How to Embrace the Holidays with Depression

Welcome back, Friends. I am Amanda Grabb, your chronic illness, pain, and trauma coach, and podcast host. I am thrilled to have you join me for another insightful episode on Embracing The Pain Podcast. 

Today, we're diving deep into the topic of navigating relationships while supporting loved ones with dynamic disabilities. 

In this episode, we'll explore the challenges that arise in relationships due to dynamic disabilities, from fluctuating symptoms and uncertainties to emotional rollercoasters and caregiver fatigue. We'll discuss the impact on social lives, intimacy, and the importance of adjusting expectations. Along the way, we'll share personal stories and real-time examples to bring these challenges to life. 

But it doesn't stop there. We'll also provide strategies and insights to help you navigate these challenges and build strong, healthy, and inclusive relationships. We'll empathize the importance of open and honest communication, the five essential areas for cultivating strong relationships, and ten qualities and behaviors that contribute to nurturing inclusivity and strength in your connections. 

By the end of this episode, you'll gain valuable insights, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of how to support loved ones with dynamic disabilities while fostering strong and inclusive relationships. So, get ready to dive into this enriching discussion and discover new ways to navigate the complexities of dynamic disabilities in relationships. 

Remember, every relationship is unique, and these challenges may manifest differently for each person. However, by fostering empathy, open communication, and implementing the strategies we'll discuss you can create a supportive and loving environment for both you and your loved ones. 

So, join me as we embark on this journey of understanding, compassion, and growth. Let's celebrate Disability Pride Month by promoting inclusivity and strengthening our relationships. Together, we can navigate the challenge of dynamic disabilities and build resilient connections.

Let's get started!!

Book a FREE one hour Consulation Call Now, with Amanda Grabb: https://embracingthepain.hbportal.co/schedule/616323e077a4ec1aab263a64

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Leave a Review Now: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embracing-the-pain/id1616242542

Until next week,

with love & care,

Amanda Grabb

Welcome back, friends! In this episode of Embracing The Pain Podcast, your chronic illness, pain and trauma coach and host, Amanda Grabb, delves into a topic that resonates with so many of us on this journey: frustration and defeat with chronic illness and pain.

Amanda understands firsthand the impact these emotions can have on our lives. She recognizes that shifting these valid yet challenging emotions is not always easy, which is why she's dedicated this episode to exploring and addressing them head-on. 

To begin, Amanda provides a clear definition of frustration and defeat in the context of chronic illness and pain. Frustration refers to the feelings of upset, annoyance, or irritation caused by ongoing challenges and limitations associated with our conditions. On the other hand, defeat encompasses the sense of overwhelm, discouragement, and demoralization when faced with persistent symptoms, limited treatment options, or unmet expectations. 

Both frustration and defeat are common emotional experiences on this health journey. Amanda takes a deep dive into the common reasons we experience these emotions, ranging from misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis to social isolation, financial strain, and the chronic nature of our conditions. 

She then explores how feelings of frustration and defeat impact our emotional, mental, and physical well-being. Depression, anxiety, decreased self-esteem, increased pain, and cognitive challenges and just a few of the effects these emotions can have on us. 

But fear not!! Amanda shares ten powerful strategies to cope with frustration and defeat and regain a sense of control and well-being. From acknowledging and validating our emotions to building a support system, practicing self-compassion and self-care, setting realistic expectations, and exploring alternative therapies, Amanda offers practical guidance for finding resilience in the face of these emotions. 

In conclusion, Amanda reminds listeners that they are not alone in their frustrations and defeat. Through shared experiences, support, and personalized coaching, she helps listeners navigate these challenging emotions and promote wellness with chronic illness, pain and trauma. To take the next step on your journey, you are invited to book a free consultation call with Amanda to explore the transformative coaching and resources available through Embracing The Pain Collective Membership. 

Book your FREE consultation call now: https://embracingthepain.hbportal.co/schedule/616323e077a4ec1aab263a64

Join Amanda in the next episode as she continues to empower and inspire warriors to embrace their pain, find strength within, and reclaim their lives. Wishing you strength, healing and peace on your journey. 

Leave a review now: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embracing-the-pain/id1616242542

Follow Amanda on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/embracingthepain_1dayat_a_time/

Until next time!

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 10 of Embracing The Pain Podcast!!

In this captivating episode, join host Amanda Grabb as she sits down with Fran Garton, a remarkable Pain Reduction Coach, Body Positive Personal Trainer, and Fibromyalgia Warrior. Fran's mission is to empower women who yearn for a pain-free life, offering them invaluable strategies and support. 

Discover the inspiring journey that led Fran to her role as a coach and trainer, driven by her personal experience with Fibromyalgia. As Fran opens up about her own story, she shared profound insights into the relationship between stress, emotions and physical pain. Together with Amanda, they delve into the significance of boundaries and their role in reducing pain and achieving overall wellness. 

But that is not all - Fran's vibrant personality shines through as she reveals her passion for life beyond pain reduction. From spending time with her furry donkeys and kittens to indulging in watercolour painting and cross-stitch addition, Fram knows how to make every moment count. Get ready to be energized by her enthusiasm and contagious zest for a pain-free existence. 

During the episode, Fran mentions her valuable resources to help you on your journey. Discover her free pain-free quiz, as well as stress and overwhelm resources, all available on her website at https://frangartoncoaching.com.

Additionally, explore her four-week self-paced course called Momentum Starter, designed to further support your pursuit of a pain-free life. 

Tune in to Embracing The Pain Podcast Season 3, Episode 10, and join Amanda and Fran as they empower you to embrace a life free from pain, stress, and limitations. Prepare to be inspired and equipped with practical tools to transform your well-being. Don't miss this opportunity to tap into Fran's expertise and ignite your momentum toward a pain-free future. 

Please support Fran Gardon by following her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frangartonpaincoach

Follow Fran on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fran.garton

Subscribe to Fran's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLgxbhYO43_1B6y77ysx8wQ

If you enjoyed today's episode please take one minute to leave a review Now: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embracing-the-pain/id1616242542

Thank you for supporting & tuning in on Embracing The Pain Podcast!

See you next week with another new episode! 

Lots of love & support!

Welcome back to another episode of Embracing The Pain Podcast. In this episode, titled "Sharing your Chronic Illness & Pain with Family," host Amanda Grabb explores the challenges & strategies involved in discussing chronic illness and pain with family members. 

Amanda provides valuable insights into why sharing this deeply personal journey can be difficult, such as fear of judgement, disrupting family dynamics, differing beliefs and attitudes towards illness, stigma, emotional vulnerability, lack of understanding, and past negative experiences. 

She empathasizes the importance of seeking support from understanding individuals, coaches, and support groups to navigate these challenges and build a support system. 

Amanda then guides listeners through practical strategies to prepare themselves emotionally and mentally for having a conversation with family. She encourages self-reflection, seeking support, practicing self-care and compassion, setting boundaries, educating oneself, setting realistic expectations, preparing for various reactions, practicing active listening, and utilizing grounding techniques. 

Amanda introduces the concept of creating a safe word, a predetermined word or phrase that can be used during the conversation when it becomes uncomfortable, overwhelming or triggering. 

Moving forward Amanda assists listeners in creating an outline for the conversation, which includes identifying goals, considering family dynamics, gathering information, choosing an appropriate time and place, planning key points, anticipating relations and planning responses, finalizing boundaries, practicing and establishing a safe word. 

She empathizes with the ongoing nature of emotional and mental preparation, encouraging listeners to be patient with themselves and practice self-compassion. 

In the next segment, Amanda discusses how to open up the conversation with family members in a productive and supportive manner. She suggests using "I" statements, sharing key points, addressing goals, establishing boundaries and utilizing the safe word, providing resources, encouraging questions and active listening, empathizing the importance of support, being patient, allowing processing time, and discussing next steps. 

As the episode concludes, Amanda reminds listeners that this conversation is a journey and it may take time for family members to fully understand and support them. She highlights the importance of staying open, honest, and patient throughout the process and encourages seeking additional support. 

Join Amanda Grabb on this episode of Embracing The Pain episode to gain valuable insights, and practical strategies for sharing your chronic illness and pain with your family. Your experience matters, and by fostering understanding and support within your family, you pave the way for a stronger and more empathetic support system. 

Stay resilient, take care of yourself and continue embracing the pain, one day at a time.

Please be sure to share today's episode if you found it helpful or encouraging. 

Leave a Review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embracing-the-pain/id1616242542

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Learn more about Embracing The Pain Collective Membership: https://www.embracingthepain.com/

Book a free consultation call with Amanda Today, Start living your best life: https://embracingthepain.hbportal.co/schedule/616323e077a4ec1aab263a64

Thanks for listening & supporting Embracing The Pain Podcast!!!

This week's episode is a special edition with my husband, Alex Grabb joining me on the podcast for the first time. In today's episode we talk a bit about our journey, the ups and downs we both experienced at the beginning of my journey with chronic illness, pain and trauma. 

We share some tools, strategies and ways that Alex supports me with my eight chronic conditions, pain and trauma. 

We answer some questions from my online community & more.

We know how hard it can be to support your loved one with chronic illness, pain and trauma at times. Not knowing what to do or how to help. We hope this episode helps encourage you that it is indeed possible to have a great relationship with your loved ones and partner despite illness, pain and trauma. 

As always please don't hesitate to reach out to me at amanda@embracingthepain.com if you have any questions. 

Work with Amanda, book a free call here: https://embracingthepain.hbportal.co/schedule/616323e077a4ec1aab263a64

Follow Embracing The Pain on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/embracingthepain_1dayat_a_time/

Leave a review today: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embracing-the-pain/id1616242542

Until next week,

Amanda Grabb

In this episode of Embracing The Pain Podcast, we explore the topic of setbacks in the context of chronic illness and pain. We start by understanding what setbacks are and how they can disrupt our progress & well- being. 

Amanda shares six crucial reasons for shifting our perception of setbacks and highlights the importance of psychological well-being, empowerment, motivation, adaptive strategies, improved quality of life, and enhanced relationships and support. 

Next, we delve into the four types of setbacks commonly experienced by those of us with chronic illness and pain. 

1. Physical setbacks
2. Emotional setbacks
3. Social setbacks 
4. Circumstantial setbacks

Understanding these different types of setbacks helps us identify and navigate through the challenges they bring. 

The episode then highlights the negative impacts of a one-step forward, two-steps-back mentality, such as discouragement, diminished motivation, increased stress and anxiety, limited focus on achievements, and hindered solving and coping strategies. 

Acknowledging these impacts sets the stage for the nine steps and strategies shared to help you embrace and reframe setbacks. 

Amanda guides listeners through nine actionable steps you can take to shift their perception of setbacks and build resilience:

1. Shift your perspective from defeat to one of growth
2. Cultivate a growth mindset
3. Recognize your current mindset and reflect on its impact
4. Embrace the power of "yet" in your thinking
5. Focus on progress, not just the outcome
6. Practice self-compassion
7. Challenge negative self-talk and thoughts 
8. View setbacks as opportunities for growth and learn
9. Stay positive and celebrate your progress. 

The episode concludes by emphasizing that setbacks are a natural part of the chronic illness and chronic pain journey. It's important to avoid self-blame and recognize that setbacks don't define the entire journey. 

By adopting a growth mindset, practicing self-compassion and reframing setbacks as learning opportunities, you can navigate setbacks with resilience and continue your journey toward improved health and well-being. 

Amanda also invites you to join Embracing The Pain Collective, a membership community that offers a safe and judgment-free space for those with chronic illness and pain.

Embracing The Pain community provides additional resources, support, and monthly group coaching calls to help members with various topics. In the month of June, helping members embrace and reframe setbacks effectively. 

Join us in the empowering episode as we explore the transformative potential of shifting our mindset towards setbacks and cultivating resilience in the face of chronic illness and pain.

To join our incredible community please follow the link:https://embracingthepain.ck.page/products/etp-collective-membership-monthly?promo=AWARENESS -

Amanda looks forward to seeing you inside Embracing The Pain Collective. 

Found this episode helpful? Leave a review now:https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/embracing-the-pain/id1616242542?i=1000555529660

Follow Embracing The Pain on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/embracingthepain_1dayat_a_time/

Until next week, 

Have a great week. 

In today's episode, Amanda is joined by Jess Mason, a remarkable woman who shares her inspiring journey of faith and resilience in the face of chronic illness.

Jess opens up about her recent diagnosis of Fibromyalgia and other illnesses, shedding light on the challenges she has faced and the impact it has had on her faith. 

Together, Amanda and Jess delve into the heart-touching song, "Closer." penned by Jess and her husband Scott Mason. The piece beautifully explores the struggle of knowing that God has the power to heal, yet grappling with the frustration of unanswered prayers. Jess provides insightful perspectives on the song's creation, revealing the depth of emotions and experiences that went into its composition. 

Don't miss the opportunity to listen to "Closer" on all major music platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify, and YouTube. This soul- Stirring track and Jess and Scott's Easter EP showcase their incredible talent as singer-songwriters. 

As a wife, mother, and full-time paramedic in the GTA, Jess has been leading worship for two decades, using her voice to inspire and uplift others. However, her faith journey took an unexpected turn with her diagnosis of PCOS, fibromyalgia, and ongoing struggles with PTSD and depression. Jess courageously shares how these challenges have tested her faith and paradoxically, brought her closer to God.

Join Amanda and Jess as they explore the intersection of faith and chronic illness, providing invaluable insights and encouragement for those navigating similar journeys. Jess's resilience and unwavering trust in God's plan will leave you inspired and uplifted. 

Listen to this compelling episode to gain a deeper understanding of the power of faith in the midst of adversity. Don't miss out on Jess Mason's incredible story and her impactful son, "Closer."

Remember to subscribe, share and leave a review to support our podcast and help spread Jess's message of hope and perseverance. 

Listen to Jess and Scott Mason's song "Closer" on Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/the-masons/1668408063

Listen to "Closer" on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/53gh8yBAV61Mh4fGkxDqL8

Listen on YouTube with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AnD5QnlGiio

Subscribe to our podcast to stay updated on inspiring episodes like this one!

Share this episode with someone who may find comfort and encouragement in Jess's story.

Please leave a review to help us reach more listeners and spread Jess's message of hope!

Review Embracing The Pain Podcast Now: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embracing-the-pain/id1616242542

Until next week, 

Your Host, Coach and Fellow Warrior, Amanda Grabb

Are you ready to navigate your trauma responses and embrace healing & wellness with more confidence and ease?

Listen to this insightful episode and gain valuable tools to overcome the impact of trauma. 

In today's episode of Embracing The Pain Podcast, we delve into the world of trauma responses and how they impact our health and wellness. Join us as we explore the four primary trauma responses - fight, flight, freeze, and fawn. Amanda provides insights into their triggers, their effect, and the ways to identify them in everyday life. 

Whether you have experienced trauma firsthand or want to support someone who has, understanding trauma responses is crucial for healing and achieving better health. Discover strategies & coping skills to navigate trauma responses effectively and begin the journey toward healing & recovery.

Key Takeaways from today's episode.

1. What is a trauma response? Understand how trauma responses are influenced by the amygdala, a part of the brain responsible for processing emotions & memories.
2. Triggers: Explore various triggers, such as sights, smells, sounds, and thoughts, that can activate a trauma response and learn how to identify them. 
3. The Four "F" of Trauma Responses: Gain insights into each trauma response - fight, flight, freeze, and fawn. Individually, including their characteristics and how they may feel to experience.
4. Strategies for Navigating Trauma Responses: Discover practical techniques for managing trauma responses, such as deep breathing, grounding exercises, mindfulness, gentle movement and creating a supportive environment. 
5. Impact on Life & Relationships: Understand how unresolved trauma & trauma responses can affect various aspects of life, including relationships, behaviour patterns and personal well-being. 
6. Positive Ways to Harness Trauma Responses: Learn how trauma responses can be transformed into healthy behaviours, such as creating boundaries, being assertive, finding courage and practicing self-care. 
7. Experiencing Multiple Trauma Responses: Understand the possibility of experiencing multiple trauma responses simultaneously and how individual factors influence in their interplay. 
8. Seeking Support: Highlight the importance of seeking professional help, such as trauma coaching or therapy, for personalized strategies, coping skills and healing guidance. If you are interested in seeking trauma-informed coaching please email Amanda at amanda@embracingthepain.com to book a free consult call to see if we are a good fit. Amanda currently, as of May 19, 2023, has one trauma coaching spot available. 

Please remember, seeking support is essential on your journey to recovery. Take the first step towards healing by reaching out to a trauma-informed professional today, if not Amanda, please consider another form of professional support.

Remember you are not alone. Together, we can embrace the pain and find the path to a healthier & happier future.

Thank you for tuning into today's episode, Amanda will be back with another new episode to further support you on your chronic illness, chronic pain and trauma journey next Wednesday. 

If you enjoyed today's episode please take a few minutes to leave a review today: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embracing-the-pain/id1616242542

Follow Amanda on Instagram for behind-the-scenes of the show & more: https://www.instagram.com/embracingthepain_1dayat_a_time/

Learn more about Amanda's private coaching & membership: https://www.embracingthepain.com/

Connect with Amanda about this episode or anything going on in your life, at: amanda@embracingthepain.com. 

Thank you so much for your support & love,

Amanda Grabb, Embracing The Pain

Have you tried traditional elimination diets with little to no results?

Or perhaps you are seeking the best way to find the right foods for you & your condition & body.

 If so, today's episode with Bailey Rose, a registered dietitian who specializes in managing chronic pain & other immune disorders through food sensitivities is for you.

Bailey Rose is passionate about helping her patients find answers after being told so often that "your results are normal." 

In today's episode Bailey and I discuss what the LEAP program is, and how it helps those with chronic pain.

• What is the MRT test and how does that play a role in the progress of the LEAP program?
• Bailey then shares her recent experience taking and receiving the results of her MRT test.
• We then dive into why Bailey wants to work with patients that have chronic pain in particular. 

I truly hope you enjoy today's interview episode and I hope it encourages you to keep seeking relief, answers and recovery. 

If you would like to follow Bailey on Social media please follow the link below.

https://www.instagram.com/baileyroserd/

Interested in learning more about Bailey? She does offer a free 15-minute consultation for anyone interested in learning more about the MRT test & LEAP program. To inquire about booking please visit Bailey's website at: https://baileyroserd.wixsite.com/nutrition

Bailey is covered under most if not all insurance in the USA

Your Host, Coach & Fellow Warrior,

Amanda Grabb, I will be back next Wednesday with another new episode!

Do you want to move your body in a way that honours you, your conditions and your pain?

If, so, today's episode is for you. I remember so clearly trying to find movement I could do without causing a flare or spending the following days stuck in bed unable to move. I don't want that to be your experience.

So in today's episode, we talk about the following.

• Why "body movement" not "exercise" or "workout"?
• Why body movement is beneficial to us with chronic conditions & pain. 
• 10 strategies you can begin using today to get started with body movement & feel confident doing so. 

I also announce a super exciting change that is coming to Embracing The Pain Podcast, please listen until the end to be one of the first to hear. 

If you are ready to move your body, fast-track your journey and find movement that works for you, your condition and your pain then Embracing The Pain Collective membership is for you! 

Inside Embracing The Pain Collective membership, we have incredible body movement routines that are condition & pain specific. We offer two live body movement instruction classes a week in a group, an online setting where you can receive personalized support with modifications and your movement. 

Our body movement library has in-bed, chair and floor routines to meet you where you are in any situation or circumstance. We are determined to create a multi-facet library that is inclusive and welcoming. 

Please consider joining our incredible membership that also includes coaching, Q&A, workshops, a resource library and all the body movement components mentioned. 

I am ready to start living my best life & move my body in a way that works for me, my condition and my pain!

Join ETP Collective Now:

https://embracingthepain.ck.page/products/etp-collective-membership-monthly

Please be sure to leave a review if you found today's episode helpful, insightful and encouraging! Your reviews help ETP reach more with chronic illness and pain. 

Leave a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embracing-the-pain/id1616242542

Follow me on Instagram for more chronic illness, pain & trauma content & to see behind the scenes of the show: https://www.instagram.com/embracingthepain_1dayat_a_time/

I look forward to bringing you another new episode soon, until then, have a fabulous week and know I rooting for you!

Your fellow Host, Coach and Fellow Warrior,

Amanda Grabb