Tag: healing through faith

The Silent Struggle of Caregiving

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

Have you ever felt like you’re giving everything you have—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—only to end the day completely drained? If you’ve been a caregiver for a parent, spouse, or loved one, you know the weight of that responsibility. It’s a journey of love, sacrifice, and deep exhaustion, but one that isn’t talked about nearly enough.

In our latest episode of Thrive By the Rising Muse, we’re breaking the silence on the realities of caregiving. Naty and Veda open up about their own experiences—navigating the emotional and mental toll, the unspoken guilt, and the faith struggles that arise when exhaustion meets devotion.

This episode is for:
✔️ Those currently in a caregiving role.
✔️ Anyone who has ever felt torn between their responsibilities and their well-being.
✔️ Those wondering, “Where is God in this?” when caregiving feels overwhelming.

We’ll talk about:
✨ The emotional burden of caregiving and how to protect your mental health.
✨ The guilt caregivers often feel—and why it’s time to release it.
✨ How to keep your faith strong when exhaustion makes praying hard.
✨ Practical ways to set boundaries, ask for help, and find moments of rest.

💡 If you’ve ever felt unseen in your role as a caregiver, this episode is for you. You are not alone, and you are doing more than enough.

🎧 Listen now

Join the Conversation!

Have you been a caregiver? How did you navigate the emotional toll? Comment below or DM us—we’d love to hear your story.

The Truth About Spiritual Warfare & Walking in God’s Authority!

On By Naty MatosIn Thrive1 Comment

Have you ever faced a battle so overwhelming that it felt impossible to overcome? What if that battle was actually a path to discovering God’s power in your life?

In our latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we sit down with Tom Snow, the author of The Daily Stand, a book that goes beyond the concept of spiritual warfare to reveal how walking with God transforms every aspect of our lives. Tom shares his powerful testimony of miraculous healing, overcoming deep-seated guilt, and finding true freedom through faith.

💡 What You’ll Discover in This Episode:
✔️ The life-changing moment when Tom heard God’s voice during his darkest hour
✔️ How spiritual warfare isn’t just about fighting battles—but about standing firm in God’s authority
✔️ The hidden dangers of unforgiveness and why it acts like a “spiritual cancer”
✔️ Practical steps to walk in faith, yield to God’s power, and break free from generational struggles

This conversation is raw, eye-opening, and deeply inspiring—a must-listen for anyone seeking to grow in faith and understand the true power of spiritual warfare.

Tom has over 50 years of experience walking with God, and through miraculous personal stories, they’ve uncovered profound lessons that every believer needs to hear. He’s the author of The Daily Stand, a book that’s not just about spiritual warfare but about learning to walk with God through life’s toughest moments.

Over fifty years ago, as a teenager, Tom was dying of terminal cancer. he had just lost my mother to cancer and was going through terrible guilt, blaming himself for her death. At that terrifying time in his life, he met the Lord. It was early in the Charismatic Movement and a time of many miracles, including how he met Him and how He healed him of that cancer. He started this book over forty years ago but didn’t pick it back up until going through CHF one and a half years ago. One month after CHF the Lord said “Pick up and finish the book.”

You can connect with Tom on his website.

🎧 Don’t miss it! Listen now here.

📢 Have thoughts on this episode? Let’s continue the conversation in the comments!

Unlocking the Power of Faith and Healing

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

Have you ever wondered how faith can transform your mental health and relationships?

In this week’s episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we sit down with the remarkable Dana Nygaard, a Licensed Professional Counselor, relationship coach, and national speaker. Dana shares her inspiring journey from high school teacher to renowned Catholic therapist, revealing how she integrates faith into psychotherapy to help individuals and couples experience profound healing and growth.

From her work with Cana Marriage Retreats to her guidance for singles seeking healthy relationships, Dana offers a fresh perspective on strengthening emotional intimacy and spiritual connection. Whether you’re curious about her unique approach to counseling, tips for a thriving marriage, or insights into overcoming past traumas, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice.

But that’s not all! Dana also opens up about her personal challenges, from battling breast cancer to navigating the dynamics of marriage, offering a candid and faith-filled perspective on resilience and hope.

Dana Nygaard. Dana is a Licensed Professional Counselor, author, relationship coach, and national speaker. She combines proven psychotherapy techniques with authentic Catholic spirituality, empowering her clients to experience rapid healing and lasting change. Dana’s expertise includes marriage enrichment, teen counseling, and trauma recovery, and she’s known for her compassionate and faith-filled approach. She’s also the author of 365 Dates to Renew Your Christian Marriage and the creator of Cana Marriage Retreats.

You can connect with Dana on her website. Link here!

This episode is more than just a conversation—it’s a transformative experience you won’t want to miss.

Tune in now to discover how faith, love, and intentional healing can unlock your best self.

Listen to the full episode on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share!

From Pain to Purpose: Healing Childhood Trauma Through Faith

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

Childhood trauma—a term that carries weight, emotion, and stories that are often left untold. In our latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we delve into this deeply personal and transformative topic, exploring how the past can impact mental, emotional, and even physical health well into adulthood.

Joining us is Julie Rebboah, a Christian communicator and Room to Bloom podcast host. With her unique blend of personal experience, academic knowledge, and a faith-driven approach, Julie offers profound insights into how we can navigate the lasting effects of adverse childhood experiences. From toxic stress to generational cycles, this episode provides a roadmap to resilience and healing.

Discover how faith, practical steps, and community support can lead to renewal and purpose. Julie’s story of overcoming a childhood filled with chaos and her commitment to helping others is a testament to the transformative power of healing.

But this conversation is more than an exploration of pain—it’s about hope. It’s about taking that first step, partnering with God, and unlocking the abundant life He has for you. Whether you’re dealing with trauma, supporting a loved one, or simply seeking encouragement, this episode offers a wellspring of wisdom and comfort.

Julie is the survivor of childhood trauma that occured from a parent’s undiagnosed mental illness. Because Julie has lived experience, education in Mental Health and Wellness, and a strong Christian faith, she is uniquely positioned to help you overcome inner pain and reach your God-given potential. Her mission is to equip, inspire, and transform lives through faith-based mental health and wellness strategies. She does this through speaking engagements, her Room to Bloom podcast, and coaching programs.

Julie’s Linktree to social media and more. 

Julie’s gift for you: 3 Powerful Ways Faith Can Increase Your Well-being After Childhood Trauma

👉 Tune in now and hear Julie’s incredible journey, learn practical strategies for healing, and find the encouragement you need to thrive.

🌟 Don’t miss this transformative episode—stream it on your favorite platform or visit our website. Your journey to healing starts here.

Transform Your Thoughts: Practical Steps to Healing

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, our thoughts often dictate our emotions, behaviors, and overall well-being. Negative thinking patterns, self-doubt, and internal struggles can weigh us down. However, Scripture reminds us that we have the power to renew our minds and experience healing, not only emotionally but also spiritually. If you’re seeking to transform your thoughts and walk a path of healing, here are some practical steps to get you started, backed by the timeless truths of the Bible.

1. Recognize and Acknowledge Your Thoughts

The first step to transforming your thoughts is to recognize them. What are the thoughts that dominate your mind? Are they uplifting, or are they pulling you into a cycle of negativity and despair? It’s important to be aware of your internal dialogue so that you can change what needs changing.

In Scripture, Paul advises us to take control of our thoughts:
“We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
— 2 Corinthians 10:5 (NIV)

By actively recognizing negative thoughts and holding them up to the truth of God’s Word, you can begin the process of transformation. Awareness is the foundation of change.

2. Renew Your Mind with the Word of God

The Bible provides powerful tools for renewing your mind. The Word of God acts as a mirror, reflecting the truth of who we are and the thoughts we should entertain. Immersing yourself in Scripture allows God’s truth to reshape your mental and spiritual patterns.

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
— Romans 12:2 (NIV)

The renewal process involves replacing negative, harmful thoughts with positive, Christ-centered truths. This doesn’t happen overnight, but with consistent study and meditation on God’s promises, your thought life will begin to reflect His peace and wisdom.

Practical Tip:

  • Daily Bible Reading: Set aside time each day to read Scriptures related to peace, healing, and hope. Journaling these verses and reflecting on how they apply to your life can be incredibly powerful.

3. Speak Life Over Yourself

Our thoughts are often influenced by the words we speak. Negative self-talk can become a cycle of internal damage, while speaking words of life can transform how we view ourselves and our circumstances. Scripture emphasizes the power of the tongue in shaping our reality:

“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”
— Proverbs 18:21 (NIV)

It’s not enough to simply think positively; speaking God’s truth over your life reinforces that mindset. Declare God’s promises over yourself daily.

Affirmation Exercise:

  • Affirmations Based on Scripture: Write down affirmations that are rooted in God’s Word. For example, if you’re struggling with fear, remind yourself, “God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7).

4. Guard Your Mind Against Negative Influences

The Bible teaches us to guard our hearts and minds because what we allow into them will shape our thoughts and actions. In a world where negativity is constantly broadcast, it’s essential to be selective about what we consume—whether it be media, conversations, or relationships.

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
— Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)

This means limiting exposure to toxic environments that fuel negative thoughts and embracing godly influences that encourage a spirit of love, joy, and peace. Consider the content you watch, listen to, and engage with.

Practical Tip:

  • Curate Your Content: Be intentional about what you read, listen to, and watch. Choose uplifting music, sermons, or podcasts that align with the transformation you are seeking in your thought life.

5. Practice Gratitude and Focus on the Good

Gratitude is a powerful antidote to negative thinking. When we intentionally focus on the blessings in our lives, our thoughts begin to shift from negativity to positivity. The Bible encourages us to dwell on what is good and praiseworthy:

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
— Philippians 4:8 (NIV)

Gratitude rewires your brain to see the good, even in challenging situations. By practicing this regularly, you can train your mind to default to positivity rather than dwelling on negativity.

Gratitude Practice:

  • Daily Gratitude List: At the end of each day, write down three things you are grateful for. This could be anything from a kind word spoken by a friend to the beauty of nature you observed. Focusing on blessings shifts your mindset from scarcity to abundance.

6. Surrender Your Worries to God

Many of our negative thoughts are rooted in anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about the future. The Bible invites us to cast our burdens on God and to trust Him with all our worries and concerns:

“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”
— 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)

Learning to surrender control and trust God with the outcome can free your mind from the weight of constant worry. When anxiety starts to creep in, remind yourself that God is in control, and He is working everything for your good.

Practical Tip:

  • Prayer of Surrender: Begin your day with a prayer of surrender, laying your worries and fears before God. Trust Him to guide you and bring healing to every area of your life.

7. Seek Community and Support

Transformation and healing are not meant to be walked alone. The Bible highlights the importance of community in fostering growth and healing:

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)

Find a community of believers who will encourage you, pray with you, and keep you accountable. Healing and transformation often happen in the context of supportive, loving relationships where others can help guide you back to truth when your thoughts wander.

Action Step:

  • Join a Small Group or Bible Study: Being part of a Bible study or a small group provides the opportunity to share struggles, receive encouragement, and grow spiritually alongside others.

Conclusion

Transforming your thoughts is a journey, not an overnight fix. Through consistent effort, prayer, and reliance on God’s Word, you can experience profound healing and renewal in your mind and spirit. As you take these steps, remember that God is with you, guiding you every step of the way. His desire is for you to walk in freedom and peace, and by aligning your thoughts with His truth, you can live a life transformed.

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”
— Isaiah 26:3 (NIV)

May your mind be renewed, your heart healed, and your life transformed as you walk in His truth and grace.

Domestic Violence, Faith & Healing (Part 1)

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

Are you ready to confront one of our most difficult yet vital conversations? In the latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we sit down with renowned trauma therapist Tabitha Westbrook for an unflinching look into domestic violence and its devastating impact on families, mental health, and faith.

The Darkness of Coercive Control

Too often, domestic violence is misunderstood or oversimplified. In this eye-opening episode, Tabitha walks us through the different, often invisible, forms of abuse like coercive control—where the victim’s freedom, identity, and autonomy are systematically stripped away. It’s not always about physical harm. As Tabitha explains, it’s the slow, methodical erosion of a person’s sense of self that can be just as, if not more, damaging.

Faith and the Journey to Healing

What role does faith play in both surviving and healing from domestic violence? As a survivor herself, Tabitha shares her deeply personal story of how God walked with her through the pain and ultimately called her to help others do the same. In this episode, she offers practical advice on how faith communities can provide real, life-changing support to those in abusive situations.

The Moment of Freedom

One of the most powerful moments in the conversation comes when Tabitha describes the importance of regaining autonomy. She recounts stories of survivors—some of whom felt a rush of liberation in the simplest moments, like sitting in a car, knowing they finally had control over their own lives. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest times, freedom is possible.

Why You Can’t Miss Part 2

This episode is just the beginning. We’ve only scratched the surface of this complex and important topic. In part two, we’ll dive even deeper into the spiritual and emotional aspects of domestic violence recovery, as well as provide actionable resources for those who may be suffering in silence.

Tabitha Westbrook, LMFT-S, LCMHC-QS, LPC-S, is a licensed therapist who helps people who have messy, funky pasts (and sometimes messy, funky presents) live amazing, empowered lives today. In addition to being a licensed counselor and supervisor, Tabitha is an EMDR Certified Therapist and Approved Consultant, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and Certified Christian Trauma Care Provider. 

She’s the Founder & CEO of The Journey and The Process, a private practice with offices in North Carolina and Texas, specializing in complex trauma, with a focus on domestic abuse and coercive control. Tabitha is a nationally known expert and speaker on domestic abuse & coercive control, providing training to churches, therapists, and agencies. She also helps train domestic abuse advocates through Called to Peace Ministries’ faith-based advocacy training, as well as co-facilitates the G5 Men’s Batterer Intervention Group. Tabitha is the author of the forthcoming book Body & Soul, Healed & Whole: An Invitational Guide to Healthy Sexuality After Trauma, Abuse, and Coercive Control.

Listen to part one of this transformative conversation on domestic violence, faith, and mental health now, and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss the continuation of this powerful series.

If you or someone you know is in danger, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org. Help is available, and you are not alone.