Christie Howley, LCSW Wellness

02/08/2023

It’s Valentine’s weekend and many people are feeling the pressure to be “romantic”.
Whether you’re in a committed relationship, talking to people, unsure of your status, or happily (or unhappily) single, take a moment to remember that there shouldn’t be just 1 day dedicated to love.

What does love mean to you? How do you show/receive affection and appreciation? Is it through gifts or words? Kind acts or quality time? Remember that partners aren’t the only people who deserves your kindness, quality time & treats; this is a perfect opportunity for you to focus on YOU.

What makes you happy? What kind words can you say to yourself? Have you checked in with yourself lately to see what your needs are?

Maybe instead of placing pressure to create the picture perfect date for your partner, you use the day to buy yourself something you have been eyeing, make yourself a card, look at yourself in the mirror and say a few inspiring words back, or spend some time doing your favorite thing. You may find that you’re great company!

Self-care & self-love aren’t selfish.

01/18/2023

A gentle reminder that self care isn’t selfish. You can’t provide for others when your needs are under met.

Challenge yourself to do 1 thing just for YOU this week. What would that feel like? What might that look like? It may feel odd or even wrong (enter, guilt) but it’s well deserved and necessary, even, to keep up with what you are already doing to serve those in your life that you love. ☕️

01/07/2023

It’s a week into the new year.
It’s time to think about the changes you want to make this year.
What steps will you take to make yourself healthier? To hold yourself accountable?

As you reflect on some of the spaces where last year may have humbled you, leave room for new growth, opportunity and hope.

Water those seeds 🌻

01/06/2023

Read it, and then read it from the bottom up.

There is beauty inside of you that matters.

01/01/2023

Often for those who struggle with anxiety & depression, the thought of a new year brings more dread than possibility. Loved ones may either feel a renewed sense of frustration that “you’re STILL like this!?”, or may begin to withdraw if they recognize that nothing has changed even with the tides of the new calendar date.

It’s never too late for change. Reaching out for help can benefit you in ways you never knew. You can learn how to set healthy boundaries in your life; something that is needed in all relationships but particularly with those who have experienced trauma. You can begin to process grief, and begin to regain your power.

If you have already done some of this work, and are looking to further understand how to find your strength and resilience after trauma, there are only a few spots left in my Psychoeducational Trauma Recovery Group, “Stregthen Yourself”.

Email support@christiehowleylcsw.com for information.

Wishes for a healthy and peaceful new year 🤍

12/30/2022

Every year many of us make a deal with ourselves, a promise that we will do something more or less than the year before, dream bigger, be better, get stronger or richer. Sometimes they may come true for you, maybe not. If you’re like me, you get frustrated around January 5, stop altogether around the 12, and begin to emotionally beat yourself up around February.

And why? This year, maybe skip the big goals and focus on something much smaller, but much more important. Self care.
No, I don’t only mean spa days & mani/pedis, as nice as that sounds. I mean setting small, attainable goals for you to have time for yourself each day, or building in things that will benefit your wellness.

🌙 I am going to try to get more restful sleep.
📱 I am going to try for less screen time
🌱 I am going to take 5 minutes to myself in the car before I enter my home each day after work.
🫙 I am going to try to drink more water.
📕 I plan to spend a few minutes a week reading something for enjoyment.

Most self care items don’t cost money, just time & comitment to your well-being. Making yourself a priority can massively benefit not only you, but those around you who rely on you each day.

There’s no time like today! ⭐️