The Embodied Jewish Woman With Rena Reiser

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305 - Beyond Restriction: Rethinking Food, Stress, and Healing

Oct 23, 2025

1:12:35

What if healing isn’t about cutting more out of your life — but about what you choose to add back in? In this conversation, I sit down with registered dietitian Noa Miller to explore how nutrition and mind-body work can come together to support chronic health conditions. We discuss how stress, emotional repression, and restrictive mindsets around food can keep the body in a state of tension — and how curiosity, nourishment, and regulation help it return to balance. Noa shares her own journey through surgery, autoimmune illness, and the search for a sustainable approach to healing. Together, Noa and I unpack the complex relationship between body, food, and emotion, offering a grounded, compassionate look at what real healing requires. Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of: Why restriction and quick fixes rarely work long-term How emotional awareness and nervous system regulation affect digestion and inflammation Ways to approach nutrition with flexibility, curiosity, and joy The power of integrating medical, emotional, and spiritual care

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304 - Accept my inner apikorus?!

Aug 25, 2025

4:47

As Elul begins, many women feel a mix of urgency and pressure to change, especially if perfectionism is part of the picture. In this episode, I share why pushing yourself past your limits isn’t the path to lasting growth, and how the concept of “widening the window of tolerance” can bring you back to menuchas hanefesh.

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303 - How to stop chasing the “perfect” formula

Aug 24, 2025

4:28

Ever wish for the magic formula to fix your life in three easy steps? I joke about it with my clients, but the truth is, real change isn’t linear. In this episode, I share why our minds crave step-by-step solutions, how our bodies hold the real key to growth, and what my actual three-step plan looks like. Tune in for a mix of humor, Torah wisdom, and practical insight.

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302 - Soften into what's true for you - a somatic mindfulness practice

Jun 26, 2025

15:37

In this gentle practice, I guide you to settle into your body and notice what it’s holding -- physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Through breath, touch, and awareness, I help you tune into the sensations that express your current emotional landscape, and find the words that resonate with what you feel inside. You’re invited to meet these parts of yourself with compassion, to imagine giving yourself exactly what you need, and to receive the possibility of Hashem offering it to you as well. This is a practice of presence, honesty, and quiet self-nurturing.

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301 - Why the return to normal might not feel normal

Jun 25, 2025

12:22

After 12 days of war and survival-mode living, many of us are being asked, or even expected, to return to "normal." But what happens when your nervous system isn’t ready? When your body is still holding the weight of everything it’s just lived through? In this episode, I speak to the tender and often unspoken truth of what it means to transition out of crisis: the pace, the pressure, the vigilance that doesn’t just go away. I share why the slower, quieter rhythm of wartime, even in its intensity, can feel strangely grounding, and how to gently honor your own process, even if it looks different from those around you. Listen with curiosity, compassion, and the knowing that there’s nothing wrong with you if “normal” feels anything but.

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300 - “I Feel Like…” - The Hidden Difference Between Thoughts and Feelings

Jun 8, 2025

55:41

How often do we say “I feel like…” - but what we’re actually expressing is a thought, an opinion, or a judgment? In this live conversation, my husband Rabbi Yonasan Reiser and I sat down to explore the deeper meaning behind that common phrase. We unpacked the subtle but powerful difference between thoughts and feelings, and why this distinction matters so much in our relationships, our self-awareness, and even our avodas Hashem. Topics we touched on include: – Why it feels safer to say “I feel like…” instead of naming what we actually feel – The role of vulnerability in honest communication – A Shabbos story that surprised me with just how many feelings were tangled inside – How unmet needs show up in relationships, especially between men and women – What it means to receive and give from a place of wholeness, through the lens of the Kabbalistic concepts of mekabel and mashpia – Why having the right words for our emotions can create real relief and connection – And how using Nonviolent Communication in our marriage gave us a shared language to express what’s really going on beneath the surface Whether you're new to this kind of emotional work or deep in it, we hope this conversation brings more clarity, self-compassion, and maybe even new language to help you feel heard, by yourself and the people you love.

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299 - Navigation Pre-YT and YT Stress with Complex Personal Backgrounds - with Chaya Hinda

Apr 2, 2025

1:37:32

As Pesach approaches, the stress of navigating family dynamics, expectations, and personal triggers can feel overwhelming—especially for those of us with complex backgrounds. In this heartfelt conversation, Chaya Hinda and I explore what it means to prioritize our own needs, set boundaries with difficult personalities, and embrace the reality of our emotions rather than pushing them aside. We dive into the power of saying “no” with confidence, making the Seder meaningful even in unconventional settings, and shifting focus from external pressures to inner connection and joy. With raw honesty and deep compassion, we also touch on the challenges of parenting when carrying personal trauma, the importance of speaking to ourselves with kindness, and how to balance self-care with communal and familial responsibilities. If you’ve ever felt the weight of holiday expectations or struggled to find peace in the chaos, have a listen to this conversation. Our hope and tefillah is that you’ll walk away feeling validated, supported, and equipped with new perspectives to bring more ease and meaning into your Yom Tov experience.

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298 - Opening to the Support of Hashem and the World Around You - somatic mindfulness practice 03 09 2025

Mar 26, 2025

9:41

In this guided practice, I help you tune into the many layers of support already holding you—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I lead you to notice the simple, tangible supports in your life and gently open to the deeper, infinite support of Hashem. If fully trusting that support feels challenging, I guide you in meeting that resistance with kindness, allowing your body to soften into what feels safe. This is an invitation to feel held, grounded, and supported in a way that your whole self can receive.

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297 - I thought I was past this...

Mar 16, 2025

4:38

You’ve done the work. You’ve learned the tools. And then—suddenly—you find yourself right back in an old pattern. The frustration creeps in: Why am I still here? In this episode, I share a recent experience of falling into that familiar cycle and what it taught me about healing, patience, and self-trust. Because healing isn’t about never struggling again—it’s about how we meet ourselves in those moments.

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296 - Embodying Your Strengths - somatic mindfulness practice 03 06 2025

Mar 6, 2025

9:41

Embodying Your Strengths In this guided practice, I invite you to connect with your strengths—from within. As we settle into the body, we’ll gently reflect on a recent moment where you showed up in a way that makes you proud. Through breath, awareness, and presence, we’ll explore what it feels like to fully receive the recognition of your own strength, letting it settle into your body and being.

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295 - Listening to Your Body’s Needs Through Touch - somatic mindfulness practice 03 05 2025

Mar 5, 2025

9:56

Listening to Your Body’s Needs Through Touch In this episode, I guide you through a gentle practice of self-connection, inviting you to offer your body the love and care it deserves. Through intentional touch, we’ll explore what it feels like to truly listen to your body—tuning in to its needs, its boundaries, and its quiet invitations for more closeness or space. With each breath, you’ll have the opportunity to soften into self-compassion, recognizing all that your body has carried for you. This practice is a simple yet powerful way to cultivate presence, warmth, and appreciation for yourself in the moment.

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294 - The Body Remembers Pleasant Things, Too - somatic mindfulness practice 03 03 2025

Mar 3, 2025

9:42

The Body Remembers Pleasant Things, Too In this episode, I guide you through a gentle practice of shifting from the mind into the body, allowing space to unwind from the day’s momentum. Together, we’ll explore how small adjustments in posture can create a sense of openness and ease. Through the power of memory, we’ll invite in sensations of joy and anticipation—tuning into how these emotions live in the body. This practice is an opportunity to reconnect with yourself, to notice the subtle ways your breath and body respond to positive experiences, and to settle into the present moment with a sense of quiet presence.

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293 - From Holding Tension to Feeling Held - somatic mindfulness practice 03 02 2025

Mar 2, 2025

9:47

From Holding Tension to Feeling Held In this episode, I guide you through a gentle yet powerful somatic mindfulness practice, inviting you to connect with your body in a new way. Together, we’ll explore tension, not to force it away, but to meet it with curiosity and presence. With the support of your own hands, you’ll learn to tune in to what your body is asking for—whether it needs containment, release, or simply to be acknowledged. This practice offers a moment of deep listening, allowing your body to feel held and supported. Join me as we slow down, breathe, and cultivate a sense of grounded ease within ourselves.

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292 - Holding Yourself with Mature Love: A Guided Somatic Practice - 02 25 2025

Feb 25, 2025

9:57

Holding Yourself with Mature Love: A Guided Somatic Practice In this guided practice, I invite you to settle into a space of gentle support. With one hand over your heart and the other on your stomach, we begin by connecting to the breath—just as it is—without needing to change or force anything. Together, we explore what it feels like to release just a little more, to feel the support beneath you, around you, and within you. From this grounded place, I guide you in listening to your body, inviting it to show you what it needs. With care and presence, we practice holding space for what arises—not trying to fix or analyze, but simply being with it, exactly as it is. You’ll notice how much support this part of you wants, offering it the right amount of space, closeness, or reassurance. This practice is about deep listening, attunement, and self-compassion—allowing yourself to be held in mature love, not because you need to change, but because you are worthy of being supported exactly as you are.

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291 - Held by Generations: A Guided Practice in Support and Connection - 02 24 2025

Feb 24, 2025

18:24

Held by Generations: A Guided Practice in Support and Connection In this guided practice, I invite you to settle into a space where you feel most at ease. Through breath, awareness, and connection, I guide you to soften into the present moment, allowing your body to release even just a little. As you breathe, you are reminded that Hashem is breathing life into you with each inhale, sustaining you in every moment. Together, we tap into the deep well of support from the women who came before us—all the generations of Jewish women standing behind you, holding you, strengthening you. From this place of grounding, I lead you to gently explore what your heart is needing right now. Through a process of deep listening, we attune to the emotions, sensations, and inner wisdom that arise, offering them space, understanding, and compassion. This practice is an invitation to slow down, to listen deeply, and to receive. Whatever unfolds, you are supported—by your own body, by the strength of those before you, and by the presence of Hashem in every breath.

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287 - Bringing Transforming Touch® to the Frum World: My Interview with Dr. Stephen Terrell

Jan 20, 2025

54:17

In an effort to bring the power of Transforming Touch® to the frum world, I invited my teacher, Dr. Stephen Terrell, to be interviewed on this podcast, which is made specifically for Jewish women. My main question for Dr. Terrell is: Why is Transforming Touch® so disproportionately popular in the frum world? Here are some of the things we discuss: Dr. Terrell’s journey as a trauma therapist and the development of Transforming Touch®, a profound healing modality rooted in nervous system regulation. His extensive experience working with foster and adoptive families, and how that shaped his approach to healing. His deep connection with the Jewish community and his observations on why Transforming Touch® resonates so strongly in the frum world. The challenges of explaining a therapy that operates beyond words and how it facilitates healing on a deep, nonverbal level. The impact of historical trauma on the Jewish people, from the Holocaust to generational stress, and how that affects the nervous system. The importance of self-regulation, resilience, and creating a sense of safety within the body. The delicate balance between acceptance and healing—how true healing often begins with embracing what is, rather than fighting against it. The innate human drive for transformation and the misconceptions surrounding quick fixes in healing. Navigating neurodivergence with self-compassion and the role of co-regulation in resilience and emotional well-being. This conversation offers a deep and thought-provoking look at healing, trauma, and why Transforming Touch® has struck such a chord in the frum world.

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290 - Finding balance between tension and ease - somatic mindfulness practice 01 27 2025

Jan 27, 2025

10:21

Finding Balance Between Tension and Ease In this episode, I guide you through a gentle somatic practice to explore both tension and ease in your body. By bringing compassionate awareness to these sensations, moving between them, and holding space for both to coexist, you’ll expand your capacity to connect with your body and its wisdom. This practice invites you to meet yourself as you are and notice what emerges when you allow your inner experience to unfold.

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289 - Shortness of Breath - Parshas Va'eira on Regulation

Jan 23, 2025

27:03

In this week’s episode of Parsha, Parts, and Polyvagal - Connecting Torah Insights to Your Inner World and Nervous System, we delve into a powerful insight from Parshas Va’eira. We explore the pasuk: “But they did not listen to Moshe, because of their shortness of breath and hard labor” (Shemos 6:9). Together, we unpack the layers of meaning behind this pasuk through the lens of Rashi and the Maharal, uncovering timeless lessons about how stress and overwhelm affect our ability to truly listen, connect, and find clarity. We discuss how life’s challenges—and the anticipation of them—can create a “shortness of breath,” both physically and emotionally. These moments can leave us feeling stuck, unable to breathe deeply or access our inner calm. But there’s hope: by calming our minds and bodies, we can reclaim the deep breath that helps us navigate life’s challenges with greater ease. In this episode, you’ll hear: The connection between our perceptions of stress and how our bodies respond. How our nervous system reacts when overwhelmed, whether through fight-or-flight or shutdown. A guided practice to help you gently reconnect with your breath and body. This exercise is especially for those moments when life feels too heavy or you can’t seem to find a way to slow down. Take a moment for yourself today. Let this episode remind you that even in the midst of life’s challenges, there is always a path back to calm and clarity.

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288 - Taking Up Space - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 01 20 2025

Jan 20, 2025

9:50

In this episode, I guide you through a somatic mindfulness practice centered on exploring your relationship with space—both expansive and contracted. Through gentle breathing, movement, and visualization, we’ll notice how your body responds to taking up more space and to drawing inward. Together, we’ll create a safe space to explore the emotions and sensations that arise, allowing them to simply be. This practice invites you to connect with your inner world, find balance, and give your body a moment to reset and rest.

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286 - Breath, Bones, and Beyond: A Somatic Check-In - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 01 13 2025

Jan 13, 2025

10:20

In this episode, I guide you through a grounding somatic mindfulness practice that invites you to connect with the intricate systems of your body—your heartbeat, digestion, breath, muscles, and bones. Through gentle awareness and intentional focus, we’ll explore how each part contributes to your aliveness and support. Together, we’ll offer gratitude and care to the body, noticing how it feels when given attention and love. This practice is a gentle reminder of the remarkable ways your body sustains and supports you every moment.

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285 - "How Am I Doing?" - a somatic inquiry practice

Jan 13, 2025

9:46

In this episode, I guide you through a gentle somatic mindfulness practice to help you reconnect with your body, breath, and inner sensations. Together, we’ll explore how to slow down, tune into the support beneath you, and ask your body the compassionate question: “How am I doing right now?” This practice invites curiosity and acceptance as we listen for subtle answers from within, offering your body exactly what it needs or handing it over to Hashem. Join me in creating space for grounding, clarity, and deeper self-awareness.

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284 - Why Context Matters: Parshas Vayechi on Regulation

Jan 8, 2025

15:20

In this episode of Parsha, Parts, and Polyvagal: Connecting Torah Insights to Your Inner World and Nervous System we explore Yaakov Avinu’s poignant moment as he gathers his sons to reveal the time of the Geulah—and why Hashem prevents him from doing so. What was Yaakov’s intention? How does it connect to our lives today? The Sifsei Chaim offers a powerful analogy: just as a doctor explains every detail of a difficult surgery to a patient to prepare and reassure them, Yaakov sought to give his sons the context they needed to endure life’s challenges with deeper emunah and love for Hashem. This concept resonates deeply with our nervous systems. When we’re given context—whether in a conversation, a request, or a challenging situation—it creates a sense of safety. Without it, we often feel unsettled or dysregulated. In this episode, we discuss: The connection between context, safety, and regulation. How the absence of context impacts our relationships and daily interactions. A guided somatic practice to viscerally explore the effects of context on your body and nervous system. Take a few moments to ground yourself, tune into your body, and discover how creating and seeking context can enhance your sense of safety and connection—with yourself, with others, and with Hashem. Wishing you a meaningful week and a peaceful Shabbos!

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283 - Quieting My Inner Yavan: Hashem's Love Always Endures

Dec 25, 2024

15:27

This week on Parsha, Parts, and Polyvagal: Connecting Torah Insights to Your Inner World and Nervous System we dive into the story behind the Greeks’ decree for the Jews to inscribe on the horn of an ox that we have no portion with Hashem. As we unpack its meaning, it becomes deeply personal and relevant to our inner world. The Greeks misunderstood something crucial: that no sin, no mistake, no failure could sever our eternal bond with Hashem. And yet, just like the Greeks, we often wrestle with an “inner Yavan”—that critical voice within us, pointing out our mess-ups and mistakes and telling us we’re unworthy. In this episode, we explore: How Chanukah invites us to confront and quiet our inner critic. The enduring love of Hashem, even in moments when we feel disconnected. A somatic practice to embody Hashem’s infinite love and compassion for us. Chanukah reminds us that even when the world (or our inner world) feels dark, the light of Hashem’s love is always present. Join me in a grounding practice to bring this truth into your body, to soften the inner critic, and to hold space for a deeper connection to Hashem and to yourself. Wishing you a Chanukah filled with Hashem's love and inner peace.

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282 - Parsha, Parts, and Polyvagal - Finding Glimmers: Parshas Vayeshev and Your Inner World

Dec 18, 2024

16:37

In this first episode of Parsha, Parts, and Polyvagal, we explore Parshas Vayeshev and Yosef HaTzaddik’s journey—where even in his darkest moment, Hashem’s kindness showed up in the smallest detail. Yosef couldn’t control being sold to the Yishmaelim, yet the pasuk tells us something striking: the caravan carried fragrant spices instead of the usual foul-smelling cargo. A seemingly small kindness, but one that teaches us how Hashem’s chesed exists, down to the smallest glimmers, even in moments of great difficulty. From a nervous system perspective, this invites us to reflect: What happens when we learn to notice the glimmers—the small moments of safety, connection, and goodness—even in the aftermath of our own challenges? In this episode, I share: A Torah insight on Hashem’s kindness in Yosef’s story How we can connect this to our nervous system’s need for safety and regulation A guided mindfulness practice to help you find glimmers in your own life We don’t erase or deny the hard things we’ve been through. Instead, we allow space for them and notice where Hashem’s kindness—however small—showed up, helping our nervous system begin to settle and come home. Wishing you a beautiful Shabbos.

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281 - Exploring the Block to Forgiveness - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 09 26 2024

Sep 26, 2024

10:04

Exploring the Block to Forgiveness In this meditation, you are invited to explore the path to forgiveness, focusing on a situation that carries a moderate emotional charge. Guided by Rabbi Jacobson’s 60-Day Journey, this session gently helps you uncover what stands between you and forgiveness. You’ll bring to mind a situation where someone has hurt you, notice where and how the pain is held in your body, and compassionately ask what this part of you needs. With this awareness, you will envision providing yourself with what is needed to release the hurt, allowing forgiveness to unfold at its own pace, trusting the process of healing. Please consider one or more of the following to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care: 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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280 - The Gate of Tears: The Path to Repair - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 09 22 2024.mp3

Sep 22, 2024

9:46

The Gate of Tears: The Path to Repair In this meditation, you are invited to connect with a place in your life that feels broken or in need of repair, gently acknowledging the emotions that arise. Guided by Rabbi Jacobson’s 60-Day Journey, we explore the concept of the Gate of Tears, a path to healing even when something feels irreparable. You’ll reflect on a situation that feels beyond mending, while giving yourself permission to experience the emotions tied to it—allowing any tears or sounds to come naturally. Through this, you tap into the belief that the Gate of Tears is always open, and repair is possible. Please consider one or more of the following to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care: 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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279 - Aligning with Your Elul Intentions - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 09 19 2024.mp3

Sep 22, 2024

9:32

Aligning with Your Elul Intentions This meditation invites you to pause and reflect on your journey through the month of Elul. You’ll begin by taking deep, grounding breaths, allowing your body to gently settle into the moment. As you relax, you’ll connect with your progress during this sacred time, without judgment, simply noticing what arises. Through mindful awareness, you’ll explore what you need to reconnect or deepen your connection to this season’s unique spiritual opportunities. With compassion, you’ll turn to Hashem, asking for His help and support as you align with your intentions for Elul and beyond. In this space of connection, you’ll feel the closeness of His presence and explore what becomes possible with Hashem's support, carrying that sense of closeness and purpose into the rest of your day. Please consider one or more of the following to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care: 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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278 - Unmasking Your True Self - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 09 17 2024.mp3

Sep 22, 2024

9:18

Unmasking Your True Self This meditation invites you to explore the spaces in your life where your inner self and outer actions may not align, helping you gently unmask your true essence. Through deep, grounding breaths and mindful awareness, you’ll reflect on moments where you felt a disconnect between what you intended and how you actually responded. By tuning into the sensations in your body, you’ll move between your true desires and your outward actions, exploring what it would take to bridge that gap. As you hold space for this reflection, you’ll imagine how it might feel to live in closer alignment with your soul’s true expression and bring that energy into your day. Please consider one or more of the following to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care: 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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277 - Creating Space for Patience - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 09 16 2024

Sep 22, 2024

10:07

Creating Space for Patience This meditation invites you to explore your feelings of impatience and bring a sense of calm and patience into a situation in your life where you’ve been longing for change. Grounding yourself with deep breaths and mindful awareness, you’ll gently connect with the sensations of impatience in your body, noticing how they manifest. Through compassionate listening, you’ll ask this part of you what it needs and acknowledge its response, creating space for greater understanding. As you tune into any emerging patience, even in small amounts, you’ll carry this newfound calm into your day, allowing holiness to enter. Please consider one or more of the following to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care: 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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276 - Connecting to The Part of Your That Is Holy - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 09 15 2024

Sep 15, 2024

9:27

Connecting to The Part of You That is Holy In this meditation, you will be guided to explore what lies between you and your connection to your holy self. Inspired by Rabbi Simon Jacobson’s 60 Day Journey, this practice will help you tap into any emotions, sensations, or memories that reveal the obstacles standing between you and the part of you that is sacred. With compassion, you’ll allow these parts to speak and fully express themselves. Finally, you’ll reconnect with your inner holiness, noticing how it feels in your body and giving it space to be fully expressed. Please consider one or more of the following to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care: 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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275 - The Power of Letting Go - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 09 12 2024

Sep 12, 2024

9:48

The Power of Letting Go This meditation invites you to explore the power of letting go, inspired by the 9th of Elul and themes from Rabbi Simon Jacobson’s 60 Day Journey. You’ll begin by grounding yourself through deep breathing and relaxation, then reflect on a time in your life when you gained something valuable by letting go. As you connect with this memory, you’ll notice how it feels in your body. Then you'll explore a current struggle where you’re finding it hard to let go. Through mindful awareness, you’ll listen to what this part of you needs to release its hold, and you’ll continue the process of stepping aside to allow something better to emerge. Please consider one or more of the following to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care: 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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274 - Meeting Hashem in the Field - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 09 10 2024

Sep 10, 2024

10:08

In this meditation, you will embark on a gentle journey to meet Hashem in the field, allowing you to connect deeply with your inner self. You’ll begin by relaxing your body and becoming aware of the sensations, emotions, and thoughts that arise as you prepare for this sacred encounter. As you approach Hashem, you’ll explore what your heart truly desires to ask of Him and notice how this request resonates within you. This practice will create a compassionate space for you to connect with Hashem’s presence, bringing forth your deepest needs and feeling supported as you continue your spiritual journey. Please consider one or more of the following to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care: 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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273 - Offering and Receiving Compassion - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 09 09 2024

Sep 10, 2024

8:53

In this meditation, you will be guided to connect with both yourself and others through the power of compassion and consolation. You’ll start by relaxing your body and grounding yourself in the present moment. Then, you’ll bring to mind someone in your life who may be going through a difficult time, offering them your presence and understanding. As you console them in your mind, you’ll notice how this act of compassion feels within you. Next, you’ll turn this kindness inward, allowing Hashem to offer words of consolation to the parts of yourself that need it most. This meditation will help you discover what you can take from this experience into your day, both for yourself and to offer to others in need. Please consider one or more of the following to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care: 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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272 - Teshuva: Finding What’s Missing - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 09 05 2024

Sep 5, 2024

9:59

Teshuva: Finding What’s Missing This meditation invites you to slow down and connect with what’s truly in your heart. You'll begin by gently relaxing your body and reflecting on a recent situation where you didn’t quite act as your best self. Through mindful awareness, you'll explore the sensations in your body connected to that experience and uncover what you really needed in that moment. As you imagine how things could have been different if that need had been met, you’ll gain valuable insight into how to approach similar situations in the future. This practice offers a compassionate space for self-reflection and personal growth, helping you move forward with greater awareness and intention. Please consider one or more of the following to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care: 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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271 - Rosh Chodesh Elul Renewal - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 09 04 2024

Sep 4, 2024

9:56

Rosh Chodesh Elul Renewal In this special Rosh Chodesh Elul guided somatic mindfulness practice with Rena, you'll be gently led to connect with your body and explore how it's holding the challenges in your life. Through simple breathing and relaxation, you'll create space to just be with these feelings without trying to change them. As you settle into this awareness, you'll also be invited to sense Hashem’s closeness, asking for His support and renewal in whatever you're facing. This practice offers a moment of quiet reflection and connection, leaving you feeling more centered and supported. If you feel called to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care, please consider one or more of the following. 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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270 - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 05 30 2024

May 30, 2024

9:40

Mindful Week Completion In Rena's guided somatic mindfulness practice, we started by taking deep breaths, allowing our inhales to go as deep as our bodies were willing, and extending our exhales. We tuned into our bodies, feeling the support of the surface beneath us, and allowed ourselves to sink into it. We then brought to mind everything that needed to be done to finish off our week, noticing the emotions and physical sensations that arose. We distinguished each emotion, sensation, and thought, checking in with each part of ourselves to understand its needs. With compassion, we acknowledged and accepted these parts, listening to what form of support they required. Finally, we noticed the impact of this mindful practice on our bodies and asked for Hashem's assistance to help us support these parts as we moved forward. If you feel called to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care, please consider one or more of the following. 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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269 - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 05 29 2024

May 29, 2024

9:46

Embodying Relaxing and Trusting Hashem During our guided somatic mindfulness practice with Rena, we took a journey inward to become more embodied. We began by taking deep breaths, inviting our breath to signal that it was okay to slow down, relax, and let go. We allowed our bodies to settle into the surface beneath us, feeling thoroughly supported. Rena asked us to recall a time when we struggled physically, emotionally, or spiritually, and then suddenly found help. We sensed this in our bodies, remembering the relief and safety it brought. We then brought to mind a current, smaller struggle, sensing how it felt in our bodies. We recalled the past help we received, trusting that we could rely on Hashem's support again. We were encouraged to let go of responsibilities that weren't ours and to feel supported, knowing Hashem's help would come as it always has. If you feel called to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care, please consider one or more of the following. 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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268 - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 05 28 2024

May 28, 2024

9:42

Breath Awareness During our guided somatic mindfulness practice with Rena, we embarked on a journey to become more embodied. We began by taking a few deep breaths, allowing our breath to go as deep as it could at that moment without forcing it. We grounded ourselves by feeling the support of the surface beneath us and invited our bodies to settle further. We focused intently on our breath, tracking its rhythm, temperature, and texture. Then, we defocused, simply being aware of the vast oxygen around us, sensing its nourishing presence. We gently moved our heads, exploring the air from different directions, before returning our focus to our breath, observing any changes. By the end, we reflected on any shifts in our body and mind, appreciating the awareness we brought to our breath and the world around us. If you feel called to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care, please consider one or more of the following. 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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267 - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 05 27 2024

May 27, 2024

9:36

Music's Presence and Absence In our guided somatic mindfulness practice with Rena, we began by taking deep breaths, allowing our breath to flow naturally. We invited our bodies to relax and sink into the surface beneath us, releasing tension and slowing down to be present with ourselves. Rena then introduced the topic of music, guiding us to observe how our bodies responded to thoughts of music, noting the physical sensations and emotions that arose. We explored the contrast by considering the absence of music, again noticing our bodily and emotional reactions. We alternated between these experiences, paying attention to the sensations and feelings each evoked. This practice helped us understand that our bodies can tolerate both extremes, provided we maintain a sense of safety. We concluded by reflecting on what enabled us to be present with both experiences and considering how to carry this awareness into our daily lives. If you feel called to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care, please consider one or more of the following. 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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266 - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 05 26 2024

May 26, 2024

10:00

Respecting Our Inner Selves In Rena's guided somatic mindfulness practice, we engaged in a journey to become more embodied. We started by taking deep breaths, allowing ourselves to slow down and be present without forcing anything. We focused on sensing the support of the surface beneath us and invited our bodies to settle further. Shifting our awareness inward, we practiced giving respect to all parts of ourselves, noticing any thoughts, emotions, or sensations that arose. We listened to these inner experiences without judgment, providing space and respect for them to express themselves. We asked these parts how they felt, what they needed, and offered understanding and respect in return. This practice fostered a deep connection with our inner world, helping us to acknowledge and honor our entire being. If you feel called to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care, please consider one or more of the following. 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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265 - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 05 23 2024

May 26, 2024

9:33

Connecting to Comfort During Rena's guided somatic mindfulness practice, we began by taking deep breaths, inviting relaxation, and allowing our bodies to settle onto the supportive surface beneath us. We brought to mind an object that gives us comfort, either from our past or present, and imagined the comfort it provides. We focused on where and how we felt this comfort in our bodies, staying with the sensation. Rena then invited us to connect this feeling of comfort to the loving support of Hashem, recognizing that His support is infinitely more comforting. We were encouraged to hold on to this experience and remember that we can always rely on Hashem's endless comfort and support, especially when we need it most. If you feel called to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care, please consider one or more of the following. 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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264 - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 05 22 2024

May 22, 2024

9:50

Self-Value Practice During Rena's guided somatic mindfulness practice, we began by taking deep breaths, allowing our bodies to relax without forcing anything. We noticed the support of the surface beneath us and invited our bodies to sink into it further. Rena encouraged us to bring to mind everything that needed to be done before Shabbos, from preparations to unfinished work, and to observe how thinking about these tasks affected our bodies, posture, and breath. We imagined ourselves accepting and valuing ourselves completely, regardless of our accomplishments. This acceptance brought a noticeable change in our bodies and minds, creating a sense of ease and self-respect. From this place of self-value, we envisioned completing our tasks with a sense of calm and presence. We felt more grounded and connected, carrying this feeling into our preparations. If you feel called to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care, please consider one or more of the following. 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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263 - Answering Your Questions - Understanding Chronic Pain and Emotional Well-being

May 21, 2024

50:53

Understanding Chronic Pain and Emotional Well-being I'm excited to share with you the recording of our recent Q&A call where we delved into topics surrounding chronic pain, self-regulation, and emotional well-being. Here's a brief overview of what was covered: Addressing Chronic Pain Approaches: I discussed contrasting approaches to chronic pain, clarifying misconceptions and offering my perspective on effective methods. Embracing Emotions for Healing and Self-Regulation: We explored the significance of accepting and processing emotions as a pathway to healing and calmness. Self-Regulation and Nervous System States: I shared my personal insights on self-regulation and proposed a model for understanding nervous system states. Understanding Nervous System States and Felt Sense: We discussed the impact of different nervous system states on well-being and the concept of 'felt sense' in regulating emotions. Holistic Healing Model and Self-Regulation: I discussed the significance of understanding internal parts and values for holistic healing, emphasizing visualization and neuroplasticity. Overcoming Criticism-Induced Shutdowns: A participant asked about criticism-induced shutdowns, and I shared some strategies for mindfulness and acceptance. Embracing Emotional Parts and Expressions: The importance of understanding emotional parts and expressing emotions authentically was discussed, addressing societal stigma around public displays of emotion. Embracing Emotions, Communication, and Support: Open communication and seeking support were highlighted as essential for navigating emotional challenges, along with acknowledgment of unexplained fears and sensitivities. Somatic and Emotional Expression: Managing body memory and the importance of support from others were explored, alongside discussions on social norms around emotional expression. My Tearful Moments and Emotional Response: I shared three personal instances where I cried publically, reflecting on the natural response of the body to emotional situations. Processing Emotions: The complexities of processing emotions and seeking help were discussed, emphasizing self-care and allowing oneself time to process emotions. Feel free to share any thoughts or insights that resonate with you. Additionally, if you have any questions or would like further clarification on any of the topics discussed, don't hesitate to reach out. Thank you to everyone who participated in the call, and I look forward to our continued journey of exploration and growth together!

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262 - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 05 21 2024

May 21, 2024

9:46

Protective Layer Focus During our guided somatic mindfulness practice led by Rena, we took time to connect deeply with our bodies and breath. We began by slowing down our breathing, inviting relaxation and signaling to our entire being to let go and embrace renewal. We then focused our attention on the surface supporting us, feeling its stability. Rena guided us to notice any sensations, thoughts, or memories within us, encouraging curiosity and focus. We shifted our awareness to our skin, appreciating its vastness and protective qualities, recognizing it as a boundary and container for our thoughts, feelings, and dreams. Alternating our focus between internal sensations and the expanse of our skin, we explored the newness in familiar experiences, noticing the impact on our body and mind. If you feel called to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care, please consider one or more of the following. 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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261 - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 05 20 2024

May 20, 2024

9:35

Mindful Boundary Setting In Rena's guided somatic mindfulness practice, we journeyed into our bodies, inviting our breath to lead us into a state of deep relaxation and presence. We let go of the need to rush, allowing ourselves to settle into the support beneath us. With gentle guidance, we recalled moments where we said yes when we meant no, feeling into the sensations and emotions that arose. Then, we imagined ourselves upholding those boundaries, experiencing the empowerment of saying no. Through this process of exploration and embodiment, we discovered the wisdom within our bodies, learning how to honor our true desires with compassion and clarity. If you feel called to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care, please consider one or more of the following. 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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260 - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 05 19 2024

May 19, 2024

9:47

Embracing Radical Acceptance During the guided somatic mindfulness practice with Rena, we took deep breaths, inviting our breath to flow naturally without forcing it. We brought loving attention to our breath, recognizing how it supports us in every moment. We then settled into the surface we were on, inviting our bodies to relax. Our focus shifted to sensing our bodies, noticing the state of our nervous systems—whether calm, in fight-or-flight mode, shut down, or a blend of these states. We welcomed our current state with radical acceptance, without trying to change it. We paid attention to any sensations, thoughts, emotions, or memories that arose, observing where and how we felt them in our bodies. We listened to these parts of ourselves, acknowledging their perspectives and needs without judgment. We gave these parts permission to express themselves fully, staying present with them as long as needed. If you feel called to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care, please consider one or more of the following. 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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259 - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 05 16 2024

May 16, 2024

10:09

Reflections: Embracing Our Values and Finding Inner Settling In Rena's guided somatic mindfulness practice, we began by taking deep breaths, inviting our breath to echo through us gently. We connected with our bodies, feeling the support beneath us, gradually letting go and sinking into the present moment. Reflecting on our week, we explored each day, noticing moments aligned with our values, bringing settling. We acknowledged instances where we strayed from our values, allowing ourselves to feel, without judgment, finding the right distance from those experiences. Imagining possibilities, we considered how we could have lived our values fully, observing the impact on our bodies and minds. As we concluded, Rena prompted us to carry this mindset forward, finding moments of solace and making choices from a place of calm regulation, staying in this space for as long as needed. If you feel called to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care, please consider one or more of the following. 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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258 - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 05 15 2024

May 15, 2024

9:58

Hashem's Infinite Embrace Visualization In Rena's guided somatic mindfulness practice, we were gently led into a space of deep embodiment and self-nurturing. We began by acknowledging the permission to slow down, to step away from the chaos of life, and to simply relax. As Rena's words enveloped us, we felt ourselves internalizing this permission, allowing it to seep into every fiber of our being. Through a powerful visualization, we connected with the image of a newborn longing for love and care being held by a nurturing parent. Then, tenderly, we saw ourselves as the infant, experiencing the profound sensation of being held, understood, and supported by Hashem's loving arms. With each breath, we sank deeper into this nurturing embrace, feeling the warmth and security reverberate through our bodies. Rena guided us to notice the subtle shifts within us, as we surrendered to the embrace of infinite support and love. In this moment, we were cradled in Hashem's loving arms, feeling seen, heard, and cherished. If you feel called to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care, please consider one or more of the following. 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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257 - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 05 14 2024

May 14, 2024

9:41

Fascination with Sensations In Rena's guided somatic mindfulness practice, we began by taking deep breaths, allowing our breath to serve as an invitation to slow down and connect with ourselves. We focused on sensing our bodies and how they were supported by the surface beneath us, inviting ourselves to settle even more. Then, we scanned our bodies with curiosity, noticing any sensations that called for our attention. With fascination, we explored these sensations without getting caught in thoughts or memories, simply being with them as they were. Throughout the practice, we learned to stay present with whatever arose, trusting that by doing so, we could release attachment and tension. We allowed ourselves to be fascinated by both our bodily sensations and the space around us, ultimately coming back to our breath with a sense of awareness and connection. If you feel called to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care, please consider one or more of the following. 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!

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256 - Somatic Mindfulness Practice 05 13 2024

May 13, 2024

9:45

Rewiring Emotional Escapes In Rena's guided somatic mindfulness practice, we took deep breaths, feeling the nourishment of each inhale and exhale. We connected with our bodies, sensing their support and settling into them. Then, we recalled a moment of feeling dysregulated or overwhelmed, and instead of turning to distraction, we slowed down and tuned into our feelings. We explored where those emotions manifested in our bodies, and we gently engaged with them, finding just the right distance to experience them without being overwhelmed. We asked ourselves what we truly needed in that moment, without judgment or expectation. Imagining meeting those needs, we alternated between the discomfort of the unmet need and the relief of having it fulfilled, allowing these sensations to flow through us. Through this practice, we learned to listen to our bodies and meet our needs with compassion and understanding. If you feel called to support my mission of promoting Menuchas Hanefesh and self-care, please consider one or more of the following. 1) Share this episode with a friend or family member you think would appreciate it. 2) Leave a review on your favorite podcast app or my website. 3) Send me an email or message with your experience listening to this. 4) Make a donation on my website: https://renareiser.com/product/the-daily-pause/ Thank you for your support!