Finding Joy in the Messy Middle

Hi love!

Natalie here — your friendly, woowoo therapist and yoga teacher.

This month, I’ve been thinking about joy and asking myself:

How do I find joy?

What does a joy-filled life actually look like?

How do I find joy in the midst of grief?

And to be honest, these aren’t easy questions to answer. Especially when it feels like the world is on fire or when my own heart is aching or when it feels so much easier to just watch Netflix and numb out.

But here’s what I’ve landed on (for now — because our answers can shift with time) —

Joy invites me to notice the small beauties, to pay attention to the miracle of being alive in a body, and to connect with others in fun and meaningful ways.

And joy is definitely found in flower crowns. I’m pretty sure that’s a scientific fact 😉

Joy & Mental Health

I recently came across a study that found reductions in depression for folks who engaged in dance as part of their mental health journey. While I always approach research with curiosity and a bit of skepticism (bias exists everywhere), I love the reminder that joyful movement can be healing.

Of course, what works for one person might not work for another — your invitation is to discover what makes you feel most alive. And you don’t have to figure that out alone.

If you're navigating anxiety, depression, heartbreak, or simply feeling stuck — I have openings for individual therapy. I accept Premera insurance and offer private pay as well.

Let’s explore what healing and joy can look like for you.

Joy & Movement

Inspired by that study? Here’s your invitation: have a dance party.

Whether it’s just you in your living room or a spontaneous gathering with a friend, pick a song that lights you up, and let yourself move — freely, awkwardly, playfully. No performance. No perfection. Just movement.

Give it a try, and afterward, pause.
How do you feel?

What shifted?

What awakened?

And if you’re looking to practice some yoga in community this Summer, where we combine gentle movement and creative expression, check out my Yoga & Creativity class at Limber Yoga:

🎨 Yoga & Creativity
📍 Limber Yoga – West Seattle
🗓️ Sunday, July 13 and August 17 at 5 pm

A playful, heart-centered class to reconnect with your creativity through:

• 30 mins gentle yoga

• 30 mins creative time (bring your sketchbook, journal, knitting, etc.)

• 15 mins small group reflection

Sign up here with your class pack or membership.

The Magic of Simple Joys

Earlier this week, I was walking along the shores of Puget Sound with a friend who has her own special kind of magic — the magic of noticing. She pointed out the geese flying in the clear blue sky, a sea cucumber beneath a rock, a snail with its perfectly spiral-shaped shell. It felt like a sacred kind of attention.

I don’t think we always need candles or crystals or tarot cards to experience magic.

We just need presence. The kind of presence that allows us to pause and notice the world around us and the world inside of us.  

Try this:

Go outside. Take a walk or just sit. Look around.

What beauty do you notice?

Can you let yourself be surprised? Delighted? Joyful?

Wishing you gentle moments of aliveness this month. May you find joy — even just a flicker — in the midst of whatever you’re holding.

With love and care,

Natalie

🧘‍♀️💗🌿
Therapist. Yoga Teacher. Joy Seeker.

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