Issuu

M AY 2 02 1

T H E B E S T O F H I G H L A N D S R A N C H A N D LO N E T R E E

The Women's Issue LI F E + C U LTU R E M OVERS + SHAK ERS WELLNESS PE AC E , LOVE AN D EN N E AG R A M S T Y LE + B E AU T Y LO CAL LY OWN ED

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

MAY 2021 PUBLISHER

Jennifer Starbuck | Jennifer.Starbuck@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

The Stories We Tell

Sonja Nix | Sonja.Nix@LifestylePubs.com AD DESIGNER

Whitney Lockhart

I LOVE STORIES. I always have. Like many young girls, I loved snuggling into my par-

L AYO UT DESIGNER

ents, a grandparent, or even a babysitter as they read a fairytale to me. Sitting close,

Dani Moore

warm and safe, my mind opened to possibilities The connection created in storytelling,

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

either as the teller or the listener, is strong. As an adult, I love real-life stories. Of course, these stories are much more complicated. The best ones, the most authentic stories include pain, grief, and heartbreak. None of

Gayle Lessman, Sonja Nix CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Elle Blom, Tayler Carlisle Photography

us make it to adulthood without at least a few bumps, bruises, and scars, physical or otherwise. And yet, the struggle makes the joyous parts of our stories shine. My favorite part of my job as editor at Highlands Ranch Lifestyle Magazine is hearing and retelling the stories of the people we feature. My least favorite part of the job is editing those stories to fit word count and page requirements. People have so much to say. We all want to tell our story. Women in particular have a great ability to relate and connect with other people’s stories. There is so much to learn from your own story. I wrote my personal story as an exercise in a workshop about 15 years ago. How much my story has changed in these past 15 years, and will change again in 15 more. Mental health experts know that having an

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

integrated understanding of the story of our lives, even the difficult parts, is crucial to

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

living a fulfilled and happy life.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

We are thrilled to bring you the 2021 Women’s Issue, and the stories of eight remark-

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

able, resilient Movers + Shakers right here in our community. Also in this issue, women

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

turning passion of purpose into their profession. We tell the story of one woman’s path to self-discovery using the Enneagram. Finally, a how-to guide on telling your own story. In truth, we are all storytellers. Listen closely to what you have to say. 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Sonja Nix, Editor

CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch ON THE COVER Ishimine Johnson PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELLE PHOTOGRAPHY 4

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | May 2021

Proverbs 3:5-6 Highlands Ranch Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Highlands Ranch area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Highlands Ranch Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

THE LANDMARK: WHERE LUXURY COMES HOME T HE L AND M A R K | G R E E N WOOD V ILLAGE 5455 Landmark Place, Residence 809 3-bed | 3-bath | 2,385 sq. ft. | Offered for Sale

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Kara Wetherill

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INSIDE THE ISSUE MAY 2021

FEATURES 14 Peace, Love and Enneagram Uncover Your Authentic Self for Joyful Living

20 2021 Movers + Shakers Outstanding Local Women Share Their Gifts and Experience to Make Our Community Strong

30 Purpose-Driven Beautiful Products Deliver Words of Faith and Encouragement

20 14

34 Telling Your Own Story Guide to Discovering Your Self and Your Joy

30 DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Healthy Lifestyle

20 Local Limelight 30 Locally Owned 34 Parting Thoughts

GOOD TIMES

Tiger Rock Tournament Tiger Rock Martial Arts Academy played host to a District Martial Arts Tournament at its academy in Lone Tree. Over the course of 2 days, over 100 competitors came through to challenge themselves in Traditional Martial Arts Forms and Board Breaking Events.

NWDC Chamber & EDC in-person again! The Northwest Douglas County Chamber of Commerce & EDC has been busy hosting events. Their first in-person event since October was Business After Hours, held at RARE by Grist Brewing Co. in Lone Tree in February. On April 6, they hosted their monthly Women’s Business Alliance networking event, hosted by Vertex Financial Group and The Right Swag at the Denver South Marriott at Park Meadows. https://www.nwdouglascounty.org/

1. Roseanne Tracy, Bethany Windley, Michelle Colaizzi | 2. Michelle Colaizzi, Jen Valdez, Kaz Aylott, Trista Borrego | 3. Jodi Stoker, Sarah Flannery, Trista Borrego | 4 - 6. RARE at Grist 8

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | May 2021

CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch

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Saxophonist Gerald Albright will perform at 4 and 8 p.m. on May 15 at the Lone Tree Arts Center. One of the biggest stars of R&B, contemporary, and straight-ahead jazz, Gerald has earned his reputation as a “musician's musician.” Gerald, who is a Douglas County resident, has been nominated for several contemporary jazz Grammy Awards and has performed with such luminaries as Quincy Jones, Olivia Newton-John, Whitney Houston, and more.

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FIREFALL TRIO Firefall founder/guitarist Jock Bartley and lead singer Gary Jones will present an evening of Firefall classics like “Just Remember I Love You” and “You Are The Woman.” Celebrating 45 years of Firefall, Jock, Gary and their special guest will also perform songs from their critically acclaimed new album “Comet” featuring the new single “Way Back When.” Saturday, May 1 at 4 and 8 p.m., at Lone Tree Arts Center.

CULTURE ON THE GREEN Treat yourself to free entertainment outdoors in beautiful Civic Green Park. On May 21, catch a performance of "Cinderella" by the International Youth Ballet.

Launcelot Hawk, CIMT 303-521-7735 (Text or Call) State Licensed Professional Standards Observed

This series features a variety of shows that have widespread appeal and are full of fun, and family entertainment. Pack a picnic and enjoy live entertainment in the heart of Highlands Ranch. Admission is free. Civic Green Park, 9370 Ridgeline Blvd., Highlands Ranch.

“Rubbing People the Right Way for 20 Years”. 10

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | May 2021

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HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

peace, love and enneagram ARTICLE GAYLE LESSMANN | PHOTOGRAPHY TAYLER CARLISLE PHOTOGRAPHY

THIS AGE-OLD PERSONALITY TYPING CAN HELP YOU UNCOVER YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF FOR JOYFUL LIVING

ARE YOU AN EIGHT? A Five? A One? Most of us have

the Greeks, with contributions from the Christian Desert

seen popular Enneagram quizzes online, but do we

Fathers, Kabbalah, and the Sufis of Islam.

really understand it? Enneagram’s current form has

Despite its ancient roots, the Enneagram has never

existed for more than 60 years, only recently break-

been more relevant than it is today, providing deeper anal-

ing into popular culture. Developed by a pair of South

ysis than other popular personality tools. The Enneagram

American scholars to synthesize ancient traditions and

delineates nine different personality types based on how

symbols with modern psychology, it has roots in sev-

one experiences the world. It doesn’t just tell you how you

eral ancient practices. The symbol itself comes from

are; it explains WHY you do what you do.

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | May 2021

The key to accurate Enneagram typing is discovering your core fear and core motivation. Humans learn methods of surviving in the world as children to help us endure hurt, pain and trauma. It is during turbulent times people often find they are ready to be rid of some of these unproductive adaptations.

struggle begins with fear. Heart types (2,3,4) lead with feeling. and their emotional struggles are primarily around image or

THE ENNEAGRAM TYPING SYSTEM HAS NINE MAIN TYPES:

shame. Gut types (8,9,1) lead with “doing” or action, and their emotional struggle point is anger.

1. The Reformer

6. The Loyalist

2. The Helper

7. The Enthusiast

individual, personalities can present very differently even within the

3. The Achiever

8.The Challenger

same type. The Enneagram considers additional factors that also

4. The Individualist

9. The Peacemaker

help explain nuances in people, such as the dominant instinctual

5. The Investigator

Depending upon the emotional, mental and physical health of an

subtype (Self-Preservation, Social or Sexual) and the Tritype, which is a combination of one head, heart and gut type. The Enneagram

Beyond this, they are broken down into three body systems. Head types (5,6,7) lead with thinking, and their emotional

doesn’t suggest certain types are better matched with other types. Relationships can flourish between any two combinations. CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE (CONTINUED)

Learning the Enneagram helped me understand that which wounded me in childhood doesn’t have to be my motivation anymore. I have always been a personality typing enthusiast; I have a fasci-

Through my Enneagram practice, I am rediscovering myself and

nation with how we act and why. I encountered Enneagram during

learning that being vulnerable is the bravest, strongest thing I can

a time of upheaval in my life. I took an Enneagram quiz, which told

do. I started asking myself deeper questions about my motivations.

me I was a type Two. This led to some Googling, then podcasts and

“Why do I feel the need to do this?” or “What do I fear will be the

books, and before I knew it, I dove fully into the study of this system.

result if _____ happens?”

I learned that mistyping from quizzes is common. It took me years to figure out that I am actually an Eight.

Learning the Enneagram helped me understand that which wounded me in childhood doesn’t have to be my motivation anymore. I can

An Eight is “The Challenger,” whose core fear is betrayal. In

embrace new ways of seeing the world and drop the belief that I’ll be

response, they employ control over everything in their environment,

betrayed. It allows me to live open-hearted and share my gifts with joy.

depend upon their strength, and hide vulnerabilities. For most of my

Curious to know more? I am happy to do a “get to know me” session to

life, I swallowed my emotions and toughed things out to look strong

see if we are a good fit for coaching. Find me on Instagram at @peace-

and capable. I learned to hide the authentic, softer parts of me.

loveandenneagram, or email at hello@peaceloveandenneagram.com.

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | May 2021

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centura.org Centura Health does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, religion, creed, ancestry, sexual orientation, and marital status in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services and activities, or in employment. For further information about this policy contact Centura Health’s Office of the General Counsel at 1-303-673-8166 (TTY: 711). Copyright © Centura Health, 2021. ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-303-738-7781(TTY: 711). CHÚ Ý: Nếu bạn nói Tiếng Việt, có các dịch vụ hỗ trợ ngôn ngữ miễn phí dành cho bạn. Gọi số 1-303-738-7781 (TTY: 711).

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT ARTICLE SONJA NIX | PHOTOGRAPHY ELLE PHOTOGRAPHY

K E L L E Y K O VA R , D N P CHIEF NURSING OFFICER, LITTLETON ADVENTIST HOSPITAL TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF: My name is Kelley Kovar, and I am the Chief Nursing Officer at Centura-Littleton Adventist Hospital. I lead our incredible team of nurses in the care of our patients and have served for 10 years at the hospital. I recently finished my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree at Regis University. SPECIFIC TO 2020, WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED? I’ve helped build and lead our COVID-19 vaccine clinics at Littleton Adventist, an unprecedented effort for us. I also lead our team of nurses through the care of patients with COVID-19 during surges in the spring and fall of 2020, with numerous changes to our workflow, accommodating the need to provide compassionate care to our patients while taking care of our associates. WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED, AND THAT YOU REPEAT TO OTHERS? Practice the pause: When in doubt, pause; When angry, pause; When tired, pause; When stressed, pause; And when you pause, pray. WHAT DOES SELF-CARE LOOK LIKE FOR YOU? I love the outdoors, but one of the best things I did before the pandemic for self-care was to buy a Peloton. I work out on it every day; it’s my stress relief. www.centura.org/locations/ littleton-adventist-hospital

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | May 2021

OUTSTANDING SOUTH DENVER WOMEN SHARE THEIR GIFTS AND EXPERIENCES TO MAKE OUR COMMUNITY STRONG

Movers + Shakers

G LY N I S A L B R I G H T PRESIDENT/CEO, GLYNIS’ PRODUCTS INC.

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF. I’m married to my junior high sweetheart, mother of two adult children, and owner of Glynis’ Products Inc. with five gourmet food lines. I’m known as the Waffle Queen. I’ve been a resident of Douglas County for 16 years and love it. As a nutritional therapist, I find joy in feeding people, sometimes total strangers. I am also the Founder of M.A.N.E. (Making Advancements toward Nutritional Empowerment), a nonprofit that helps people regain self-esteem lost from the trauma of health challenges. SPECIFIC TO 2020, WHAT CHALLENGES DID YOU FACE AND HOW DID YOU RESPOND? We’ve been dealing with a worldwide virus, Covid, and a longstanding virus, racism. Frustration filled the air because remaining safe meant distancing from people we love and covering part of our faces. All we could see was the color of another’s skin and the look in their eyes. Our trust was challenged. Through this chaos, I relied on my everyday philosophy and routine. My faith keeps me sane, fueling me to do my best. WHO DO YOU ADMIRE MOST IN YOUR LIFE? My husband. I have watched him grow since I was 13 years old. I am amazed at how he handles jealousy and deceit. He has a Teflon coating, negativity rolls right off. glyniskitchen.com CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

AMY SHERMAN CATALYST PUBLIC AFFAIRS / NORTHWEST DOUGLAS COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & EDC TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF I’m Amy Sherman and I grew up right here, graduating from Douglas County High School back when Castle Rock was still a small town. I’m a believer in building community and volunteer for several local community organizations. This year I became the new Senior Project Director for Catalyst Public Affairs, an all-women owned and staffed company. Our services include stakeholder engagement, strategic communications and political persuasion expertise. I continue leading the Northwest Douglas County Chamber as well. TELL US YOUR PHILOSOPHY ON HOW TO TACKLE HARD TIMES, BUILD RESILIENCY AND OVERCOME CHALLENGES. I have a daily routine that includes a gratitude list and mindful walks to breath and connect. I move through the day focusing on one thing at a time, which relieves me of feeling overwhelmed. Professionally, it has been a most challenging year. As an advocate for the business community, we’ve become experts in current restrictions for every industry, PPP and EIDL, employment law, finance, etc. WHO DO YOU ADMIRE MOST IN YOUR LIFE? My mom. She was a bank officer, working 10-12 hour days while we were growing up and never missed attending our activities. She taught me that I could have a successful career and still be a great mom. linkedin.com/in/amyshermancolorado/ nwdouglascounty.org 22

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | May 2021

N I C O L E WA N G A A R D OWNER OF THE DONUT TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF. My name is Nicole Wangaard, and I am the current owner of THE DONUT which I purchased from the long-time owners in December 2019. My career in food began when I was 15 years old; I’ve worked in restaurant chains, fast-casual, fine dining as well as starting my own catering company. I graduated from the University of Tampa in 2007 with a bachelor’s degree in Biology. SPECIFIC TO THE PANDEMIC AND 2020 ECONOMIC DOWNTURN, WHAT CHALLENGES DID YOU FACE AND HOW DID YOU RESPOND? Temporarily closing my business and figuring out how to operate a restaurant during a pandemic. We learn innovation during times of desperation. We brought in new products to increase business revenue and revamped branding to reach more customers. WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED AND THAT YOU REPEAT TO OTHERS? “Enjoy where you are at now. You are right where you are supposed to be. We are all guilty of getting wrapped into where we should be and all that does is cause stress and anxiety. Stay here. Stay present. Love this moment. Love yourself as you are. Stay engaged in the now.” — Author Sylvester McNutt III thedonutdenver.com

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

MARIA BALES NICK BALES BTR FOUNDATION TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF. I’m Maria Bales. My son, Nick Bales, started Brought to Reality (BTR) in 2016 when he was a sophomore in high school. Nick suffered from anxiety and depression. Focusing on BTR enabled him to be creative, keep busy, and stay grounded in reality, all while bringing awareness to teen mental health. Unfortunately, we lost him to suicide at age 17. BTR’s mission is to bring awareness to teen mental health and suicide prevention. My goal is to spare other parents, siblings, and friends from feeling how my family feels. 100 percent of BTR proceeds go directly to the Nick Bales BTR Foundation, which supports non-traditional therapies and individualized treatment for mental illness. SPECIFIC TO 2020, WHAT CHALLENGES DID YOU FACE AND HOW DID YOU RESPOND? The pandemic interrupted essential mental health services, just when they are needed the most. For kids, watching their parents struggle, not seeing their friends, not being involved with school extracurriculars, it’s really doing a number on their psyche. BTR is simply talking to our youth across the nation. Honest, transparent communication helps kids feel validated. Nothing good comes when we internalize our emotions. Kids trust BTR and the mission. BTR is saving lives. WHAT DOES SELF-CARE LOOK LIKE FOR YOU? I meditate and talk to God every day. My faith is my self-care. Without it, I don’t know that I’d be able to get out of bed. I also owe a lot of my self-care to my husband, my son, and my friends. Having a good support system is key to a happy, healthy life! broughttoreality.com

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | May 2021

J O C E LY N A A L B O R G MILE HIGH ACADEMY, VP OF FINANCE & DEVELOPMENT TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF. I am a proud native of Colorado. I grew up Seventh Day

families and educators. We quickly realized we needed to look ahead and evaluate what was going to be possible.

Adventist and attended Mile High Academy. After attending

Flexibility, communication, and a plan for every scenario

college and working, I stayed at home when my children were

became our daily challenge at MHA. We did our best to adjust

young. Then my alma mater called with a part-time position.

to the expectations of educators while trying to support fami-

It was immediately clear this was my passion and I eventually

lies with different needs.

became Vice Principal of Finance. Now my kids attend the school that I did as a kid.

WHAT DOES SELF-CARE LOOK LIKE FOR YOU?

SPECIFIC TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC,

at the bottom of the list, but I know how important it is.

WHAT CHALLENGES DID YOU FACE AND HOW

I love to travel and have found disconnecting can be so

DID YOU RESPOND?

healing and helps me recharge.

I admit I’m not a self-care expert. Most mothers put this

As a leader in education, I never imagined the challenges

milehighacademy.org

CONTINUED >

a global pandemic would create for our students, their CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

REBECCA BRENNAN DESIGN STUDIO BLUE, PRINCIPAL/FOUNDER

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF. I am a mother to three teenage daughters, a small business owner and an outdoor enthusiast. My passion is designing environments that bring joy and heal. I am the founder of Design Studio Blue LLC a nationally recognized, award-winning, woman-owned interior design firm specializing in commercial and healthcare environments. My firm is made up of phenomenal women and supports Children’s Hospital of Colorado, America’s Kids Belong, and St. Joseph’s/ Candler SmartWomen Event, which gives access to mammography for all women. SPECIFIC TO 2020, WHAT CHALLENGES DID YOU FACE AND HOW DID YOU RESPOND? My biggest challenge was finding ways to inspire those around me to maintain hope. Giving and asking for grace was my focus in 2020. My design team started every work day together on Zoom to check workload, share our struggles and offer support to one another. We grew closer as a work family. My daughters and I started cooking dinners in the kitchen and now spend more time together rather than each in our own space. WHAT DOES SELF-CARE LOOK LIKE FOR YOU? Finding time to spend in nature and movie nights with my daughters. In the summer, that means hopping on my mountain bike to ride the last hour of daylight in Backcountry. designstudio-blue.com

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | May 2021

ISHIMINE JOHNSON U.S. AIR FORCE AND FITNESS TRAINER

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF. I’ve been in the U.S. Air Force for 10 years and am a Reservist working with Force Management. I’m also a Sports Science Association certified personal trainer. I coach group fitness classes at Orangetheory, one-on-one clients at Total Fitness Colorado and Sterling Ranch Clubhouse. Bodybuilding, modeling, acting, golfing, hiking and traveling are favorite pastimes. I love exploring different cultures and ways of life. And I love the food, of course THIS YEAR, WE’RE FOCUSING ON RESILIENCY. WHAT OBSTACLES HAVE YOU FACED AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME? In 2019, I lost my dad to cancer. Never take anything for granted because you never know when a person’s time will run out. Even for yourself. Be kind to others and always look for the silver lining. We’re all on God’s timing and plan. WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED AND THAT YOU REPEAT TO OTHERS? If you’re having a difficult time making a decision about something, it’s already a no. Always be 100 percent in or you’ll always be second-guessing it. WHAT DOES SELF-CARE LOOK LIKE FOR YOU? Overworking myself is not necessary. Outdoor activities or traveling have become self-care. Having a “me” day with no phone. Instagram: @_thereal_ish_

Elle Photography is a Highlands Ranch-based portrait photographer, specializing in contemporary portrait, beauty, and boudoir photography for everyone, no matter their age or size. She offers her clients a luxury studio experience as well as custom print products and wall art. She is also a business brand creator and helps build powerful personal brands with professional headshots and personal branding sessions. ellephotostudio.com

CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | May 2021

H A P P I N E S S T H R O U G H M OV E M E N T

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during her treatments, pashmina wraps to

Masterpiece. All packaging includes a

cover chilly shoulders, cozy socks, calm-

scripture card and a prayer.

ing tea and a gratitude journal, to name a few. She has since expanded to include many other offerings, including curated sets, build your own box and individual gifts. Colleen only sources product that are healthy and safe. thebrightsidebox.com Brittin Karaffa looks to her Christian faith

Colleen Geery The Brightside Box

for her inspiration. Her House of Grace jew-

Brightside Box, The Beloved Box.

elry is designed with purpose and inspired by

Each Brightside item is branded with

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uplifting words of encouragement and

of God’s goodness, grace, and truth.

includes compliment cards.

Pieces are designed to encourage the women wearing them while sharing God’s love. The jewelry is stylish and modern, with fuss-free designs made for layering and intended to be personal by layering necklaces, stacking rings and bracelets, or a carefully curated ear with a combo of your favorite earrings. houseofgracejewelry.com or @houseofgracejewelry.

ARTICLE SONJA NIX 30

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PARTING THOUGHTS

GUIDE TO DISCOVERING YOUR SELF AND YOUR JOY

telling your own story MENTAL HEALTH EXPERTS HAVE LONG UNDERSTOOD THAT “KNOWING YOUR STORY” IS AN IMPORTANT PART OF LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE. Whether a cohesive recounting of a traumatic event with a therapist, details about your health history, or just basic insights about your family of origin’s values and dynamics, our stories give us information on which to build a strong foundation. Even events that compassion and empathy. Telling your own story isn’t really for others. Whether

QUESTION & ANSWER. Answering a few questions

it is never seen by another, or only shared with a ther-

about your life can help paint a picture. What is your

apist or the most intimate relationships in our lives, the

greatest accomplishment? Regret? What was your best

purpose is to give ourselves a deeper understanding of

or favorite age? What would you tell your younger self?

the external and internal forces which shape us. This, in turn, gives us the opportunity to redirect some of

UNUSUAL OR FUNNY EVENTS. Recall an unusual

the undesirable circumstances, behaviors or thoughts

or funny circumstance you’ve found yourself in.

in our lives. Journaling is a tool used by therapists to

These stories personalize learning and lead to

help people tell their story. If writing seems too time

deeper understanding. They put a smile on your

consuming, many people find recording short videos

face, releasing mood-lifting endorphins. It gives us

can be helpful. Keep in mind, these exercises are for

the chance to laugh at ourselves, which puts other

you, there are no right or wrong answers. It is simply

life events into perspective

an exercise to help you know yourself. Along with Julie Butscher, LCSW, we have com-

FAMILY TREE. Sometimes, important life lessons are

piled a guide to help you get started on telling your

learned over the course of many small experiences

own personal story.

that we may not even remember and may be common behaviors from your past. Write down family members

TIMELINE. Start as far back you can remember, then

and look at traits that are common.

sequentially recount life events and memories up until present day. It is important not only to recount painful

It is important if you are feeling overwhelmed by life

events, but also the joyful ones. Include major transitions,

and have thoughts of harming yourself or others that

things that happened not as an event, but over the course

you speak to a professional. To find a therapist in your

of time. This can be in bullet form or in full sentences.

area, visit psychologytoday.com

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | May 2021

ARTICLE SONJA NIX

had a negative impact, when understood, lead to great

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