Why I Love the RAIN Framework for Practicing Self-Compassion
I think what you'll love the most about this conversation with Valerie Arbeau of Special Needs Moms - Circle of Strength podcast, is the camaraderie and connection we had.
“Interview with Kate Lynch, a yoga teacher and mindful parent coach utilizing the RAIN framework, who is raising a son with autism.”
-Valerie Arbeau, Host of Special Needs Moms - Circle of Strength
One of the things I loved most about Valerie’s interviewing style, is how she started by asking me to share something unique about me, and it had nothing to do with my life as a parent. We all need reminders: before we were parents, we were fully realized adults with interests, wants, and needs of our own!
Valerie is focused on sharing stories of resilience, love, hope, and strength.
I hope you’ll give her podcast a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review!
Inspired by the podcast’s show notes:
⭐️ Kate shares about her nomadic childhood and love for travel: She went backpacking through Southeast Asia at 30, exploring the uniqueness of her experiences.
Kate's Favorite Place in Southeast Asia: Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Reflecting on the spiritual and cathartic experience while immersed in the ruins.
⭐️ Kate's Special Needs Mom Journey: Settling down after travels, meeting her husband in Brooklyn. Challenges and joys of parenthood, trying for a child, and the difficulties faced in the first year.
⭐️ Recognition of Special Needs: Concerns about her son, Ocean, emerged around six months. She sought early intervention due to his developmental delays and unique behaviors.
⭐️ Diagnosis and Support: Autism diagnosis through a neuropsychological evaluation. Kate shares about her efforts to provide the necessary support for Ocean's development. Challenges faced and the importance of community and support for parents.
Kate shares personal experiences about her son's challenges and achievements. The impact of societal ableism on the special needs parenting journey.
⭐️ Lesson Learned: Self-compassion as a vital lesson in navigating the challenges of life. The RAIN framework by Tara Brach: Recognize, Allow, Investigate, Nurture.
⭐️ Self-Care Activities: Balancing self-care with being a parent of a child with special needs. Engaging in activities like yoga, mindfulness, nature walks, reading, and mindful breathing.
⭐️ Encouragement to Other Special Needs Parents: You're not alone. Encouraging parents to reach out, connect, and build a supportive community. Emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and acknowledging personal worthiness.
Here’s the 6 min self-compassion video I mentioned:
Repeat this meditation often to gain the benefits of self-compassion.
Turn towards your discomfort courageously.
Recognize that everything arises and passes.
Know you're not the only one feeling this way.
What would you say to your best friend if they felt this way?
Turn that kindness towards yourself.
Put a hand where you feel the feeling, and ask what this part of you most needs.
Breathe and show up just as you are.
Integrate this practice into your daily life.
There are several other wonderful interviews on the podcast, so be sure to follow it, and share this podcast with parents like us, who you know will benefit from feeling less alone.
It’s a quick 31 minutes, and I’d love to know your reaction after you listen.
New Year's Day Yoga, Purpose, & Journaling
⭐️ Join us tomorrow so you can feel cozy and supported as you practice with a welcoming group. Trust your heart to guide you toward love and truth in the New Year. It’s January 1 at 1 pm Eastern.
A replay link will be sent to everyone who is registered.
Move gently
Breathe mindfully
Connect with your purpose for 2024
It's free, and anyone can join through this link. Pets are expected!
“Kate has a lovely way of encouraging you to be your best self.”
-Alexa F
⭐️ I'm opening the doors to our online yoga membership:
The Compassion Club will be open January 1-5. Members value the personal connection, gentle accountability, and coziness they find inside. If you take care of everyone except yourself, and you're ready to change that pattern, I’d like you to join me in The Compassion Club. The encouragement, fun, and community you'll find here will help you not just to stay on track... It can help you make lasting change!
