Mindful Living Group

Mindful Living Group Holistic Health & Wellness

LIFESTYLE, GROUPS, RETREATS, THERAPY, NURSING, INTEGRATIVE HEALTH, CONSULTING

Live Well.

Live Aloha. đŸŒș

Offices on Maui, O’ahu, Islandwide Telehealth, Global Programs, Diversity Inclusion. Mindful Living Group is a group of like-minded professionals committed to living mindfully in the spirit of Aloha. Our intention is to help you achieve your greatest potential in life through access to natural health and wellness approaches, psychotherapy & counseling, bodywork & acupuncture, western and indiginous or alternative medicines, psychiatric and nursing services, education, retreats and lifestyle experiences. We recognize and embrace our Hawaiian host culture and its wisdom to teaching us how to life well and live aloha.

“I don’t want to cry in therapy.”We hear this all the time—and it’s completely understandable. Many of us grew up being ...
11/13/2025

“I don’t want to cry in therapy.”

We hear this all the time—and it’s completely understandable. Many of us grew up being told to “hold it together,” to stay strong, or that emotions make us weak. So when we finally step into a therapy space, our bodies don’t quite know how to handle being safe enough to feel.

But here’s the truth: crying in therapy isn’t something to be ashamed of. It’s a completely natural, healthy response when you’re processing emotions that have been held in for too long.

💧 Crying is your body’s release valve. It helps regulate your nervous system, lowers stress hormones, and signals to your brain that it’s safe to let go.

💛 Therapists don’t see tears as a problem. We see them as a sign that something meaningful is surfacing—something ready to be healed. You won’t be judged, pitied, or seen as “too much.” You’ll be seen as human.

đŸŒ± Healing often looks like this:
‱ Finally feeling emotions you’ve avoided
‱ Saying something out loud you’ve never said before
‱ Realizing how heavy it’s been to carry things alone

And sometimes—those moments bring tears.

✅ Tip: If you notice emotions bubbling up during a session, try not to push them down. Instead, take a breath and let your therapist know what’s happening for you. Often, naming the emotion helps release it even more gently.

Crying isn’t a sign that therapy “isn’t working.” It’s a sign that it is.

💬 What’s your first reaction when you think about crying in therapy—comfort, resistance, or relief?

Why AI Can’t Be Your Therapist — The Human Connection You DeserveArtificial intelligence is everywhere—from apps that tr...
11/06/2025

Why AI Can’t Be Your Therapist — The Human Connection You Deserve
Artificial intelligence is everywhere—from apps that track your habits to chatbots that claim to offer emotional support. Some people might wonder: Could AI replace therapy? At Mindful Living Group, serving the Maui community and beyond, we know the answer is clear: no technology can replace the care, empathy, and guidance of a trained professional.
Here’s why human connection remains essential for mental health, and how our therapists and nurse practitioners can help—both in person and online.

The Story of Real Healing
Imagine sitting in a quiet, comfortable room in Maui, sharing your thoughts with a licensed therapist who listens with genuine attention. They notice the subtle shifts in your voice, the pauses that hint at deeper feelings, and the unspoken worries behind your words. This is what therapy truly is: a relationship built on trust, understanding, and empathy.
AI chatbots can generate responses, but they cannot truly feel, adapt, or offer the nuanced support a human therapist provides. Real healing comes from connection, not code.

Why Licensed Professionals Matter
At Mindful Living Group, our team includes experienced therapists and nurse practitioners who are trained to guide you safely through emotional challenges. They are licensed, ethical, and accountable—qualities that AI simply cannot match.
Whether you’re seeking therapy on Maui or O'ahu for anxiety, depression, life transitions, or stress management, our professionals can provide:

Personalized care tailored to your unique situation
Evidence-based techniques grounded in research
Compassionate support during emotional crises
Accountability and guidance toward long-term mental wellness

AI might offer quick responses, but it cannot ensure safety, accuracy, or emotional intelligence. That’s why trusting a licensed professional is essential for meaningful progress.

In-Person or Online: Therapy That Fits Your Life
Life is busy, and sometimes you need flexibility. Mindful Living Group offers both in-person therapy on Maui and O'ahu and secure online counseling, so you can access care wherever you are. Our team adapts to your schedule and needs, providing the same empathetic, high-quality support whether you meet face-to-face or virtually.
AI tools can’t provide this kind of adaptability—they can’t notice when you’re struggling mid-session or adjust their approach to your emotional state. A human therapist can make a world of difference in your mental health journey.

AI as a Support, Not a Substitute
Technology can be helpful as a tool: tracking mood, offering reminders, or suggesting mindfulness exercises. But AI is supportive, not therapeutic. True mental health care involves human insight, personalized guidance, and genuine empathy—something no algorithm can replicate.

Take the Next Step with Mindful Living Group
Your mental health deserves more than a chatbot. At Mindful Living Group, we combine experience, compassion, and evidence-based care to help you navigate life’s challenges. Whether you choose in-person therapy in Maui or online counseling, you’ll find a safe, supportive space to be seen, heard, and understood.
AI can provide convenience—but human connection heals.
✹ Schedule your session today and experience the difference of working with real professionals who care.
Contact us at (808) 206-9371 or www.MindfulLIvingGroup.org today and we can navigate this new world together...

Some people say “I’m just a people-pleaser,” like it’s a permanent personality trait. But here’s the truth: people-pleas...
11/06/2025

Some people say “I’m just a people-pleaser,” like it’s a permanent personality trait. But here’s the truth: people-pleasing is often a stress response or an echo of trauma.

When you say yes even when you’re drained

When you hide your real opinions to avoid conflict

When you feel guilty for setting boundaries


That’s not you being “weak” or “bad at boundaries.” That’s your nervous system trying to keep you safe. Many of us learned early on that pleasing others kept us out of danger—whether that was conflict, criticism, rejection, or abandonment. Over time, it can become a deeply ingrained pattern.

đŸŒȘ The problem? Constant people-pleasing can leave one burned out, resentful, and disconnected from caring for one's own needs.

✅ Tip: The next time you want to say yes just to keep the peace, pause and ask yourself: “If I say no, what’s the worst that could happen? What’s the best that could happen?” This helps your brain start to see that saying no isn’t always dangerous—it can actually create more freedom and respect.

đŸŒ± Therapy can help you rewire these old patterns, so your nervous system feels safe even when you advocate for yourself. You can learn to say no with less guilt, and yes with more authenticity.

💬 Does people-pleasing feel familiar for you? What’s the hardest part of saying no?

💭 Depression. Anxiety. It can feel like you’re carrying the weight of the world — even when no one sees it.But you don’t...
11/05/2025

💭 Depression. Anxiety. It can feel like you’re carrying the weight of the world — even when no one sees it.
But you don’t have to face it alone. ✹ At Mindful Living Group, compassionate help is here.
Your healing journey starts now — with presence, care, and the spirit of Aloha. đŸŒș

10/31/2025

Emotional regulation isn’t about never feeling big emotions—it’s about learning how to move through them safely.

When you understand how to regulate, you teach your nervous system that emotions are safe to feel. Here are a few simple, science-backed ways to start:

đŸ« 1. Breathe Intentionally
Slow, deep breathing activates your vagus nerve—the body’s built-in calming system.
→ Try this: Inhale for 4, hold for 2, exhale for 6.

đŸȘž 2. Name What You Feel
Research shows that labeling an emotion helps deactivate the amygdala and calm the body.
→ Say, “I notice I feel anxious” instead of “I shouldn’t feel anxious.”

đŸš¶â€â™€ïž 3. Move Your Body
Emotions are energy—motion helps release them.
→ Take a quick walk, stretch, or shake it out for 60 seconds.

🖊 4. Write It Out
Journaling externalizes what’s looping in your head, giving your prefrontal cortex room to problem-solve.
→ Even two sentences like “I’m feeling ___ because ___” can help.

💬 5. Connect
Talk it out with a trusted person or your therapist. Regulation happens faster when we co-regulate—our nervous systems are wired for connection.

đŸŒ± Remember: regulation is not perfection. It’s practice. It’s choosing to pause before reacting, breathe before spiraling, and feel instead of numbing.

💡 Which of these tools do you want to try this week?

We all try to “keep it together.” But sometimes, what we think is self-control is actually self-suppression.đŸ§© Emotional ...
10/24/2025

We all try to “keep it together.” But sometimes, what we think is self-control is actually self-suppression.

đŸ§© Emotional Regulation and Emotional Suppression might look similar on the outside—but inside your brain and body, they’re doing very different things.

đŸŒ± Emotional Regulation
When you name what you’re feeling (“I’m anxious,” “I’m angry,” “I’m sad”) and let it move through safely, your prefrontal cortex (the part of your brain responsible for reasoning and decision-making) stays online. This allows you to respond intentionally instead of reacting impulsively.

đŸš« Emotional Suppression
When you push emotions away (“I shouldn’t feel this,” “I don’t have time for this”), your brain activates the amygdala—your alarm system—and keeps your nervous system in a subtle fight, flight, or freeze state. Over time, this can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, irritability, or even physical tension and fatigue.

💡 Think of it this way:
Regulation = processing and moving through
Suppression = storing and carrying it longer than needed

✅ Tip:
Next time you feel a strong emotion, pause and name it. Then ask yourself, “What might this feeling need right now—space, breath, or comfort?”

That small act shifts your brain from survival mode to safety mode.

Therapy can help you learn how to regulate emotions without judgment—so you can feel with your emotions instead of being run by them.

💬 Which one do you notice more often—regulation or suppression?

The Ins and Outs of Psychiatric Medications: A Guide for Maui ResidentsConsidering Medication for Mental Health in Maui?...
10/23/2025

The Ins and Outs of Psychiatric Medications: A Guide for Maui Residents

Considering Medication for Mental Health in Maui? You’re Not Alone.
If you live in Maui and are thinking about psychiatric care, you’re taking a strong first step toward improving your mental health. Many people feel unsure about whether medication is the right choice, or worry about stigma. Psychiatric medications can be an effective way to manage anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and other mental health challenges—especially when combined with therapy and holistic support.

How Do Psychiatric Medications Work?
Psychiatric medications balance chemicals in the brain, like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which influence mood, behavior, and thinking. They can help reduce symptoms, stabilize mood, and improve your daily functioning. In Maui, local psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners can work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and mental health goals.

Psychiatrist vs. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner: What’s the Difference?

Psychiatrist: A medical doctor (MD or DO) who specializes in diagnosing mental health conditions and prescribing medications. Psychiatrists have extensive training in complex psychiatric cases and can provide comprehensive medical care alongside therapy.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): A registered nurse with advanced training (NP) in psychiatric care. PNPs can assess mental health conditions, prescribe medications, and provide therapy, often with a focus on patient-centered and holistic care.
Both professionals are qualified to prescribe medication in Hawaii, but your choice may depend on your preference for care style, availability, and specific treatment needs.

Types of Psychiatric Medications You Might Encounter in Maui

Antidepressants: Often prescribed for depression and anxiety.
Anti-anxiety medications: Help reduce panic attacks and chronic stress.
Mood stabilizers: Used for bipolar disorder and emotional regulation.
Antipsychotics: Treat symptoms of psychosis, severe depression, or bipolar disorder.
Your provider will recommend the right medication—or combination—based on your symptoms and health profile.

What to Expect: Benefits and Side Effects
Medication can help you regain control of your life. Benefits may include improved sleep, better mood regulation, reduced anxiety, and enhanced focus. Common side effects may include fatigue, mild weight changes, or temporary sleep disturbances. Open communication with your provider ensures the safest and most effective treatment.

The Importance of Personalized Treatment Plans
Mental health care is not one-size-fits-all. Finding the right balance may take time, and follow-ups are key to adjusting your treatment for maximum benefit.

Ready to explore your mental health options in Maui? Mindful Living Group offers compassionate care, therapy, and lifestyle programs. Schedule your consultation today at www.mindfullivinggroup.org.

Taking the First Step: Is Medication Right for You?
Ask yourself: Are my symptoms affecting daily life? Have I tried other strategies like therapy or lifestyle changes? Would professional guidance help me understand my options? Seeking help is a sign of strength, and in Maui, you have access to local professionals ready to support you on your journey.

Ready to Begin Your Mental Health Journey in Maui?
Start today by scheduling a consultation with Mindful Living Group. Our team of psychiatric nurse practitioners provides individualized care that blends medication management, therapy, and holistic wellness programs—helping Maui residents achieve lasting mental health and well-being. Contact us today at www.MindfulLivingGroup.org or (808) 206-9371 and take the first step toward balance and peace of mind.

Address

1300 N Holopono Drive Suite 108
Kihei, HI
96753

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 4pm
Friday 9am - 4pm

Telephone

+18082069371

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Mindful Living Group posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Practice

Send a message to Mindful Living Group:

Shortcuts

Share

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn
Share on Pinterest Share on Reddit Share via Email
Share on WhatsApp Share on Instagram Share on Telegram

Category

Our Story

The intention of the Mindful Living Group is to bring together community members and health and wellness providers who are seeking to living life free from disease and in the spirit of aloha. We offer a variety of programs, events, counseling, and lifestyle services so that people, families, and teams will experience the proven benefits of mindfulness. Each professional within the group cultivates a strong and compassionate mindfulness practice to help our clients achieve optimal health and wellness