Tag: Naty Matos

Navigating the Silent Battles: Mental Health and Breast Cancer

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

In the heart of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we delve into the often-overlooked mental health challenges faced by those battling breast cancer and their caregivers. This journey is not just about survival but also about managing the silent battles of anxiety, depression, and fear that accompany the physical fight. Join us as we uncover these stories and insights in our latest episode.

The Unseen Struggles: Breast cancer is a formidable opponent, affecting one in eight women in the U.S.

While treatment advances have improved survival rates, the mental health toll remains significant. Patients often grapple with “chemo brain,” body image issues, and the constant fear of recurrence. Caregivers, too, bear a heavy burden, juggling medical appointments, emotional support, and their own mental health. Discover personal stories and expert advice in our episode.

Journaling, support groups, and therapy are vital tools for managing mental health. Movement, even gentle exercises, can offer healing. For caregivers, self-care is crucial. As one caregiver shared, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” Taking time for oneself is not selfish but necessary to provide quality care. Learn more about these coping strategies in our discussion.

Faith can be a powerful anchor, offering hope and strength. Community support, whether through churches or peer groups, provides a network of care and understanding. As one participant noted, “Faith doesn’t erase the pain, but it gives us an anchor.” Hear more about the role of faith in our episode.

Breast cancer is a journey of both physical and emotional healing. By acknowledging and addressing the mental health challenges, we can better support those affected. Remember, healing is not just physical; it’s emotional and spiritual. Let’s continue to raise awareness and support each other in this journey.

Don’t miss our latest episode of Thrive by the Rising Muse, where we dive deep into these topics with heartfelt stories and expert insights. Subscribe now and join the conversation. Together, we can navigate these challenges and thrive.

Legalizing the Gospel

On By Naty MatosIn ArticlesLeave a comment

This may not be a popular topic, but here we go.

In the last decade or so, I have seen a movement of Christians trying to put laws in place according to what the Bible says we should or should not do. I am a follower of Jesus, but this movement, in my opinion, has brought out several issues.

1. Politicians who pretend to be Christian just to obtain votes.
The Bible says, “You will recognize them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:16). However, in my observation, the masses are bending over backwards to justify some people’s behaviors, decisions, and actions just because their mouths have said they are Christians—even though their fruits are not showing.

2. Looking the other way.
I’ve also observed Christians compromising their own values just to have someone in office who will get things done the way they want, something like “the end justifies the means.”

Here’s my issue with Christianity by law: Are people realizing that forcing someone into a particular behavior does not mean they are accepting or living for Christ?

For example, you could mandate by law that all citizens attend church every Sunday. People might show up at their nearest church, but that doesn’t mean the message is going into their hearts.

God gave us free will. “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Corinthians 3:17). Jesus never forced anyone to accept Him. Why are we? Jesus came to show us His unconditional love—a love that leads us to repentance and to fall in love with Him enough to follow Him to the ends of the earth.

When you force someone into submission, they don’t love what they’re doing—they resent it. They may outwardly show the “good” behavior you want to see, but their heart has not turned toward God.

Legislating Faith vs. Living Faith

Legislating faith is spiritual laziness. We are called to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19), to witness what God has done in our lives, and to show His love through our actions. Instead, some want the government to force people to behave according to our beliefs so we can feel like we’ve accomplished something—when in reality, we have not.

We don’t want to do the hard work of loving everyone, forgiving everyone, and showing mercy to everyone. Instead, we often live with selective love for those who think, believe, and behave like we do. We exercise selective outrage toward those we judge, while ignoring the person in the mirror.

Should society be a free-for-all? No. But when we impose laws to force our faith on the masses, we are not pleasing God. We are not making disciples—we are making people who resent the gospel. And it’s not because of their hardened hearts, but because of our hypocrisy.

We appear hypocritical when we only address the sins of others but excuse the sins of those “within the faith.” “Why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?” (Matthew 7:3).

When someone outside the church falls, we often respond with outrage. But when someone in our faith circle falls, we excuse it as a “moment of weakness.” That’s not mirroring Jesus—it’s hypocrisy.

The Call to Love

When someone doesn’t think like us, we dismiss them as evil, forgetting that God placed them in our path so we could witness to them and love them.

And yes, even love our enemies. “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).

So when I see people who claim to follow Christ spewing hate, it hurts my heart. Because we should know better. Did we forget where we were before Jesus rescued us? Did we forget that He forgave our sins—and continues to forgive them?

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8-9).

If that’s true for us, then it is also true for those around us.

The Harvest Is Plentiful

The Word says, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few” (Luke 10:2). It is time to reflect on how our thoughts and behaviors are either drawing people to Jesus or pushing them away.

You may say you’ve tried and seen no results. But sometimes you’re only meant to plant the seed. Someone else waters, and another sees the fruit (1 Corinthians 3:6–7). But don’t miss your role as a planter.

I know it’s hard not to give up, but I can testify: I was a wreck, and God chased me relentlessly to show me His love. Even now, when I fall flat on my face, He picks me up, cleans me off, and sets me back on solid ground. He knows my flaws, yet He still uses me to reach people. He has assigned each of us to love and serve specific souls.

The Bottom Line

It is our job to show God’s love, grace, and mercy. It is not the government’s job to legislate Christianity, so we can feel good about forcing people into behaviors that don’t lead to salvation.

We don’t win souls by writing laws. We win them by living out the gospel.

#FaithOverPolitics #ChristianLiving #discipline

“When God Seems Silent: Navigating Spiritual Desolation”

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

In the quiet moments of our spiritual journey, we often encounter a profound silence that can feel both unsettling and enlightening. This silence, sometimes perceived as abandonment by God, invites us to explore the depths of our faith and the resilience of our spirit. On the most recent episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we discuss why this happens and how to overcome it.

Spiritual silence is a phase where the usual signs of divine presence seem absent. It’s a time when prayers feel unanswered, and the comforting sense of God’s presence is elusive. This silence can be a test of faith, urging us to seek deeper understanding and connection.

Feeling abandoned by God is a common experience during spiritual silence. It’s a period marked by doubt and questioning, where the absence of divine reassurance challenges our beliefs. Yet, this feeling can also be a catalyst for growth, pushing us to redefine our relationship with the divine.

Instead of resisting the silence, embracing it can lead to profound insights. This period of quiet can be an opportunity to listen more intently to our inner voice and to find strength in solitude. It encourages us to trust in the unseen and to find peace in the unknown.

Experiencing spiritual silence and feeling abandoned by God are integral parts of the spiritual journey. They teach us resilience, patience, and the importance of faith in the unseen. By embracing these moments, we open ourselves to deeper spiritual growth and understanding.

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Holistic Healing and Faith: A Journey Toward Wholeness

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

In today’s fast-paced world, our minds, bodies, and spirits are often treated as separate parts of who we are. But what if true healing comes from seeing ourselves as whole beings? This is where holistic healing and faith integration meet—creating a path that brings balance, peace, and restoration.

On this week’s episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, hosts Naty and Veda sit down with Melissa Armstrong, a former nurse turned holistic health coach, to explore how faith and wellness complement each other. Melissa opens up about her personal journey from traditional nursing into holistic health, sharing the ways trauma, emotional wounds, and nutrition all impact our well-being.

Together, they dive deep into the role of faith as a bridge that connects the inner world with the divine—allowing healing to flow naturally. Through practices like meditation, mindful living, and spiritual grounding, Melissa reminds us that healing isn’t just about fixing symptoms, but about restoring joy, balance, and connection.

✨ Key Takeaways from this Episode:

  • Trauma affects both the mind and the body—and healing requires tending to both.
  • Faith provides purpose, strength, and hope throughout the wellness journey.
  • Holistic practices like meditation, nutrition, and mindful living create harmony when integrated with spiritual beliefs.
  • Healing is a journey, not a destination, and every person is worthy of wholeness.

If you’ve ever wondered how faith and wellness can work together, this conversation will inspire and encourage you. Whether you’re seeking healing from trauma, looking for balance in your daily life, or simply curious about holistic health, this episode will leave you with powerful insights and practical steps forward.

To connect with Melissa, www.holistichealthbymelissa.com

🎧 Listen now and discover how faith and holistic healing can transform the way you see wellness and wholeness.

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to Thrive by The Rising Muse for more stories and conversations that inspire growth, healing, and resilience.

Breaking Homeschool Myths with Tam – The Truth They Don’t Tell You (Part 2)

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

When you think about homeschooling, what comes to mind? Socially awkward kids? Limited opportunities? Confusing college admissions?

In this lively, eye-opening Part 2 of our homeschooling conversation on Thrive by The Rising Muse, we’re back with Tam — a homeschooling veteran with over a decade of experience — to pull back the curtain on what it’s really like to educate your kids at home.

Picking up where we left off in Part 1, Tam dives even deeper into busting myths, sharing laugh-out-loud stories, and revealing surprising truths that will change how you see homeschooling forever.

We talk about:

  • Why “socialization” isn’t the issue you think it is.
  • How homeschoolers get into college (yes, there’s a system, and it works).
  • The flexibility that makes real-world preparation possible.
  • Creative, affordable curriculum options most parents don’t know about.
  • The courage it takes to do things differently — and why it’s worth it.

Whether you’re a seasoned homeschool parent, just curious, or someone who’s been told “your child needs to be bullied to build character” (spoiler: we have thoughts on that), this episode will make you laugh, think, and maybe even reimagine what school can look like.

🎧 Listen to Part 2 now — and if you missed it, go back to catch Part 1 for the full conversation. You’ll walk away informed, inspired, and maybe even ready to start your own homeschooling journey.

How Heartbreak Can Help You Shine Bright!

On By Naty MatosIn Thrive2 Comments

In a world where pain often feels insurmountable, the story of Shawna Foster offers a beacon of hope. Her journey from heartbreak to healing is a testament to the power of resilience and faith. As she shares, “What if the very fire that meant to destroy you became the light that guides you home?”

Shawna’s story is one of raw pain transformed into radical healing. She opens up about the heartbreaking experience of losing two children to parental alienation, a grief that reshapes the soul. Yet, through vulnerability, she finds strength. “Our stories are different,” she says, “and that’s fine. God knows the truth, and I’m just going to rest in that.”

Despite the challenges, Shawna emphasizes the importance of finding joy. A trip with her family became a turning point, allowing her to embrace the present and find happiness. “Just be happy with where you’re at and who’s here,” her son reminds her, highlighting the importance of gratitude.

Throughout her journey, Shawna’s faith remains a cornerstone. She speaks of the importance of prayer and trusting in a higher power. “The pain and suffering isn’t what He wants for us,” she shares. “He wants us to find grace and joy and peace and rest in Him.”

Shawna Foster is an inspiring author, speaker, and advocate for healing and transformation. Her powerful journey from trauma to hope is captured in her book, Faith in the Flames, where she shares her experiences of overcoming personal challenges, including the loss of her children to parental alienation. Shawna’s story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the transformative power of vulnerability. Through her work, she encourages others to embrace their own healing journeys and find joy amid adversity. She also writes for Christianity.com. She also hosts a podcast titled Faith in the Flames Podcast.

Shawna’s story is a powerful reminder that healing is possible, even in the darkest times. By embracing vulnerability, finding joy, and leaning on faith, we can transform trauma into a journey of healing and hope. As Shawna beautifully puts it, “Healing isn’t about erasing the pain; it’s about rising through it.”

Subscribe now to follow more inspiring stories and insights on healing and transformation, and click below to listen to the full episode.

Back-to-School Blues: Navigating the Mental Health Challenges for Kids and Parents

On By Naty MatosIn ArticlesLeave a comment

The end of summer often brings a mix of emotions—excitement, nervousness, anticipation, and stress. As backpacks are packed, lunchboxes lined up, and school calendars pinned on the fridge, both kids and parents can find themselves overwhelmed by the transition. While back-to-school season marks a new chapter of growth and learning, it can also trigger anxiety, burnout, and emotional strain for the entire family.

Let’s talk honestly about the mental health challenges that come with this season and explore realistic strategies to support your family’s well-being.

The Emotional Toll on Kids

Children, especially those starting a new school, grade level, or even changing schools altogether, can experience:

  • Separation anxiety (especially in younger kids)
  • Academic pressure or performance anxiety
  • Social stress: fears of bullying, fitting in, or navigating friendships
  • Sensory overload from long days, crowded classrooms, and routine changes

These emotional strains can show up as:

  • Trouble sleeping or waking up
  • Stomachaches or headaches with no clear cause
  • Emotional outbursts or mood swings
  • Withdrawal or silence about school experiences

The Silent Stress of Parents

While trying to be the steady hand for their children, parents often carry:

  • Financial pressure from school supplies, clothing, or extracurriculars
  • Work-life balance strain—especially for working parents juggling drop-offs, pick-ups, and homework
  • Emotional burnout from worrying about their child’s well-being, performance, and happiness

Parents may not notice their own stress until it shows up as:

  • Irritability or emotional exhaustion
  • Sleeplessness or feeling “on edge”
  • Feelings of guilt or inadequacy

How to Ease the Mental Load: Strategies That Help

Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or educator, here are some grounded strategies to help ease the back-to-school transition:

1. Normalize the Emotions

Let your child know that it’s okay to feel nervous, overwhelmed, or even sad about the return to school. Validate their feelings before jumping into solutions. Model the same honesty for yourself: “I’m feeling a little stressed too, and that’s okay.”

2. Create Consistent Routines

Structure helps reduce anxiety. Start transitioning to school-year routines a week or two early—especially sleep and meal times. A predictable rhythm brings security and calm for both kids and parents.

3. Schedule Mental Health Check-Ins

Make it a habit to check in emotionally with your child, even just 5–10 minutes after school, to ask open-ended questions:

  • “What was the best part of your day?”
  • “Was there anything today that felt tough?”

Do the same for yourself. Journal, pray, or talk with a trusted friend about your own emotional state.

4. Practice Calming Techniques Together

Incorporate deep breathing, morning affirmations, or quiet time into your routine. These small practices build resilience and teach emotional regulation.

5. Set Realistic Expectations

Back-to-school doesn’t have to be perfect. Focus on progress, not perfection. Celebrate small wins—like getting out the door on time, finishing a hard assignment, or trying something new.

6. Build in Joy

Plan small family traditions to look forward to—Friday night movie night, Saturday pancake breakfast, or mid-week dance breaks. These joyful moments help balance out the mental load.

7. Know When to Get Support

If stress, anxiety, or sadness lingers beyond the adjustment period, it’s okay to seek professional support. Therapy or counseling can offer tools for both children and parents to manage emotional wellness.

Remember: Transitions Take Time

The beginning of the school year is not just a logistical change—it’s an emotional one. Be gentle with your kids. Be gentle with yourself. Your mental well-being is just as important as getting to school on time.

Let’s prioritize emotional safety this school year as much as academic success. When our hearts are healthy, our minds learn best.

Let’s Thrive Together.

If this season has you feeling anxious or overwhelmed, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to carry it alone. Thrive by The Rising Muse is here to walk with you through real life, real emotions, and real growth.

Thinking About Homeschooling? Here’s the Episode You Didn’t Know You Needed

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

You’ve seen the headlines. Maybe you’ve even scrolled past a few homeschool moms on TikTok with their color-coded charts and cozy learning nooks. But still, one big question lingers in your mind:

“Could I actually homeschool my child?”

This week on Thrive by The Rising Muse, we sat down with someone who can answer that in a way that’s real, practical, and surprisingly empowering. Tam—a decade-deep homeschooling veteran, former college admissions advisor, and viral TikTok mentor—joins us to drop gems, shatter myths, and keep it 100 about what homeschooling really looks like in 2025.

Let’s just say this episode isn’t about perfection—it’s about permission. Permission to reimagine your child’s education. Permission to ask questions, challenge stereotypes, and explore an option that just might work better than you think.

Whether you’re burnt out by the school system, anxious about safety, or just wondering how homeschoolers even do math without losing their minds, this episode is a must-hear.

We’re talking:

  • What it really takes to homeschool
  • How to know if it’s right for your family
  • The surprising truth about socialization, college, and curriculum

But here’s the deal: we’re not giving it all away here.

You’ve got to press play.

🎧 Listen now on YouTube, your favorite podcast platform, or catch us on the radio!
📻 WDJY 99.1 FM (ATL) – Thursdays at 9 AM
📻 92.9 FM / 89.3 HD3 – Denver
📺 Spiritual Channel 36 – Fairfax Public Access / Cox

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Instagram | TikTok | Fanbase | Blue Sky: @therisingmuse

Escaping the Grip: Understanding Spiritual Stockholm Syndrome

On By Naty MatosIn Thrive1 Comment

In part 2 of our conversation with Tom Snow, on this week’s episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we talk about those things that keep us in bondage that we even foster.

Imagine being held captive by beliefs that you defend with fervor, even as they limit your spiritual growth. This is the essence of spiritual Stockholm syndrome, a concept explored in our latest episode with Tom Snow. Join us as we delve into the complexities of religious captivity and the path to liberation.

Tom Snow introduces the idea of spiritual Stockholm syndrome, where individuals develop a psychological alliance with the belief systems that confine them. He explains how these systems, often rooted in fear and control, can lead believers to defend their own spiritual captivity, mistaking it for faithfulness.

Religious captivity can manifest in various forms, from rigid doctrines to manipulative leadership. Tom discusses the emotional and spiritual toll this takes on individuals, highlighting stories of those who have struggled to overcome this challenge. The episode sheds light on the subtle ways in which captivity is maintained and the courage required to challenge it.

Breaking free from spiritual captivity requires introspection and a willingness to question long-held beliefs. Tom emphasizes the importance of seeking truth and authenticity in one’s spiritual journey, offering practical advice for those seeking to escape the grip of false beliefs and find a more fulfilling path.

“Escaping the Grip” is a call to action for anyone feeling trapped by their beliefs. This episode encourages listeners to reflect on their spiritual journey and consider the possibility of a faith unburdened by captivity. Join us in this enlightening conversation and take the first step towards spiritual freedom.

“Set the Captives Free” is not just a book title but a call to action for those seeking spiritual liberation. This episode invites listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and consider the possibility of a faith unburdened by false constructs. Join us in this transformative conversation and take the first step towards spiritual freedom.

Subscribe now to stay updated on future episodes and continue your journey towards a more authentic faith.

Why You’re UNKNOWINGLY Defending the Rules that Keep You Trapped?

Unmasking the Chains: False Belief Systems in Religion

On By Naty MatosIn Thrive1 Comment

In a world where faith is often seen as a sanctuary, the reality of spiritual captivity within religious contexts can be a startling revelation. Tom Snow, author of “Set the Captives Free,” joins us to explore the origins and impacts of false belief systems that have infiltrated religious practices. This episode sheds light on the hidden chains that bind believers and offers a path to true spiritual freedom.

Tom Snow delves into the historical roots of false belief systems, tracing their emergence from well-intentioned interpretations to rigid constructs that often stray from original spiritual teachings. He highlights how these systems have been shaped by human desires for power and control, leading to a distortion of true faith.

False belief systems can create a spiritual Stockholm syndrome, where individuals unknowingly defend their own bondage. Tom discusses how these systems manipulate believers into accepting constraints that limit their spiritual growth and understanding. The conversation reveals the subtle ways in which these beliefs are perpetuated and the challenges faced by those seeking to break free.

The episode offers hope and guidance for those feeling trapped by false beliefs. Tom emphasizes the importance of personal exploration and a return to the core tenets of faith, encouraging listeners to question and seek truth beyond the confines of established doctrines. By embracing a more authentic spiritual journey, believers can find liberation and a deeper connection with their faith.

“Set the Captives Free” is not just a book title but a call to action for those seeking spiritual liberation. This episode invites listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and consider the possibility of a faith unburdened by false constructs. Join us in this transformative conversation and take the first step towards spiritual freedom.

Subscribe now to stay updated on future episodes and continue your journey towards a more authentic faith. Is the Church Keeping You Trapped Without You Knowing?