Author: Shannon Bussnick, LSW
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With Eight Great Arms: Gratitude from an Octopus Mom
Whether octopus-level juggling or shark-like navigating, take a moment to reflect on the wild, beautiful moments of motherhood and beyond.
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Luck Versus Effort: Where Do You Stand?
In the intriguing interplay of luck and effort, one may wonder about their role in shaping destiny. This exploration encompasses insights from daily life, music, and success stories to unravel this enigma.
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Alligators and Personal Space: It’s Time for a Change
Even as we respect an alligator’s space due to its potential threat, we often neglect the boundaries of gentler beings, highlighting a societal oversight in recognizing personal space.
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Honey Hands: a Sweet Blend of Parenting and Childhood
In yet another weekend reflection, I saw more than just sticky fingers; I saw the sweet bonds of family in the honey-coated laughter of my children.
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Twin Parenting: Tips for Navigating Double Duty with Humor and Grace
Navigating twin parenting? Brace for a mix of double hugs, synchronized chaos, and the quest for that ever-elusive second sock. We’re here with quick tips to make this twin journey a bit smoother.
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A Personal Reflection on Self-Improvement
Joy resonates for me in life’s simple moments: a meaningful chat, the allure of an unread book, and the personal flair of style. It’s in the shared wonder of life’s mysteries where I find the deepest connection. Let us talk about our happiness freely, and…
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The Transformative Power of Silence in Our Lives
Ever wondered why silence can feel so loud, or how it aids in healing and introspection? This piece unwraps the unspoken power of silence, inviting you on a journey to discover its hidden strengths and how it shapes our communication, well-being, and inner peace.
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Why do Rainbows Signify Hope?
In every vibrant arc of a rainbow, there’s a story of resilience, a promise of hope. This natural spectacle, born from light and water, is more than a scientific marvel; it’s a symbol of collective human spirit. As diverse as the colors it displays, a…
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Loving Your Body: A Journey to Healthier Habits
Exploring the paradox of body love versus self-care, this article delves into the intricate relationship between our eating habits, self-worth, and health, offering insights and strategies for a healthier lifestyle.
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Understanding Anger: A Natural Human Emotion
Anger, often misunderstood, is a fundamental human emotion essential for survival. It can be productive, driving positive change, but also detrimental. Understanding, managing, and expressing it healthily is crucial for our emotional wellness.
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The Cross-Legged Paradox: Exploring Comfort and Caution
In the realms of meditation and mindfulness, the cross-legged position symbolizes peace, grounding, and calmness. Yet, it also holds a psychological significance as a defense mechanism. This duality reflects the intricate nature of our behavior – a single posture serving both as a source of…
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Aloneness and Loneliness: What’s the Difference?
This post explores the differences between loneliness and aloneness, suggesting that learning to enjoy solitude breeds self-awareness and inner peace, without shunning social connections. To confront loneliness, techniques like self-reflection, mindfulness, journaling, and self-compassion can be uplifting.
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The Art of Setting Personal Boundaries
Setting and maintaining healthy boundaries, particularly within family dynamics, can enhance emotional health, self-awareness, and relationships. It requires constant revisiting, reinforcement, respectful communication, and consideration of personal limits for a fulfilling life.
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Positive Psychology: A New Perspective on Mental Health
Positive psychology focuses on individual strengths and personal fulfillment over faults. Despite criticism, this scientific approach continues to transform mental health understanding and practice, complementing traditional methods for a comprehensive view on well-being.
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Emotional Intelligence: The Key to Self and Social Mastery
Emotional Intelligence (EI) refers to the capability to understand, manage, and respond aptly to personal emotions and those of others. Originating from the work of psychologists Salovey, Mayer, and Goleman, EI and the goal of social mastery consists of five core elements: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation,…
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Beyond the Antlers: Fostering Imagination this Holiday Season
A simple act of imaginative play, as illustrated below, can open up many doors for creative expression and personal growth.
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Tiny Trends: Uggs or Upcycled?
In the hilarious circus of toddler fashion, the debate between muddied jeans and fashionable Uggs rages. Remember, while these miniature trendsetters often craft amusing attires, it’s about more than cuteness. It’s a blend of self-expression, practicality, life lessons, and above all, those runway-strolling tots remind…
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10 Tips for Managing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression recognized by the DSM-5, often emerges in fall and winter, affecting about 5% of U.S. adults, particularly women. Symptoms, including mood swings, hopelessness, and sleep changes, can be eased through a range of techniques such as light…
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Motherhood Unfiltered: Beyond the Chaos, There’s Calm
Motherhood is a challenging balancing act of nurturing children and self-care, all amidst grocery store tantrums and bedtime battles. Remaining grounded in personal values, embracing imperfect moments, and merging motherhood with individual needs can make the journey a bit more manageable—and fun!
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Gentle Steps to Self-Love: A Mindful Guide on Vienna Lane
The journey of self-love begins with self-reflection and understanding. Despite the ubiquity of self-love mantras, embodying them can be challenging due to our unique perceptions and expressions of love. Cultivating self-love demands dedication, healing from emotional roadblocks, and nurturing our overall well-being.
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Twice the Surprise: The Journey into the World of Twins
Discovering we were expecting twins threw our two-bedroom-apartment life into exciting, exhausting chaos. Welcoming two newborns alongside our firstborn unleashed endless love and bittersweet adventures. Stick around for more upcoming tales about twin-toddler parenting!
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Navigating Conversations with Loved Ones About Mental Health
Discussing mental health can be difficult, especially fearing to say something inappropriate. However, active listening, expressing love and compassion, offering assistance, and avoiding harmful remarks can make people feel supported. Dismantling stigma and fostering comfort in these discussions are essential.
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Kid-Friendly Halloween: 10 Activities for the Spooky Season
Check out our top 10 activities that promise not just spooks and giggles, but also safe and unforgettable moments with your kids. Whether you’re looking to craft, cook, or venture out, we’ve got the perfect spooky season ideas tailored just for your little ones.
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Breaking Free: Trauma Recognition and Recovery
Trauma, an uninvited visitor, disrupts our lives, often morphing into long-lasting changes. While trauma is diverse in its manifestation, a silver lining remains in the growing availability of specialized treatment options. Recognizing trauma and undertaking the brave step to seek help embodies our resilience, moving…
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Tailoring Your Style and Mind Post-Baby
Let’s talk about managing your personal style while juggling motherhood. I know, I know, priorities right? It’s not about ditching your old look but adapting it for comfort and practicality. It’s okay to love sneakers or heels, and change is honestly okay. Things like versatile…
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