The Art of Unpacking

A Mental Health Blog

Lindsay Liben Lindsay Liben

Hot Takes on Water Sipping in Yoga Class

The Bode NYC yoga controversy highlights a broader conversation about discomfort and resilience, particularly as it relates to Gen Z, who are often criticized for struggling with distress tolerance despite their strong advocacy for mental well-being. Rather than avoiding discomfort, learning to reframe it as growth, practice small challenges, and balance self-compassion with endurance can help build resilience while maintaining a commitment to self-care.

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Lindsay Liben Lindsay Liben

The Myth of Toxic Grit: When Hustle Becomes Self-Harm

Toxic grit is the harmful belief that success requires suffering, glorifying burnout and self-punishment in the name of perseverance. True strength lies in knowing when to rest, as seen in millennial icons like Selena Gomez and Ariana Grande, who have prioritized well-being over relentless hustle.

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Lindsay Liben Lindsay Liben

Why Am I So Annoyed at My Husband When He’s Not Even Doing Anything Wrong?

Moms often feel frustrated with their husbands—not because they’re bad partners, but because of the invisible mental load, the double shift of work and home life, and deeply ingrained gender expectations. To reduce resentment and create more balance, women should stop feeling guilty for wanting more, delegate responsibilities instead of asking for help, and have regular check-ins to keep household expectations clear.

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Lindsay Liben Lindsay Liben

RIP Michelle Trachtenberg Died: How to Process Parasocial Grief

Together we process the parasocial grief following the death of Michelle Trachtenberg. Let’s understand why her loss feels personal to many of us Millennials who grew up with her roles, and tips on processing this grief, expressing emotions, and seeking support.

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Lindsay Liben Lindsay Liben

Real vs Reel: the Parenting Paradox

Parenting is stressful, but looking at photos of your kids at the end of the day helps moms reconnect with the love beneath the chaos. To ease mom guilt, reframe what "enough" means, practice self-compassion, and focus on small moments of connection.

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Lindsay Liben Lindsay Liben

Escaping Love Lockup

Love isn’t a high-stakes game, but many relationships fall into patterns like Prisoner’s Dilemma (trust vs. self-protection) or a Zero-Sum Game (one wins, one loses). The healthiest couples break free by choosing trust, collaboration, and the kind of love where both partners win—on Valentine’s Day and beyond.

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Lindsay Liben Lindsay Liben

How to Stop the Stress Spiral Over Cowboy Carter Tour Tickets

Trying to score Cowboy Carter tickets feels like a high-stakes showdown, sending stress levels soaring as fans battle virtual queues and Ticketmaster crashes. If you didn’t get tickets, the post-sale disappointment is real, but with the right mindset—plus a little movement and perspective—you can shake off the FOMO and stay ready for your next chance to see Beyoncé.

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Lindsay Liben Lindsay Liben

Post-Superbowl Monday Morning Mood Quarterbacking

The Super Bowl can take a toll on your body and mind, leaving you sluggish and stressed from excitement, poor sleep, and indulgent snacks. To reset, try gentle movement, hydrate and nourish your body, and reframe your mindset for the week ahead.

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Lindsay Liben Lindsay Liben

Stop Hovering on Your Broomstick during the Witching Hour

That dreaded witching hour is messy, exhausting, and imperfect—and that’s exactly how it’s meant to be. Let go of perfectionism and hovering, trust that your baby (and you) can handle the chaos, and give yourself permission to just be.

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Lindsay Liben Lindsay Liben

4 Cures to Calm the Chaos

Ever wonder why as mother you compulsively take on so much? Let’s reveal the psychology behind why moms assume more than their fair share ties into societal pressures and the deeply ingrained role of caregiver. Learn to acknowledge and release some of that responsibility to build resilience and mental stability.

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Lindsay Liben Lindsay Liben

Why you need to show up unfiltered

Resilience isn’t about perfection—it’s about embracing your flaws. Courage only comes from owning your messy, unpolished parts. Instead of editing out your quirks or doubts, lean in. When you embrace the real you, flaws and all, that’s where growth and resilience thrive.

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