Education
and
Collaboration
for Whole-Person Healing

Here at THE INSTITUTE FOR INTEGRATIVE HEALING

our mission is simple: to share the knowledge and tools that help individuals and professionals alike embrace healing from a holistic perspective. Welcome to a space where learning, growth, and transformation thrive.

THE IMPORTANCE OF
EDUCATION IN
INTEGRATIVE HEALING

The Institute for Integrative Healing offers courses, workshops, and practical tools that blend evidence-based science with whole-person healing. Providers and learners get clear, usable education from licensed experts across mental health, nutrition, and integrative care designed to build skills, deepen understanding, and support real-world practice.
Our trainings introduce a whole-person approach to healing that bridges mental health, physical wellness, and physiological restoration.

A HOLISTIC APPROACH

Sign up and get $10 off your first order!

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PARTNERS

Our partners play a vital role in shaping and strengthening our work. We collaborate with aligned organizations and professionals to share knowledge, co-create educational content, and expand access to integrative, evidence-based care—ensuring greater impact for providers and the communities they serve.

PARTNER PAGE

What an unforgettable night! Our hearts are overflowing with gratitude! ❤️

The Missing Piece: An Integrative Path to Trauma Recovery brought together clinicians, community members, and partners who share one mission… healing the whole person. Mind, body, and spirit.

This event marked the launch of The Institute for Integrative Healing, a platform for training & teaching. It has been a dream that’s been years in the making. Seeing so many passionate humans in one room, committed to trauma healing and whole body wellness, was beyond inspiring!

From our partners & vendors to every attendee, thank you for being part of something so meaningful. This is just the beginning of a movement toward integrative, collaborative care and true healing. 🌿

A very special thank you to our incredible partners for all that you do to make a difference in our community. Your commitment to integrative healing and collaborative care is changing lives every single day.
@rxformulations
@beem.gilbert.az
@crownperformancetraining
@cactus_wren_family_therapy
@healingheartsccaz
@naturallybalanced_az
@stephaniekreun

And a special thanks to our amazing vendors! Our event would not have been the same without you! We are so thankful!
📸: @peak.photographyaz
🎤: @audiorentaz
💻: @kate.marie.gardner
🥨: @simplydivinecharcuterie
🎈: @pastel_balloondesign

We are so excited for all that is ahead! Stay tuned for our spring event! You won’t want to miss it! #bettertogether

#TraumaHealing #IntegrativeHealing #WholeBodyHealth #MindBodySpirit #CollaborativeCare #SomaticHealing #CommunityHealing #HealingJourney #EmotionalWellness #HolisticHealth #TheMissingPiece #InstituteForIntegrativeHealing #GilbertAZ #HealingHearts #TherapistCommunity #MentalHealthMatters #HealersSupportingHealers

The future of mental health is collaborative care.

Our Missing Piece event brings together an incredible group of practitioners with one shared mission, to restore balance, wholeness, and hope through whole-body, integrative healing.

From trauma therapists and nutritionists to nurse practitioners, bodyworkers, pharmacists, and trainers, each partner brings a vital piece of the healing puzzle.

We’re deeply grateful for every practitioner joining us. Your passion for collaborative care is changing lives!

Meet our partners: 💊 Rx Formulations – community-focused pharmacy offering personalized compounding and medication solutions.
 🌞 Beem Sauna – infrared & red light therapy studio promoting cellular repair, circulation, and recovery. 
🏋️ Crown Performance Training – helping our community build strength and resilience through movement and nutrition. 
🌿 Cactus Wren Family Therapy – trauma-informed care specializing in EMDR, IFS & DBT, working with children, teens, & families honoring mind, body, and soul.
 💗 Healing Hearts Counseling – integrative trauma therapy practice specializing in EMDR & somatic based, holistic care, working with children, teens & families.
 🩺 Naturally Balanced – integrative medicine addressing root causes of imbalance with internal systems (thyroid, hormone, and adrenal balance.)
 🥦 Restorative Health & Wellness – holistic nutrition & functional wellness, gut health, sleep & metabolic disorders, & detox
 🧠 R & R Psychiatric Care – compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioners offering personalized medication management. 
💆‍♀️ Butterfly Effect Massage – therapeutic bodywork focused on nervous system regulation and trauma release.
 🪷 Therapeutic Pathways – counseling services helping individuals reclaim safety, connection, and hope.
 💄 Heather’s Beauty Loft – restorative skin & self-care treatments that support inner and outer healing.

Join us for The Missing Piece: The Integrative Path to Trauma Recovery! 🗓 October 17 | ⏰ 6–8 PM
 Experience what happens when healing has a “whole person” approach… mind, body & soul.
 Link in bio to grab your spot! 🎟️

#missingpiece #integrativewellness #partnersinhealing

What if the missing piece in trauma recovery isn’t more talk therapy—but a whole new way of healing?

Trauma doesn’t just live in your mind. It lives in your body, your hormones, your gut, your sleep—every layer of your being.

That’s why true recovery requires a whole-person, integrative approach.

Whether you’re a person on their own healing journey or a practitioner walking with others… Join us for the debut masterclass of The Institute for Integrative Healing:
🌿 The Missing Piece: An Integrative Path to Trauma Recovery
📅 Friday, October 17, 2025 | ⏰ 6–8 PM MST
📍 KILN – Gilbert

Speaker Lineup:
✨ Myra Hurtado, LPC-S – Rewiring Safety: Why Trauma Healing Must Include the Whole Body

✨ Cheryl Simmons, FNP – Reclaiming Balance: The Impact of Trauma on Hormones, Thyroid, and Adrenals

✨ Stephanie Kreun, CHN – The Gut-Brain Connection: Why Nutrition and Sleep Are Mental Health Essentials

Whether you’re someone on a healing journey who knows there’s a missing piece, or a practitioner wanting to deepen your trauma-informed lens, understand how nutrition plays a role, or explore why internal balance is essential for wellness—this event is for you.

⚠️ Space is limited. 🎟 Buy your tickets now — link in bio!

Healing isn’t just possible—it’s essential. Don’t miss this first step into a new path of recovery.

#TraumaHealing #IntegrativeCare #MindBodyHealing #HolisticWellness #MentalHealthMatters #NervousSystemHealing #GutBrainConnection #HormoneHealth #TraumaRecovery #HealingJourney #IntegrativeHealing #ArizonaEvents

💡 Hashimoto's can feel overwhelming, but understanding your labs and treatment options is the first step to better health.

🧪 Important labs to draw:

✔️ TPO (Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies)
✔️ Thyroglobulin Antibodies
✔️ Full Thyroid Panel (TSH, Free & Total T4/T3)

🌟 Treatment tips to manage Hashimoto's:

❌ Avoid gluten for reduced inflammation
🌿 Add Selenium (200 mcg daily) to support thyroid function
💊 Talk to your Provider about LDN (Low Dose Naltrexone) as a potential treatment option.

📍 Compounding pharmacies to consider:

🏥 Rx Formulations (Mesa): 480-854-3100
🏥 Strive Pharmacy (Gilbert): 480-626-4366

Take control of your health with these actionable steps and professional support. You’ve got this! 💙 #HashimotosAwareness #ThyroidHealth #NaturallyBalanced

🦋 Your thyroid is small but mighty! If you're feeling fatigued, experiencing hair loss, or noticing unexplained weight changes, it might be time to check in with your thyroid health.

🧪 Essential thyroid tests: ✔️ TSH ✔️ Free T4 ✔️ Free T3 ✔️ Total T3

✨ Expanded testing for deeper insight: ✔️ Reverse T3 ✔️ Selenium ✔️ Iodine

🌿 Recommended supplements for optimal thyroid support: ✔️ T-150 ✔️ Selenium ✔️ Iodoral (Iodine) ✔️ Brazil nuts (3-4 daily for a natural selenium boost!)

Take charge of your health with the right testing and supplements to keep your thyroid balanced and your energy thriving. 💪 #ThyroidHealth #HolisticWellness #NaturallyBalanced

Joy isn’t found in perfect circumstances—it’s found in your heart. 💛 But sometimes, stress and overwhelm can make it harder to tap into that inner joy.

✨ Need a little extra help? L-theanine is a natural way to support calm and focus, helping you navigate the holiday hustle and reconnect with the moments that truly matter.

💊 Suggested dose: 100-200mg, 2-3x daily as needed.

🛒 Shop here for high-quality L-theanine supplements: Fullscript Link

In the new year, take care of your well-being so you can truly feel the joy in your heart. 🌟 #ChooseJoy #StressRelief #NaturallyBalanced

✨ Set SMART goals and take charge of your health in 2024! Whether you're focusing on better nutrition, consistent exercise, self-care, or overall wellness, having a clear plan makes all the difference.

💡 SMART Goals = Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
✔️ Prioritize protein at every meal for sustained energy.
✔️ Schedule workouts like appointments to stay consistent.
✔️ Make self-care a non-negotiable for mental and emotional well-being.
✔️ Track your progress and celebrate small wins!

🌿 At Naturally Balanced in Gilbert, AZ, we’re here to help you reach your health and wellness goals with a holistic approach. Ready to take the first step? Let's make 2024 your healthiest year yet!

💬 What’s one SMART goal you’re setting for yourself? Drop it in the comments! ⬇️

#SMARTGoals #HealthGoals #GilbertAZ #NaturallyBalanced #HolisticWellness #ExerciseMotivation #SelfCareMatters #NutritionGoals

This season, let’s focus on gratitude. 🌟 Take a moment to appreciate the little things—whether it’s warm moments with family, a cozy cup of tea, or simply the chance to slow down and breathe. ✨ May this time be filled with joy, connection, and a renewed sense of peace. What are you grateful for this holiday season? 💛

#SeasonOfGratitude #HolidayJoy #MindfulMoments #WellnessJourney

We work with the most AMAZING humans!!

Being in a collaborative space with like-minded practitioners is an incredible blessing. Not everyone could attend but ALL are dearly loved!

We are wishing all of our dear clients peace and health this holiday season! 🎄❤️

#wewishyouamerrychristmas #peace #health #integrativewellness #integrativehealingcenteraz

🌿 Your Hormones & Emotions: The Hidden Connection 🌿

Did you know that your emotional well-being is deeply influenced by your hormones? 🤔 When your hormones are in balance, you're more likely to feel grounded, connected, and resilient in your relationships. 💕 But when they're out of sync, it can lead to mood swings, anxiety, and even feeling disconnected from yourself and others.

✨ Supporting your hormonal health naturally can help you feel more in tune with yourself and those around you. 🌸

Visit us online at www.naturallybalanced.com for more info on our services.

#HormoneHealth #EmotionalConnection #NaturallyBalanced #FeelGoodInsideAndOut #HolisticHealth #gilbertaz #gilbertazwellness #wellness #hormonebalance

In a world full of chaos and constant business, remember that inner peace is something we can choose and cultivate. Whether it’s through mindful breathing, movement, or simply taking a moment for yourself, the choice is YOURS. Today, choose peace!

#ChoosePeace #MindfulLiving #StressRelief #WellnessJourney #InnerCalm #HolisticHealth #SelfCareFirst #PracticePeace

Feeling constantly fatigued? 😴 You’re not alone. Fatigue can impact every part of our lives, but the good news is that there are simple, natural ways to combat it. 🌿

Prioritize quality sleep 🛌, stay hydrated 💧, get your body moving with gentle exercise 🏃‍♀️, and consider journaling ✍️ to manage stress and mental overload. By making these small, consistent changes, you can improve your energy levels and feel more refreshed each day.
Let’s take small steps towards beating fatigue together! 💪

#BeatFatigue #SleepWell #StayHydrated #MoveYourBody #MindfulLiving #WellnessJourney #HealthyHabits #HolisticHealth

In a world that never stops, it's easy to forget that rest is just as important as hustle.

Taking time to unwind not only helps you recharge but also boosts your overall well-being.

🧘‍♀️ So today, give yourself permission to slow down and embrace the power of relaxation. Your mind and body will thank you! 💆‍♂️💆

‍What will you do today to relax? Tell us in the comments!

#RelaxAndRecharge #SelfCare #MindfulLiving #WellnessJourney #MentalHealthMatters #naturallybalancedaz

Did you know that hair loss can be a side effect of stress or illness, including COVID-19? 🌿 If you’ve noticed thinning hair or increased shedding after recovering, you’re not alone.

Alma TED is a groundbreaking, non-invasive treatment designed to promote thicker, stronger hair.

🌿 When combined with a topical growth serum, it stimulates improved blood flow to the scalp, helping you achieve healthier, fuller hair. Ready to experience the benefits of Alma TED?

Send us a message or give us a call to learn more! 480.702.1616 📞

#HairRestorationGilbertAZ #AlmaTED #HealthyHairGilbert #HairLossSolution #GilbertAZ #HairGrowthJourney #HairRestoration #ScalpCare #HealthyHairGoals #GilbertWellness #AZWellness #HairLossTreatment #ThickerHair #HairCareAZ #GilbertHealthyHair #ArizonaWellness #GilbertHairRestoration

🚨 𝗛𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗲𝗱 𝘂𝗽 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗔𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝗮?🚨⁣
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Managing your health just got easier! 🙌 With our new portal, you can schedule appointments, view records, and stay on top of your wellness—all in one place. 🌿⁣
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Visit our website or click the link in our bio to create your new login today! 🔗💻⁣
Don’t miss out on a smoother healthcare experience! ✨⁣
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#PatientPortal #AthenaHealth #WellnessJourney #EasyAccess #HealthcareMadeSimple

As the leaves change, so can we. 🌿 ⁣
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October is the perfect time to refocus on our health, balance, and self-care. Whether it's nourishing your body, prioritizing better sleep, or making small changes for a healthier lifestyle, now is the season to embrace natural healing and growth. 🌱 ⁣
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Let’s welcome this new month with open arms and a commitment to taking care of ourselves from the inside out. 🍁✨⁣
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What are you focusing on this month? Share your wellness goals below! 👇⁣
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#HelloOctober #NaturalHealing #WellnessJourney #SelfCareSeason #FallVibes

💫 Say goodbye to hair loss with Alma TED! 💫

Our cutting-edge Alma TED treatment is a revolutionary, non-invasive solution for hair restoration! 🌱 This painless treatment stimulates hair growth, revitalizes your scalp, and delivers visible results with no downtime. Whether you're experiencing thinning or hair loss, Alma TED works to help you achieve fuller, healthier hair naturally. 🌿✨

Ready to restore your confidence and your hair? Let's get started! 💇‍♀️💇‍♂️

#AlmaTED #HairRestoration #HealthyHair #NaturalHairGrowth #HairLossSolution #HairCare #HairRegrowth #ThickerHair #ConfidentYou

Protecting your health from hidden chemicals like phthalates is easier than you think!⁣
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🧴 When shopping for personal care products like shampoo, lotion, or perfume, look for labels that say "phthalate-free." 🛍️ And when it comes to food, especially red meat and processed options, go fresh whenever possible and store in glass or stainless steel instead of plastic.⁣
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🍴 Small changes can make a big impact on your well-being! 💪 Let’s stay informed and make safer choices together! 🌿✨⁣
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#PhthalateFree #HealthyLiving #ToxinFree #CleanBeauty #WellnessTips #EndocrineHealth #CleanEating #NaturalProducts #SaferChoices #ChemicalFreeLiving #MindfulLiving #HealthyChoices #naturallybalancedaz #wellness #theintegrativehealingcenteraz

Your body is designed to protect you from acute stress/insult, but many of us have ongoing stressors or unresolved trauma that keep our body in a chronic stress state. When we have constant mental, emotional, or physical stressors keeping our sympathetic nervous system activated, there is constant trigger to stay in 'fight, flight, or freeze' response. This leads to a cascade of effects in your body.

Cortisol is an important hormone that is protective, BUT when you are ‘running in the jungle from the tiger’ all day and all night…your parasympathetic nervous system doesn’t get a chance to kick in and help your body heal/repair.

Cortisol effects blood sugar/insulin regulation, hormone balance, T4 to T3 thyroid conversion, inflammation, immune response, and so much more.

Remember, chronic stress requires more than a quick escape.

It's time to address the root cause, find balance, and restore optimal health. 🌿

#StressResponse #Cortisol #HealthMatters #NaturallyBalanced #GilbertAZWellness #IntegrativeHealing #NaturalWellness #HolisticHealth #GilbertWellness #FunctionalMedicine #MindBodyHealth #Stress

Meet Alma Harmony! ✨ Your all-in-one solution for full body hair removal, tattoo removal, and treating melasma & hyperpigmentation. Plus, it softens scars, wrinkles, and pores while boosting collagen for radiant skin! Let’s glow together! 💫 #AlmaHarmony #LaserResurfacing #RadiantSkin

Let’s talk about sex! 🔥

From energy levels to mood swings, your hormones play a major role in your sexual health. Whether you're dealing with imbalances or just curious about how hormones impact your body, we’re here to help guide you toward balance.

#HormoneHealth #SexualWellness #BalancedLife #naturallybalancedaz #sexualhealth

Your body’s ability to heal is greater than anyone has permitted you to believe. 🌱 Embrace this truth by taking small, meaningful steps each day to support your body’s natural healing processes:⁣
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🍎 Nourish yourself with whole, unprocessed foods that fuel your body.⁣
🧘‍♀️ Practice mindfulness to reduce stress and promote inner peace.⁣
🚶‍♂️ Engage in gentle movement like yoga or walking to improve circulation and detoxification.⁣
🌿 Integrate natural therapies such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, or meditation to align your body, mind, and spirit.⁣
💆‍♀️ Prioritize self-care to rejuvenate your body and mind.⁣
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Take a moment today to trust in your body’s incredible power to heal and rejuvenate. Remember, healing is a journey, not a destination. 💚⁣
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#HealingJourney #NaturalHealing #BelieveInYourself #HolisticWellness #MindBodyConnection #SelfCareRoutine #IntegrativeHealingcenteraz #WellnessJourney #TrustYourBody #GilbertAZWellness #NaturallyBalanced

We’re thrilled to bring you this revolutionary, pain-free service! Swipe through to discover how TED Harmony can transform your hair restoration journey with effective, non-invasive treatments. 🌿✨

🔗 Book your consultation now and achieve the hair of your dreams!

#HairLoss #HairRestoration #TEDHarmony #HealthyHair #LaserHairRestoration #ThickerHair #HairGrowth #NonInvasive #HairCare #HairHealth

Discover TED Hair Restoration by ALMA! 🌟

Experience superior hair restoration with the TED device compared to traditional PRP laser treatments. Our advanced, non-invasive laser technology delivers effective results with no downtime.

✨ Pain-Free & Comfortable

✨ Faster, Visible Results

✨ Advanced Technology

Have Questions? We’d love to answer them! Comment ME for more info!

#HairRestoration #ALMATED #HairGrowth #HairLossTreatment #HealthyHair #NonInvasive #ThickerHair #FullerHair #arizonahairrestoration #naturallybalancedaz

What is TED Hair Restoration?
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Curious about Alma TED? 🌟 It's a revolutionary hair restoration treatment that uses advanced technology to stimulate hair growth and improve scalp health without needles or discomfort. Say hello to fuller, healthier hair with Alma TED! #HairRestoration #AlmaTED #HealthyHair #InnovativeBeauty #HairCare
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🔗 Watch now and book your consultation!
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#HairRestoration #almated #HairGrowth #HairLossTreatment #HealthyHair #NonInvasive #ThickerHair #FullerHair #naturallybalancedaz #gilbertazhairrestoration

What does it mean to be “naturally balanced?” One of our center’s co-founders, Cheryl Simmons, FNP with @naturallybalanced spoke to a group of women last night about the symptoms of imbalanced hormones, stressed adrenals and thyroid issues. At the center we offer collaborative care for clients looking for support for mental and emotional wellness when healing from trauma and chronic stress, support the internal balance within our bodies, medication management, nutrition and self care through services offered. We have a team of passionate clinicians ready to help! You are worthy of living your fullest life!

#naturallybalanced #healingheartscounseling #trauma #healing #wellness #holisticwellness #integrativehealth #nutrition #functionalnutrition #psychiatricnurse #massagetherapy #skincare #bodywellness

We are excited to introduce Alma Harmony!!

Naturally Balanced has partnered with Heathers Beauty Loft to add additional aesthetic services including treatment for melasma, hyperpigmentation, acne scarring, fine lines/wrinkles, tattoo removal, and hair removal.

Visit naturallybalanced.com for more information or you can contact Heather directly to schedule at 480-818-4012 or heathersbeautyloft@gmail.com.

Join Nutritionist Stephanie Kreun this January for a health and nutrition kick start! From her recipe club, detox programs, to weight loss and health coaching @stephaniekreun is your girl!
Check out www.stephaniekreun.com for more info!

#healthandwellness #restorativehealthandnutrition #nutrition #weightlossjourney #detox #newbeginnings

What a privilege to work alongside such an amazing like-minded clinicians! The Integrative Healing Center is a special place where we care for our clients deeply!

We wish all of our amazing clients a wonderful Christmas and a blessed New Year filled with healing and wellness!

#integrativehealingcenterofaz #healing #wellness #love

Emotions are messengers. Anxiety is a normal part of the human experience. It is not always logical. It is a biological-based response. Sometimes there are very obvious reasons to feel nervous or afraid. And other times, you just can't apply logic to a fear-based system. It is our nervous system's survival mechanism.

It can be debilitating when our nervous system goes "rogue." We can get stuck with our alarm bells going off on the inside! Therapy is a great way to build coping skills, receive support, and become curious about the stressors causing the anxiety. We can learn to stretch our "window"... where we can think and feel at the same time (even when we are a little anxious!) We can ask for support, take breaks and create growth-oriented goals.

We have a wonderful group of clinicians in Gilbert, AZ. If you live in AZ and want to work together, reach out at the link in my bio & Follow along for more from a therapist on mental health, cultivating fulfilling relationships, emotional growth and trauma healing.

Reminder: all of my content is for educational purposes only and not a replacement for individual care by a medical or mental health provider.

#gilberttherapist #selfcompassion #therapyworks #therapyiscool #therapistsofinstagram #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #relationshipgoals #relationshiptherapy #emotionalintelligence #attachmentstyles #attachmenttheory #healthyrelationships #traumatherapy #traumainformed #traumatherapist #traumahealing #traumarecovery #cptsd #grief #griefjourney #meditation #mindfulness
#anxiety #anxiousbrain #stuckon #regulation

Hey mommas... what does your self-care look like? It is essential to check the messages you've received or the beliefs you may have formed around self-care.

Self-care is vital. Research shows that modeling self-care for our children helps them develop empathy and can affect your child's mental and physical health just as much as your own!

In order to self-care we have to be able to self-reflect... we have to check in with ourselves:

💭 mentally - what are our thoughts?

😵‍💫 emotionally - what am I feeling and how am I regulating myself?

🏃‍♀️somatically - what is my body telling me?

The answers to these questions help us to know what we might need. Do we need more rest? Do we need to say no? Do we need to eat? Do we need connection? Or maybe we need to move our body? Self-care includes mental, emotional, social, spiritual and professional.

Remember, the most BASIC pillars of mental health include sleep, nutrition, connection and movement... so check in with those first and learn to care for yourself. Your body is the platform from which you reach to all others in your life. It all begins with you. Self-care is a must!

#selfcare #selflove #moms #motherhood #mentalhealthawareness #checkin #therapy #sleep #nutrition #movement #connection #pillarsofmentalhealth #childrensmentalhealth #parenthood #therapistsofinstagram #healingheartsccaz #integrativehealingcenteraz

Thinking of you this Mother's Day...

Holidays can bring up a lot of different emotions... love and joy... regret, grief and anger...

There is space for all your emotions... no matter your experience today...

Whether you are celebrating and honoring the women in your life, or you are a mother, Auntie, or mentor to a child that you love or that you've lost or are disconnected from...

We are holding space for you with all the emotions this day might bring ❤️

#mothersday #mom #parenthood #children #honoringmoms #grief #loss #holdingspace #trauma #healing #allthefeels #healingheartsccaz #integrativehealingcenteraz

Let's talk about the mental health of mommas...

There just isn't enough education and conversation around postpartum and the symptoms of postpartum depression. This leaves some moms feeling intense guilt and shame for their internal experiences.

So what is Postpartum depression?

Postpartum blues can be prevalent after childbirth. Symptoms don't last for more than a few weeks. It is a phase of emotional liability following birth, characterized by frequent crying episodes, irritability, confusion and anxiety. Two major factors are the extreme changes in hormones for mom after birth and sleep deprivation.

Postpartum depression symptoms are very similar to clinical depression and may include specific fears such as excessive preoccupation with the child's health or intrusive thoughts of harming the baby. It can begin at any time after delivery and is estimated to occur in 10-20% of new mothers.

So what helps?

🌿 Therapy - having a safe other to walk through all of the feelings that a new mom is processing can be very helpful.

🌿 Medication - sometimes, medication is the resource needed to help stabilize.

🌿 Support groups and socialization - we need validation and connection!

🌿 Excercise and movement! Even if you just walk out into your backyard or stroll around the block, moving your body is key to mental wellness and emotional regulation.

🌿 Good nutrition is a must!

🌿 Working with a naturopath & balancing hormones

Self-care is essential. Asking for help. Finding someone to talk with that is nonjudgmental and can be supportive. The most important part is raising awareness, normalizing these experiences, offering support and being a resource to new mommas! We need each other!

#newmoms #postpartum #depression #anxiety #parenthood #childbirth #postpartumdepression #postpartumblues #newbaby #mothersday #mentalhealthawareness #bettertogether #EMDR #EMDRtherapy #childhoodtrauma

One way to tell which nervous system state a child is in is to be mindful of their emotions.

Are they feeling calm, peaceful, at ease, joyful, safe, playful, curious, and connected? Then they may be in a ventral vagal state.

Are they feeling anxious, angry, scared, stressed, impulsive, reactive, under pressure, or irritable? Then they may be in a sympathetic state and need your help regulating their emotions so they can return to a calm ventral vagal state.

Are they feeling overwhelmed, lonely, numb, sad, invisible, not good enough, stuck, empty, disconnected, worthless, depressed, or ashamed? Then they may be in a dorsal vagal state and need connection with you to help pull them back up into a ventral vagal state.

#polyvagaltheory #nervoussystem #coregulation #connection #parenting #children

One of the ways we can tell which nervous system state a child may be in is by paying attention to their body's physical cues and posture.

#polyvagaltheory #children #parenting #regulation #nervoussystem #coregulation #sensorimotorpsychotherapy #somatichealing #EMDR

Self-care challenge time! Check out the list of ideas for self-care... what would you add to it? Drop a comment below!

#mentalhealthawareness #selfcare #selfcarechallenge #youmatter #wellbeing #selflove #reflection #connection #movement #anxiety #depression #suicideawareness #healing #wellness #healingheartsccaz #integrativehealingcenteraz

Time for a mental health check-in...

✔️ Am I eating regularly?

✔️ Am I getting enough sleep?

✔️Am I feeling Ok?

✔️ What am I feeling?

✔️ Am I being kind to me? to others?

✔️ Whom can I talk to?

If something is off, it may be time to check in with a professional. Make an appt with your primary care provider or a mental health professional. Take the time to pause and reflect on how you are caring for yourself, how you are managing stress and what you might need that would help.

#mentalhealthmatters #checkin #mentalhealthawareness #askforhelp #selfreflection #rest #recovery #healing #wellness #somatichealing #healingheartsccaz #integrativehealingcenteraz

Let's talk about mental health 🧠

It is a topic that doesn't receive enough time or attention in our healthcare and our education systems.

Here are some tips for practicing well-being as you learn to care for your mental and emotional health...

1. Set boundaries - this protects us mentally, emotionally and physically.

2. Connect with nature - it is good for the soul!

3. Get enough rest! - Nothing works well if you are not getting the rest you need.

4. Cultivate creativity - find those outlets that help you access "flow."

5. Stay active - move your body!

6. Connect with others

7. Practice self-reflection - this allows you to actually "notice" what you need.

8. Find your purpose and passion!

Eat well, and be intentional... the list can go on and on! The point is... choose something... even just one thing to do intentionally to take better care of YOU. You are worth it!!

#mentalhealth #mentalhealthishealth #wellbeing #rest #nature #creativity #connection #stayactive #selfreflection #purpose #passion #boundaries #therapy #healing #therapistsofinstagram #healingheartsccaz #integrativehealingcenteraz

Did you know that May is Mental Health Awareness Month?

Mental health "awareness" is the recognition that our psychological health and well-being are just as important as our physical health and well-being.

By increasing awareness, we can help people understand their symptoms, find professional help and healing, and, most importantly, break the stigma that leaves so many suffering in silence.

If you are someone you know is struggling, there is HOPE!

To get help today, click the link in our bio.

#welcomemay #newmonth #newbeginning #mentalhealthawareness #selfcare #intention #health #healing #mentalhealth #anxiety #depression #suicideawareness #EMDR #EMDRtherapist #somatichealing #therapy #therapistsofinstagram #healingheartsccaz #integrativehealingcenteraz

Welcome May... a new month and a new beginning! ☀️🌸🪴

#welcomemay #newmonth #newbeginning #mentalhealthawareness #selfcare #intention #health #healing #mentalhealth #therapy #therapistsofinstagram #healingheartsccaz #integrativehealingcenteraz

When kids are in a sympathetic response it is so important that adults can remain grounded and regulated. We have to offer them our calm in the midst of their internal chaos. This is called containment.

Containment fosters secure attachment and an unspoken message of…

“I’ve got you.”

“We will figure this out together.”

“You’re not too much for me.”

When you reframe a child’s behavior to see their need, it allows you to respond in a way that is helpful and regulating rather than by reacting in your own stress response.

Next time your child is acting out, take an internal moment to notice your own response.

Take a deep breath.

Notice what they need… are they tired? Frustrated? Overwhelmed? Hungry? Scared?

Get down to their level, use a calm quiet voice and speak to the need. Notice their nervous system respond to the containment and calm you offer…

You’ve got this!

Our autonomic state creates our story...

You may be wondering how to tell which nervous system state you are in. When we become more aware of our nervous system, we can better learn how to regulate ourselves. The nervous system acts as the filter through which we experience life and the world around us. It is responsible for how we think, feel and (re)act. It has three main modes: Sympathetic (your gas pedal/activation/fight or flight, Ventral Vagal (your footbrake/safe mode/rest & digest) and your Dorsal Vagal (your emergency handbrake/ freeze/ shutdown/ collapse).

The two ingredients needed to assess your nervous system state are:

#1. Somatic awareness and interceptive skills to notice your internal state. Interoceptive signals play an important role in how you feel and what you think.

#2. A Basic understanding of the nervous system and its functioning. We also call this autonomic awareness and literacy.

Trauma keeps us in a state of self-protection. The mind and body are connected; you CANNOT effectively heal one without also healing the other.

The Polyvagal theory offers a valuable framework for understanding and effectively responding to the intense emotional and physiological symptoms of PTSD.

#polyvagaltheory #polyvagalnerve #selfprotection #PTSD #nervoussystem #regulate #autonomicnervoussystem #lensforlife #trauma #healing #therapistsofinstagram

The vagus nerve passes through the belly, diaphragm, lungs, inner ear, and facial muscles. 80 percent of vagus nerve fibers are sensory nerves which means that they communicate messages from your body back up to your central nervous system. That means that when you move and breathe into these areas of the body, you can influence the functioning of your vagus nerve!

To understand more about the vagus nerve, check out our blog by clicking the link in our bio!

#polyvagalnerve #polyvagaltheory #breath #centralnervoussystem #sensorimotorpsychotherapy #somatichealing #bodywork #yoga #bodyconnection

Understanding the Polyvagal theory can help unlock the symptoms of PTSD and other traumatic responses. One of the most painful outcomes of PTSD is the experience of a lack of control that can occur when you feel trapped by feelings of anxiety, panic, overwhelm, or despair.

The Polyvagal theory describes how our autonomic nervous system is influenced by the central nervous system. It offers a valuable framework for understanding and effectively responding to the intense emotional and physiological symptoms of PTSD.

Mental health disorders like anxiety, panic attacks, depression, addiction, OCD, social anxiety disorder, and borderline personality disorder are on the rise. However, all too often, when a person is diagnosed with having one of these mental health disorders, our health system fails to address the root cause of the issues - dysregulation of the nervous system. The mind and body are connected, you CANNOT effectively heal one, without also healing the other.

Trauma keeps us in a state of self protection. When we have unresolved trauma, our body is left to feel like whatever happened in the past is still happening, or might happen at any moment. As a result, our nervous system comes to support us by staying in a state of active self protection or dysregulation (fight/flight/freeze). Therefore we can get “stuck on” or “stuck off.”

It’s essential to understand why healing our nervous system is the key to living our fullest life in the present!

#somatictherapy #somatichealing #traumatherapy #nervoussystem #polyvagalnerve #ANS #stephenporges #polyvagaltheory #sensorimotorpsychotherapy #EMDR #traumatherapist #mentalhealthawareness #holistichealing #PTSD #CPTSD #regulation #bodywork

"Do the best you can in every task, no matter how unimportant it may seem at the time." - Sandra Day O' Conner

#womenshistorymonth #womenempowerment #womensupportingwomen #sandradayoconner #supremecourtjustice #lead #giveityourall #inspiration #bethechange #love #greatminds #dream #liveboldly #strength #patience #changetheworld #courage

"There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story."
- Maya Angelou

#womenshistorymonth #womenempowerment #womensupportingwomen #mayaangelou #lead #yourstorymatters #inspiration #bethechange #love #greatminds #dream #liveboldly #strength #patience #changetheworld #unapologeticallyYOU #courage #kindness

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