09/17/2025
Today I gave myself the gift of a few hours of pure, creative escape. It was a morning spent sharing a healing space with my dear friend Mary at her studio Community Creations Studio. We didn't need to do anything but be present; sharing conversation, laughter, and a sense of calm.
Our hands were busy with a simple, beautiful mandala dot project (yes this is actually a picture of my masterpiece!), but our hearts were busy holding space for each other. As I sank into the rhythm of the work, I felt the noise of the world fall away. The flow of creativity was so immersive that I could actually see my mood shift in the shapes and patterns on the canvas.
This isn't just art; it's a window into your own inner world. Stepping away, I felt lighter, more centered, and completely refreshed. This is what true connection feels like: getting lost in the moment and leaving with a full heart.
✨Imagine if you could find a way to quiet the noise, lift the heavy weight, and find your way back to yourself.
Some people find the relief they need when their body's chemistry is gently brought back into balance, helping to clear the fog and make each day feel a little lighter. Others find their path by learning to navigate the storms inside, building a personal haven of calm with every focused breath.
The most powerful journeys often begin by combining these two paths. When the body finds its footing and the mind learns its resilience, the result is more than just relief; it's a path toward lasting well-being.
Antidepressants and MBSR target depression through different mechanisms.
➡️Antidepressants work on a biological level. They primarily alter the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, like serotonin and norepinephrine, which are thought to play a role in regulating mood. By rebalancing these chemicals, they can help alleviate the core symptoms of depression, such as persistent sadness, fatigue, and anhedonia (loss of pleasure).
➡️MBSR works on a psychological and behavioral level. The goal is to train your mind to observe thoughts and feelings without judgment and to develop a different relationship with them. This practice can literally change your brain's structure over time, helping to reduce the brain's reactivity to stress and negative emotions.
Both have been shown to be effective, but their role in treatment can differ.
➡️Antidepressants are often a first-line treatment, especially for moderate to severe depression. They can provide significant symptom relief, making it easier for a person to engage in therapy and other positive activities.
➡️MBSR is highly effective as an adjunct to other treatments and is particularly well-researched for preventing relapse. For mild to moderate depression, some studies have shown it can be as effective as antidepressants. Unlike medication, it has no pharmacological side effects.
✨A Powerful Combination
You don't have to choose just one way forward. True resilience is often found in the powerful harmony of tending to both your body's needs and your mind's potential.
What if you could give yourself that same restorative gift? A simple way to recharge your mood and fill your spirit with color and creativity.
Reserve a spot and join our circle on October 4th
https://www.achievemhw.com/registration
