I knew at a young age the way I was moving through life wasn’t ideal, but it took me decades to truly experience a joyful and balanced life. ​Fortunately, I was able to step out into the world (somewhat) confidently as a young adult. I was a teacher for about a decade. I threw myself into the profession and everything else came second. ​I had a strong sense of purpose, but I was still struggling with my emotional health. Perfectionism became my way of trying to control the heavy emotions weighing me down. Burnout came fast, so I transitioned to a year-round school where I felt more balanced.      

 

Fast forward to 2010 when I was married and pregnant with our first child. I powered through pregnancy teaching and feeling the excitement this next life stage would bring. When our daughter arrived, juggling motherhood and life was a challenge for me. I fell hard into post-partum depression.  ​I left my teaching position and became a stay-at-home mom. Staying home with my children was so physically and mentally exhausting, until I prioritized my own self-care. ​I survived the first decade of parenthood, but things significantly shifted for me during Covid-19. Now, I can say I am truly enjoying my role as a mom. I now find pleasure in our morning routine, family vacations, days off from school, the weekends and helping my children navigate the ups and downs of life.         

 

In August 2020, I hired a dear friend and holistic wellness coach. The initial goals were to lower my cholesterol and FINALLY stick to an exercise routine. What I have gained from my experience working with a talented wellness coach far exceeded my expectations. She taught me how to listen to myself and discover the why behind my lifelong tendency to avoid hard things and cope with unhealthy habits. ​I am now a self-compassionate woman who does the consistent work to deeply understand and love myself. I am a mother and spouse who is modeling self-love through daily movement, gratitude journaling, meditation, connection, sleep and nourishing meals. I am not perfect. I have hard moments and days, but now I have the tools to confidently work through those difficult times opposed to running in the other direction.