swimming toward the shark

In this essay, Katherine explores the importance of reconnecting the head and heart to navigate emotional challenges, emphasizing the role of therapy and self-awareness in managing anxiety. She shares personal experiences and practical tools that have worked for her for processing emotions and maintaining mental well-being.

Katherine explores the different types of friendships we encounter throughout life, emphasizing the importance of understanding their nature and the lessons learned from them. She reflects on her personal experiences with friendships that have evolved over time, highlighting the significance of effort and adaptability in maintaining meaningful connections.

Inspired by Professor George Saunders' commencement speech at Syracuse University, Katherine reflects on personal experiences of kindness and regret, particularly through the lens of childhood interactions with a marginalized classmate.

Katherine reflects on the life of her grandmother, Evelyn Mae Fitzgerald Boozer, who would be celebrating her 100th birthday, highlighting the profound changes in society, technology, and family dynamics over the decades.

The conversation explores the multifaceted nature of 'chances' and how they influence our lives, particularly in the context of unemployment and personal growth. It delves into the emotional journey of adjusting to newfound freedom while grappling with the guilt and uncertainty that comes with it.

The essay focuses on the theme of slowing down and practicing gratitude through silent observation, as inspired by Rachel Schwartzmann's work. Katherine shares her reflections on her home and the various elements that contribute to its story, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and appreciation.

Katherine discusses her intention to cultivate a more deliberate writing practice in the new year, inspired by Suleika Jaouad's "The Book of Alchemy: A Creative Practice for an Inspired Life." She reflects on her experiences with daily creative practices, the challenges she faces, and the importance of self-forgiveness in her journey of self-improvement.

Katherine shares her profound experience visiting the Grand Canyon for the first time, emphasizing the beauty and healing power of nature. The conversation explores the journey to the canyon, the emotional impact of witnessing its grandeur, and the reflections on the significance of such experiences.

Katherine shares her transformative experience at the Big Magic retreat with Elizabeth Gilbert, highlighting the mindfulness practices and creative inspirations she gained. She reflects on her journey of submitting her debut novel and the importance of meditation and presence in her creative process.

The conversation explores the emotional depth of Paul Kalanithi's memoir 'When Breath Becomes Air' and reflects on the beauty of enduring relationships, regardless of their length.

Through reflections on air travel, Katherine pinpoints the fallacy anxiety tells us - that the worry is what keeps the bad thing from happening - and how to rewrite the mental narrative.

Katherine explores the emotional and physical implications of family collections, questioning whether they preserve precious memories or create bulky burdens that follow us into our futures.

Following the tragic school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, Katherine highlights the need for change and accountability in the face of gun violence. Her essay emphasizes the importance of swapping our anxiety paralysis for disrupting the power pipeline and demanding accountability from elected officials to protect and preserve the rule of law.

Katherine's recurring tornado dreams take on a different ending this time, conveying the emotional journey of overcoming fear and stress. This essay explores the symbolism of the dreams and the personal growth they can sometimes reflect.

In this essay, Katherine explores the theme of transition and change and how to separate the "stuff" from the sentiment in the process.

Katherine shares her experience of finding time for herself and embracing the gift of freedom and relaxation. She draws inspiration from a podcast and reflects on the universal advice given by the podcast guest, famed author and spiritual seeker Elizabeth Gilbert. The conversation delves into the importance of nourishing oneself, identifying top-line behaviors, and creating space for personal growth and connection.

In this essay, we'll take a journey through a unique method for falling back to sleep after waking up in the middle of the night, using visualization and mindfulness techniques to relax the body and mind.

This essay reflects on Katherine's struggle with codependency in relationships, realizing the need for change and growth. She learns about the concept of codependence and its impact on her life, leading to a journey of self-discovery and understanding. Through reframing and releasing, she aims to detach with love and build healthier, more meaningful relationships.

This essay explores the natural expression of vulnerability and the need for reassurance, the power of sharing and processing pain with others, and the healing power of human connection in overcoming pain and fears.

Katherine discovers the Meditative Story podcast and listens to an episode that resonates deeply with her personal experiences of anxiety and childhood fears. The episode features a story told by Dr. Susan David, a psychologist and author, and explores the theme of creating space for feelings and acknowledging emotions.