Mid-Month Mindfulness: Finding Your Balance
by Angie Kingma on October 15th, 2024
The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive,you will see it.” – Thich Nhat HanhHey there, wonderful community!So, it’s mid-October, and I don’t know about you, but things are starting to feel a little… hectic. It’s like one minute we’re soaking up the crisp autumn air, and the next, we’re juggling a hundred things at once. Between work, family, and the holidays creepi... Read More
Autumn’s Invitation: Embrace Change with Mindfulness
by Angie Kingma on October 1st, 2024
“Autumn shows us how beautiful it is to let things go.” – UnknownHello, lovely community,Can you believe it? October is already here! Autumn is officially in the air, and with it comes that magical shift of seasons. It’s such a beautiful time – the crisp mornings, the changing leaves (Mother Nature is amazing), and, of course, sweater weather. Then there’s hockey season starting and going for walk... Read More
A 20-Second Daily Practice That Can Help Relieve Stress and Anxiety
by Angie Kingma on September 1st, 2024
In our busy lives, many of us often turn to mindfulness practices like meditation to ground ourselves. But did you know that self-compassionate touch can offer similar benefits in just 20 seconds?Recent research shows that simple gestures like placing your hands over your heart or giving yourself a gentle hug can trigger a cascade of calming effects. This practice reduces cortisol, the stress horm... Read More
Settling into Stoney Creek: Embracing New Beginnings
by Angie Kingma on August 1st, 2024
Hi there! Well, after that whirlwind of uncertainty, I'm thrilled to share that we are finally settled into our new home in Stoney Creek. The limbo we lived in for just over a week now feels like a distant memory, and we’re focusing on making this house our own.Once we moved in, one of the first things we noticed was the attention to detail the previous owners had put into this home. I’m still dis... Read More
Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Moving: A Journey of Unexpected Lessons
by Angie Kingma on July 2nd, 2024
Moving homes is often touted as one of life's most stressful events, right up there with changing jobs or navigating a significant relationship shift. It's a process filled with excitement, hope, and the promise of a fresh start. But for many of us, it's also a journey laced with unexpected hiccups, hidden emotions, and surprisingly profound life lessons.Take, for instance, the move that I’m curre... Read More
Our Low Carb-Keto-Mediterranean Adventure: A Real-Life Transformation
by Angie Kingma on May 18th, 2024
my husband and I decided to embark on between 6 to 12 months ago. We called it our "low carb" and "keto-ish" journey. It was supposed to be a 30-day challenge... Read More
Awakening to the Joy of Small Moments: Overcoming Negativity Bias through Mindfulness
by Angie Kingma on January 1st, 2024
Embracing the Simple Pleasures of Everyday LifeHello, fellow health and wellness enthusiasts! As we approach the new year, what better time to explore a transformative concept perfect for starting the year on a positive note? In this blog, we're delving into a transformative concept: the power of noticing and cherishing small, pleasant moments in our daily lives. This practice, deeply rooted in mi... Read More
Facing Adversity Amidst Global Turmoil
by Angie Kingma on November 1st, 2023
As I was thinking of what to share for this month’s newsletter and blog, I couldn’t help but think about what’s been coming up so much in recent therapy sessions in relation to the ongoing global unrest. It's evident that the events transpiring worldwide are deeply impacting many of our clients, resonating with their emotions and daily lives. The suffering and heartbreak that many are enduring acr... Read More
The Science Behind Fall's Effects on Mental Health
by Angie Kingma on October 1st, 2023
The golden hues of falling leaves, the cozy embrace of a chunky sweater, and the first sip of a pumpkin spice latte — the fall season is known for its charm and picturesque beauty. However, beyond the aesthetic and romanticized depiction of autumn, for some it can also bring with it a shift in our mental well-being. Understanding the impact of the fall season on our mental health can be important ... Read More
The Backpack of Worries: Learning to Unpack and Lighten the Load
by Angie Kingma on September 1st, 2023
It's that time of the year again. The aisles of stores are lined with fresh notebooks, vibrant pens, and, of course, brand-new Read More
The Power of Laughter: A Mindfulness Approach to Health and Happiness
by Angie Kingma on August 1st, 2023
Q: Why do mindfulness students love going to airports?A: Because they might get a free body scan!Laughter is a universal language that has the ability to uplift us, connect us with others, and infuse our day with positivity. From a mental health perspective, laughter serves as a balm, a restorative force that reduces stress, anxiety, and depression while boosting our mood and outlook on life. As t... Read More
Walk and Talk Therapy: A Step Forward in Mental Health Care
by Angie Kingma on June 28th, 2023
As a psychotherapist with 23 years of experience, I've had the privilege of working with many clients, each with their unique needs and circumstances. I've found that not all therapeutic modalities suit everyone. That's why I'm constantly exploring different approaches that cater to my clients' diverse preferences. One of these innovative strategies is "Walk and Talk Therapy," a method that's been... Read More