Nicole Bowker, LCSW

08/11/2025

This afternoon with Sandi was exactly what my soul needed.
We talked about the retreat, yes, but more than that — we gave ourselves the same kind of space and care we’ll be holding for you in September.
There’s something powerful about dreaming of what’s possible while also tending to our own hearts.
I’m even more certain now: this retreat is going to be beautiful.

If you’re feeling called, spots are open now — and our flash sale is happening for a limited time.
I’d love to hold space for you there.

https://www.artsandhealing.com/flash-sale-creating-with-spirit-retreat

04/23/2025

02/27/2025

Today’s lunch with two amazing women—colleagues, friends, and truly inspiring souls—was a reminder of how important it is to have people who see you, support you, and walk beside you. I’m so grateful for the little work team we’ve co-created, a space where we lift each other up, share ideas, and hold space for both the big wins and the hard days. In my work, I see the power of connection every day—how healing and growth happen when we feel truly seen and supported. It’s something I treasure in my own life, too. Who are the people in your life who lift you up and remind you that you’re not alone?

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02/27/2025

Watching my plant unfurl a new leaf reminds me that growth happens in its own time—no rush, no force, just trust in the process. Each stage, from hidden roots to unfolding leaves, has its purpose. We, too, are constantly growing, even when it’s not yet visible. Honor your own unfolding by noticing what nourishes you, creating space for stillness, and moving in ways that awaken your energy. Just like my plant, you are becoming—trust that when the moment is right, you will bloom exactly as you are meant to.

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02/25/2025

Anyone else roll their eyes or suddenly remember a very urgent need to reorganize the junk drawer when someone says, “Just sit with it”?

Yeah, same. Sitting with emotions sounds about as appealing as sitting on a cactus. But here’s the thing—avoiding, numbing, or distracting only buries the emotions deeper, and they tend to resurface at the worst times (like when you’re just trying to enjoy your coffee).

Sitting with it doesn’t mean suffering—it means giving yourself space to acknowledge what’s there, so it doesn’t end up running the show from the background. It’s uncomfortable, but it’s also how we process, heal, and move forward instead of getting stuck in an emotional game of whack-a-mole.

So, next time you want to bolt, maybe just pause. Breathe. Get curious. You might just surprise yourself.

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02/24/2025

Do you ever find yourself in a meeting but still thinking about that chaotic morning with your kiddo, wondering if ‘mom fail’ is an official title? Or replaying a conversation, coming up with all the things you should have said? It’s wild how often we carry one moment into the next without realizing it. That’s why I love quick creative practices to clear the slate, thanks to the arts and healing trainings and workshops with Sandra Sabene at Liverpool Art Center, I have a ton of quick creative exercises to choose from—Today I played with watercolor for a few minutes before sessions to reset and show up fully. What helps you shake off the last thing and be present for what’s next?”

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02/16/2025

Cozy, slow, and snowy Sunday ❄️
Taking time to pause, reflect, and reset before the week begins. A reminder that rest is just as important as movement—both are part of healing. How are you nurturing yourself today?

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02/16/2025

When things feel overwhelming, grounding can be a simple way to reconnect with the present moment. Try one of these quick practices:

✨ Breathe in for 4 counts, hold for 4, exhale for 4, and hold for 4 again—this simple rhythm helps calm your nervous system.

✨ Gently tap your fingertips together or on your chest in a steady rhythm to bring a sense of ease.

✨ Try alternate nostril breathing—close one nostril, inhale through the other, switch sides, and exhale. This can bring balance and clarity.

✨ Engage in a simple creative practice—doodle, paint, or use your hands to create without judgment, just allowing yourself to be in the moment.

✨ If you can, step outside and feel the ground beneath your feet, letting the earth support you.

A few moments of grounding can make all the difference. Which one will you try today?

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01/21/2025

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01/21/2025

You are a good person—even if you say no, set boundaries, or put yourself first.

Sometimes a part of us whispers, “If you say no, you’re selfish” or “Setting boundaries makes you a bad person.” But that’s just an old story.

The truth? Taking care of yourself doesn’t make you unkind—it makes you strong.

Let’s talk about those limiting beliefs in the comments—what’s one you’re ready to let go of? ✨✨✨

01/20/2025

The 8 C’s of IFS: Your Inner Compass for Healing

At the heart of Internal Family Systems (IFS) is your Self, the calm, confident, and compassionate part of you that can guide your healing. When you’re in Self, you’ll notice these 8 qualities shining through:

✨ Calm
✨ Clarity
✨ Curiosity
✨ Compassion
✨ Confidence
✨ Creativity
✨ Courage
✨ Connectedness

These “C’s” are like guideposts, letting you know you’re in a place of balance and healing. Ready to connect with your Self and transform your inner world? Let’s explore together—DM me to learn more!