Today we have a blog post from one of our Master’s level interns, Devin Kappie, about taking care of yourself and leaning on your support system. Devin has a passion for helping others and considers it an honor to walk alongside her clients’ journey in living lives authentic to them.
Her counseling approach relies on the practice of and use of compassion, vulnerability, courage, and patience with oneself and one’s relationships. Holding a strong belief that everyone is capable of living a life that is true to themselves, Devin values therapeutic relationships as it is a space that prioritizes safety and authenticity without the fear of judgment.
She believes all people and bodies are worthy and valuable. Through the unique and innate strengths of clients, Devin hopes to reconnect those she works with to a life and sense of self that is embodied by peace, empowerment, and belonging.
Self-Care: Reducing Stress and Embracing Support
As we are continuing to move through the new year, it can bring joy, excitement, and inspiration but it can also be a time of great stress. We can experience the stress of having goals and expectations, wanting to have the perfect moments, or working on being the best version of yourself. As much as I would love to have it all together and be the best version of myself all the time, that is simply not reality. It is ok that we are not perfect, but I invite you to let go of the expectations that you may be placing on yourself, find connection with your loved ones, and take time for yourself.
Connecting with Your Support System
Leaning into your support system within this year can give you comfort and empower you to be your authentic self! I challenge you to let go of the expectations others may want from you, which can be difficult at times, and lean into the love, support, and connection from your loved ones. When we lean into our support system, it can help us cope with stress and foster a stronger sense of belonging and perspective.
Be Kind To Yourself
Being kind to yourself can show up in a number of ways. Kindness can show up in how you speak to yourself, how you think about yourself, or even what you expect of yourself. There are many societal pressures to become a brand new, all encompassing perfect person. A way to move towards a version of yourself that is kind and caring is by setting realistic goals.
I invite you to be gentle with yourself when setting realistic goals. Give yourself permission to rest and take each day one moment at a time with the goals you set for yourself. With the help of your support system or even your therapist you can work together to set these realistic goals which can include being kind to yourself!
Prioritize What is Aligned With Your Values
Understanding what you prioritize in your life can be a daunting task to many people. Perhaps, you can slow down and take a step back in order to understand your priorities and values. By attuning to your needs, you can create a foundational understanding of what you value and, thus form a path for you to live a life that is aligned with those values.
Get curious about what is most important to you. Where do you want to spend your time, energy, and resources? Remember that our values can ebb and flow over time. You have permission to change your mind and to re-evaluate your values during different seasons of life.
Resource:
If you are looking for more support or additional resources as you embark on this journey into the New year, take a peek at the book Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Emily Nagowski and Amelia Nagowski. This book is a great resource to help dismantle societal pressures and the all-too familiar cycle of stress, feeling overwhelmed, and expectations we put on ourselves.
I would like to leave you with an affirmation: “I am open and ready to receive amazing opportunities. I am creating a life of passion and purpose.”
You Got This!
Devin
We hope you found Devin’s insights on prioritizing self-care and leaning on your support system helpful. If her message resonated with you, this could be the perfect time to take meaningful steps towards your healing and peace. To initiate your work with Devin, please feel free to call our office at 615.510.3797 or click here to learn more.
