MENTAL HEALTH BLOG
Timely and relevant information to inspire growth and wellbeing
Caregivers Corner: A Spotlight on Our New Supportive Therapy Group
The role of caregiver is a complex, unpaid position that is often misunderstood and comes with some big emotions. Having a safe place to talk about our experiences, to learn from peers with similar challenges and to gain coping tools is important for our mental wellness. Caregivers know that burnout is a risk that comes with the responsibility of serving in this role. Learning prevention strategies for burnout can be one way to stay well in doing this work.
At Caregivers Corner we want to hear how you are doing and support you in moving through the stress, pressures and burnout so that you can get back to the things that matter most to you!
Unveiling the Magic Behind Therapy
Embarking on the journey of therapy is like setting sail into the uncharted waters of self-discovery. As you navigate the currents of your emotions, you may find yourself greeted by questions swirling in the sea of your thoughts. How does therapy work? What can I expect in that sacred space of healing? In this blog post, we'll embark on a voyage to unravel the mystique surrounding therapy, casting light on common questions that often accompany those ready to set sail on the transformative journey within.
Savour the Season: Comforting Winter Recipes for the Body and Mind
Embrace the winter wonderland with our curated collection of Winter Wellness Recipes, carefully crafted to nurture both body and mind. Discover the joy of seasonal ingredients and let the cozy aromas fill your kitchen with warmth. Whether you're a fan of comforting classics or looking to try something new, our Winter Wellness Recipes are here to elevate your culinary experience and contribute to a healthier, happier you throughout the chilly season. Join us in celebrating the magic of winter through nourishing and delicious creations that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.
Festive Serenity
Unwrap the gift of self-care this holiday season with our stress-buster toolkit! 🎁✨ Prioritize your well-being, manage stress, and create moments of calm amidst the festive hustle. Because your mental health deserves to be on the top of the wish list.
Menopause & Mental Health
Menopause can be bittersweet 💔. It's a time to celebrate how far you have come but also a time of biological changes and loss. It's okay to feel the waves of emotion, acknowledge the shifts, and mourn the losses. Let's honour the journey of transformation with compassion and understanding.
Mindfulness and Menopause
Discover the transformative power of meditation and mindfulness during menopause in this new blog post. Explore practical techniques to navigate this life transition with calm and resilience. Elevate your well-being with mindful practices tailored for this unique journey.
Power Unleashed: Embracing Peri/Menopause Like a Boss
Q&A with Cree Lambeck, Clinical Director and owner of Cherry Tree Counselling & Psychotherapy Services. Discover empowerment in perimenopause and menopause with expert insights. Navigate the changes confidently and embrace your journey like a boss. Explore practical tips and expert advice for a powerful transition.
The Science of Seasonal Smiles
As the seasons change, so too can our emotional landscape.
The shifting colours of fall foliage or the onset of winter's chill not only alter our surroundings but can impact the delicate balance of our "happy hormones." Oxytocin, serotonin, endorphins, and dopamine play pivotal roles in our well-being, influencing our mood, energy, and sense of connection. Yet, as the days grow shorter and the temperature drops, these essential neurotransmitters can face challenges. The decrease in natural light, reduced outdoor activities, and shifts in our social interactions can lead to a decline in these vital chemicals, potentially ushering in feelings of isolation, lethargy, and low mood.
But fret not, for within the changing seasons lie opportunities for rejuvenation. In this blog post, we'll explore the fascinating interplay of these happy hormones and the transformative power of the seasons. We'll discuss the issues that arise with the changing weather, and, more importantly, unveil the solutions that can help you embrace each season with a renewed sense of joy and well-being.
The Unspoken Wisdom
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, we often overlook the treasure troves of wisdom and experience that our older adults carry with them. These cherished individuals, our parents, grandparents, or senior mentors, are the custodians of a rich tapestry of memories and lessons that have shaped our lives. It's essential that we pause, reflect, and express our heartfelt gratitude towards them.
Gratitude is a powerful emotion, a bridge that connects generations and nurtures our collective well-being. When we take the time to express our appreciation, whether through words, deeds, or our presence, we offer a precious gift. We acknowledge their enduring love, selfless sacrifices, and the irreplaceable knowledge they've shared. Gratitude isn't just a polite gesture; it's an act of love, respect, and empathy.
Join us in this exploration of the profound significance of gratitude towards our elders. We'll delve into the emotional, psychological, and social benefits it brings, and learn how counselling can strengthen these bonds, promoting emotional health and well-being. Let's cherish the lives that have paved the way for ours.
Reinventing Yourself After Retirement
Reinventing yourself after retirement can be scary, lonely and uncomfortable. However, it can also be productive, empowering, fruitful and liberating. This is the time to shift your focus from your careers and family to yourself! When reinventing yourself it is important that you really dive deep and get to know yourself and who you are. Through this process it can help to better understand who you were and who you want to become.
Relearning Retirement
Modern-day retirement looks very different from person to person. While some of us may stop working completely, others may find themselves in part-time employment or intrigued by a new career or studies later in life.
Regardless of what our individual retirement looks like, this time of life represents change and with change, often comes doubt. Alongside our celebrations and anticipation, we may also notice feelings of anxiousness, doubt or uncertainty. Retirement is not always a gentle change. So let's talk about it!
Circles of Support for Children
We all want our kids to be well - to be happy, to thrive, to feel confident and successful.
One way to reach this goal is to create supportive environments for our children to learn and play.
Our latest blog post dives into the world of the importance of support circles for children.
We've created a handy guide where you'll find practical tips and strategies to create a nurturing and inclusive space where kids can thrive. From fostering strong relationships to promoting empathy and emotional well-being, we've got you covered.
Get ready to empower the next generation with the tools they need to navigate school and life with confidence and resilience!
Navigating Transitions For Caregivers
Fall is such a beautiful season of change, isn't it?
As parents and caregivers, navigating transitions during this time can be a bit challenging. But we've got you covered!
In our latest blog post, we've shared some valuable insights and practical tips on how to gracefully navigate the transitions that come with the Fall season. From adjusting to new schedules and routines to embracing the changing weather, you'll find helpful guidance to make this transition a breeze.
From Summer’s Farewell to School’s Bell
Are you ready to explore the fascinating similarities between the transition to autumn and the transition to back to school?
From embracing change to finding renewed energy, these two transitions share some surprising parallels.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at how the arrival of autumn and the start of a new school year offer opportunities for growth, balance, and personal development.
So grab a cozy sweater and a fresh notebook, because we’re about to embark on a journey of discovery and reflection. Let’s dive in!
The Joy of Just Being
Find true happiness by embracing the art of living in the present moment. In this blog post, we'll explore the joy of just being and provide practical tips to help you cultivate a deeper sense of contentment. Learn to let go of worries about the past or future, and instead, focus on the beauty and simplicity of the present. Discover the power of mindfulness and self-acceptance, and unlock the freedom that comes with embracing your authentic self.
How Women Can Create Community Together
We spoke to Registered Psychotherapist Beth Lewis about women, community, and mental health. Here’s what she had to say…
Saying Goodbye to Grind Culture in the Family
This exciting blog post is about bidding farewell to grind culture in the family. It's all about prioritizing quality time with our loved ones and finding a healthy balance between work and family life. Discover practical tips and strategies to break free from the constant hustle, nurture meaningful connections, and create lasting memories. Say hello to a more fulfilling family experience and wave goodbye to the stress of grind culture.
Barbie, giving voice to the cognitive dissonance required to be a woman since 2023.
Life can be hard in a “Man’s World”. But you just have to deal. Or do you?
Greta Gerwig’s, Barbie movie has given us so much to talk about. Let us begin with a look at how the Barbie journey (for both the dolls and the viewers) intersects with the modern “Boss Babe” movement.
Top 5 Children’s Books About Climate Change
Introducing our top 5 children’s books for climate change! These books are perfect for empowering your little ones to take action on climate change. Whether you’re looking for inspiring stories or informative reads, these books will teach your kids about the importance of protecting our planet. Keep reading to find your new favourite climate change read!
International Self-Care Day
This is your call to action and reminder that self-care is a necessary part of your life! This International Self-Care Day, let's change things up and create a self-care plan that works for you, so you enjoy more of your life! Learn why self-care is essential, practical ways to get started, and how free resources (like Ontario Parks Free Use Day) can help.