08/29/2026
Strength can be more than physical. It can be a way to reconnect with yourself, build awareness, and create space.
This morning, RCBC hosted a Trauma-Informed Weightlifting (TIWL) fundraiser led by Dr. Meagan Chisholm — licensed professional counselor, CF-L2, and TIWL-certified coach.
Over 90 minutes, we approached weightlifting a little differently.
We began with a body scan - checking in with each part of the body, our breath, and how we were feeling in that moment. From there, we used ground-up activation to warm up before moving into back squats and a pushing/pulling circuit featuring shoulder presses, burpees, and bent-over rows.
Throughout the session, everything was individualized. We modified weight, pace, range of motion, and movements as needed. The goal wasn’t to push through for the sake of pushing through. It was to listen, adjust, and find what worked for each person - therapeutic dosing.
Some of the phrases that stayed with us:
“You’re an expert on your own body.”
“Pushing away negativity.”
“Drawing support closer.”
“Pulling yourself back together.”
“Imagine creating space between you and the floor.”
We finished with easy, reflective conversation and box breathing to close out the session.
What I loved most was watching everyone move with curiosity - learning to listen to their bodies, make adjustments, and recognize that there is more than one way to be strong.
Thank you to Dr. Meagan for sharing her knowledge and creating such a thoughtful experience, and to everyone who showed up, participated, supported the fundraiser, and made space for this conversation.
Strength looks different for everyone. Sometimes it looks like lifting something heavy. Sometimes it looks like knowing when to lighten the load. ❤️💪
