10/10/2025
Today as we observe World Mental Health Day, I’m taking time to pause and thank those people who took time to listen when I needed help.
Someone message me “I admire you on how you balance life and positivity.”
Thank you. And the truth is, there are times I am out of balance, there are times I am crying and there are times it is difficult for me to bear things. And that is all okay.
It doesn’t mean I am not grateful to all the blessings. I am grateful for small or big things, even in ordinary life I have right now.
I am writing this to remind myself and others - that all emotions is welcome and valid, yes even the big emotions. Part yun ng wholeness we have. Mahalaga is kilalanin ang bawat emotions, welcome them. Notice emotions and thoughts, process them if needed, and reframe thoughts if needed kung saan nagmumula ang feelings we are experiencing. Our thoughts affects our feelings / emotions and it affects our actions. However, there are circumstances that we can use our body actions, like in power anchor, to change our thoughts.
I remember, in one of my session with a Psychologist, there are 3 factors affecting our mental health. So I am sharing these, my personal experience and self-management.
1. Biological factor
In my case I have musculoskeletal condition affecting me not to run or have vigorous activity which I previously do 2-3x a week.
I had adjustments on sleep due to chronic pain, sleep disturbances after being a mom, and career transitions.
The body movements and sunlight are natural anti-depressants. Good quality sleep is big help also for our brain and body to recharge and recover.
2. Cognitive factor
In my embodied life, I’ve learned walang mali sa thoughts we have, however, being aware of our thoughts and its impact to us matters. Most especially if it has negative effect on us in our programming as manifested in our body and actions. Negative judgements of others (or even on ourselves) impacts our mindset - we have to notice it, process it and reframe it.
For me, I use personal inquiry or reflective inquiry. I do journaling or meditation everyday. When I notice the triggers or thoughts, I write it on journal. I pray, for times outside my control I surrender to God na.
Minsan, or most of the time may surprises sya. Yes sometimes I go on retreat or just go to chapel or church.
3. Socio-emotional support
This hit me hard during pandemic, after giving birth and after resignation from corporate as someone who is an extrovert.
I am thankful to my husband, my parents, siblings and sister-in-law, best friend and selected friends. Until I have met runners, mindful mompreneurs, business owners / freelancers. I am thankful also to my therapist (both mental and physical), mahalaga may nakakausap and giving professional help.
For some, sadly this is the most difficult part because they don’t have support system or can’t access the mental health support for their challenges or transitions. Not everyone is given a chance to access it.
This is the reason why I am now helping community of leaders, women and moms. I felt I am called to be part of healing and raising awareness in our world.
Note: I am not a therapist. Wearing a coach or facilitator hat is different. What I have shared is my personal experience. However, if you feel you need someone to talk to, I am here. I believe regardless of hat we wear, what is more important is our human relationship and listening from our heart. Send me message.
