Folgen
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Life comes with its fair share of ups and downs, but there are moments when the downs can feel overwhelming - insurmountable even.
Personally, I’ve had a few episodes of poor mental health in my lifetime - patches of anxiety and depression that I’ve learnt how to manage. However, in 2022, I got to my lowest point with it, even experiencing symptoms of psychosis.
When I first considered going on antidepressants during this time, it felt like a big, daunting step. And though I would encourage anyone else in my life to not feel shame, the idea of going on antidepressants still made me nervous.
Today, I want to shine a light on this topic so that anyone feeling shame around taking medication can begin to shed that feeling and know they’re not alone.
I’m sharing my personal experience with antidepressants, both while taking them and after deciding to come off the medication.
While on antidepressants, I actually found that I could begin to reclaim parts of my life that had felt lost to depression. I had more energy, more clarity and slowly but surely, more hope.
Yet, as effective as they were, I always knew that I didn’t want to be on medication forever if I could help it. After a period of stability and having learnt tools to manage my mental health, I decided to come off the antidepressants completely, without tapering the dose.
It’s been intense: agitation, fatigue, difficulty sleeping - and a lot of crying. I’ve even gotten to the point of being unable to parent. Yet, I have hope. My research shows these are common symptoms, and I’m looking forward to the light at the end of the tunnel.
Of course, there are times I question myself: What if my symptoms return? What if I’m unable to cope?
I may go back on them, and I know that’s totally okay. If you are currently on antidepressants, know that you are not alone. There’s no shame in taking medication, whether it’s for a short period or for the rest of your life. Each person’s experience with mental health is unique, and so too are the tools they use to navigate it.
I hope that sharing my experience can offer some insight and comfort if you are struggling. I know that as we continue to support one another and share our stories, we can together dismantle the stigmas and shame surrounding mental health.Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
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Do you ever feel like a doormat? You spend all day pouring out love, time and energy into meeting everyone else’s needs and by the end of the day, you feel like you’ve been walked all over.
Your needs go unnoticed. Your needs don’t matter. It’s no wonder so many of us struggle with feelings of resentment and anger. A lot of the time, it all comes down to a matter of boundaries.
For many women, boundaries is an uncomfortable topic but it’s also a really important one. A huge breakthrough for me in this area was learning that it's not just okay, but vitally important for my well-being to meet my own needs by putting boundaries in place.
Boundaries are lines we draw to protect ourselves and our children, ensuring our physical, emotional, and mental safety. They are meant to protect your time, energy, and what you give away and you are worthy of them. Your worth is inherent and you don't need to prove your worth to anyone. A boundary ensures your needs are met because unmet needs can have serious ramifications.
Physical and Emotional Boundaries
There are physical boundaries we can put in place, but there are also emotional ones that protect us. If you feel like you’re getting beyond your window of tolerance, setting a boundary will help you feel safe and regulate your nervous system.
Your boundaries don’t require anyone’s sign-off. Other people may not understand and it may even challenge them, but you can't take care of someone else's feelings while setting your boundaries.
People-Pleasing and Perfectionism
It can feel uncomfortable to set boundaries, especially for people pleasers or perfectionists. Brene Brown says, "Daring to set boundaries is about having the courage to love ourselves, even when we risk disappointing others." The point of a boundary is to take care of yourself.
Boundaries require practice; they are not walls and they can change. It's about deepening your awareness of what feels good in the moment and continually reevaluating.
Boundaries with your partner: Let’s say your partner wants to discuss business right when you're about to go to bed. You’re tired and not in the right frame of mind. A good boundary could be, "Darling, I know this is important, but can we discuss it in the morning when I'm more alert?"
Boundaries with your children: Kids love to push boundaries and it’s your prerogative to keep those boundaries firm or to be flexible. Whether you choose to stay firm on your boundaries, or go against them, make this a conscious choice.
Boundaries for personal time: Simple things like going to the toilet or taking a shower in peace can be crucial boundaries. Your personal space is important and setting clear boundaries will not only help you, but also model this to your children too.
Start noticing as you go about your day what you need and when you start to feel pushed beyond your limits. Understanding these sensations will help you recognise when a boundary is necessary.Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
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Fehlende Folgen?
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I’m tackling a bit of a sensitive topic today and if you’re currently relying on that nightly glass (or two) of wine to unwind after a long, stressful day, it may even hit a raw nerve to hear me talk about why, and how, I gave up wine o’clock.
In Australia, we have such an alcohol fueled culture, which makes it harder to recognise the dangers of wine o'clock in mummy wine culture. It’s become normal to reach for a drink to cope, relax, escape, celebrate, socialise, drown your sorrows, and every other reason we find.
Sure, wine relaxed me in the short term, but drinking also came with a lot of guilt, poor sleep, and a bunch of other negative effects - hello hangover! And when stress showed up in my life, more alcohol did too.
So on Christmas morning of 2021, I decided enough was enough and I was going to stop drinking for 12 months, maybe longer. I'd been longing for the courage to decide for almost two years but before then, I didn’t believe I could completely give up. That morning, I felt immense relief and pride in myself that I had drawn the line in the sand.
Initially, I thought giving up alcohol would be all about willpower and making the conscious decision to stop. But while willpower played a role, I quickly realised that for lasting change, I needed to go deeper.
Going Beyond Willpower to Subconscious Beliefs
In August 2021, I started the alcohol experiment conducted by This Naked Mind to explore my relationship with alcohol. A light bulb moment came on day one of the experiment when I reflected on the question, “Why do I drink?”.
You see, you can use your thoughts and willpower to change your habits. But, this approach only scratches the surface. The real transformation begins when you uncover those deeply ingrained ideas that drive your behaviours. For me, there was a subconscious belief that alcohol was essential for relaxation and coping with stress, a belief that had to be reprogrammed.
When the subconscious and the conscious minds agree, willpower is no longer needed because you're no longer fighting against yourself. After doing the alcohol experiment, I realised that I didn’t even want to drink. My body didn’t like it, my mind didn’t like it and the benefits of being sober far outweighed the challenges.
Giving up wine o'clock wasn't easy, but it was one of the best decisions I've made for myself and my family. It allowed me to find new ways to love and care for myself, without the crutch of alcohol. If you're feeling stuck in a similar cycle, know that change is possible. You can rewire those subconscious beliefs and find healthier ways to cope with the beautiful chaos of motherhood.https://www.soberinthecountry.org/
Watch my video story in Sober in the Country's Amplification Project hereFind free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
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A question most mothers will ask themselves at one point or another is, "Can I really do this?" Balancing motherhood, work, personal growth, and other responsibilities can feel overwhelming, so today I want to share some strategies that have helped me navigate a challenging few months.
I recently went through 9 weeks of solo parenting while my husband was away, during which time I also had multiple gallbladder attacks, underwent surgery, and dealt with ongoing health issues with our children. Everything started piling up and it started to wear me down.
Signs of Reaching the Limit
Stress manifests in many ways—irritability, frustration, and heightened anxiety, to name a few. When I noticed these signs, in particular the feeling of resentment, appearing more frequently, I knew something needed to change. I was short-tempered, and my mental health was slipping because I wasn't making enough time for self-care.
Around three or four weeks ago, I hit a wall but it seemed that the only solution was to push through. During this time, the resentment and bitterness that I was feeling indicated to me that I was out of alignment.
Setting Boundaries
One of the first things I had to work on was setting better boundaries, especially during times when I was solo parenting and didn't have space away from the kids. I've worked hard to establish simple but effective boundaries like not being disturbed when I'm in the shower or on the toilet!
It's important to be brave enough to enforce boundaries, even if they seem trivial. For instance, I've told my children that my office and bedroom are off-limits for their playtime because I need these spaces to function effectively and peacefully.
Shared Responsibility
Resentment often comes from feeling that you're carrying too much of a load. This could be physical tasks, but it can also be the mental and emotional load of feeling responsible for everything.
I’m so grateful to have been recommended the Fair Play method by Eve Rodsky, which involves dividing household responsibilities more equitably. We went through the cards together to decide who takes responsibility for various tasks and it helped us gain clarity, understand each other and distribute the load more fairly.
Balancing Work and Motherhood
Lastly, I had to address my capacity for work. Like many mothers, I love my children more than anything, but my work also brings me joy and a sense of purpose. However, it's challenging to find the right balance. I've learned that I need to be realistic about how much work I can handle without compromising my well-being and ability to be a present, happy mother. Remember, it’s crucial to find joy and fulfilment in both your personal and professional roles.
What thoughts and feelings do you experience when you’re out of alignment?Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
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Motherhood is a profound experience that brings about countless changes. For many women, it comes with a huge identity shift, sometimes even an identity crisis. Before having children, you might have felt like a confident, capable individual with a strong sense of self - but the transition into motherhood can come as quite a shock. A lot of women feel out of control, overwhelmed, isolated and like they no longer have a sense of self.
In 2018, I hit a wall—an experience I term as "falling into the black hole." I felt lost, my confidence shattered, and my identity blurred. Transitioning from an ambitious career woman to a mother gave me so much joy, but it was also incredibly challenging. I was left grappling with the question— "Who am I now?"
Who Are You Really?
Motherhood not only alters your routines but also your inner world and this transformation involves meeting and embracing a new version of yourself. The truth is, the roles we identify with—wife, mother, daughter, colleague, friend —don’t define us.
You are not just the roles you play or the titles you bear. You are not merely your thoughts, physical body, feelings, behaviour, or career. When you strip all of those things away, you are a soul—a spiritual entity living a human experience.
Navigating the Enormous Changes
Nikki McCahon, a leader in matrescence education, writes about the various changes women go through when entering motherhood. It’s not just a matter of things changing physically. In various ways, we all experience an upheaval in our psychological, relational, spiritual, cultural, career, economic, and political lives. It's no surprise that amidst all these changes, you might feel lost, questioning what you’re doing wrong. But know that these changes are part of an immense, transformative process and you are not alone.
Reflect and Reconnect to Your True Self
If you’re struggling with your sense of identity in motherhood, ask yourself these questions:
When do I feel like me?
What do I love?
What am I good at?
What comes naturally to me?
Even amidst the chaos of motherhood, take a few minutes to journal or reflect on these questions. Remember, you are worthy and valuable simply because you are you. Your worthiness is never in question, even if your confidence wavers.
Connecting with yourself at a soul level, away from labels and titles, is vital. Recognise the need to update your self-image to reflect who you are now, not who you were before having children. Allow yourself to explore and remember who you truly are underneath the daily roles and responsibilities.
If you feel the need for support, consider seeking guidance from someone external to help navigate your way through these changes. Establishing a new direction and understanding your true self can be profoundly empowering. And above all, know that even in those dark moments, you have the innate capacity to reconnect with your essence and embrace this evolved version of yourself.
Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
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Words are not just sounds; they are vibrations that shape our entire world. Believe it or not, the stories you tell yourself are ruling your life and these stories can either empower you or hold you back. The choice is completely up to you.
We all have those repetitive stories - the ones embedded in our minds from past experiences, conditioning, and the environments we grew up in. These narratives feel so true because they've been echoed in our minds for years.
But when was the last time you took a step back to observe those stories? Take a moment to reflect on which stories are true and which you should discard. Remember, you are the author of your life. Your story can always be edited.
Listen to Your Inner Dialogue
Often, our internal stories affirm our negative beliefs. Have you noticed how one negative thought can spiral into many more? Whatever we focus on, we move toward.
Start by noticing your inner dialogue. Observe the thoughts that pop into your mind and the words you say out loud. Are these thoughts serving you or holding you back?
Take note of patterns when you hear yourself being self-critical or when you use words that are self-limiting. By catching these moments, you can begin to rewrite them. For example, instead of saying, "I can't do this," shift your language to, "I'm learning and getting better at this."
It’s not about being fake or succumbing to toxic positivity. It’s about becoming aware of your inner dialogue and catching yourself when you set limiting boundaries for yourself. It’s about noticing your thoughts and recognising that they are just stories. Thoughts aren’t always the truth.
Re-frame Stories Through AffirmationsI use affirmations every day to reframe my thoughts, especially when I’m feeling more vulnerable. For me, I know that when I’m tired or sick or when my family is sick, the catastrophising goes downhill quite quickly, so using affirmations is a powerful way to bring my thoughts back into alignment. Here are some of my favourites:
I always have time for what’s important to me.
Everything is working out for me.
Life is happening for me, not to me.
There's always tomorrow.
Speaking out these affirmations helps foster a more positive internal dialogue and almost instantly changes the way I feel in my body. Again, it’s not about ignoring how you feel, it’s about choosing to re-frame the story in a more empowering way.
I’ve seen these principles at work in my own life and in the lives of those I coach. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, instead of saying, "I’m so busy," try saying "I'm managing my time well, and I’m in control.” This subtle shift in language can drastically alter how you feel and how you approach your day.
Be Kind to Yourself
As you go through this process, be gentle and compassionate with yourself. Change doesn’t happen overnight. It’s about making consistent, small adjustments. Observing your thoughts without judgment will create a more compassionate inner environment.
Every day is a new opport
Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
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As I celebrate my 43rd birthday, I find myself reflecting on the journey of the past year. It’s been a period filled with growth, challenges, and ultimately, a great deal of personal development.
From Farm to Town Life
One of the most significant changes in the past year has been our move from the farm to town life in Goondiwindi. For almost a decade, our family lived on a farm near Moonie, engaged in a agricultural business we ran with my parents and family. However, in 2023, we made the challenging decision to relocate to town during the school terms, and then full time in town in 2024.
The Freedom and Challenges of Town Life
I’ve greatly enjoyed being able to grab a coffee in town, an indulgence that seemed so simple yet luxurious. It’s the little things you notice the most.
Working with a personal trainer has been another highlight. What started as a weight-loss journey evolved into something much more profound, impacting my physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
While town life has its perks, it also brought its own set of challenges. Adjusting to the separation from the farm was tough. My connection to the land runs deep, and leaving behind what we thought would be our forever home was heart-wrenching.
Growing Through Personal Challenges
My personal journey over the past year has been marked by several health challenges, including a knee injury that required multiple surgeries. This taught me patience and the importance of prioritising my well-being. It also made me realise the significance of daily movement and a balanced lifestyle for my mental health.
Solo parenting has been yet another hurdle. With Adam at the farm during the week, I have been in charge of parenting the boys and being there for all the after school activities.
I’ve realised that I’m easily overstimulated, especially from the chaos when my boys come home from school. Discovering that I'm a highly sensitive person has helped me understand why I become easily overstimulated and what steps I need to take to manage it.
Support Systems and Personal Growth
Reaching out for help has been crucial. Whether it’s hiring a cleaner or having someone assist with house chores, these supports have been invaluable. They have allowed me to focus on my children and my personal growth without feeling overwhelmed by daily tasks.
Additionally, mentors and health practitioners have played essential roles in my journey. Focusing on foundational aspects like sleep, hydration, nutrition, and mental health has been life-changing.
Embracing Creativity and the Big Picture
This year, I’ve also made space for my creative side, whether it’s through singing or simply going for a walk and allowing my mind to wander. These activities nourish my soul.
Reflecting on this past year, I’m filled with gratitude for the journey and the lessons learned. Each challenge has been a stepping stone to deeper self-awareness and growth. As I step into another year of my life, I carry with me the understand
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What does it mean to be the “perfect” mother?
And is this a standard that we should even remotely be trying to live up to?
For some background, listen to episode 26 where I chat with Dr. Sophie Brock, a mentor of mine who specialises in this area and with whom I completed my Motherhood Studies Practitioner Certification. She has a fantastic podcast called "The Good Enough Mother" that you should definitely check out.
Firstly, let's acknowledge the pressure. Social media, movies, even our own upbringings bombard us with unrealistic expectations of what motherhood should look like. This constant comparison can be a recipe for guilt, shame, and exhaustion.
Professor Andrea O'Reilly outlines eight societal rules of perfect motherhood that contribute to this myth. These include the idea that mothers must be the sole caregivers, available 24/7, prioritise their children's needs above all else, and constantly strive for perfection. It's an impossible standard!
Here's the liberating truth: there is no such thing as a perfect mother. Dr. Sophie Brock shares that internalising these pressures can lead to significant stress, anxiety, and depression.
The good news is, we can rewrite the rules!
Here's how to get started:
Identify your triggers. Notice when you feel that familiar guilt or shame. Is it mealtimes? Screen time? Make a note of these situations.Challenge your thoughts. These triggers are clues that you're holding yourself to an unrealistic standard.Rewrite your rule. For each trigger, write down a new rule that reflects your values and priorities as a mother. For example, "I am a good enough mother when I get healthy food on the table most nights, not every night."Embrace "good enough." Remember, your worth is not defined by your mothering. You are inherently good enough.This journey of rewriting the rules is empowering. It allows you to create a motherhood experience that works for you and your family.
Remember, you are strong, capable, and enough exactly as you are.
Links:
Episode 26 with Dr Sophie BrockThe Good Enough Mother Podcast
Amy Taylor-Kabbaz
Nikki McCahon
Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
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Being a mum is amazing, but let's be honest, it's also very hard work! And when sickness hits your house, it can feel like everything explodes into chaos. I know for me personally, I find not only my physical health deteriorates if I’m unwell, but my mental health really takes a dive.
So I thought it may be helpful to share some strategies that I have to help improve your mindset when those germs come knocking.
What I’ve found to be powerful: shift your focus. Our thoughts are powerful things. Instead of stewing about how ill you feel, find some gratitude. Maybe you're grateful your kids are finally sleeping through the night (even if it's because they're knocked out by a cold). Think positive thoughts! Imagine yourself getting healthier with every sunrise.
Feeling like you're gonna lose it?
Take a deep breath! Deep breathing is amazing for calming your nerves and reminding you that this too shall pass. You’re not in any immediate threat and you are safe. Getting some sunshine and fresh air works wonders too.
Need a little mood boost?
Turn on some happy music, listen to a guided meditation, or find some funny videos online. Anything that makes you smile is a win.
The bottom line is this: you're not alone. Every mum faces these battles. By using these simple tips, you can weather the storm of sickness and come out the other side feeling calmer and more positive.
Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
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As a Mum of four, coach and multiple business owner, I spend most of my days listening, nurturing, and getting things done. There's not always a lot of room for, well, me.
This year, I decided to change that. I started thinking about what I could do as a hobby that was purely for myself. It didn’t have to be connected to any particular career aspirations or life goals, it just had to feel like it was just for me.
The more I thought about it, I decided singing lessons would be something I’d like to try, although the thought of it made my palms sweaty. But I was determined to step out of my comfort zone and discover more about myself as a person.
I’d always enjoyed singing as a young girl (didn’t we all dance and sing into the hairbrush as a teen?) and I signed up for singing lessons with the amazing Jayden who is seriously the most encouraging human ever.
Let me tell you, those first few lessons were rough. My inner critic was having a field day – who did I think I was, belting out tunes in a room, even if it was a soundproof shed. But Jayden kept pushing me to "take up space," to embrace the sound of my own voice, wobbly notes and all.
And guess what? It's been incredible.
Singing lessons have become more than just learning proper technique and focusing on my breathing. They've become a way to reconnect with my playful side, to let go of control and just have fun making weird noises (yes, weird noises are part of the curriculum).
More importantly, it's shown my kids a different side of me. They see me learning something new, embracing challenges, and maybe even butchering a song or two. I’m not attached to the outcome and I know practice is progress. They’re learning that too. It's a powerful message – that it's okay to pursue your passions, no matter your age or skill level.
This weekend, I'm even doing a performance with Jayden's other students! Nervous? Absolutely. But also excited to step outside my comfort zone and, well, take up some space.
So, I pose a challenge to you: how are you taking up space in your life? Are there dreams you've put on hold?
Maybe it's time to dust them off and give them a go. You might be surprised at what you discover about yourself.
Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
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“Is this decision serving me to my greater good?”
This is one of the questions I want to leave you with as I take a break from this podcast.
I have found making the decision to put the podcast, and other parts of my business on hold to be incredibly difficult, and I understand that readjusting your priorities can be hard, but you are important and your health is important.Adam and I are off to forge our own path in our farming business and as we make plans and decide what that will look like for us and our family I want to be there for all of it by having the headspace and capacity to be fully present, and to be emotionally available for my family.
My deepest gratitude and heartfelt thanks to you for tuning into ME + MOTHERHOOD over this year and for joining in on the conversations.
Benita x
Be kind to yourself as you listen to this. If this, or any, ME + MOTHERHOOD podcast episode ‘triggers you’ or raise issues for you, I urge you to reach out and speak to a professional on any one of these related support lines:
Lifeline: 13 11 14Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467Blue Knot Helpline: 1300 657 380PANDA National Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Helpline: 1300 726 306Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
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Dr Sophie Brock is a motherhood studies sociologist and mother living in Sydney, Australia. She provides analysis of motherhood in our culture and the ways individual experiences of mothers are shaped by broader social constructs.
Sophie's work contributes to changing the cultural conversation on motherhood and the individual experiences of mothers to create a world where mothers feel empowered, supported and valued.
In this episode we cover:
Dr Sophie’s Fish Tank of Motherhood analogy for understanding social constructThe power of rewriting the narrative around motherhood, shifting from victimhood to agency and the concept of the “good enough mother”The impact of societal constructs and culture on experiences of motherhood and the need for questioning of societal norms and expectationsThe “perfect mother myth” and addressing anger, understanding triggers and finding productive ways to respondAs you navigate your own motherhood journey and the challenges of being a mum, it’s crucial to remember that you are not alone. Together, we can debunk harmful narratives, validate our experiences and work towards a society where mothers feel supported and valued.
The wisdom and practical experience that Dr Sophie shares in this episode is going to be incredibly impactful on your motherhood journey
Benita x
Connect with Dr Sophie Brock:
The 'Fish-Tank' of Motherhood Model
The Good Enough Mother Podcast
Be kind to yourself as you listen to this. If this, or any, ME + MOTHERHOOD podcast episode ‘triggers you’ or raise issues for you, I urge you to reach out and speak to a professional on any one of these related support lines:
Lifeline: 13 11 14Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467Blue Knot Helpline: 1300 657 380PANDA National Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Helpline: 1300 726 306Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
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“Our challenges now will be their strengths in the future” shares Steph Schmidt on navigating her motherhood journey.
Steph is a psychologist working in farmer mental health and grassroots and community based strategies. She is also a mother to 3 boys and alongside her husband runs a sheep and cropping farm in South Australia.
Steph openly admits that she has found motherhood to be the hardest thing she has ever done, and has navigated raising 3 sparkler boys on a busy farm whilst battling postnatal depression.
In this episode we cover:
Navigating the ups and downs of motherhood and embracing the different seasons that come with itThe challenges and joys Steph has experienced balancing farmwork, solo parenting and prioritising what is most important in lifeEmbracing authenticity while sharing personal experiences and respecting the privacy of othersWhat Steph knows about motherhood now that she wishes she knew back at the beginning of her journeySteph’s experience with postnatal depressionSteph is incredibly open and honest about the challenges and joys that she has faced on her motherhood journey so far and I know that you will take so much of her wisdom with you.
Benita x
Connect with Steph’s Story: https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/stories/stephanie-schmidts-story
Be kind to yourself as you listen to this. If this, or any, ME + MOTHERHOOD podcast episode ‘triggers you’ or raise issues for you, I urge you to reach out and speak to a professional on any one of these related support lines:
Lifeline: 13 11 14Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467Blue Knot Helpline: 1300 657 380PANDA National Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Helpline: 1300 726 306Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
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“I am”
Have you ever thought about the power and potency of these words?
What we impress on our subconscious mind is what comes to reality for us.
The power that words hold for us can easily be overlooked or thrown to the side, and in the last 18 months I have become aware that since I was a teenager I have been managing a tendency towards anxiety and made the conscious decision to never say “I am anxious”.
Why?
Because when I say those words, I feel my heart skip a beat and the anxiety within me.This is a short episode to help you understand the importance of these two powerful words and how you can use everyday language to empower yourself and be the person you want to be.
Benita x
Be kind to yourself as you listen to this. If this, or any, ME + MOTHERHOOD podcast episode ‘triggers you’ or raise issues for you, I urge you to reach out and speak to a professional on any one of these related support lines:
Lifeline: 13 11 14Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467Blue Knot Helpline: 1300 657 380PANDA National Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Helpline: 1300 726 306Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with meSubscribe: Join my mailing list
Website: http://www.benitabensch.com
Freebie: Affirmation Email Series
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch
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Sunny Roberts is deeply passionate about helping women return to their feminine energy. Born and raised in Germany and working in a corporate career she spent her 20s operating in masculine push mode and burnt out at 28 which led her to become a yoga and mindfulness teacher.
Becoming a mum of two boys she found herself struggling in her own marriage of 7 years and was ready to give up when she discovered that embracing her feminine energy was the key to lasting connection and love in her relationship.
Today she is on a mission to help other women have the same awakening. Sunny deeply believes that every woman deserves to feel loved and cherished in her relationship. What separates Sunny from others in this space is that she actually lives what she talks about.
In this episode we cover:
Navigating the challenges of parenthood and maintaining a healthy relationship amidst the chaos.How Sunny rediscovered and embraced her femininity as a means of improving personal satisfaction and relationship dynamics.The importance of prioritising your time and effort in nurturing the relationship between partners as parents.Seeking help and support from professionals to facilitate important conversations and navigate relationship difficulties.The transformative journey of self-discovery and identity redefinition in the context of motherhood and partnership.This is a beautiful conversation focused around the stages of relationships and challenges faced by parents and how you can navigate through these seasons.
I know you will love getting to know Sunny and our conversation.
Benita x
Connect with Sunny:
Instagram: @wholehearted.woman
Join the Wholehearted Woman Facebook Community
Be kind to yourself as you listen to this. If this, or any, ME + MOTHERHOOD podcast episode ‘triggers you’ or raise issues for you, I urge you to reach out and speak to a professional on any one of these related support lines:
Lifeline: 13 11 14Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467Blue Knot Helpline: 1300 657 380PANDA National Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Helpline: 1300 726 306Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with meSubscribe: Join my mailing list
Website: http://www.benitabensch.com
Freebie: Affirmation Email Series
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch
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**Themes of mental health, pregnancy loss, medical trauma and women’s health issues.
**This is not an episode for little people's ears. Pop your headphones on, or listen to it when you're alone.“I’ve really learned that the best parents, and the best mums that I know are the ones that become the parent that their child needs them to be” shares Kate Fisher on her motherhood experience.
Kate is a fierce blood donation advocate and is the creator of the Milkshakes for Marleigh blood donation movement and podcast. She is also a child centre play therapist working with children and families who have experienced medical trauma
Kate and her husband Geoff have four children, three of those living, with her youngest having autoimmune encephalitis and accompanied by their additional family member, Patty the seizure response and autism assistance dog.
In this episode we cover:
How Kate sums up her motherhood experience and her road to welcoming children into the worldGratitude, permission and the role of support networks for infertility and motherhoodNavigating a pandemic with an immunocompromised childNavigating family life with three children with various neurodevelopmental disabilities and a critical health conditionLeaning in and leaning out, navigating survival mode and finding what serves Kate as a mum through difficult timesThis is a deep and heavy conversation in parts and there is so much more that we cover than what is written here.
I know that there are mother’s out there that will benefit from hearing about Kate’s motherhood story.
Benita x
Connect with Kate:
Hear more about Marleigh’s story on the Milkshakes for Marleigh Podcast: Spotify or Apple
Join the Milkshakes for Marleigh Lifeblood Team: 131 495
Instagram: @katefisherplaytherapy and @milkshakes_for_marleigh
Website: milkshakesformarleigh.org
Be kind to yourself as you listen to this. If this, or any, ME + MOTHERHOOD podcast episode ‘triggers you’ or raise issues for you, I urge you to reach out and speak to a professional on any one of these related support lines:
Lifeline: 13 11 14Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467Blue Knot Helpline: 1300 657 380PANDA National Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Helpline: 1300 726 306Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with meSubscribe: Join my mailing list
Website: http://www.benitabensch.com
Freebie: Affirmation Email Series
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch
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My own invisible battle.
This has been on my heart for a while now, and it will give you some context for the work that I do with mums, my experiences and hardships with mental health from my own motherhood journey.
In this episode I share a very personal, raw and vulnerable letter that I wrote in November 2018 and emailed to a group of Mums around the same stage of motherhood I was.
At the time of writing this letter I was finding my feet again after burnout, postnatal anxiety, and probably postnatal depression, though I didn't have a handle on those terms at the time. I wrote it because I wanted other mums to know that I wasn't always the 'supermum' they thought I was (a smile can cover up a lot!) and that they weren’t alone if they had felt the same way I did.
I also chat about:
A little life update post ACL surgeryMy invisible struggle with mental health as a mumFinding joy, creativity and a way to contribute meaningfully through my personal developmentWhy I don’t think it’s healthy to put a spotlight on the term “supermum”The strength and realisation I found in writing out my struggle and how I got support to move through “The Black Hole”I know that this letter will resonate with so many mums out there who are going through their own invisible struggle too. I want you to know that you’re never alone!
Benita x
Be kind to yourself as you listen to this. If this, or any, ME + MOTHERHOOD podcast episode ‘triggers you’ or raise issues for you, I urge you to reach out and speak to a professional on any one of these related support lines:
Lifeline: 13 11 14Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467Blue Knot Helpline: 1300 657 380PANDA National Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Helpline: 1300 726 306Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with meSubscribe: Join my mailing list
Website: http://www.benitabensch.com
Freebie: Affirmation Email Series
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch
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Katrina is a Meditation and Wellbeing educator, a fourth generation farmer and co-owner of the family run business, Barham Avocados.
Katrina is a passionate rural advocate who cares deeply about rural and regional Australia and is on a mission to support Rural Women to thrive and lead through her Meditation and Mindset Training Business.
Her experience travelling all over the world shaped her desire to build strong and supportive rural communities with thriving people to enhance a sense of belonging and to encourage entrepreneurism and innovation.
She hosts a podcast called This Rural Life and runs a boutique accommodation offering on their farm near Barham. Katrina has been a panellist on Q+A and has featured on ABCs Women’s Work program Smiling Mind campaigns as well as various radio interviews.
In this episode we cover:
Katrina’s view on productivity as a busy mum of four juggling life and business and how you can be more productive through doing less.The importance of practising presence and getting off the hamster wheel of endless thoughts and multitasking in our mind.Laying the important foundations of sleep, rest, food and movement to be able to achieve the incredible things that you are here to achieve.What we, as women, need to get better at considering when it comes to saying yes, and being honest with ourselves about our capacity and priorities.Why Katrina loves meditation and her top 3 strategies for managing a full plate with joy and ease.This conversation is all about productivity vs presence and the question “When you say yes to something, what are you saying no to?”
I know so many of you will love this conversation.
Benita x
Connect with Katrina:
Wellbeing, Meditation, Podcast: @katrina_myers_
Lost and Found Retreat: @lostandfoundbarham
Barham Avocados: @barhamavocados
www.katrinamyers.com.au
www.barhamavocados.com.auBe kind to yourself as you listen to this. If this, or any, ME + MOTHERHOOD podcast episode ‘triggers you’ or raise issues for you, I urge you to reach out and speak to a professional on any one of these related support lines:
Lifeline: 13 11 14Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467Blue Knot Helpline: 1300 657 380PANDA National Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Helpline: 1300 726 306Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with meSubscribe: Join my mailing list
Website: http://www.benitabensch.com
Freebie: Affirmation Email Series
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch
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“No matter how fiercely independent you are and how much you struggle to ask for help, when push comes to shove, you end up having to ask for help” shares Riana Davis on her motherhood lessons.
Riana has been officially part of our family for around 10 years, and I am so grateful to call her my sister-in-law. Riana is married to my younger brother Shawn and together they have two young girls aged 7 and 9 who are the most incredible little humans.
As far as mums go Riana is incredible and she has joined me on the podcast to share her motherhood story which includes the loneliness, difficulty and fullness that comes with being a mum.
In this episode we cover:
How Riana sums up her motherhood experience so farThe importance of creating a village around you, and how this can go well beyond family and comes in all different shapes and sizesNavigating motherhood when her husband is out of the house from 5am each morning, and making millions of little decisions each day on your ownThe greatest joys Riana has experienced as a mum, along with the greatest challengesWorking through making tough decisions and having neurodivergent childrenThere’s so much more that Riana and I touch on in this episode as well, including the importance of being open and honest about the struggles that come with motherhood so that others don’t feel so alone.
I know so many of you will love this conversation.
Benita x
Be kind to yourself as you listen to this. If this, or any, ME + MOTHERHOOD podcast episode ‘triggers you’ or raise issues for you, I urge you to reach out and speak to a professional on any one of these related support lines:
Lifeline: 13 11 14Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467Blue Knot Helpline: 1300 657 380PANDA National Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Helpline: 1300 726 306Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with meSubscribe: Join my mailing list
Website: http://www.benitabensch.com
Freebie: Affirmation Email Series
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch
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The Art of Trying.
In this context, trying is the colloquial term used to describe the process of deliberately timing intercourse to coincide with ovulation for the purpose of creating an embryo.
It implies action.
I came to detest the word trying because it invoked in me a sense of hard work, futility and never quite getting there.
It’s also the title of my book.
Whilst my husband and I now have 4 beautiful children, it was a long journey filled with dark and light while trying to conceive at different times over 7 years.
If you are currently experiencing an underlying pain of things happening or not happening for you this little bite sized episode is a note to you to let you know that I get it.
Benita x
PS. This episode comes from the preface of my book, The Art of Trying. If you’d like to read a little more, you can download a free copy of chapter 1 here: https://benitabensch.com/the-art-of-trying/#free
PSS. BUSY MUMS! THIS IS FOR YOU!
Join me for a free mid-year check-in, training, opportunity for self exploration, coaching with Benita AND a giveaway!
Head to my website at https://benitabensch.com/reset/Be kind to yourself as you listen to this. If this, or any, ME + MOTHERHOOD podcast episode ‘triggers you’ or raise issues for you, I urge you to reach out and speak to a professional on any one of these related support lines:
Lifeline: 13 11 14Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467Blue Knot Helpline: 1300 657 380PANDA National Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Helpline: 1300 726 306Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with meSubscribe: Join my mailing list
Website: http://www.benitabensch.com
Freebie: Affirmation Email Series
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch
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