Showing Up Human: Navigating Tough Moments as a Wellbeing Practitioner
- Sophie Le Reste
- Apr 22
- 2 min read
Updated: May 5
Life doesn't wait for us to feel "ready." A difficult family text, a heavy headline, or an unexpected emotional wave can hit right before a client session, meeting, or responsibility. As wellbeing practitioners, we feel it too: heart pounding, thoughts swirling, that raw human vulnerability reminding us we're not immune.
The Challenge of Holding Space
It's not easy. Showing up for others when our own hearts feel tender requires real effort. We can't always process in the moment; the session calls, and our role is to create safety, presence, and containment for those who trust us with their inner world.
Yet we do it. Not because we're superhuman, but because we have the tools we've honed over years of practice.
Tools That Carry Us Through
A steady breath: Inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 6. This simple technique grounds the nervous system, signalling safety to our body even as emotions churn.
Gentle boundaries: Acknowledging the feeling internally (e.g. "This is here, and I'll return to you later") creates just enough separation to step into the role.
Trust in the process: We know these emotions won't overwhelm us during the session. Our training equips us to hold complexity without spilling over.
We carry it through, showing up fully because your space matters.
The Gift of Later
And then, when the session ends, we honour what arose. We carve out time—maybe a walk, a journal, tears, or stillness—to feel, digest, and integrate. That's the full cycle: presence now, processing after. It's sustainable, honest, and deeply human.
Embracing Emotional Waves
Life is full of emotional waves. They come and go, often unexpectedly. Learning to ride these waves is essential. We can’t control when they hit, but we can control how we respond.
When faced with overwhelming emotions, ask yourself: What do I need right now? Is it a moment of stillness? A chat with a friend? Or perhaps a comforting cup of tea? Listening to your needs is a powerful step towards emotional regulation.
Finding Your Grounding Techniques
Everyone has their own unique ways to find grounding. Some may find solace in nature, while others might turn to creative outlets. It's important to explore what resonates with you.
Consider trying:
Mindful walking: Feel the ground beneath your feet. Notice the sounds around you.
Creative expression: Whether it’s painting, writing, or playing an instrument, let your emotions flow through your creativity.
Meditation: Even a few minutes can help centre your thoughts and emotions.
For You, Reading This
If you're a practitioner feeling this tension, know you're not alone—we all navigate it. If you're a client, this is why your sessions feel safe: because they're held by someone who understands the work intimately. We're in it together.
What helps you set aside and return? Share in the comments. 💕
At Mindful Wellness Coaching, we blend neuropsychology, breathwork, and somatic practices to support your emotional resilience. In-person and Online sessions available. Reach out if you have any questions.




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