Blog
Living with Intention: Why Knowing Who You Are Changes Everything
Hey there, friends,
Let’s get real. When you don’t know who you are, it shows. Maybe it’s in your career, where you feel uninspired and stuck. Or in friendships that feel unfulfilling. Or maybe, in your marriage or parenting, where you’re just “going through the motions” without purpose or direction. If you’re not grounded in who you truly are, your life starts to reflect that sense of aimlessness—and each day, a small piece of what matters most can start to crumble.
Living a life without confidence, faith, resilience, and clear goals is like living by accident. But you weren’t made for a life of drifting or for settling for less. You were made to thrive. This post is a call to rebuild—but not according to who others want you to be or what society says is enough. It’s time to rebuild based on who God calls you to be, aligning your life with His purpose for you. That’s where your true, authentic self lies, and it’s there that you’ll find a life filled with purpose, fulfillment, and joy.
The Cost of Not Knowing Who You Are
When we’re uncertain of who we are, we end up settling for what’s around us instead of reaching for what’s meant for us. We let outside influences define us, and as a result, our confidence wavers, our faith feels shaky, and our ability to push through challenges weakens. Our goals become vague or non-existent, leaving us with a lack of direction.
Living without intention means living a life reactive to circumstances instead of proactive in purpose. It’s as if we’re moving through each day with no plan, simply hoping things will work out. But without a foundation, things will crumble—maybe slowly, but steadily.
“A house divided against itself cannot stand.” – Mark 3:25
This verse is a reminder that without a solid foundation, life starts to unravel. And if we’re not grounded in who God created us to be, we’re building our lives on shaky ground.
Signs That You’re Living Life by Accident
Feeling unfulfilled or stuck in your career.
Constantly comparing yourself to others or feeling “less than.”
Friendships that lack depth or mutual support.
Challenges in marriage, parenting, or other relationships where you feel disconnected.
Anxiety or lack of peace because you’re unsure of what’s next or where you’re headed.
If any of these sound familiar, take heart. These signs are not a life sentence; they’re a wake-up call. They’re signals that something deeper needs to change.
The Call to Rebuild: Aligning with Who God Calls You to Be
So where do we start? The answer isn’t in becoming who everyone else thinks you should be; it’s about discovering who God says you already are. This is where true confidence, resilience, and purpose are found.
Rebuilding your life with God as the foundation changes everything. It means grounding yourself in faith, establishing goals that reflect your true desires, and living each day with intention, courage, and clarity.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
When you build your life on the foundation of God’s purpose for you, there’s a peace and strength that no amount of outside validation can provide.
What Rebuilding Looks Like: Confidence, Faith, and Resilience
Confidence: True confidence is not found in achievements, titles, or praise from others; it’s rooted in knowing who you are in Christ. When you understand your value in God’s eyes, you’re not easily shaken by life’s ups and downs. You don’t need approval from others to feel worthy; you know you are already loved and accepted.
Faith: Faith is what sustains you when the going gets tough. It’s the assurance that no matter what comes your way, God is with you, guiding you and strengthening you. Faith isn’t just about believing in God; it’s about trusting Him to lead you toward the life He designed for you.
Resilience: Life is full of challenges, but resilience keeps you moving forward. When you’re rooted in who you are, you have the strength to face obstacles, learn from them, and keep growing. Resilience isn’t the absence of struggle; it’s the power to overcome it.
Setting Goals That Reflect Your True Self
Goals should be a reflection of your values, desires, and purpose. When you align your goals with God’s calling for you, they become stepping stones toward a fulfilling life rather than empty boxes to check off.
Think about what truly matters to you. What kind of person do you want to be in your relationships, career, and faith? What legacy do you want to leave for your children, your family, and the world?
Start by setting small, actionable goals that help you grow into who God created you to be. When your goals align with your identity, every step forward becomes meaningful.
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” – Proverbs 16:3
Living with Intention: Reflecting God’s Light in Every Area of Your Life
When you live with intention, every part of your life aligns with your values and purpose. Your career becomes a platform to use your gifts, your friendships are grounded in mutual support, your marriage is strengthened through commitment and growth, and your parenting reflects the love, patience, and guidance of God.
Living this way is not just for your own benefit. You’re also modeling what it looks like to live a purposeful, grounded life for those around you, especially your children. They’ll see that life isn’t about drifting aimlessly; it’s about living with purpose, resilience, and faith.
Answering the Call to Be Who God Created You to Be
If you’re ready to step into your purpose and rebuild a life that reflects who you truly are, take this journey one day at a time. Trust that God has placed everything you need within you. Seek Him first in all you do, and let Him guide each step.
When you live as God created you to be, life transforms. You’re no longer seeking validation from the world but are secure in your identity. You’re building with confidence, fueled by faith, and strengthened by resilience. The journey may have its challenges, but every step forward is bringing you closer to a life of fulfillment and purpose.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17
Final Thoughts
You were created for a purpose, and God has a plan for you. Don’t settle for living by accident, drifting through life with no direction or grounding. You have the power to rebuild, to live intentionally, and to embrace the person God is calling you to be.
Let’s commit to this journey together—to living fully, authentically, and with faith. Let’s be people who build our lives on the foundation of God’s love, strength, and guidance. And let’s show the world what it means to live a life of true purpose.
How to Handle Child Behavior Challenges: Beyond the Tantrums
OK Mommas, Let’s Talk Tantrums: How to Support Our Kids (and Keep Our Sanity!)
We’ve all been there: the meltdown at the grocery store, the standoff over bedtime, or the epic showdown over a plate of broccoli. It’s easy to label these moments as “tantrums,” but doing so sometimes makes it harder to understand what’s really going on and how to best support our kiddos.
As a child who was often silenced and labeled, I didn’t learn the skills to process big emotions. This lack of support followed me into adulthood, leading to anxiety, stress, and uncertainty in situations where I didn’t know how to make the best decisions. Now, as a momma myself, I see firsthand the challenge of handling my kids’ big emotions—especially when they trigger my own! It’s so easy to react with frustration, to yell, or to respond in ways I know don’t help.
But here’s what I’ve learned along my journey of healing and personal growth: if we can start seeing these so-called “tantrums” as a form of communication, we open the door to understanding our kids better. They’re often expressing frustration, overwhelm, or unmet needs—the same things that sometimes lead us as adults to feel anxious or stressed.
I want to share some tools I’ve picked up along the way that have helped me support my kids through their big feelings (and help me manage mine too!). And just so we’re clear—this isn’t one of those “Instagram-perfect” parenting stories. I’m learning and failing right alongside my kids, and I’m open with them about my journey. I apologize when I’m wrong and model that I’m a work in progress too. So, let’s dive into some strategies that can help us respond in ways that support our children’s growth and preserve our sanity.
1. Understand the “Why” Behind the Behavior
Kids act out for various reasons, and it’s rarely just to “be difficult.” They might be tired, hungry, overstimulated, or dealing with feelings they don’t yet know how to handle. Imagine how we feel after a stressful day—kids are experiencing similar emotions but lack the skills to process them.
Tip: Try saying something like, “It looks like you’re really frustrated right now. Can you tell me what’s going on?” Acknowledging their feelings helps them feel seen and begins to teach them how to identify and name their emotions.
2. Stay Calm and Model Emotional Regulation
When faced with intense emotions, it’s natural to feel our own stress rise. But kids look to us for cues on how to react. Staying calm teaches them that big feelings can be managed without yelling or lashing out.
Try This: Take a deep breath or step away briefly to collect yourself before responding. At home, we call it my “reset button.” Some days, that button feels jammed, and the yell just comes out. But it’s not about being perfect; it’s about doing our best to model calm behavior.
3. Set Boundaries with Compassion
Kids need structure and boundaries to feel safe and secure. Saying “no” is fine, but how you say it matters. Setting limits with empathy shows that you care about their feelings while also holding to healthy boundaries.
Example: Instead of “Stop yelling and behave!” try, “I see that you’re upset about not getting that toy. We can talk about it, but yelling won’t change my decision.” This response validates their feelings while reinforcing acceptable behavior.
I grew up feeling unheard and unsupported, often told to just “deal with it.” So, I promised myself my kids would feel seen in their emotions. I’ll admit, I used to try to control everything, hovering over every little detail of their behavior. But I’ve learned that trying to control doesn’t prepare them for real life. They need to feel their emotions, with guidance on how to process them, not just be told to “stop.”
4. Provide Choices to Give Them Control
Kids often feel powerless, which adds to their frustration. Giving them a choice can reduce resistance and give them a healthy sense of control.
Suggestion: Offer two acceptable choices, like “Would you like to put on your pajamas first or brush your teeth first?” Even small choices make them feel empowered and less likely to act out.
5. Teach Healthy Coping Skills
Helping kids develop emotional resilience is much more effective than just trying to smooth things over in the moment. Teach simple strategies like deep breathing, counting, or expressing feelings through drawing or talking.
Practice Together: At home, we ask the kids to take a few breaths and step away in another room when they need a break. I want them to learn to calm themselves, rather than feeling out of control. This skill will stay with them long after they leave the nest.
6. Reflect on Your Own Reactions and Expectations
Our own expectations and triggers play a huge role in how we respond to our kids’ behavior. Taking a moment to reflect on where our reactions come from can help us approach challenging moments with more patience and empathy.
7. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
Parenting and child development are both journeys, and progress is worth celebrating. Acknowledging when your child tries a new coping skill or calms down on their own encourages them to keep learning and growing.
Tip: A simple, “I’m so proud of how you handled your feelings today” can make them feel seen and reinforce positive behavior. Over time, these affirmations build their confidence and help them trust their ability to manage tough emotions.
Remember: You’re Not Alone
Every mom faces challenges guiding her little ones through life’s ups and downs. Tantrums are a normal part of growing up and learning about emotions, and handling them in a supportive way doesn’t just help in the moment—it builds a foundation for emotional intelligence, resilience, and self-awareness. So, the next time those tough moments come, remember that you’re not alone and that you’re building something beautiful, one calm, compassionate choice at a time.
Calming Toolkit for Parents and Kids
4x4x4 Breathing Exercise
A simple, quick way to calm down is the 4x4x4 breathing technique:
Inhale deeply for a count of 4.
Hold your breath for a count of 4.
Exhale slowly for a count of 4.
Repeat this cycle several times to help activate the body’s relaxation response and reduce stress.
Essential Oils for Calm (link to my favorite oils for kids)
Essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and frankincense are known for their calming properties.
How to use: Diffuse a few drops in the air, or add to a roller with a carrier oil to apply to the wrists or the back of the neck.
Kid-friendly option: Create a “calming spray” with water and a few drops of lavender to mist around the room or on a pillow before bedtime.
Calming Music or White Noise
Playing soft, calming music or white noise can help create a soothing environment.
You might try nature sounds, instrumental music, or specific children’s playlists designed to help kids relax.
Tip: Use music to create a “calm-down corner” in your home where kids can go when they need a break.
“Reset Walk” to Regulate the Nervous System
Sometimes a change of scenery and a bit of fresh air can make all the difference.
A short walk, even around the yard or block, can help both you and your child reset and come back to the situation with a fresh perspective.
Bonus: Walking outdoors has the added benefit of helping the central nervous system relax, reducing stress levels naturally.
Grounding Exercise
When emotions are high, grounding can help reconnect to the present moment. Try this simple grounding exercise:
5 Things you can see
4 Things you can touch
3 Things you can hear
2 Things you can smell
1 Thing you can taste
This exercise is especially helpful for kids because it shifts their focus from overwhelming emotions to their immediate surroundings.
Sensory-Friendly Tools
Sometimes, big emotions need a hands-on release. Here are a few ideas:
Calm jars (filled with water, glitter, and a few drops of dish soap)
Squeeze balls for releasing energy
Fidget toys that can help provide a distraction
These tools give kids a constructive way to manage their feelings, which can be especially useful during moments of frustration or boredom.
Body “Shake Out”
Shaking out the body can help release pent-up energy and tension.
Set a timer for 1-2 minutes and let your child (and you!) shake their whole body: arms, legs, head, shoulders, everything! It’s fun, and it helps to physically release the tension that’s often behind emotional outbursts.
Create a Calm-Down Corner
Designate a quiet area in your home as a “calm-down corner” where your child can go when they feel overwhelmed. Stock it with comfy pillows, a favorite stuffed animal, calming books, and sensory-friendly tools.
Tip: Spend a few minutes in the calm-down corner with your child to teach them that taking a break is okay and that they’re not alone.
Parenting with Purpose: Building a Foundation of Love, Trust, and Faith
As parents, we all have moments of reflection when we consider how we’re raising our children and what kind of legacy we’re creating for them. Today, I want to dive deep into something that’s been weighing on my heart—something that speaks not only to being a parent but to the act of truly raising a child. These are two very different things.
When I think about my own children, I realize that all I’ve ever wanted for them is to experience unconditional love, healthy boundaries, and the freedom to explore life with the reassurance of support, even in the face of mistakes. Reflecting on my own upbringing, I can see how much of my life was shaped by the pain of rejection. Growing up, I felt rejection through anger, frustration, and the overwhelming sense of never being "good enough." While much of it may have been my perception as a child, it’s still the lens through which I viewed the world.
When all you know is rejection, who are you supposed to trust? That pain shaped me, but it also taught me something profound about what it means to be a parent.
We’re here to do more than just provide basic care. As parents, we are tasked with laying a firm foundation for our children—one built on unconditional love, support, and guidance, no matter what choices they make. They need to know they are accepted and that there’s hope in all things. That’s what fosters trust, belonging, and the freedom to become who they were created to be.
I believe God created us to understand the depth of His unconditional love through the experience of parenting. In the Bible, God is described as a father, constantly teaching, guiding, and forgiving His children. He doesn’t abandon us when we falter. He waits for us to come to Him, to ask for help, and then He leads us with patience and love. That’s the model of parenting we’re meant to follow.
God doesn’t impose His will on us; He waits for us to seek Him out. And when we do, He holds us, no matter how far we’ve strayed. As a parent, I understand that feeling now. It’s a gift to experience a glimpse of how God sees us—as His children, always worthy of love, always capable of redemption.
Growing up, I didn’t have that firm foundation at first. My childhood was marked by fear, uncertainty, and a constant search for love and acceptance. But even in the most challenging moments, I saw glimpses of love being built, of prayers being answered, and of foundations being laid. I know now that my prayers as a child for my parents were heard, and over time, I did receive what I truly needed. That’s the power of prayer, especially from a child’s heart.
So to all the mamas and dads reading this—listen to your children. Their hearts speak truth. I remember praying as a little girl for my family to heal, and in many ways, those prayers were answered.
If you weren’t raised with the guidance you needed, it’s never too late to change. If you weren’t shown what unconditional love looks like, you can start that journey now with your own children. Start by building your relationship with God. Learn who He is as a parent, and you’ll begin to understand how to parent your own children.
I know we often joke that children don’t come with instruction manuals, but in truth, we have one: the Bible. It’s our guide to understanding how God, our Father, loves, disciplines, and forgives us. It’s a blueprint for how to raise our children in love and faith.
So, if you want to change the next generation and build a deeper relationship with your child, start with your relationship with God. Be patient with yourself and your children, because, as we all know, slow and steady wins the race.
Let’s build a legacy of love and faith for our children, starting today.
"Becoming the Mom, You Aspire to Be: Cultivating a Growth Mindset with Holistic Tools"
Hey there, amazing moms!
Motherhood is a journey like no other. It's a beautiful adventure filled with joy, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. Have you ever wished to become the best version of yourself as a mom? To respond to life's ups and downs with grace and resilience? Well, you can, and it all starts with cultivating a growth mindset and harnessing the power of holistic tools to boost your brain's neuroplasticity. Here are some ways to embrace the growth mindset.
First things first, let's talk about the growth mindset. It's a concept coined by psychologist Carol Dweck and is all about believing in your ability to learn, grow, and change. As a mom, adopting a growth mindset means recognizing that your abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work.
Instead of thinking, "I can't do this," shift your perspective to, "I can't do this yet." Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, not as failures. By adopting this mindset, you'll be better equipped to handle the demands of motherhood and personal growth.
Now, let's dive into the fascinating world of neuroplasticity. It's the brain's remarkable ability to rewire and adapt. You can reprogram your brain to create new responses, which is crucial for personal growth as a mom. So, instead of thinking this is just the way you are, shift your mind to this is who I am becoming and know you have the power to be the momma you want to be.
So, how do we harness the power of neuroplasticity and foster a growth mindset? Here are some holistic tools to consider:
Meditation and Mindfulness: These practices can reduce stress, enhance focus, and improve emotional regulation. They are like gym workouts for your brain, promoting neuroplasticity.
Nutrition: A well-balanced diet rich in nutrients, especially omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, supports brain health and function.
Exercise: Physical activity not only benefits your body but also your brain. It stimulates the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that promotes neuroplasticity.
Learning and Mental Stimulation: Keep your brain engaged by learning new skills, reading, or pursuing hobbies that challenge you.
Holistic Therapies: Consider holistic approaches like acupuncture, aromatherapy, or herbal remedies to support your emotional and mental well-being.
Remember, personal growth takes time and consistent effort. Be patient with yourself and celebrate your progress, no matter how small it may seem. Surround yourself with a supportive community that shares your growth mindset journey. Share your challenges and triumphs with fellow moms—it's incredible how much you can learn from each other.
In the beautiful chaos of motherhood, you have the power to become the mom you aspire to be. By embracing a growth mindset and leveraging holistic tools to enhance neuroplasticity, you can navigate the ups and downs of parenting with grace and resilience.
So, go ahead, embrace the journey of growth, and watch yourself bloom into the incredible mom you desire to be. Your potential is limitless, and the world is your playground!
From one momma to another, I am sending you so much love and cheering you on sister!
xoxo
Sarah Larson
The Power of Spiritual Transformation: Are You Ready?
When I first decided to go beyond the surface to truly discover who I am and what I am on this Earth for, I was scared. I had no clue what I was about to uncover, but I knew whatever it was, it was time. I was so tired of feeling lost and confused about who I was. I was sick of allowing others to make me feel less and unworthy. In the midst of the noise and distractions of life I personally lost sight of who I was and what I was created for, even what I desired. What I discovered was that when you decide to embark on a spiritual transformational journey you are allowing yourself to peel back the layers of societal conditioning and uncover your authentic self. This self- discovery is a powerful foundation for living a life aligned with YOUR values and passions, and not others.
This journey allows you to heal wounds and release baggage that no longer serves you and those around you. In all honesty, we all carry wounds from the past- emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual. Diving into a transformational journey provides a safe space to confront these wounds, heal from them, and release the emotional baggage that may be holding you back from your greatness. Knowing that as you heal, you will create space for positive change and growth.
When you begin to heal you will find yourself connected to a deeper purpose in life. This purpose it’s like finding the North Star that will guide your life’s direction. Embarking on a spiritual transformation can help you connect with a deeper sense of purpose and meaning, allowing you to make choices that resonate with your core values and contribute to a more fulfilling life. It allows you to experience a sense of inner peace and joy.
We all know life is filled with chaos and hardships, and to find inner peace and genuine joy can be a challenge. A spiritual journey will introduce you to practice like mindfulness, meditation, and gratitude that can anchor you in the present moment, fostering a sense of peace and love that will radiate from within. It will spark an inner drive for greatness and the will to share this with others around you. It will unlock your creative potential of expansion in all forms. When you evolve spiritually, you tap into your innate creativity, with a clear mind and a heart open for inspiration. You’re more likely to experience heightened creativity in various aspects of your life bringing you closer to the life you desire.
I am beyond grateful for the journey I have embarked on. I am over the moon with gratitude for those who have allowed me to be a part of their journey, as watching others reach for the stars and achieve their goals is magical to me. If you are feeling the call to embark on your own spiritual transformational journey, stay tuned. There is some magic in the works that you will not want to miss out on.
Are you ready to unlock your greatness?
Life Is A Marathon, Not A Sprint
If I am going to be honest it has not fully sunk in that my husband, and I just ran a marathon together. It was just over 9 weeks ago that we decided to take on this challenge. You are probably asking yourself, why in the world would you do this? Good question, I would ask myself this same question every day I laced up my shoes and hit the road. Our why was big! It was something that was meaningful to the both of us. We decided that we would run to raise awareness for domestic violence in honor of my husband’s aunt. Siobhon was such a sweet soul whose smile and laugh would light up a room. In the days, months, and years prior to her death she was searching for her freedom. She wanted to embody the person she felt inside, but that chance was taken all too soon. When my husband asked me if I would do it, and his reason why, I knew I needed to say yes. As strongly as I always said, there is no reason for me to ever run a marathon, I was quickly proven wrong. With my PT background I knew what it took to run a marathon. The long trainings, proper nutrition, electrolytes, hydration, rehab during and after, and the time it all took to do it. Every day that we hit the road and didn’t want to, our why kicked us in the butt.
My husband had his own why and how to represent Siobhon, but I didn’t want to piggyback off of his. I wanted to honor Siobhon by taking the 8 weeks of training that we had, and I was going to shed layers of my past in order to become who I was meant to be. This is exactly what Siobhon was setting out to do. So, I did just that. After the year of even more self-discovery and transformation I was ready to let it, all go. Every day that I set out on my runs I would set my intentions to let go what no longer serves me and open my heart to new. Can I tell you how hard this was. Some part of me knew it was going to be hard. I knew there was going to be many tears; but not like this. With every tear I felt even more empowered. I felt the hurt to my core, but I also felt to healing that was taking place behind it. Through this journey I have learned to own my truth and speak it with love, grace, and understanding. I know I am not perfect, but man I sure aim to be better each and every day. So, the training in itself was filled with ups and downs and obstacles both physically and emotionally. There were many reasons why to give up, but one big reason to keep going.
The day of the race was filled with the same ups and downs. As I was nervous as hell about to run the biggest distance of my life, I was also eager to experience it. I am still currently digesting our accomplishment, but I want to share the experience. It was a day that I will never forget. As I said before we were both so nervous yet so excited. To the point that I think me hydrating was a complete joke because I used the restroom a million times before we took off and I was empty in the tank (my bladder does this every big run). I got in the wrong line to take off and it was just a mess. When we finally took off it was pure focus, get out of the pack and create space. Once we did this, it was a breeze. We were communicating with each other, being truthful with our bodies and making great timing until mile 18. My knee decided it had other plans for this race. I made it to mile 19-20 before the walk-jog action began, and then it was the walk. I couldn’t run! I tried my hardest and I was so disappointed. Here I am on the last leg, and I feel great except for when I run, what? I was now internalizing everything. I wanted my husband to keep running because the more I started to walk the more I could feel my muscles starting to freeze up, and I didn’t want him to experience the same. He continued on for a little while, but not for long. Here is where the internalizing ran deep. There were so many emotions I was running through. I was disappointed, hurt, angry, but yet determined. I would stretch, pray and then try to run, but quickly realized it was going to be a long road of stop and go with stretching after every incline and or downward slope which was the entire course. I finally became truthful with myself, if I wanted to walk across the finish line I had to listen to my body, I had to walk.
After coming to the realization this was going to be a long run, disappointment set in even more. I was disappointed that I was not able to run the last leg. I dug deep and I went to questioning. How did I not think there was going to be a test along this path? That one of us was not going to be faced with some obstacle. Honestly, I did not think it was going to be me (sorry husband). After my air pods died along with my knee, I had nothing but time to think and reflect. Remember, I set out on this journey to find more of me and to let go of what is no longer serving me in this life. I asked what this is teaching me? I went straight to my higher power (God/Jesus) and started questioning. It was as if the questions were already written, because the guidance flew in before I was ever finished a full thought. As I asked what this is teaching me, the inner dialogue began. “Sarah, you know exactly what this is teaching you.” “Ok, it’s teaching me to slow down, but why?” “In order for you to cross the finish line you have to listen. Not only to your body, but to your mind. Here is where you are going to learn, why did you start this process? What are you ready to discover and release?” Ya’ll, I knew that I wanted to cross that finish line more than anything. I wanted to hit our goal and I wanted to do it with my husband. I wanted him to finish his goals and I didn’t want him to get injured walking with me. I tried to send him ahead, but he stayed by my side. I dug deeper, I knew there was more to this journey, and I was ready to figure it out. I started to look around. I saw all the other participants, and how they were getting through. I witnessed individuals older than myself with more physical ailments getting it done. I studied their gait and went after it. I started to marathon mall walk as I call it. Once I realized my knee would hold up walking, I went to town. I started to speed walk, at some miles holding a 13 in a half minute pace. I accepted that I was not running the rest, but I sure in the hell was not crawling or getting carried off the course. I was finishing!
Once I got my rhythm down, I started to reflect even more. Ok, I got this! I am now back on track, and I could feel the finish line. As we were around mile 24, it hit me. I have never been proud off my accomplishments. I have always put my head down and continued to grind until the next. It was never enough! I was never enough! It wasn’t anyone else that I needed to prove myself to, it was always me! I rarely took the time to celebrate my small wins; so how did I expect myself to celebrate the big ones. Here I was about to cross the finish line of a freaking marathon, and I was frustrated with my performance. A performance that even with an injury we hit our target time and goal of simply finishing. I was frustrated that I didn’t get to cross the finish line my way, running. Little did I know this was the revelation that I needed. I started to celebrate that we ran 18 miles with stopping only to use the restroom and we were feeling great. I started to celebrate that I was running a marathon with the man of my dreams by my side with our kids waiting for use at the finish line. I started to celebrate that we set our minds to something, and we killed it. As we got to the last quarter mile, I told my husband I was running. That I was going to cross that finish line so our kids could see that no matter how hard things get, you have the power to accomplish anything you set your mind to. We did just that! We crossed the finish line hand in hand with our kids and family cheering us on. Was I upset with my performance, yes for a while, but in the end I am proud. I have learned a lot in the 8 weeks of training and the 5 and a half hours on race day. I have found my limitations, my strengths, weaknesses, and most of all my drive to be better. I also have found that I need to start celebrating myself a little more. This journey will forever change my life as well as the bond and connection that my husband and I have. I am so proud to have the man I do by my side. I am proud of who we have become and who we are becoming. Life is not about racing to the finish line. It’s about being realistic with where you are and taking it one step at a time. Just like this marathon had twist and turns in store for me, so does life. It’s what you do with these obstacles that will lead you to the finish line or take you out of the game. I am so grateful for this experience, and I am forever humbled by experiencing it with my husband and the 500+ other individuals on that track. Enjoy this marathon called life and take each and every obstacle along the way with you. Know you are worthy of crossing whatever finish line you set out for, you got this!
A big shout out to the love of my life or supporting me along this journey and running by my side during this race and in life. Thank you to all of my family and friends who were there to support us both through training as well as the big day. You support mean the world to us both.
Much Love,
Sarah Larson
Our Society, Build Your Foundation
What has our society turned into? I can’t help but find myself looking around and shaking my head at where our society is headed, and I feel deep to my core that I am not alone. To be honest when I grew up I didn’t know what it would be like to “adult”. I had visions of what I thought it would look like, but this is not it. Never in my life did I think I would be seeing the things I am seeing, exploring the avenues I am exploring, or having to have “adult like” conversations with my 6- and 4-year-old. This world we live in have become so cruel. Being in the medical field the last 11 years has woken me to many things. I feel as a whole we have taken all that our history has taught us and we have thrown it out the window. From my view I see a society who has replaced worshiping God with worshiping money, to the point that many will sacrifice health, morals, values, family, relationship, and life in general. I have seen medicine change right before my eyes, and as a medical clinician, not have the ability to question “the way” or even stand up for your own beliefs. We have become a society that wants to be heard but silences what they don’t want to hear. A society who is ok with judging and putting others down. But if the mirror was reversed the true judgement and hurtful words would be a reflection they are hiding behind. A society who is not easily willing to learn from others yet they want you to learn from them. A society where the kids are parenting themselves or thinking they are the parents equal. We have allowed a world where technology can take us places, we’ve never dreamed, and yet we have done just that but in the negative direction. We live in a world where phones, computers, video games, fast food, and chat rooms have replaced home cooked meals, family conversations, outdoor play, and interaction with others all together. We are at an all-time high of suicide, obesity, health diseases, mental illness, and divorce yet not one wants to talk about it. We want to burry all the hurt and pain we are suffering in order to be better than our neighbor. This is not right! This is not how God intended on us living. Our families, our children, our health, our faith, and our minds are suffering.
Our world is riding on the EGO (edging God out) and to be honest I was sucked into that world for far to long. I tried to fit in but it never really felt right. I had morals and values that were at my core, but I to threw them out the window to go unnoticed. I silenced my voice in order to avoid the name calling, being belittled, and told my views are wrong. Looking back this was the easy way. Through working in the medical field and now working as an energy healer I have come across so many who feel the same way. They feel silenced and even question their beliefs and values based on the person next to them. Again, this is not right! We are all here to learn from one another. To pave a way to greater pastures and living in harmony as one. To bring a slice of the Garden of Eden to this world on so many levels. I will not hold my tongue any longer and I will do this with grace, wisdom, love, and strength from the good Lord. As Jesus has paved the way for us, we shall follow. Some may agree with me while others may not, and that is ok. Just as I have an opinion so can you. I am not asking you to accept my opinion, all I ask is it is heard and respected.
In my opinion we are to learn from our past in order to build ourselves to the highest version of who we can be. This includes learning from those who came before us. Our world has fought so many fights in order for the next generation to live free, in all forms. We have learned the hard times racism has caused and the hard fights on all ends, yet we continue to try to re-invent wheel and continue to fight. Why? This fight goes back centuries and we still cannot find a way to see everyone as equal. We continue to show up day in and day out putting others down based on the way they look, the color of their skin, or the beliefs they believe. Again, why? Our ancestors have fought for health care and have seen it improve over the centuries, only to start seeing the increase in health decline. I have seen individuals take medication to heal one area only to watch another decline. To me this is not health, this is a bad aide covering a sprung leak only to watch another pop up. The way we speak and view others is simply a crying shame. I have seen and witnessed the hurt and pain casted onto others in order to achieve what, burying your own hurt and pain? To justify what is inside of you? I am not going to lie I have been a part of this myself and I am ashamed of my words and actions. This is not the way we are to follow; this is the way of destruction. Technology is another beast of its own. People have lost the ability to communicate, unless it is behind a screen and they are big and bad. Bullying from not only kids, but adults has become the norm. If you do not agree with someone or even like them it is has become a game to tarnish them in any way. WHY? I never thought I would be having conversations with my kids at 4 and 6 about bullying and how to handle the words that hurt to the core. Nature instinct is to fight back, but once again not what we are here to do. Let me ask you, when did it become a norm for us to complain about out problems while drinking ourselves into a stumble allowing the truth of life to hit us in the face but we are so numb we can’t feel it or even face it. And for those who want to better themselves and step into their faith, healthy habits, and their truth are wrong. They are the outcast because living a happy life is so far-fetched, something has to be wrong with them. I was once told that, “I can’t trust someone who doesn’t drink.” These words have stuck with my not to judge, but to see what is behind them. I was once the person behind that drink. I hide from my hurt and pain following the norm. But why is this the norm? Why is it ok for us to continue to judge, drink our sorrows away, and put others down? Why is it that we throw others' past in their face and act like we are better than them? The truth is no one is better than the next. We are all created equally and have the same opportunities. We all have problems in this world, some are better at hiding them than others.
Living in this world has been so hard to watch over the past few years. By stepping into my faith and starting to heal a road of hurt, pain, disappointment, and abandonment I have found my foundation, and He is built on strength that I never knew existed. As I have found the truth in life, I cannot help but want to scream this for the mountain tops. You are not meant to live in the misery our society has portrayed as normal. We are not supposed to hate one another, compete against the next, or even have the biggest bank account in the world. As I teach my littles about Jesus, God, and their faith I have opened a door for them to have a relationship with their faith on their terms. I have allowed them to find God and use his strength when they feel weak. In our home we see Jesus as an older brother who has experienced before us. We use his teaching to guide us along the way. In my eyes everything is figureoutable with a truthful present, your faith on your heart and sleeves, and you trusting your guidance from your creator. Using Jesus as our guide, how are we supposed to live? Let’s dive in shall we. We are to place all material things last and our faith and foundation first. When we honor the material, we lose sight of the truth. We compete to be the best compared to the next rather than competing to be YOUR BEST. Lean on your faith and find who you are, without the material. I always ask, if everything was taken away from you today what is your foundation you stand on? If it is money and fame, you will be in a lost world, do you see it? But if it is faith, love, happiness, morals, and values there is no one who can take that away from you. You can rebuild a life of material with the strong foundation you stand on. Respect is one thing we have lost along the way. Children have lost respect for their parents and to be honest adults have lost respect for all; including themselves. We are in a world where we will do anything to our bodies in order to be better. We will put others down in order to gain. This is not the way. We are to respect each and everyone’s opinion including our children’s. I know some may disagree with this, but let me ask you, how do you feel when your boss dictates to you rather than collaborating with you. A big difference, right? This is how we are to treat one another, even those little minds we are to mold and shape into beautiful humans. The future is in the hands of these littles.
The respect for life is gone in this world. Going back to the material we have seen senseless murders and crimes for what, to get ahead? The respect for life these days is shameful, because there is none. People are perfectly ok with walking up to stranger and taking objects or even life for little to no gain in return. And we are allowing it. We have allowed man to be in control where God should be present. Heart breaking is all I can say. Let’s go to taking from your neighbors including their spouse. Marriage in our society has become a fashion label. It is all about the dresses, the big party, and out doing friends and family on the big day. What happened to the vows that are stated? Where is the love and commitment not only to your spouse but to yourself. To be loved and honored through good times and bad. The lack of honor, trust, and unconditional love has resulted in looking for greener pastures, it has become the norm. Once again leading people down a path of mistrust, hurt, and wall building in order to not let anyone in. This is a ripple affect that hurts on so many levels for so many people.
When presented with hate or judgment you are to dig deep to your foundation and lean on God’s strength. You are to send love and healing to the ones who cast the hate or judgment, and work on your own hurt and pain if the sting is present within you as well. When questioned on your faith, morals, and beliefs you are not to prove, convert, or question back. You are to listen, learn, grow, and continue to be you, for you may teach along the way, just as Jesus did. You are to stay faithful to the right and rebuke the wrong. When questioned to help a neighbor you are to extend what you have in order to care and receive when it is your turn. You are not to hold what you have done for others over their head, or make them feel less than. We are built to be tribal, to help one another rise up. Again, this has been lost out of competition or because others believe they are deserving of your possessions.
We are here to be of service to ourselves and others. Jesus did not only do for himself, but He did for those whom needed His help. He created a place of happiness, peace, and harmony everywhere he went. He was faithful to his Father and those who He came across. He never allowed others to define him, only staying on the path He was sent on. He preached, healed, gave freely, and performed miracles all while staying true to himself. He knew his purpose and he fulfilled this to the fullest. He did not look for a reward in the end, he simply looked to give hope, faith, and love to those He helped in attempt to spark the same within them. For when you help yourself you can help others. For those who do you wrong and betray you, are you to do the same to them? Are you to put them down and make them feel the same you do/did? No! You are to forgive them, just as Jesus forgave those who nailed Him to the cross, stoned Him, and told lies about who He was. Forgiveness is not for those who have done the harm, it is for you to learn and keep going. For just as Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don't know what they are doing.” He didn't mean they didn't know they were putting a man to death or punishing an innocent. He was meaning that the hurt within them is so great they cannot see the truth which is present. Forgive them and allow them to see. Allow them to learn and grow from this. This is the same for those who hurt you. The hurt is so great within them they are blinded from the truth. Forgive and pray that one day they will see their hurt and heal themselves, as you continue to heal yourself.
This world we live in is harsh. Everywhere we turn there is darkness, but don't forget there is also light, you must look for it. You are the light and no matter how dark times may get stay true to you. Build your foundation and know by showing up with your faith, love, and aspirations to be happy in all forms you will be led to your destination. There is a light at the end of the tunnel, and I am proof as I have found it. But I will tell you, if it was not for my strong foundation, faith, and unconditional love for myself and my creator I don’t know where I would be. No matter what your faith, your religion, or your beliefs, if you are of service to yourself and others you will find the light. Open your heart and your mind to listening to others. To learn something new and see things from a different vantage point. Also, don’t be afraid to state your truths in your world, because you never know who may need to hear it. Those whose words fall on deaf ears or judgement is casted may not be your people. Smile, pray, and keep moving. You will find your tribe. You will find the light in this world. Don’t dim to fit in, I did and it was way harder than finding your truth and your voice. This may feel foreign at first, but to be honest it is liberating. To see and feel others who are on a path to finding love and happiness in all forms is magical. Speak your truth, hear others' truth, and live the truth for this is where you will find your true happiness.
My journey from working in physical therapy to becoming a spiritual life coach for women
Hi friends,
Have I told you about what brought me to the spiritual and energetic work that I do today? It has been one crazy journey leading here. My background in in health care. I practiced physical thereapy for over 11 years and I loved every part of it. Well, not every part but I loved it. One part I did not love was the lack of solutions my patients were receiving from traditional Western medicine. Don’t get my wrong, western medicine can be great and much needed at times, but seeing so many patients with chronic pain, fatigue, and illness was heart breaking for me to not only watch but be apart of. I choose the health care field becuase I wanted to help others gain their life back.
While in undergraduate I watched my sister gain her life back after a traumatic car accident, and it was from the hope of her Physical Therapist that pushed her. Right there I knew I was where I was suppose to be. I was going to help other become the best version of themselves, and I think I did a pretty good job throughout the years of practicting. Feeling helpless when it came to some of my patients I knew there was another way. I couldn’t accept the answers of “there is nothing else we can do for you”, “pain management is the last option”, or “here is some new medications, let’s see if this helps and we will go from there”. Ya’ll I felt hopeless and helpless all at the same time. I just couldnt digest that some people in this life will have to live with chronic pain, depression, anxiety, and other illnesses that there was no other answer besides we are done, or here are all the medications; take them without question and move on.
These medications and lack of answers typically brought most of my patients even more down a rabit hole of no hope. Just adding to there diminishing mental and physical health. I thought that if I could start a business to help others fuel their bodies with proper nutrition and movement I could help so many. Oh man was I wrong. I was to help with this, but it goes much further leading me to the spiritual and energetic work I do today. I can remember a few years into my career asking God to guide me to where he wants me. That I am no longer pushing but I am ready to surrender. Well years past and my mind started opening up to new things. I stumbled upon reiki, which I knew nothing about. I was at the time working with my soulful business coach trying to get my health and fitness business going.
Little did I know that there was a plot twist in order. I was being called to work for the Lord. I was called to help others heal on a mind, body, soul level through holistic healing. It’s so funny to look back and see how my journey has led me here. I now use different tools and techniques that working in the healthcare feild has brought to my tool box. I was introduced to plant medicine over 5 years ago by a patient who was battling cancer and decided chemo and radiation was destroying his body while essential oils were building it back to life keeping him alive 2 years longer than doctors advised him when whe refused further treatment. I was introduced to reiki when placing my hands on a patient and not knowing the sensation I was feeling, and decided to dig deeper. I opened my mind to healing depression and anxiety through meditation, mindfulness, perspective shifting and more. I have found a way of life that I will sing from the mountains to share with the world, because it’s all natural and created for us to use.
I have embraced a lifestyle that many will poke at or judge, and that is ok. I have surrendered my life to living and breathing the word of the lord and for that I am not apologetic. Happiness is my choice and I choose this life. I choose a life to serve others and help them become the best version of themselves along the way. I choose to see the medicine in the Earth that God has planted for us. I choose to follow a higher power over people in power. I choose me. My mission in this life is to help other Wake Up to there true self. To help heal themselves from the inside out creating a world of peace, happines, abundance, health, unity, and most of all love. If we are ok with taking drugs to alter our emotions, why aren’t we ok to try natural solutions like plant medicine, energy healing, mindfulness, and self control. I absolutely love what I do and giving up a career in western medicine to practice what I love was the best decision I could have made. I am finally walking in the purpose I came here for. To help and serve other to become the best version of themselves.
If you are looking for more wholistic solutions for your physical, mental, or emotional bodies head to my link and see how I can serve you best.
You may not be for everyone but you sure are for you
You may not be for everyone but you sure are for you.
Throughout the years of learning and understanding energy work I have been able to awaken to so much in my personal life. I share this story with you in hopes to help others sitting in the same roller coaster of funk I did for years. So buckle up and go within.
I like to think of myself as a very outgoing, outspoken, fun, energetic, bubbly, loving, and caring person. I also think I’m funny but my husband may have a different view. I always wanted others to be happy, even at my expense. I have always been a “fixer” in life trying to help solve world problems. Ok, maybe just those who were in my world. I hated to see others hurt and was probably a little more truthful than asked. Most of the time I didn’t take shit from anybody and told it like it was. Which I now see is frowned upon as most of us don’t like to have things pointed out, but love to point. I have had relationships, friends, and family come and go throughout the years. Many I held onto for far too long.
I never realized the hurt I was causing myself by trying to make these relationships work. I now see how I shut down in order to keep the peace. I would apologize for things I should have received apologies for. I hid my true hurt because I was fearful of losing these people. I would go out of my way to prove my worth, without even knowing it. I was giving it my all, but I was giving it to the wrong people. I allowed others' behaviors to sink my ship just so they could float, creating more hurt in my life. Giving advice in my world always came with attachments. I was either labeled as a know it all, seen as a competitor, one upper, or discredited for my advice in some form or fashion leaving resentment, anger, or frustration swirling around.
These patterns continued throughout my life. I would shut people out only to open right back up becoming close to family, friends,or guys. I would make memories, share life stories, dreams, and create laughter. As for my friendships, they were great with 1:1 time but when it came to being in groups it was almost like we were in a ring competing with one another. I found myself being left behind little by little. The conversation would exclude me, the party invitations would get lost, and the chatter behind my back were like sharp knives. Similar situations would unfold with family and relationships. When I finally had enough of being quiet I would speak up. But my feelings were always overlooked. I was called a bitch, jealous, insecure, not a good friend, thought of as better than. Continuing to leave me feeling even more deflated.
I never could understand. Why was I not enough? Why was it that I could give my all in relationships but always fell on the wrong side of the fence? Y’all this has literally happened since I was in grade school and always wondered, why? I promised myself I would never engage with people who didn’t value me for me. Who couldn’t take my advice for what it was, advice, and see me for me. I feel like I had found that for a few years. But little did I know this pattern would follow me. I had the biggest ah ha moment when my sister asked, “why do you keep attracting people who keep doing this to you? What are you not learning?”
Y’all it hit me like a ton of bricks. That’s it! I am to learn a lesson from these patterns. It’s not the people that are hurting me, it’s me that is hurting me. I was allowing others to mistreat me all while begging for their approval. WHAT IN THE HELL WAS I THINKING? I realized that by not sticking up for myself or walking away I continued to invite hurt into my life. I held onto dying relationships trying to prove my worth. All while there were others who knew my worth sitting in the background. I was dimming my light for what?
I decided I was no longer allowing others to silence me with their judgements or false definition of my character. I will not feel left out, talked about, judged, or defined by others. I am going to be me, because being me is who I am most comfortable being, and if I have to prove to anyone who I am I’m out. So here I am, a woman who is so compassionate and loving that I want all to succeed, even those who don’t want me to. I love to dance, be completely silly, and make true memories filled with laughter, fun, and zero judgment. I love to heal, read, write, workout, create, and dream big. I am no longer in need of approval from anyone else. I open my heart to those who have allowed me to shine my light without question.
I want to also thank those of you who have shown me the way to healing. It was my lack of confidence of knowing who I was as well as lack of self worth that kept me in pain, not you. I now see that I am worthy of love and respect from all. I send you all so much love and hope that you too can heal as well one day. Man it feels so good to accept me for me.
Are you wearing a mask to please or prove yourself to others?
Are you wearing a mask to please or prove yourself to others?
Years ago this question would have most likely triggered something within me to become defensive, shut down, or possibly turn the tables on the person asking the question. It was not until I dove into my own spiritual healing practice that I was able to discover so many masks that camouflage themselves so comfortably within my being. Without my conscious knowledge I would go within my energetic closet and pick a mask as if I was getting dressed for the day. Looking back I visualize my subconscious mind glaring in a closet filled with multiple hats hanging on the wall? I see myself glancing at them while asking…
Who did I have to show up as today?
Who is everyone expecting?
How could I make everyone like me?
Is this mask enough?
Does this match this person’s energy?
Will they reject this mask?
Will this mask make him stay?
Maybe this mask will make him see me as attractive?
No, this mask will allow her to know I am not competing against her!
I will 100% fit in with this one!
I can remember getting dressed and thinking similar thoughts but thought this was normal. I thought that by creating these images of me I was fitting in this world just as I was created to. But man was I wrong! By picking these masks I was fitting in all right. I created anxiety, depression, conflict, and chaos in my world, all the while asking myself, why? I could never figure out why the same situations, types of people, and emotions would come full circle over and over again. I can now see the cycles and patterns that I was living in. I was on a merry go round with the same shit. I would see different sites here and there, as I attempted to “heal”. I went to traditional counseling and barely cracked open the baggage that needed to be unpacked. (Please know I am not discrediting traditional counseling. It was where I first began this journey at a young age and what got me through. It’s where I recognized the change I needed; it was so necessary for my healing journey.)
After saying yes to exploring more I began to unpack my suitcase throwing out each mask that I did not resonate with. I began to shine through little by little until I was cracked wide open; wearing the mask that fit me best, mine! I realized my early journey was filled with searching and trying to please others, while my journey now is filled with going within and trying to please myself. My happiness is created within me. I no longer have to search this energetic closet to see which mask I should wear. I now wear the one that fits just right. There are times I need to remind myself of the nasty pattern and behaviors mask sorting can bring to my life. I take the time to reflect on my happiness and create from this space. I realized that when I am happy, happiness is created in all aspects of my life. As like attracts like. I encourage you to sit with yourself to see which one size fits all masks you are holding in your energetic closet. Who are you “trying” to be rather just be yourself. Ask yourself, is this bringing me closer to me, or further apart? Begin to create yourself from the inside out, not the opposite. For when you search outward you lose yourself within the masks of others. Begin to heal and set yourself free. It truly is a beautiful place.
If you are ready to dive in and begin removing these masks head to my website to book your discovery call. I have opened 3 1:1 coaching spots this month, and I am looking forward to helping these beautiful souls heal from the inside out.