Jo L.

Writing is my passion. I began writing poetry in fourth grade. It has been a means of expressing and processing feelings, and well as a creative outlet. Many of my poems are personal and deal with issues I'm familiar with such as addiction and trauma. I hope others reading these poems might find validation, solace, or simply feel seen and heard. Other poems deal with social issues that I’m passionate about, including racism, misogyny, and politics. I also write about simple moments of beauty and pleasure, since I believe in striving for contentment instead of happiness. To me, contentment is about accepting what is in the moment, versus happiness, which I think of as seeking and grasping for something that will provide a temporary boost in mood. I feel content when I connect with a stranger through a smile, when we see each other. Or when I am in a walking meditation and my Grandmother, who died before I was born, visits me. Sometimes, breathing brings me contentment, when I settle into the rhythm and feel the texture; amazed at this simple task that happens without me making any effort.
I’m a holistic life, wellness, and spiritual coach, as well as a yoga and meditation teacher. Prior to this iteration of my career, I was a psychologist specializing in trauma with a very successful private practice for thirteen years. I utilize my clinical knowledge and experience to inform my coaching. I transitioned into my current role due to a desire to escape the limitations of bureaucracy and insurance, and my strong belief in the mind/body/spirit connection and its necessity in healing.
My business is called tula soul https://www.tulasoul.com and my mission is to help women find balance, use their voice, and take up space.
Given my passion for social justice, I volunteer for https://humanizemyhoodie.com which works for racial justice, abolition, and fashion activism. Check them out! In addition, I mentor young women.