This week's newsletter dives into the challenges of communication, a topic we've all grappled with. We've all been there – trying to navigate difficult conversations, avoid confrontation, or please others at the expense of being honest. In this article, Kerry reflects on her own struggles with self-advocacy, fear of rejection, and the emotional toll of holding back the truth. She shares what she’s learned along the way, inspired by expert advice from couples specialist Stan Tatkin, reminding her that communication isn't about being right, but about building connection. We explore key concepts like the power of repair, managing emotions in conflict, and how physical touch can help us reconnect after tension. With practical insights and a focus on empathy, we hope to offer tools that will help strengthen your communication, deepen trust, and bring more understanding into your relationships.

In today’s uncertain world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the noise of current events and the constant flow of information. During times of crisis, we often default to two common reactions: dissociating through distraction or trying to control what we can with intense focus. However, these short-term strategies don’t offer lasting peace. To protect our mental health and sustain hope, it’s crucial to seek out helpers and courageous individuals, celebrate small victories, and stay present in the moment. By finding our center—whether through connection, self-care, or mindfulness—we can endure challenges with clarity and resilience. Remember, in uncertain times, we are not alone, and hope can guide us forward.

As we begin 2025, shift the focus from the typical "new year, new you" to an intention of spaciousness.

Holding Space: Holding space means offering unconditional support without expectations. By truly listening and being present, we foster deep connections with our loved ones.

Creating Space: Implement a “White Space” day in your schedule to cultivate calmness. Embrace a "no rushing" policy to enhance daily routines and strengthen relationships.

Embodied Space: Recognize your limits and adapt to life's challenges with ease. Practices like deep breathing can calm the mind and promote balance.

This year, prioritize spaciousness. This gentle approach nurtures a sense of softness and lightness in our lives, beginning with a simple, deep breath.

As the holidays approach, forgiveness often becomes a central, yet challenging, theme—especially in the wake of divisive times and personal conflicts. In this article, we explore what forgiveness truly means and how it differs from reconciliation. Drawing inspiration from psychologist Dr. Thema Bryant, we learn that forgiveness is about releasing ourselves from the pain of what’s outside our control, not about excusing behavior or forcing reconciliation. By cultivating curiosity and compassion, we can accept others as imperfect humans, just as we allow ourselves room to grow and evolve.

As we approach a major election, the world feels unstable, tenuous, and chaotic. Many of us feel restless and anxious about the future. In this week’s TGIF, Kerry explores how we can cultivate personal peace, even amidst uncertainty, and use that peace to support those around us. Stay with us…I think you’ll be able to take bigger breaths by the end.

"The significant learning was this: if we keep chasing a version of ourselves that we think will finally be enough to matter, we’ll miss letting ourselves and others enjoy who we already are."

In this week's TGIF, Kerry shares the story and unfortunately common experience of identity, who we are, and how (or whether) we allow others to see our true selves.

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to travel back home to Chicago for my high school reunion. Initially, I did not want to go, and I physically contracted at the idea of it. “Why go back to a place where judgments ruled? Why subject myself to the opinions of people that really don’t matter to me?” were the anxious thoughts running through my head.

And yet, I attended. When I got out of my head and decided on the intentions of connection and joy, I reprogrammed my own expectations. And here’s the thing that surprised me: I didn’t want the night to end.

“Attitudes are contagious. Is yours worth catching?” In this week's TGIF, Kerry revisits the topic of co-regulation. As parents, leaders, teachers, partners, friends, or simply just as humans - understanding that your energy is truly contagious and how to regulate is a powerful tool that impacts our greater communities. Remember that regulated does not always mean calm, it means resilient