Anxiety, Wonder, and Shared Joy: Expanding the Range of What's Possible
In my work as a therapist, I spend a lot of time with women experiencing anxiety and overwhelming uncertainty, trying to find a way to just be in the midst of the spinning of their world. It’s difficult not to be pulled toward all there is to worry about, and to remember that we can also lean toward what brings us delight.
An encounter with something beautiful or an unexpected moment of tenderness can remind us of what's possible and can bring us into connection with something deeper than ourselves. These moments don’t get rid of anxiety or uncertainty, but they can expand the range of what we’re able to see and feel into, giving us a different experience of ourselves in the world.
If we want to live more fully alive, one practice is to pay attention to these encounters—to be truly in them as they happen, commit them to heart, share them with others, and make room for more.
In my latest field note, Night Skies and Moon Joy: On Ancient Friends and Shared Wonder, I share my own experience of the night sky, a memorable encounter with the moon, and the collective wonder surrounding the Artemis II mission. My hope is that my story will spark one of your own.
May you find what brings you delight.
If you’re curious about counseling, I’d be honored to connect with you. I work with women who feel overwhelmed and off-balance, offering a compassionate, steady presence and joining as a collaborator to help you stay with what’s emerging in the moment and get curious about the deeper layers of your experience. Together, we experiment with small, meaningful changes that lead to different ways of being and moving through the world. My specialties include anxiety therapy, midlife growth and empowerment, and young adults and college/graduate students. You can contact me here.
Note: This blog is for educational and reflective purposes and does not constitute psychotherapy.