Mornings with Christen

Episode 6: The News is a Drama Queen- Don’t Let It Steal Your Peace.

I would love to hear from you! Send a text here! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2456459/open_sms] www.morningswithchristen.com [http://www.morningswithchristen.com] Are you feeling overwhelmed by the never-ending news cycle? In this episode, we’re diving into how constant exposure to headlines impacts mental health and resilience—and what we can do about it. We'll break down research on news consumption, anxiety, and emotional well-being, plus share practical tips for setting boundaries, processing information, and staying informed without spiraling. Balance is key—so let’s find ways to stay engaged in the world without letting it consume us. Plus, I’ll share two of my go-to news sources that help keep me informed without the burnout. Research Citations: Hwang, J., Borah, P., Shah, D., & Brauer, M. (2021). The Relationship among COVID-19 Information Seeking, News Media Use, and Emotional Distress at the Onset of the Pandemic. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(24), 13198. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182413198 [https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182413198] Price, M., Legrand, A. C., Brier, Z. M. F., van Stolk-Cooke, K., Peck, K., Dodds, P. S., Danforth, C. M., & Adams, Z. W. (2022). Doomscrolling during COVID-19: The negative association between daily social and traditional media consumption and mental health symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic. Psychological Trauma: Theory, Research, Practice, and Policy, 14(8), 1338–1346. https://doi.org/10.1037/tra0001202 [https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/tra0001202]

Episode 5: Resilience: Grow Through What You Go Through

I would love to hear from you! Send a text here! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2456459/open_sms] www.morningswithchristen.com [http://www.morningswithchristen.com] In this episode of Mornings with Christen, we dive into resilience—what it really means, how we develop it, and why it's essential for personal growth. Resilience isn’t just about bouncing back from adversity; it’s about adapting, learning, and becoming stronger through challenges. We explore research-backed insights, including studies on childhood resilience, emotional flexibility, and the power of meditation in strengthening our ability to handle stress. Through inspiring stories of J.K. Rowling and Nelson Mandela, we see resilience in action—how perseverance, mindset, and support systems shape our ability to thrive. This episode also breaks down the four key factors of resilience—optimism, self-awareness, social support, and problem-solving skills—while offering practical strategies to help you build resilience in your own life. Whether it’s reframing failure, practicing mindfulness, or embracing a growth mindset, you’ll walk away with actionable steps to strengthen your mental and emotional well-being. So grab your coffee, settle in, and join me for this cozy yet thought-provoking conversation on resilience! ☕✨ Research ·       “The development of competence in favorable and unfavorable environments: Lessons from research on successful children” Masten, Ann S; Coatsworth, J. Douglas. American Psychologist Vol. 53, Iss. 2,  (Feb 1998): 205-220. DOI:10.1037/0003-066X.53.2.205   ·       The Importance of Being Flexible: The Ability to Both Enhance and Suppress Emotional Expression Predicts Long-Term Adjustment Bonanno, George A. ; Papa, Anthony ; Lalande, Kathleen ; Westphal, Maren ; Coifman, Karin Psychological science, 2004-07, Vol.15 (7), p.482-487   ·       Calderone, A., Latella, D., Impellizzeri, F., de Pasquale, P., Famà, F., Quartarone, A., & Calabrò, R. S. (2024). Neurobiological Changes Induced by Mindfulness and Meditation: A Systematic Review. Biomedicines, 12(11), 2613. https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12112613 [https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12112613]   ·       Meditation and Mindfulness: Effectiveness and Safety | NCCIH [https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/meditation-and-mindfulness-effectiveness-and-safety?utm_source=chatgpt.com]    ·       Schepers, M., Lagerweij, P., Geurts, D. et al. Promoting Resilience in Youth through Mindfulness mEditation (PRYME): Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial investigating the effects of mindfulness training as add-on to care-as-usual on internalizing problems, mental illness development, and associated brain and cognitive processes in help-seeking youth. BMC Psychiatry 25, 126 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-024-06430-7 [https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-024-06430-7]

Episode 4: Plot Twist: The Power of Starting Over

I would love to hear from you! Send a text here! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2456459/open_sms]  Are you stuck in a rut? Feeling like you’re running out of time to make a change? Think again. In this episode, we’re diving into the empowering concept of starting over, with the mindset that you are in charge of writing your own ending. Discover how the magic of a “Plot Twist” moment can help you reset, take control, and begin anew—whether it’s with your career, relationships, or even your mindset. We’ll explore the psychology behind fresh starts, the power of small steps, and how to embrace change without fear. Plus, get practical tips on how to move forward, trust yourself, and create a future you’re excited about. It's never too late for a new chapter! So, grab your metaphorical pen, because the next page of your story is waiting.  Link to the Harvard Value test: https://harvard.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_e35whN7tkXtvlHv

Episode 3: Birds, Nests, and a Cackling Pigeon (Or Morning Routines)

I would love to hear from you! Send a text here! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2456459/open_sms] Mornings can be a real struggle, right? Whether it’s the early wake-up call or the overwhelming list of things to do, it’s easy to feel like crawling back under the covers is the best option. But what if there’s a way to make your mornings easier, more energizing, and even enjoyable? In this episode, we dive into the science behind morning routines and how they can boost your energy, productivity, and positivity. I share my own 5 AM routine, how I’ve fine-tuned it to suit my needs, and why it’s key to setting a successful tone for the rest of the day. Whether you’re a night owl, an early bird, or somewhere in between, this episode is all about finding what works for you. Tune in and get ready to take control of your mornings!

Episode 2: Statistics, Storytime, and Betting on Yourself

I would love to hear from you! Send a text here! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2456459/open_sms] Good Morning Beautiful! In todays episode let's take a look at what is to be, not just surviving, but thriving! It's mostly geared towards single moms, but anyone can use the information to guide their forward progress! See you soon!