Because healing is a workout, too.

With summer just around the corner, many of us are thinking about getting into our “summer bodies,” whatever that means. We know that being active benefits us beyond just aesthetics. Climbing stairs becomes easier, we sleep better, and our energy improves. And we feel more alive. Whether we move in the community or solo, one thing is true across all forms of movement: we need a plan.

Time, space, and pace all matter. No one jumps into sprinting or lifting heavy weights without warming up first, not without consequences. The more intense the movement, the more intention your body needs. Would you agree?

In many ways, therapy is no different. 

Consider this: Have you ever left a session feeling emotionally raw, overstimulated, or unexpectedly drained? Sometimes, therapy uncovers memories, realizations, or emotions we didn’t know existed. You might walk in composed and leave feeling unmoored, not because something went wrong, but because something profound within you was finally touched.

That’s why I believe in having pre- and post-therapy routines, just as we have warm-ups and cool-downs for physical activity. Therapy is a workout for the heart, mind, and nervous system. It deserves care both before and after.

So, what does your emotional “cooldown” look like each week?

I appreciate not having to interact with anyone right after a session. Does that always happen? Not at all. Life has its demands. But I try to create a gentle landing when I can.

That might mean:

- Listening to a curated playlist of comforting or grounding songs

- Taking a short walk with my phone on Do Not Disturb

- Enjoying a quiet coffee solo while I reacquaint myself with the version of me that just surfaced

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Like healing, this process is deeply personal. However, the goal remains the same: be intentional about caring for yourself before and after visiting those brave, vulnerable places.

Every time you show up for therapy, you write a little love letter to yourself. Allow it to land softly.