Happy October Friend,

The holidays will be here before you know it… and family gatherings have a way of triggering childhood and generational pain, don’t they?

And have you noticed that when you’re feeling emotionally charged, you also experience more physical distress…

…along with a sense of holiday dread?

As if that weren’t enough, did you know that winter depression is more common in women?

And that depression can make chronic pain worse (and visa versa)?

Right now is the perfect time to consider how you want to better navigate the holidays so that you are free to experience greater joy.

When I was a young woman in college, I anticipated being with my family and looked forward to joining in on our traditions during the holidays.

I saved up money for months to pay for gas and drove until late at night to get back to our family home. After all, holidays meant being with family, where I belonged.

Amidst the beautiful moments of love and connection, I also remember how disappointed and frustrated I became, feeling so triggered by our dysfunctional family dynamics.

I’d end up heading back home feeling disheartened and wondering why I had gone through so much trouble and expense to get there.