Nicole Vykoukal, LCSW Our fast-paced world can take us away from the instinctual and inherent wisdom we hold within. Many of us are stressed, anxious, depressed, and overwhelmed. Set aside time to connect with nature and be free from phone or computer distractions. Being in nature and approaching time outside with a sense of curiosity may help you connect with a sense of wonder, discover your inner sacred knowing, find you primal wisdom, and increase your resilience. Tips for

Did you know that loss can trigger depression? It’s true. A significant loss, such as the death of a loved one (including your companion animal), could trigger symptoms of depression. You can suffer from both depression and bereavement simultaneously. A double whammy. Symptoms of depression can include:​ Weight loss or weight gain Increased agitation or irritability Tired or loss of energy nearly every day Exaggerated feelings of guilt or worthlessness Less able to concen

Find inner peace through meditation with your best friend. Practicing mindfulness by focusing on your senses, allowing your dog to serve as an anchor to the present moment, can reduce stress and help you feel calmer and more grounded. When you’re feeling tired, overwhelmed, stressed or flustered you can use this meditation to connect to more grounded, peaceful and centered states of being. Don’t worry about doing this perfectly. The key is to bring present moment awareness to