Tag: ontario
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How to Let Go of Perfectionism?
For years, whenever a job interviewer asked, “What’s one of your faults?” my answer was ready: “I’m a perfectionist.” I had learned it was a “safe” fault — one that sounded like a strength. And honestly? In a lot of workplaces, it is rewarded. Productivity, exceeding expectations, flawless execution — these are celebrated. So we wear perfectionism like…
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What Is Burnout and How Do You Recover From It?
Burnout is your mind and body’s way of saying “I’ve had enough.” It’s the chronic exhaustion that comes from prolonged stress — the kind that leaves you feeling empty, detached, and unable to function the way you used to. It’s not just being tired. It’s running on empty with nothing left in reserve. The World Health…
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Managing Anxiety When World Events Trigger Intergenerational Trauma
Several friends haven been this: “I can’t stop scrolling, but every headline makes my chest tight.” If that resonates, you’re not alone—and what you’re feeling is your nervous system responding to something very real. It’s a new year, and it already feels heavy. The news has always bombarded us, but the past few weeks have…
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New Year, New Approach: Gentle Goals for Anxious Perfectionists
Happy New Year! You’ve made your vision board. Written your goals. Maybe you’re already feeling the pressure creeping in—that voice that says this time you’ll finally get it right. But what if this year, instead of trying to perfect yourself, you practiced being kinder to yourself? Why New Year’s Goals Often Backfire It’s the first week of…
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When Family Gatherings Feel Draining: Holiday Boundaries for Second-Generation Canadians
Holidays are coming up and there’s pressure… the gifts, the planning, the family gatherings, the travel. All during our “time off”, when we’re supposed to rest. Except the holidays don’t always feel like a respite. For instance, in my family we try as much as we can to visit my in-laws and my own family.…
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The Latina Origins of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence | Culturally Informed Therapy
I grew up in a Latine household with merengue and salsa being loud on Saturday mornings because it was time to clean. By seven years old, I knew the basic steps to the Latin dances. Spanish is the first language I ever learned. I didn’t know a word of French or English when I started…
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Healing as the Eldest Daughter of Immigrant Families: Letting Go Without Losing Our Roots
As the eldest daughter in an immigrant family, I often found myself putting everyone else first. Making sure my younger siblings were okay. Setting the example. Holding it all together. It felt, at times, like I had the weight of the world on my shoulders. Lately, though, I’ve noticed something beautiful happening—especially on social media.…
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Boundaries, Love, and Survival: A Thanksgiving Guide for the Anxious Heart
Thanksgiving is approaching — the smells, the laughter, the reunions.For some, that means warmth and connection.For others, it means walking into a room filled with love and pressure. The family member who comments on your life choices and/or body… while being shadyThe silent expectation to help in the kitchen — even when you’re exhausted.The unspoken rule to…
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Reclaiming Pride: Latinx Heritage Month and the Power of Our Roots
In January, Bad Bunny’s album emphasized Puerto Rican culture and socio-political issues, followed by a historic residency and concert. Karol G’s release celebrated her roots. Emphasizing cultural connection as spiritual self-care, the content reflects on heritage as a source of healing and resilience, merging joy and acknowledgment of struggles.
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Reclaiming Yourself: Why Self-Care Is Essential After a Busy Summer
While we keep running and juggling a multitude of things in our day, it can be easy to forget ourselves. Think about summer. Many imagine time off, sunshine, and relaxation. But if you’re a parent or caregiver, summer often means something different: rushing between drop-offs and pick-ups, juggling work and camp schedules, planning trips, and…