Transform Your Finances: The Benefits of a Financial Needs Analysis

August 17, 2025 by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Money and Mental Health: Why a Financial Needs Analysis is a Game Changer

Let’s be honest – money isn’t just about paying the bills. It’s about peace of mind. And if you’ve ever stayed up at night worrying about whether you’re saving enough, paying off debt fast enough, or protecting your family in case something unexpected happens, you know how quickly finances can affect your mental health.

For many of us, money stress is right up there with juggling work, kids, and daily life. It’s one of those “silent strains” that shows up as anxiety, tension in relationships, or even a feeling of being stuck. On the flip side, when you feel financially secure, everything else feels just a little lighter – your shoulders drop, you breathe easier, and you can actually think about the future with excitement instead of dread.

Why It’s About More Than Budgeting

Now, don’t get me wrong – budgeting is important. But real financial confidence goes way beyond simply tracking expenses. You need a clear picture of your entire financial life: what’s working, what needs attention, and how to make your money start working for you.

That’s where a Financial Needs Analysis (FNA) comes in. Think of it like a wellness check-up for your finances. It’s not about judgment or telling you to skip your morning coffee; it’s about looking at your financial health as a whole.

Here’s what an FNA usually covers:

Cash Flow Review – Where your money comes in, and where it sneaks out.
Debt Strategy – Finding the smartest way to tackle debt without sacrificing your sanity.
Protection Planning – Do you have the right insurance in place to protect your family if life throws you a curveball?
Savings & Investments – How to start growing your money, even if it’s just a little at a time.
Retirement Planning – Making sure the future version of you is taken care of.

Why Everyone Needs One (Yes, Even You)

You don’t need to be rolling in cash to benefit from a financial needs analysis. In fact, the earlier and more often you do it, the stronger and more confident you’ll feel about your money.

Here’s what it can give you:

Less Stress: Clarity brings calm. Knowing where you stand is half the battle.
Protection: Safeguard what you already have — your income, your home, your family’s future.
A Growth Plan: Your money should be working just as hard as you are. An FNA shows you how.
A Roadmap: Instead of reacting to money problems, you’ll be following a plan that fits your goals and lifestyle.

From Surviving to Thriving

When you tackle your finances with a full-picture plan, you’re not just taking care of dollars and cents — you’re taking care of your mental health and your family’s future. The relief you’ll feel knowing you’re on the right path is priceless.

So here’s the truth: whether you have a little money, a lot, or you’re somewhere in between, a Financial Needs Analysis is for you. It’s not just about budgeting. It’s about protecting what matters, preparing for the unexpected, and putting your money to work so it supports the life you’ve always wanted.

Because at the end of the day, financial peace of mind isn’t just about money — it’s about living with confidence and freedom.

✨ Takeaway: Don’t wait until stress takes over. Get your financial check-up. Your bank account (and your mental health) will thank you.

How to Cope with Anxiety While Waiting for Change

August 13, 2025 by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

The Agony of Waiting (and How to Survive It Without Losing Your Mind)

We’ve all been there.
The email is sent. The interview went great. The scale is so close to that magic number.
You’re halfway through a project, a life change, or a dream, and now you’re…
just…
waiting.

Waiting for the phone to ring.
Waiting for the green light.
Waiting for the thing you know is coming (probably) but still feels like it’s stuck in a cosmic traffic jam.

It’s maddening.

Why Waiting Feels So Hard

Waiting is a limbo space. You’re not where you were, but you’re not yet where you want to be. Our brains hate that. They crave certainty, closure, and momentum. Without it, anxiety loves to step in and narrate a running “what if” list like an over-caffeinated sports commentator.

We’ve been taught that if we’re not actively doing something, we’re failing, lazy, or wasting time. So we start filling the space with noise—tasks, projects, errands—sometimes not because they matter, but because the silence of waiting feels unbearable.

Here’s the Truth: You Don’t Have to Fill Every Second

Waiting doesn’t have to be passive, but it also doesn’t have to be crammed full of “productivity” for the sake of appearances.
There’s a radical thing we can do instead:
Be still.

Being still doesn’t mean being frozen. It means giving yourself permission to exist without constantly proving your worth through output. Stillness can be taking a slow walk without a podcast in your ears. Sitting outside with a cup of coffee, just watching the way sunlight hits the leaves. Allowing yourself to breathe without thinking, “I should be doing something right now.”

What You Can Do While You Wait (Without Driving Yourself Crazy)

Hold space for yourself
Give your emotions somewhere to go. Journal them. Talk them out. Cry if you need to. Sometimes the waiting is the work, because you’re learning to sit with uncertainty.
Set “check-in” times
Instead of obsessively refreshing your inbox, decide you’ll check it at certain times of the day. Boundaries keep you from spiraling into constant vigilance.
Practice micro-pleasures
Do tiny, nourishing things that don’t have to lead anywhere—a short walk, a chapter of a book, baking something, or even rearranging your desk for your own comfort.
Reconnect with the non-outcome parts of life
The people, hobbies, and routines that aren’t tied to the thing you’re waiting for can ground you in the present.
Let it be awkward
Not every season has to be full of dazzling growth. Some seasons are about holding the ground while the seed sprouts underground, invisible to you.

The Gentle Reminder

You don’t have to earn the right to rest.
You don’t have to distract yourself into exhaustion.
And you don’t have to let waiting steal all the joy out of right now.

The thing you’re waiting for will come—or something else will arrive in its place—and you’ll move forward when it’s time. In the meantime, give yourself grace. Stay curious. Be still when you can. Move when it feels good.

Because life isn’t just about the big moments when the call finally comes, the scale tips, or the email lands. It’s also about the quiet minutes in between—the waiting room of life—where we learn who we are without the outcome.

Simplify Your Financial Journey with a Free Needs Analysis

July 29, 2025 by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

I have been feeling pretty good today and decided to be extra and do another blog post. It will clue you in on what I have been working on besides my physical and mental health. Trust me, with a chronic health condition, you start to worry about finances, looking at insurance options, staring down the barrel of “retirement age” and what all of that means and definitely “what if the worst happens?” So keep reading and I will give you some insight.

Getting Your Finances on Track — One Step at a Time

When it comes to money, most of us aren’t looking for a sales pitch—we’re looking for clarity. Whether you’re drowning in bills or sitting on some savings and wondering if it’s really working for you, the idea of sitting down for a financial review might sound overwhelming. But here’s the truth: no matter where you are on your financial journey, a free Financial Needs Analysis (FNA) can be a game-changer.

I work with families and individuals every day who are trying to make sense of it all—budgeting, paying down debt, saving for the future, and protecting what matters most. As a licensed Primerica representative, my job isn’t to sell you something you don’t need. It’s to help you get your financial house in order, starting with the basics.

Why a Financial Needs Analysis?

Think of the FNA as a roadmap. It takes a full view of your current financial situation—income, expenses, debt, insurance, savings—and helps identify areas where you can improve. Even if you’re not sold on the idea of buying term life insurance and investing the rest (a strategy we believe in because of its flexibility and potential for growth), this analysis still provides real, actionable insight into your finances.

Here’s what we’ll cover together:

Budgeting: Let’s find out where your money is going and how to make it go further.
Debt payoff strategies: Whether it’s credit cards, student loans, or other debt, I can show you how to develop a plan to eliminate it faster.
Emergency savings: We’ll talk about realistic ways to build your safety net.
Protection: If something unexpected happens—like a death or illness—you need to be sure your family is financially secure. I can help you assess your life insurance needs and see what’s already in place.
Estate planning basics: It’s not just for the wealthy. Everyone should have a plan for their family and their legacy.
Home and auto coverage: I have access to partners that can help you review and potentially improve your existing coverage.
Retirement and investment review: Already saving for the future? Let’s make sure that money is working for you, not just sitting in an underperforming account.

No Pressure. Just a Path Forward.

Let’s be honest—finances can be intimidating. But with the right guidance and tools, it becomes manageable. And more importantly, it becomes empowering. The goal isn’t to push a product—it’s to partner with you to make informed decisions about your money, with clarity and confidence.

So whether you feel completely stuck or you think you’ve already got everything figured out, take advantage of the free Financial Needs Analysis. You might be surprised at what we uncover and how simple some solutions can be.

Let’s connect. Partner with me and let’s take that first step toward financial peace of mind- TOGETHER.

Love and light y’all!

Heart-Healthy Living: Your Guide to Safe Movement

July 29, 2025 by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

My journey so far has been pretty successful. I am still waiting for a couple of consults. I am adjusting as are the folks at home with me. I think it’s easy to forget that I have this condition sometimes. I look like I always have. I still enjoy the same things. I don’t look sick, and honestly, that’s the idea!!! I want to be able to continue to live a long life. I want to see all of my children grow up. I hope they follow their dreams. So here is my contribution to encouraging you to take care of yourself, even when it is challenging.

🫀 Heart-Healthy Movement, Sleep, and Peace of Mind

1. Moving with Cardiomyopathy: Start Small, Go Slow

If you’re living with cardiomyopathy—regardless of whether it’s dilated, hypertrophic, or arrhythmogenic—it’s important to move safely under medical supervision. A personalized plan starts with a thorough evaluation, stress testing, and medication optimization. Moderate exercise—such as walking, gentle strength or resistance work, yoga—is generally recommended. High-intensity or competitive sports may be allowed only after careful risk assessment and shared decision-making with your cardiologist (cardiology.theclinics.com, American College of Cardiology).

Patients without high-risk markers in dilated cardiomyopathy (ejection fraction LVEF ≥ 40–45%, no arrhythmias) can safely engage in low to moderate intensity recreational exercise. That includes walking, Pilates, light resistance training under guidance (IMR Press). Avoid heavy lifting, sprinting, or competitive sports until cleared by your doctor (cardiomyopathy.org, American College of Cardiology).

⚡ Pro Tip: If you feel dizziness, chest tightness, unusual shortness of breath, or palpitations during activity, stop and check in with your care team (cardiomyopathy.org).

2. Gentle Movement That Counts

Walking breaks: Even a short walk to the driveway counts—especially during hot Texas days. Keep hydrated and take shade breaks.
Restorative yoga & Pilates: Ideal for increasing flexibility, releasing neck/shoulder tension, and easing posture issues from computer use.
Neck and shoulder rolls: Simple, effective micro-movements you can do at your desk or between emails.
Dance breaks: Lunch break dance sessions spike your heart rate gently and boost mood—plus, being your fun self is priceless.

These kinds of movement help maintain blood circulation without overtaxing your heart.

3. Building Yoga, Meditation & Mindful Relaxation

Yoga poses/pilates: Focus on gentle flows: Shoulder stretches, neck relief, cat-cow, child’s pose, and seated twists.
Mindful breathing or meditation: Even 5 minutes daily can lower stress, reduce tension, and improve cardiac rhythm control.
When tension shows up—pause work, take some shoulder rolls, stand up for a moment, or do a small stretch. These small pauses build up over time.

Your awareness around tension — especially in neck/shoulders—shows smart self-care in action.

4. Sleep: Your Heart and Body Depend on It

Sleep is a cornerstone of heart health. Experts recommend 7–9 hours per night for adults aged 18–64 and 7–8 hours for older adults (Wikipedia).

About one‑third of adults fail to meet that goal, increasing risk of heart disease, cognitive decline, and metabolic issues (EatingWell).
A large-body study found that consistently sleeping 7–8 hours per night improves so-called healthy aging odds by ≈18 % (verywellhealth.com).
Sleeping significantly less—or more—regularly has been linked to poor brain function, higher anxiety, and increased cardiovascular risk (health.com).

Tips to improve sleep:

Go to bed and wake up at the same time daily.
Avoid caffeine, heavy meals, and electronics in the 1–2 hours before bedtime.
Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Use blackout curtains or white noise if needed.
Use the bed only for sleep (and sex)—not for work or scrolling (Wikipedia).

5. Medications + Heart-Smart Lifestyle

Take meds as prescribed—especially those that support heart function like beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, or others tailored to your condition.
Maintain regular cardiology follow-up so dosage or activity levels can be safely adjusted.
Remember: movement, sleep, diet, meds, meditation—they all work together to help you find your new normal.

6. Putting It All Together: A Personalized Daily Rhythm

Time of Day	Activity Suggestion
Morning	Gentle yoga/stretch (e.g. cat-cow, shoulder rolls), mindful breathing for 5 min
Midday/Lunch	Dance break with your favorite tunes to move and uplift your mood
Afternoon	Stand/stretch break, walk to end of driveway, sip water
Evening	Light resistance or Pilates session (15–20 min), especially targeting neck/shoulders
Before Bed	Calm routine: dim lights, stretch, avoid screens, breathe deeply for relaxation

Each activity is low impact, heart-conscious, and designed to fit your lifestyle—not overtax your heart.

✨ Final Thoughts

You don’t need vigorous jogging or high-stress workouts to stay active. In fact, for cardiomyopathy patients:

Low-to-moderate aerobic movement, strength training, and mind-body practices offer heart and mind benefits without overstressing the heart (childrenscardiomyopathy.org).
Prioritizing 7–8 hours of restorative sleep supports healing, heart resilience, and emotional well-being.
Combined with medication adherence and regular cardiology check-ups, these lifestyle steps define your new normal—one where you move, rest, and breathe in ways that feel good and are medically appropriate.

You’re doing an amazing job adapting to life and its changes. Keep listening to your body, loving yourself through the process—and celebrating every small, intentional move you make. You’ve got this!

Simple Practices for Grounding Yourself in Change

July 20, 2025 by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

ChatGPT said:

Embracing Change with Grace, One Breath at a Time

It’s late—again—and the house is quiet, save for the occasional creak of settling floors and the low hum of our overworked fridge. These nights have become familiar, comforting even, as I sit with my thoughts, making adjustments not just to my own routine and eating habits, but also alongside my husband as he navigates changes in his job. Life feels like it’s in a constant state of transition lately—waves of change washing over our home, our schedules, our expectations. And there’s more on the horizon.

With all of this shifting, it’s easy to get swept up in the chaos. I’ve been doing my best to hold on to my anchors: my meditation practice, yoga sessions, staying consistent with my medications, and trying—really trying—to get the sleep I need. But let’s be honest: insomnia is a familiar friend, one that creeps in just as I finally find a moment of calm.

So I’m reminding myself daily: pause. Breathe. Find joy in the little things.

Because the truth is, mindfulness isn’t about perfection or having it all together—it’s about noticing. Noticing the way the sunlight filters through the blinds in the morning. The quiet satisfaction of a warm cup of tea. The soft exhale at the end of a yoga pose. Even the way my dog sighs contentedly at my feet.

If you’re navigating your own season of change, here are a few mindfulness techniques that have been helping me stay grounded:

1. The Five Senses Check-In

Take a moment and notice:

1 thing you can taste
2 things you can smell
3 things you can hear
4 things you can feel
5 things you can see

This is especially useful when I’m feeling overwhelmed or spiraling into anxious thoughts.

2. Box Breathing

This simple breathing technique works wonders for calming my nervous system—especially in the middle of the night.

Inhale for 4 counts
Hold for 4 counts
Exhale for 4 counts
Hold for 4 counts

Repeat for a few minutes. It helps me feel like I’m back in control of at least one thing: my breath.

3. Gratitude Journaling

Even if I can only come up with one thing, I write it down. Some days it’s as small as “I made my bed,” or “the soup didn’t burn.” But these little victories matter.

4. Gentle Sleep Rituals

When insomnia comes knocking, I’ve found a few rituals that soften its grip:

A warm shower before bed
Soft ambient music or white noise
A good book (no screens!)
Magnesium supplements or a calming herbal tea
Legs-up-the-wall yoga pose (amazing for winding down)

Change is never easy. And when it comes all at once—internally and externally—it can feel like too much. But we’re adapting. Slowly, intentionally, with grace when we can and forgiveness when we fall short.

So tonight, I’m reminding myself—and maybe you too—that it’s okay to be in the middle of the mess. That peace isn’t the absence of change, but the presence of awareness. And that the little things? They’re not so little after all.

Here’s to embracing the changes, honoring the chaos, and still finding quiet in the corners.

— With love and a sleepy heart 💛