Caring for Yourself 💌

Hello everyone!

We made it through January—which, for most of us, felt like the longest month ever. While this newsletter is a space where I love to share bright spots and small joys, I also want to acknowledge the weight many of us are carrying right now. The world feels heavy, and if you're feeling that too, you're not alone. In times of collective grief and uncertainty, I hope you’re giving yourself permission to feel, to rest, and to extend kindness—to yourself and to others. If you could use some support navigating this heaviness, I’ve included some strategies in this newsletter.

Take care,

Mandy

MENTAL HEALTH CHECK-IN
Caring for Yourself in a Heavy World

• Support System: Lean on the people who make you feel safe. Reach out to friends, family, or a supportive community, and schedule time to connect. Isolation can deepen distress, so even small moments of connection, like a quick check-in or shared meal, can be grounding.

• Self-Care: Check in with yourself and maintain your routines as much as possible. Small, familiar habits—like making your morning coffee, taking a short walk, or sticking to your bedtime—can offer a sense of stability during uncertain times.

• Manage Your Exposure: Stay informed through trusted sources, but be mindful of how much news and social media you’re consuming. If you notice yourself feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or hopeless, give yourself permission to step back and take breaks.

• Practice Mindfulness: Slow down and bring awareness to your thoughts and emotions without judgment. Simple practices like deep breathing, meditation, or even just naming what you’re feeling can help you stay present and centered.

• Hold Space: Your emotions are valid. Allow yourself time to process, grieve, rest, journal, or talk about what’s happening. There’s no “right” way to feel—what matters is that you give yourself the space to feel it.

• Take Action: If it feels right for you, find ways to support individuals or organizations making a difference. Advocacy, volunteering, donating, or even sharing helpful resources can be a way to channel your emotions into meaningful impact.

FROM THE GG BLOG
The Comparison Trap: How to Stop Letting it Diminish Your Self-Worth

Do you ever find yourself comparing your life to others or feeling behind because your journey looks different from your peers? It’s natural—especially in a world where many of us grew up in competitive environments and are constantly connected through social media. At times, comparison can be motivating, pushing us to grow. But more often, it traps us in a negative loop, making us feel inadequate or even superior to others. Over time, this can lead to jealousy, anxiety, self-judgment, and isolation.

When we measure our worth against someone else’s highlight reel, we lose sight of our own progress and unique path. But the good news? You don’t have to stay stuck in this cycle. By shifting your mindset and adopting healthier habits, you can break free from the comparison trap and focus on your own growth.

INSPO
Ideas to Romanticize the Winter

With a little over a month left of winter and this being the month of love, it’s a good reminder to make yourself a priority. Romanticizing the season can be a simple way to slow down and find joy in the little things. Here are a few ideas:

❄️ Go on a wintery solo date – Take yourself out for your favorite pastry, coffee, and a good book, or go for a walk and embrace the crisp air.

🛁 Indulge in winter self-care – Treat yourself to a massage or pedicure, take long baths, slip into fuzzy socks, savor a warm drink, and enjoy slow mornings with your favorite playlist or podcast.

🍲 Make a cozy meal – Cook a comforting dish, like soup or a warm pasta, and truly savor it.

🎨 Get creative – Take a pottery or painting class, start scrapbooking, try knitting, or experiment with a new DIY project.

💌 Write down affirmations to yourself – Reflect on the season you’re in and the growth you’re experiencing.

Winter doesn’t have to feel like something to just get through—there’s still time to embrace its slower, softer moments.

LISTEN
🎙️ 9 Ways to Break Free from the Habits That Are Holding You Back

On this episode of 10% Happier with Dan Harris, Dan chats with Dr. Rangan Chatterjee about barriers and solutions to long term change, recovering from people-pleasing, and escaping busyness. Listen here.

Today’s Affirmation

RESOURCES
Books

• Make Change That Lasts: 9 Simple Ways to Break Free from the Habits That Hold You Back by Dr. Rangan Chatterjee.

• When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times by Pema Chodron.

• The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are by Brené Brown.

If you're in Maryland or DC and looking to discuss therapy options, you can find me at Mindful Therapy Collective.