Episode 319: The LA Fires & Dealing with Stress

Podcast Episode Summary

This week’s episode is a bit different.

I’m recording from New York, but my heart is in Los Angeles, where wildfires have been creeping dangerously close to my home.

Beyond that, I’ve been facing another personal challenge—my mom suffered a stroke over the holidays, her seventh stroke. Navigating hospital visits, stress, and uncertainty has tested me in ways I didn’t expect.

💡 So today, I want to focus on one simple but powerful tool: journaling.

When stress feels overwhelming, sometimes the only thing we can do is focus on one thing that keeps us grounded. For me, that’s stream-of-consciousness journaling.

🔥 Navigating Stress in Difficult Times

The Past Two Weeks Have Been a Lot

✔️ My mom had a stroke on Christmas night – Her seventh.
✔️ I helped get my parents settled post-hospital stay.
✔️ The LA wildfires began creeping toward my home.

And while I am safe, my family is safe, and my home is safe (for now), I know that so many others have lost their homes, and their stress is unimaginable.

💡 Stress is a universal experience. And when we can’t control what’s happening around us, we have to focus on what we can control.

📝 The Power of Journaling for Stress Relief

One thing that has helped me through this intense period of stress?

✍️ Stream-of-consciousness journaling.

This practice has been:
✔️ A way to process emotions when meditation felt too difficult
✔️ A tool to help me double down on my spiritual practice
✔️ A method for raising my energy & clarity in uncertain times

📌 How to Use Journaling as a Stress-Relief Tool

1️⃣ Make It a Ritual

✔️ Grab a notebook & pen (writing by hand is key!)
✔️ Sit with a cup of tea or something comforting
✔️ Commit to at least 20 minutes of uninterrupted journaling

2️⃣ Let Your Thoughts Flow Freely

✔️ No structure, no editing—just write
✔️ Don’t worry if it doesn’t make sense
✔️ Keep writing until your hand starts to hurt (yes, really!)

3️⃣ Use It to Raise Your Frequency

✔️ Journaling helps release heavy emotions
✔️ It creates space for clarity & healing
✔️ It allows you to reconnect with yourself in moments of chaos

💡 Final Thoughts: Raising Your Frequency in Tough Times

Stress is inevitable. But how we handle it is in our control.

💡 My advice?
✔️ Double down on what helps you feel grounded & connected
✔️ Raise the level of your spiritual or mindfulness practice
✔️ Take care of yourself—especially in difficult times

And most importantly—stay safe. If you’re directly affected by the fires, my heart is with you.