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Five Mindfulness Techniques to Manage Stress and Overcome Racing Thoughts
Stress and racing thoughts can feel like a constant storm in your mind, making it hard to focus or find peace. When your thoughts spiral, it’s easy to get caught in a loop of worry and anxiety. Mindfulness is about noticing your thoughts without getting pulled into them. When stress hits, pause and watch your thoughts like clouds passing in the sky. This simple act of observation helps you stop rumination, the habit of replaying negative thoughts. Read more....
mrebekahshurtleff
5 days ago3 min read


Rebuilding Trust in Relationships Through the Lens of Polyvagal Theory, Part II
Trust is the foundation of any close relationship, yet it can be fragile and easily shaken by betrayal or trauma. When trust breaks down, couples often find themselves stuck in patterns of fear, avoidance, or conflict. Understanding how the nervous system influences trust and connection offers a new way to approach healing. Polyvagal Theory reveals how our bodies constantly scan for safety or threat, shaping how we respond to others. This post explores how betrayal affects th
mrebekahshurtleff
Jun 143 min read


Family Gatherings: How Curiosity Can Transform Your Experience
Family gatherings often stir up mixed feelings. Some look forward to reconnecting, while others feel uneasy or even want to avoid these events. When family dynamics are challenging or you feel out of place, skipping gatherings might seem like the easiest choice. Yet, avoiding these moments can increase anxiety and cause missed opportunities to build stronger bonds. Approaching family events with curiosity can shift your experience from stressful to meaningful. Read more....
mrebekahshurtleff
Nov 26, 20253 min read


Rewire Your Brain by Shifting from Struggles to Solutions with Simple Language Techniques
By using phrases like “I remember when I used to struggle with…” we can teach our brains to view these problems as part of our past instead of our present. This post will explore practical language techniques that tap into the brain's ability to adapt, known as neuroplasticity, and how they can foster a more positive mindset. Rewiring your brain requires consistent and deliberate practice. It's not an overnight transformation; it's a gradual process.
mrebekahshurtleff
Sep 30, 20254 min read


The Friendship Recession: Finding Meaningful Connections as We Age
While the friendship recession may seem overwhelming, it also presents a chance to reshape our social circles for the better.
By welcoming change, taking initiative, and nurturing meaningful relationships, we can navigate this new friendship landscape with a sense of purpose. Remember that friendship is a journey—it evolves, and every effort you make can lead to richer, more fulfilling connections.
mrebekahshurtleff
Aug 31, 20253 min read


Boost Your Self-Worth with These Simple Daily Empowerment Techniques
Elevating your self-worth is an ongoing journey. Through dedication, you can cultivate valuable practices that foster self-esteem. Challenge negative thoughts, practice self-compassion, celebrate your achievements, set realistic goals, and nurture positive relationships. Every small change can lead to significant transformation. Start today and experience the uplift in your self-worth! Contact me at rebekahcounseling.com
mrebekahshurtleff
Jul 26, 20253 min read


Free Yourself from Your Past Versions of Self
Therapy can serve as a mirror, reflecting both your internal and external selves. It encourages introspection and guides you toward a more genuine version of yourself. Each session can bring you closer to a happier you, free from the constraints of outdated beliefs. The transformative journey of letting go and healing is indeed powerful. As you let go of survival-based versions, you unlock new dimensions of your identity and the potential for enriching relationships.
mrebekahshurtleff
May 31, 20254 min read
Content by Rebekah Shurtleff Marriage and Family Therapist
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