for those feeling stuck.

Strategies to Rise and Thrive

One key strategy for rising and thriving in life is recognizing that control doesn't always serve us. Attempts to micromanage life can lead to increased anxiety. By turning to God and releasing control, we open ourselves to His guidance. This spiritual surrender is often where God's miraculous provision begins. As we learn to trust in God's plan, we discover strength and direction that lead us toward harmony and peace.

Trusting in Daily Provision Becoming Vessels of Provision

Website for Andrea Anderson.

Order Bread Like Rain today. 

Read the full show notes. 

Download the free eBook, 15 Journaling Prompts and Scripture Verses.

Can Christians and anxiety go hand in hand?

The answer is a resounding yes. Christians and anxiety often go hand in hand. Not because of a lack of faith, but because we live in a broken world in which many things can impact mental, physical, and spiritual health.

400th Episode

Friends, I cannot believe this is the 400th episode.

When I set out to start the podcast five and a half years ago, I thought I’d share stories of women and men reinventing themselves as entrepreneurs and starting their second phase.

My idea quickly morphed into something more. Not only did I want to inspire others to follow their values, visions, and passions and discover a purpose greater than themselves, but I also wanted to help guide them in this pursuit. Because so much of my focus was on building a business, naturally, the content we created became more about business growth advice and stories of success. We added small doses of faith, mental health, mindset, and wellness to round out the content.

As I was thinking about what to do in celebration of this episode, because I think it is a big deal to make it this far, someone sent me an email.

The email was in response to an email I sent about using journaling as a tool to navigate anxiety. It read: I don't get anxiety, period, if one is of faith in Jesus Christ! Goodbye.

The old me would have quickly hit return and tried to convince him that having faith doesn’t mean you will never have anxiety.

But instead, I thought, 'No, he said goodbye, which made me chuckle; let him go.' People like him cannot be convinced, and it isn’t my job to change his perspective.

Instead, I decided to take advantage of his lack of understanding to create content that could help many.

The combination of Christians and anxiety does not have to cause shame.

A perspective like his can cause a person who loves Jesus to feel shame over experiencing anxiety. No one needs an additional reason to feel shame. Living life as a human can result in enough shame, especially when experiencing brain health challenges.

I wonder, as I’m writing this, what your thoughts are? Can one be a Christian and have anxiety?

My thoughts are that as humans, we are not perfect. We are subject to human dysfunctions mentally, physically, and spiritually.

Christians get diabetes. They get cancer, heart disease, autoimmune diseases, and neurological diseases. And yes, Christians experience mental health challenges too.

We are not divine; therefore, we can be afflicted by ailments, illnesses, and diseases. To judge a Christian because they have a disease or ailment is simply unkind and results in shame.

The key, for Christians and everyone, is to lean into Christ and our faith to navigate anxiety. When we put all of our trust in earthly solutions, we risk idolatry and anxiety rising. Proverbs 17:3 reminds us, "The crucible is for silver, and the furnace is for gold, and the Lord tries hearts." As heat refines gold and silver, God purifies us through challenging experiences such as anxiety and emotional chaos in our lives and relationships.

Having anxiety isn't a punishment. If we choose, we can use it as a way to grow closer to God and allow Him to sanctify and purify us.

Read the full show notes and access all links.

Download 15 Journaling Prompts and Scripture Verses

Download the free eBook: Alleviate Anxiety by Developing Healthy Habits for a Healthy Mind.

Wholeness over hustle: a movement that embodies strategies to rise and thrive as women and as mothers.

In today's bustling world, women, especially mothers, are navigating the dual roles of leading both at work and at home. Understanding the intricacies of this journey is vital for thriving in every aspect of life. We all need strategies to rise and thrive, focusing on maintaining wholeness over hustle while embodying leadership.

Wholeness Over Hustle

Our society often equates success with relentless hustle. However, Molly Claire emphasizes the importance of wholeness—creating a life of balance rather than burning out. By focusing on core values and aligning your goals with what's truly important, you redefine success. Wholeness involves nurturing yourself emotionally and mentally, ensuring you lead effectively while maintaining personal well-being.

The Four Fundamentals of Lasting Change

Mind mastery, emotional resilience, nervous system regulation, and action-focused strategies are the four fundamentals of lasting change. These foundational elements ensure sustainable change. By mastering your mind and emotions, you gain clarity and resilience. Regulating your nervous system helps maintain calm and focus, enabling you to act strategically rather than reactively.

Read the full show notes and access all links. 

Visit Molly Claire’s Website

Join the waitlist for Molly's new book and be the first to know when it's released: She Rises.

Download the Guide to Alleviate Anxiety by Developing Healthy Habits for a Healthy Mind

Additional Resources

You need to be aware that not all thought work strategies are healthy - Episode 355 

Finding Your Superpowers: leaning into personal values & dropping comparison - Episode 339 

Reset Your Nervous System and Become the YOU You Want to Be - Episode 394 

 

A journey through the remarkable stories of women of the Bible.

Most, if not all, women of the Bible lived extraordinary lives, overcame immense challenges, and set examples that resonate with us today. Whether you're a leader, a mother, or someone simply making her way through life's hurdles, these women have much to teach us.

Discovering Strength in Women of the Bible

Many of us feel misunderstood and overwhelmed at times, much like the women of the Bible did. Historical accounts show us that they faced challenges similar to our own. For instance, women from the Bible, such as Ruth and Esther, exemplify strength and leadership. They navigated complex societal roles and responsibilities, much like we do today. Their resilience and faith offer lessons in hope and determination as we pursue our own life goals.

The Journey of Mary DeMuth in Exploring Women of the Bible

Author Mary DeMuth sheds light on the often-overlooked women of the Bible. Through her spiritual journey and writing, Mary offers insights into the lives of these women and how their stories relate to our modern experiences. Her exploration began with noticing these figures in the scriptures, sparking her series of books that reimagines their stories. These narratives not only recount history but also relate it to our current societal dynamics.

The Proverbs 31 Woman and Modern Womanhood

A particularly inspiring figure is the Proverbs 31 woman. Her traits—virtuous, industrious, and compassionate—reflect the qualities we aspire to embody today. Mary DeMuth reminds us that these traits were exhibited throughout her lifetime, not in the span of a single day. It's important to remember that life's journey takes time and unfolds over years, offering us a model of grace and patience.

Learning from Women of the Bible in Leadership

Mary DeMuth highlights women like the biblical widow, who demonstrated profound influence through simple acts of faith. Though not widely recognized, their subtle contributions emphasize the importance of humility and perseverance. For women in leadership, these stories serve as reminders that actual influence often comes quietly, without fanfare, yet with a significant impact.

Read the full show notes and access additional links.

Website for Mary DeMuth

An additional resource related to women of the Bible:

The story of Deborah – Uncommon courage you need to succeed - Episode 363

 

Ready to transform your mindset, achieve more goals, develop stronger relationships with your children, and/or achieve more success in your career? Schedule a discovery call and learn if neuroscience coaching is a good fit for you. 

Access Robyn's calendar. 

When you recognize anxiety, you can navigate it and transform your life from emotional chaos to joy, peace, and purpose.

In today's complex world, understanding our mental health is crucial. Feeling anxious or overwhelmed is common, but managing these emotions leads to a happier, healthier, and kinder life. The first step in this transformative journey is to recognize anxiety.

Recognize Anxiety for Mental Wellness

To truly address anxiety, we must first recognize it. When we bring awareness to our feelings, we can identify triggers and decide how to respond. Often, we operate in a reactive state, which can result in unkind actions towards ourselves and others. Recognizing anxiety helps shift from automatic reactions to thoughtful actions.

The Importance of Allowing Feelings

Recognizing anxiety is only part of the solution. Allowing yourself to experience these feelings without judgment is crucial. By simply acknowledging anxiety, you reduce its power. Accept it as a temporary state rather than a definition of who you are.

Investigate the Roots of Anxiety

Once you've recognized and allowed the anxiety, delve into understanding its origins. Ask yourself when these feelings arise and in what situations they are most intense. This investigation is central to therapy and helps uncover the links between past experiences and current emotions.

Nourish and Empower Yourself

After identifying the source of your anxiety, it's time to nurture yourself. Simple actions, such as breathing exercises, doodling, or engaging in creative activities, can significantly reduce anxiety. These practices foster a calmer state of mind and promote more kind interactions. There are many ways to regulate and reset your nervous system to reduce anxiety.

Read the full show notes and access all links. 

Website for Karen DeHaven 

Additional Resources to Help Navigate Anxiety

Using Faith to Navigate Anxiety Caused by Social Media - Episode 376

Navigate Anxiety to Become a Speaker - Episode 370

What do you do when you feel anxiety? Cast your anxiety on Him - Episode 329

Reduce anxiety and get healthier with Amino Acid Therapy - Episode 387

Begin your journey to navigate anxiety by downloading the free eBook: A Guide To Alleviating Anxiety by Developing Health Habits for a Healthy Mind.

Book reference: Radical Compassion by Tara Brach

Anxiety and women have gone hand in hand for many years. And the prevalence has never been higher.

Women and anxiety are often used in the same sentence. But most don't recognize the root of anxiety, nor the influence it has on day-to-day life, especially as mothers and women in leadership roles.

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is an abnormal sense of apprehension and fear that is often marked by physical signs and symptoms.

When someone is anxious, they doubt that they will be able to cope with a situation or person. Doubt often leads to overreacting and emotional chaos. Overreacting disrupts stability within the family and influences the emotional state of others. Frequently, anxiety creates a vicious cycle. 

Prevalence of anxiety

Forty-two point five million Americans claim to suffer from anxiety. The prevalence is higher in women than in men. The statistics are staggering.

Breakdown of the relationships between women and anxiety

I see three types of women in my coaching practice.

• The Worn-Out Warrior
• The Hidden Hurting Helper
• The Anxiously Awaiting Answers

Read the full show notes and access all links and additional information.

Schedule a discovery call with Robyn and determine if coaching is for you.

Download the free eBook: A Guide to Alleviate Anxiety by Developing Healthy Habits for a Healthy Mind

When neurodiverse students are prepared, their college experience will be more successful and peaceful, and they will thrive. Navigating the transition to college can be a unique challenge for neurodiverse students and their families. Preparing both parents and students for this journey can make all the difference. Understanding Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity acknowledges that every brain works differently, a natural human variation. Conditions like ADHD, autism, and anxiety fall under this category, demanding tailored support. Neurodiverse students, bright in their own right, often process information at unique speeds and benefit from specific learning strategies.

The Importance of Advocacy and Support

Parents must become staunch advocates for their neurodiverse students. Explore college resources like counseling and disability services. Actively seek out accommodations for students - provide detailed IEP or 504 plans. The more specific, the better. In addition, universities often offer free psychological counseling and support groups for neurodiverse students. Ensure your child is aware of the resources available to them and encourage them to use them. This proactive approach can significantly impact your child’s success and help them thrive.

Creating a Structured Environment

At home or on campus, establish a dedicated study space to minimize distractions and promote focus. Encourage the use of tools like white noise machines, noise-canceling headphones, and calendars. Assist in scheduling academic and leisure activities, emphasizing balance between work and self-care. Physical movement is crucial—encourage activities in campus gyms or outdoor exercises.

Transition Strategies for Parents

Parents should assist with campus and online technology walkthroughs to become familiar with the systems they will be using for school. Another strategy to help neurodiverse students is to create a personalized "all about me" letter for instructors. Doing so will help manage professor expectations without stress. Consistent parental involvement and understanding can ease the transition and foster independence.

Empowering Neurodiverse Success

A little preparation can transform the college experience for neurodiverse students. By advocating, preparing, and supporting your child, you are setting them up for a successful transition. Engage with their journey every step of the way. The right strategies can ensure that neurodiverse students thrive in their college environment.

Specific for moms

Moms, it is imperative that you work to regulate your nervous system to provide adequate responses and don't overreact when your child is in need. The transition to college can be stressful and emotional, and your children will need your support. The calmer you are, the less emotional chaos you will experience with your child.

Dani Taylor, a neurodiversity specialist, can be reached at [email protected].

For additional resources for navigating anxiety, download the free eBook: A Guide to Alleviate Anxiety by Developing Healthy Habits for a Healthy Mind.