Is there anything better than a book that enriches, engages, and inspires?

 As an avid reader, I'm always thrilled to discover new books that captivate me and encourage self-reflection and growth. Here are three recent favorites I'd like to share with you!

📖 The Source by Tara Swart

Swart takes us on a journey into the connection of neuroscience and spirituality. The book delves deep into harnessing the power of the mind, blending scientific insights with actionable steps. It's been a transformative read, making me more conscious of my mental patterns and the infinite potential within.

📖 The Emotional Lives of Teenagers by Lisa Demour

Demour's insightful exploration into the adolescent brain and the emotional turbulence of teenage years is truly enlightening. The book is packed with real-life scenarios, offering both understanding and practical advice for navigating these tumultuous times. It's given me a fresh perspective on the complexities of adolescence. A must read if you have a teen at home.

📖 Hidden Potential by Adam Grant

In typical Adam Grant fashion, this book challenges conventional wisdom. He delves into the untapped potential we all possess and the unexpected routes to achieving greatness. The anecdotes and research insights have been incredibly motivational, reminding me that success often comes from the most unexpected sources.

👉I’d love to hear from you! Have you had a chance to read any of these? I'm eager to exchange notes! And, of course, if you've stumbled upon any gems lately, send them my way.

“What a gift it has been to work with Trina over the past six years!  She has been an incredible help to me through many, many difficult times.  She brings a kind, calming, and warm presence to each session, listens deeply, has a lovely sense of humor, and best of all, has done her own work so that her own stuff doesn’t get in the way (as can happen sometimes with some therapists).  She is highly skilled at tapping and surprises me often as she continually learns new techniques. She is a voracious reader and always has a book or two to recommend that helps with my particular issues.  To put it simply:  My life is supremely better for the work we have done together.” -Dian Ulner

I have only shared these secrets with my clients… But I’m sharing them with you today!

Hello, beautiful souls!

Did you know that there’s a multitude of ways to go from frazzled to calm? 

There is no one right way, and we’re all affected differently by them too!  Last week I shared with you how to use EFT to feel calm, and I thought I’d spill the tea on my other top three secret techniques. Not only do I use these for myself (the first one is my personal favorite) but I use these all the time with my clients too! 

Give them a try right now and see how they feel for you! Then the next time you’re feeling upset, anxious, stressed or overwhelmed, try the one that you like the most and notice how it allows you to feel calm and centered again.

1. Double Inhale/Exhale Breath

• How to do it: Breathe in through the nose, take a slight pause then add a second inhalation. Exhale slowly and completely through the mouth.

• Benefits: This unique breathing rhythm is a charm for relaxing the nervous system. It enhances the oxygen flow to your brain and lungs, fostering relaxation and a clear mind. (You’ll probably notice that our bodies do this exact breath when we’re calming down from a big crying session. This allows for reregulation of the nervous system, and we can use this breath anytime we want to make that happen!)

2. Butterfly Hug

• How to do it: Cross your arms, touching your upper arms. Gently squeeze your hands, reminiscent of a butterfly's wings.

• Benefits: This beautiful bilateral stimulation, frequently used in trauma healing, is grounding and self-soothing. It often feels like a warm and comforting embrace.

3. Foot Pedaling

• How to do it: Sitting comfortably, pedal your feet on the floor, mimicking the action of walking slowly. Be sure that your feet are slowly pressing into the floor while alternating the action.

• Benefits: Pedaling your feet slowly on the floor sends a message to your brain that you’re getting away to safety. Add some slow deep breathing to this, it’ll makes it even more magical.

These techniques are small moments of self-care that can be incorporated throughout your day. Whether you're at home, work, or even on-the-go, you’ll have the tools to center yourself.

“I've been working with Trina for several years now, and it's not an exaggeration to say that she's helped me change my life. I have the tools now to find peace even when everything around me is chaos (kiddos!). My time with Trina is always healing, and I always come away with some new kernel of knowledge about myself that helps me grow as a person. She is wise and intuitive and just a joy to work with. I feel so lucky to have found her!” -Emily B.

Every breath you take, every gentle tap, every pedal movement is a step towards nurturing your inner peace.

Love and gratitude,

Trina 💖

Hey there, beautiful spirit,

In this heartbreaking and uncertain time, finding inner peace can sometimes feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. Ever felt like anxiety is that one unwelcome guest who tends to overstay their welcome? Believe me, you're not alone. But what if I told you there's magic at your fingertips? Dive with me into the calming waters of Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), also known as, "tapping".

What’s EFT, Anyway?

Picture this: the ancient wisdom of acupuncture but minus the intimidating needles. EFT borrows from traditional energy meridians, yet it's as simple as tapping specific points on your body and saying how you feel. This process helps dissolve emotional blockages, helping to usher in tranquility.

EFT as Your Anxiety Ally?

• Simplicity is Key: Just you, your thoughts, and your fingers wiping away worries.

• Backed by Science: EFT isn't just a trend; it’s rooted in research that showcases its prowess in melting away stress and anxiety.

• A Breath of Fresh Air: Feel that? It's the gentle wave of calmness washing over you post-EFT.

• Mind-Body Magic: EFT isn't about picking between the mind and body. It's about creating the balance between the two.

Embark on Your EFT Journey:

• Pinpoint the Storm: What's that cloud looming over? Recognize it. It could be current events, a memory, or an impending challenge.

• Notice How You Truly Feel: Turn that storm into a gentle drizzle. Let’s say you're anxious about an interview; your inner emotions could be fear, not feeling good enough, or catastrophizing.  

• Find Your Rhythm: While tapping through the points, focus on your emotions, how they feel in your body, and the story you're telling yourself about these emotions. Try to be curious and observe how you feel without judgment. (See image below for EFT Tapping Points)

• Look for Calming Cues: Notice if you naturally take a deep breath, or if those emotions you started with don’t resonate anymore. These are signs that you’re beginning to feel calmer. 

• Safe Waters: Once you’re feeling calm, take a few slow, deep breaths, ending your tapping experience feeling grounded and peaceful. (Want to be guided through this remarkable process? Click here.)

Remember, while the magic of EFT is profound, approach it with curiosity, and an open heart. And if anxiety ever feels like a overwhelming tidal wave, seeking professional help is always the best decision.

Sending waves of calm and love your way

Much love,

Trina

ps- Have you dipped your toes into the EFT waters? Be sure to share your story below. Your ripples might just become waves of inspiration for someone else. ✨