ISSUE 1: BE CURIOUS – APPROACH PROBLEMS WITH CURIOSITY

“Approach problems with curiosity”

By Tess Bouska Undergrad Psychology Intern

When problems arise in your life, what is your first reaction? For some, it might be to avoid them out of stressor worry. Others might confront issues head-on with determination. Regardless of your initial response, all reactions are normal. The key is to approach problems with curiosity.

What Does It Mean to Approach Problems with Curiosity?
Curiosity “motivates learning by spurring exploratory behaviors aimed at resolving gaps in knowledge” (Le Cunff,2024). This mindset encourages you to learn about the challenges you face and find effective solutions. For instance, if you struggle with sleep, instead of fixating on the stress of sleepless nights, explore potential remedies. You could limit electronic use an hour before bed or drink warm tea to relax. This positive perspective not only helps you address the issue but also fosters a sense of agency and hope. While not every problem has an easy solution, maintaining a curious outlook can keep you grounded and reduce negative thinking.

The Benefits of a Curious Mindset
Enhancing your problem-solving skills can improve executive functioning and adaptive behaviors (Nguyen et al.,2018). Life often presents challenges that feel overwhelming or beyond your control. Adopting a positive and curious approach can help shift your mind set toward growth and learning. Whether deciding what to wear or resolving a disagreement with a friend, effective problem-solving skills can simplify your life. Developing these skills takes time, so start by practicing with smaller decisions.

Practical Steps to Cultivate Curiosity
Exploring various possibilities allows you to regain a sense of control and uncover effective solutions. To practice, try experimenting with small problems, such as deciding what to eat for lunch or exploring a new hobby. These minor changes can build your resilience and make handling larger conflicts feel less daunting over time. Integrating curiosity into your daily routine can reduce stress and create amore positive outlook on life.

Approaching problems with curiosity transforms challenges into opportunities for growth. By adopting this mindset, you can enhance your problem-solving abilities, improve your mental resilience, and cultivate a more fulfilling life. Start small, stay curious, and watch a seven the most difficult obstacles become more manageable.

Below is a good link of another blog post that had some good info when it comes to conflict and curiosity: https://www.goodwomantherapy.com/blog/the-gift-of-curiosity-in-conflict

References

Le Cunff, A.-L. (2024). Systematic curiosity as an integrative tool for human flourishing: A conceptual review and framework. Integrative Psychological & Behavioral Science, 58(4),1876–1894. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12124-024-09856-6

Nguyen, C. M., Chen, K.-H., &Denburg, N. L. (2018). The use of problem-solving therapy for primary care to enhance complex decision-making in healthy community-dwelling older adults. Frontiers in Psychology, 9.https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2018.00870

Inside the Studio: A Closer Look at Our Classes

Women’s Support Group: A Journey to Self-Discovery and Empowerment

Group therapy provides a unique opportunity for individuals facing similar challenges to come together, connect, and support one another in a safe and nurturing environment. Our Women’s Support Group is specifically designed to help women reflect inwardly and embark on a journey of self-discovery, while gaining valuable tools to improve their mental and emotional well-being.

Led by a compassionate and experienced counselor, this group offers a space for women to share their experiences and receive encouragement from others who truly understand the challenges they face. Research has shown that group therapy for women not only provides support but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and connection, making it easier to heal and grow together.

Key Benefits of Joining the Women’s Support Group:

• Supportive Relationships: Build meaningful connections with others who share similar experiences, offering a sense of community and understanding.
• A New Perspective: Gain valuable insights into your personal journey and explore new ways to approach challenges.
• Relapse Prevention Skills: Learn effective strategies to prevent setbacks and maintain progress as you move forward on your path to healing.

This group is ideal for women who are seeking to make positive changes in their lives and would benefit from the support and strength that comes from sharing experiences in a group setting. Whether you’re navigating difficult emotions, life transitions, or seeking personal growth, our Women’s Support Group will provide the tools and encouragement you need to thrive.

For more information or to register, please contact our office at 936-305-3070.
Join us every Tuesday at 2 PM and empower yourself through connection, support, and self-reflection in a safe and welcoming space.

FIT Camp: Saturday Morning Fitness Challenge

Get ready to sweat and challenge your body with our FIT Camp class, held every Saturday at 9:30 AM! Whether you’re new to fitness or a seasoned athlete, this high-energy workout is designed for all fitness levels.

Led by certified trainer Josh Miller, FIT Camp combines the best of cardiovascular exercises, strength training, balance movements, and power exercises to provide a full-body workout that will leave you feeling empowered and energized. With a focus on variety and intensity, this 45-minute class will push you to your limits while helping you build strength, endurance, and balance.

Expect a fun, fast-paced session with high-energy music to keep you motivated and moving. In addition, exercises can be modified to suit your individual fitness needs, ensuring everyone gets the most out of the workout. When the weather is nice, we’ll take the workout outdoors for an added challenge!

Class Details:
When: Saturdays | 9:30 AM
Duration: 45 minutes
Cost: $15 per class
Instructor: Josh Miller, Certified Trainer

Join us every Saturday morning and make fitness a part of your weekend routine! Whether you’re looking to burn calories, improve your strength, or just have fun, FIT Camp is the perfect way to start your Saturday.

Live Your Life, Write! – February Writing Workshop

Unleash your creativity and explore the art of storytelling in Live Your Life, Write!, a four-week writing workshop led by Tim Bryant. This interactive class is designed for writers of all levels, whether you’re just beginning your journey or looking to refine your craft.

Throughout the course, Tim will guide participants through discussions on the motivations and methods of writing, offering insight into how to develop compelling stories, strengthen personal voice, and cultivate a consistent writing practice.

Sessions will include:
Engaging Q&A discussions
Individualized instruction and feedback
Interactive workshopping of writing pieces
Practical exercises to spark inspiration
Participants should bring paper and pens/pencils, ready to dive into the writing process in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Class Details:
When: Mondays | 7:00 PM
Dates: February 3, February 10, February 17, February 24, 2025
Cost: $25 for the full session

Whether you’re looking to start a new project, revive an old one, or simply explore your creative potential, this workshop will provide the tools and inspiration to help you put pen to paper. Join us and live your life—write!

Book Talk: Let Them by Mel Robbins

Join us for an insightful discussion on the #1 bestselling book Let Them by Mel Robbins!
Date: Thursday, February 20th 5:30 PM

This book talk will be a wonderful opportunity to dive into Let Them—a book that is taking the nation by storm as a #1 New York Times, Sunday Times, Amazon, and Audible Bestseller. Together, we’ll explore key takeaways, discuss the parts that resonated most, and reflect on how we can apply The Let Them Theory to our own lives.

According to Robbins, Let Them is a step-by-step guide to freeing yourself from the weight of others’ opinions, drama, and judgment. Through real-life stories and science-backed strategies, the book provides powerful tools to help you let go of what you can’t control, prioritize your own happiness, and build a life where you come first.

Whether you’ve read the book or are curious to learn more, we invite all book lovers to join us for a lively discussion, new connections, and light refreshments.

Don’t miss this chance to gain fresh insights, share your thoughts, and be inspired!
Let us know if you plan to attend—we’d love to see you there!

Join Us For Our Quarterly Book Club!

February 22nd at 10 AM
Join us for a quarterly book club led by Emily Taravella, where we dive deeper into meaningful discussions about novels. In our upcoming session, we’ll explore The Midnight Library by Matt Haig, with refreshments and handouts provided for all attendees. Call Today for more details 936.305.3070.

Total Body Circuit

Monday & Wednesday 5:30 PM
Tuesday & Thursday 12 PM
Thursday 5:15 PM

A full-body fitness experience designed to help you build strength, boost endurance, and improve flexibility in a supportive, empowering environment.
Each session is guided step-by-step, with variations offered for every move to ensure you feel confident and capable throughout the class.