Holistic and Holy

Celebrating the interplay of spirituality and mental health

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Have you ever wondered how spirituality can intertwine with mental health to guide us on a path of self-discovery and healing? Join your hosts Chad McSwain and Natalie Craver as we open our hearts and share the deeply personal drives that led us to create 'Holistic and Holy.' Our latest conversation is a celebration of the growth and revelations we've experienced along this journey, pairing the light-hearted banter of our sessions with the profound subjects that touch our lives and the listeners who tune in.

Wander with us through the tranquil corridors of a church, where our partnership bloomed into a sanctuary for both mind and soul. Here, we've embraced the challenge of integrating counseling practices within a spiritual framework, creating a space where privacy meets holistic care. Our episodes not only reflect on the powerful synergy of faith and therapy but also honor the stories of resilience and authenticity shared by our guests, friends, and family. Together, we've built a community that finds strength in vulnerability and connection in shared wisdom.

As we wrap up the current season, we're not just looking back; we're looking forward. Our dialogues have inspired us to keep pushing boundaries, nurturing a platform that resonates with those seeking to lead a life that is holistic and, yes, holy. Whether you're a longtime listener or just joining us on this trek, you'll find solace in the stories, practices, and laughter that fill each episode of 'Holistic and Holy.

How do we become more resilient?

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We've all faced moments that shook us to our core, where we stand at the crossroads of bitterness or growth. Join us as we embark on a journey through the intricate world of resilience and the remarkable transformation known as post-traumatic growth. This conversation delves into how our darkest experiences can unexpectedly illuminate new pathways, shaking the foundations of our relationships and strengthening our inner fortitude. We share deeply personal stories, including my own dance with overprotection in parenting, and how these trials have the power to reshape our perspectives on life.

Navigating the aftermath of emotionally taxing relationships, especially with narcissists, can feel like trekking through a minefield blindfolded. But what if I told you that empowerment and knowledge could be your guiding light? We dissect the layers of rebuilding trust in oneself and the profound impact it can have on your journey ahead. Taking a leaf from our own chapters, we discuss the fine line between shielding our loved ones and allowing them the freedom to grow through adversity. With heartfelt anecdotes and a special nod to the empath's plight, we explore the delicate balance between protection and independence in relationships and parenting.

As we wrap up this deep dive, we invite you to consider the holistic tapestry that is your well-being. It's not just about mental fortitude but nurturing your physical and spiritual health as well. We leave you with insights into the importance of self-care routines, the nourishment of the soul, and the pursuit of harmony across all facets of life. Connect with us on our social platforms at holisticandholycom for an ongoing dialogue about resilience, growth, and the beauty of human transformation. Let's walk this path together, discovering the resilience that weaves through our existence and propels us toward a life of depth and meaning.

Embracing LGBTQIA+ journeys with love and acceptance in the church

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

When Natalie Craver and I, Chad McSwain, first grappled with the reality of LGBTQIA+ acceptance in our lives and ministries, we knew it was a conversation worth having. With Natalie's insights as a licensed professional counselor and my pastoral perspective, we've come together to bring you a heartfelt exploration of what it means to truly embrace compassion and understanding in the church. As your hosts, we unpack our personal stories, the beauty of unlearning prejudices, and the necessity of fostering relationships that affirm and uplift every individual on their journey toward wholeness and holiness.

Navigating the maze of identity, labels, and love within LGBTQ+ relationships can be daunting, but it's a path worth walking with grace. We discuss the paramount importance of asking for pronouns, respecting how someone identifies, and the ripple effects this respect can have on our relationships. This episode isn't just about getting it right – it's about the courage to engage, to listen, and to affirm one another in love, even when we're afraid of saying the wrong thing. We believe in building bridges through open communication and creating spaces where everyone feels seen and valued.

Churches have the profound potential to be sanctuaries of inclusion, and we delve into practical steps for creating these supportive communities. From the pivotal role of parental love in the lives of LGBTQ youth to the necessity of education and allyship within the congregation, we offer guidance and resources to help families navigate this terrain with love at the center. Listen in as we share how churches can be a haven for healing and growth, where every family's journey is met with empathy and every individual is welcomed as a cherished part of the body of Christ. Join us in cultivating a church that thrives on diversity and unconditional love.

Why is it difficult to connect with people? (Attachment Styles)

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Ever felt like navigating adult relationships is like trying to solve a Rubik's Cube in the dark? Well, you're not alone. Chad McSwain and Natalie Craver here, opening up about the trials and triumphs of forming genuine connections in today's world. Reflecting on our own experiences, we acknowledge how the shadows of our childhood and the example set by our parents can heavily influence our adult social circles. We delve into the importance of self-love and how it's not just a buzzword but a crucial step on the road to establishing meaningful relationships, especially for those in leadership and ministry roles who often grapple with loneliness.

Attachment styles aren't just for psychology textbooks—they're the blueprints of how we interact with those around us. Secure, avoidant, anxious, or disorganized, these styles are the lenses through which we view our connections. By sharing our personal evolutions through these attachment styles, we offer a rare glimpse into the transformation from a past marred by trauma to a present filled with healthier relationships. It's a journey of self-awareness and growth, showing that it's not just about spotting these patterns, but understanding them as integral parts of who we are—parts that can change and develop over time.

To top off our heart-to-heart, we consider how our spiritual life is entwined with our earthly bonds. The divine attachment we experience, whether it's a fear of rejection or the comfort of unconditional love, can cast a long shadow on our human relationships. We offer practical tips to step beyond your comfort zone and form connections that heal and empower, from joining a Bible study to reaching out over coffee. Through personal anecdotes, we share how community and empathy can blossom from the most unexpected places, building friendships that are both surprising and fulfilling. Join us on this exploration of the heart, and perhaps you'll find the courage to unlock your own Rubik's Cube of relationships.

Can faith heal when it hurts? (Religious Trauma)

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 15:00:00 -0500

Have you ever found yourself grappling with pain where you least expected it—in the very faith community that was supposed to offer sanctuary? Alongside United Methodist pastor Chad McSwain and licensed professional counselor Natalie Craver, we unearth the raw and real stories of religious trauma. This episode promises a journey of understanding, empathy, and a roadmap for anyone searching for healing after experiencing hurt within their spiritual homes.

Our conversation traverses the tangled web of personal beliefs and the expectations of a faith community, where the line between spiritual guidance and emotional scars is sometimes blurred. We share personal narratives that touch on the heartache of exclusion, the isolation that can loom over church leaders, and the struggle to create authentic connections in the face of denominational biases and strained family ties. It’s a candid look at the unique challenges faced by those who lead and those who follow, and a reminder of the resilience required to navigate the emotional landscape of church communities.

In a world that deeply needs inclusivity and safety, this dialogue is a beacon for those seeking to reconcile their identity with their faith, particularly within the LGBTQ community. We explore the generational beliefs that cage personal growth and the subtle messages that can either weave a sense of belonging or alienate individuals. Ending on a note of hope and practical steps, we offer affirmations and wisdom for those walking the path toward healing, affirming that spirituality can indeed be both holistic and holy. Join us as we bridge the gap between spirituality and mental health, paving the way for a future where religion is a source of unconditional love and acceptance.

What's in your invisible suitcase? (Family of Origin)

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0500

Imagine carrying around an invisible suitcase from your childhood, stuffed with all the unspoken rules, roles, and expectations of your family of origin. Ever wondered how this hidden baggage influences your relationships, your parenting style, or even how you respond to your favorite sitcoms? Well, buckle up. We're about to crack open these weighty suitcases together and make sense of what's inside.

In a revealing exploration of birth order, we shed light on the unique dynamics experienced by middle children or second-borns with older sisters, and the seismic shift of being an only child before gaining a sibling. We also dissect our favorite sitcom family from the show "Bear", unearthing the parallels with our own family roles and quirks. Through the lens of therapy, we navigate these intricate dynamics with sensitivity and non-judgment, offering insights that can illuminate our understanding of self and others.

Then, we dive into the complicated task of blending family backgrounds, and the pivotal role our upbringing plays in shaping our parenting styles. We'll share stories about couples navigating their differences, the societal changes impacting our parenting choices, and the pressing need for self-awareness and open communication. Finally, we'll discuss how understanding and respecting each other’s backgrounds can help establish boundaries, creating a healthy and harmonious family dynamic. So, join us on this journey of self-discovery as we unpack our family origins and the profound impact they have on our lives.

How can we talk about sex? (Sexual Communication in Relationships)

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 21:00:00 -0500

Ever grappled with discussing sexual desires openly with your partner? Or perhaps, you've wondered how to maintain a healthy sexual relationship amidst life's stresses and changes? Join us, Chad and Natalie, on this journey of exploring intimacy, communication, and sexuality in relationships. We share our personal experiences and insights, taking the plunge into the much-needed, yet often overlooked, discussion on the difference between secrecy and privacy, and how to keep the sexual spark alive through various life-stages.

"What if you were told that understanding your partner's love language could be the key to a fulfilling sexual relationship?" We have heard it before, now it's time to dig deeper into its true essence. From our own personal experiences, we provide insights on how to navigate frustrations in sexual relationships, underlining the vital role of vulnerability and open communication. We don't leave any stone unturned as we approach sensitive topics like sexual compatibility and its myths, the need for having sex before marriage, and the impact of religious upbringing on sexual attitudes.

Closing off this enlightening episode, we emphasize the significance of self-love, healing, and the power of feeling protected and cared for in a relationship. Our audio engineer, Jake Dickerson, also chips in to facilitate a heart-to-heart conversation on building trust and friendship through vulnerability. Let's kick-start the movement of engaging, honest, and open discussions about sex in relationships. Engage with us on our social media platforms, and remember, we're all in this journey together!

Is it okay to be sad? (Grief)

Sat, 09 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0500

What if we told you that grief, a topic often avoided, could be a path to healing and growth? Natalie and Chad expose the complexities of grief, painting a vivid picture of this dense emotion we all inevitably experience. We compare it to an endless highway, constantly changing, yet persistently stretching ahead. We grapple with the societal tendency to shy away from those engulfed in sadness, and the misconception that misfortunes are exclusive to the wicked.

We don't stop at just contemplating grief; we walk you through it. We take a detour to discuss anticipatory grief - the mourning for something that has yet to happen. Although a rather grim topic, we take a personal approach, sharing our own encounters with grief. We highlight the power of empathy, and how imagination plays a significant role in forming connections with those who are grieving.

As we traverse the path of grief, we emphasize the importance of vulnerability. We argue that mourning is a necessity, akin to journeying through the darkness before basking in the light of resurrection. We untangle the concept of 'shoulds' and its tie to grief, and we share insights on how to grieve well. We confront the anger that stems from unresolved grief, and the misconception of a timeline for grieving. Join us on this enlightening journey, as we illuminate the path through the tunnel of grief.

Why did this happen to me? (Trauma)

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 19:00:00 -0500

What if I told you that everyone has experienced trauma, even if it doesn't seem significant? It might not be a catastrophic event, but how we process our experiences and the narratives we create around them leave an indelible impact. We embark on a profound exploration of trauma, discussing its intricate connection with our sense of control and the irrational negative beliefs that ensue. The journey towards understanding trauma is not a solitary one; we share our own experiences, shedding light on how trauma has shaped us and how we chose to heal.

You'll learn about innovative techniques like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Internal Family Systems Therapy, which have proven to be highly effective methods of treating trauma. We decode how EMDR works at a cellular level using bilateral stimulation of the brain. Hear about the importance of bodily sensations and self-communication, and the power of connecting with others who've walked similar paths. One of our hosts, who lost her husband in the Iraq war, shares her moving journey of loss and healing. We discuss the role of yoga in healing and the impact of touch in the recovery process. This episode is a deep, empathetic conversation about trauma, healing, and the transformative power of therapy. Come, be a part of this journey.

Navigating the terrain of self-criticism (Shame)

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Join us on an intimate exploration of shame and its many faces. Leveraging personal anecdotes and real-life experiences, Chad McSwain, a United Methodist pastor, and Natalie Craver, a licensed professional counselor, take you on an enlightening journey into understanding this profound emotion. This deep dive into shame is a safe space for self-reflection, providing tools to navigate the spiraling world of shame, guilt, and self-criticism, and most importantly, how we can break free.

A deep ponder into self-awareness, we explore how shame influences our reactions and behaviors, identify situations of its unnecessary control, and learn to respond, not react. The power of language and its role in fostering shame and guilt are brought to light, revealing how simple words can spiral into self-criticism. Drawing on ancient stories and personal experiences, we dissect the differences between guilt, the feeling of doing something wrong, and shame, the belief of being inherently wrong. This exploration encourages mindful thinking, empowering us to challenge and redefine our relationship with shame.

Venturing into the sensitive topics of suicide and self-harm, we dissect the impact of shame on these life-altering matters. By using understanding and supportive language, we shed light on navigating through these tough situations and the importance of open communication. Join us as we navigate the complex terrain of shame, suicide, and the unforgivable sin, equipped with empathy, forgiveness, and understanding. This episode is a beacon of hope for those living in the shadow of shame, a testament to the importance of self-awareness, empathy, and communication in managing shame and its repercussions.

Why do I feel like I'm not enough? (Shame)

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Are you shackled by the chains of shame? We're here to show you that it's not only possible to break free, but absolutely essential for living a full and authentic life. In this candid and introspective discussion, we pull back the curtain on the often uncomfortable topic of shame - its impact on our lives, mental health, and spirituality. Drawing from the pioneering work of Brené Brown, we explore how shame manifests and the debilitating vortex it can create, inhibiting us from expressing our true selves.

In the pursuit of understanding and overcoming shame, we encourage you to join us on this journey. We unveil our personal experiences, discuss how small triggers can spiral into a vortex of self-criticism, and offer strategies for combating these feelings. Implementing tools like validation, reflection, compassion, and curiosity can have a profound impact on how we deal with shame. We also delve into the importance of self-awareness, introspection, and the power of language in this complex battle. This is not just about listening to a conversation - it's about triggering a process of self-discovery and healing. So, tune in, reflect, and find your path to breaking free from the grip of shame.

Is it okay that I worry?

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0500

In this podcast episode, Chad and Natalie talk about anxiety, drawing from their own experiences and discussing its physical and emotional effects. They explore various triggers and differentiate between worry and anxiety. They provide practical techniques for managing anxiety, such as deep breathing exercises and grounding methods. The hosts also emphasize the role of faith and the importance of creating safe spaces to discuss anxiety. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to seek help and be kind to themselves.

What is your origin story?

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Holistic and Holy podcast, Chad McSwain and Natalie Craver discuss the significance of understanding our own personal story. They explore the impact of movies and TV shows on our lives, especially during anxious times. The hosts delve into reframing our stories and giving ourselves grace, highlighting the importance of understanding our own journeys. They also touch on the role of open-ended questions, active listening, gratitude, and self-compassion in discovering and honoring our personal narratives.

I deserve therapy?

Sat, 02 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Are you ready to unfold the complexities of your family dynamics and their impact on your mental health? It's time to break free from the childhood roles we often fall back into when reuniting with families, and truly embrace the person you've become. Join your friendly guides, Chad McSwain and Natalie Craver, as we share real-life stories, professional insights, and practical tips on how to maintain positive mental wellness while navigating these intricate relationship dynamics.

What if you could understand your emotional triggers and how they link to your self-worth? Imagine defusing these triggers, and dismissing the irrational belief of not being enough, all influenced by past experiences. We're here to equip you with tools to own your perceptions, liberate yourself from negative beliefs, and prioritize mental health. As we traverse through the intersection of holiness and holistic well-being, we aim to empower you to take charge of your mental health and spiritual well-being in your day-to-day life.

Lastly, let's talk about therapy. Do you ever question its power and efficacy? We’ll unfold the magic of therapy and how understanding ourselves and our past traumas is key to healing and improving mental health. From sharing our own experiences to recounting heartening stories of clients who saw significant improvements, we aim to break the stigma around therapy and encourage you to take that vitally important first step towards improved mental health. So, come along on this enlightening journey and remember, it's okay to ask for help. Together, let's break the stigma!

Welcome to Holistic and Holy (An Origin Story)

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Discover Holistic and Holy by checking out our origin story! Before there was a podcast, Chad interviewed Natalie at Whitesboro United Methodist Church. This is the perfect way to jump into the podcast and get a preview of the kinds of topics we talk about on Holistic and Holy!

Here is what we dive into during this interview…
Have you ever wondered how past traumas can shape your present and future? Today, we're grateful to have Natalie Craver, a licensed professional counselor and trauma-informed yoga therapist, who will help us navigate through this complex and deeply personal subject. Natalie brings a wealth of expertise, including knowledge of EMDR, somatic experiencing, and internal family systems, to guide us on this journey of understanding trauma and its significance to our overall health. Her insights, interwoven with her own personal and family narratives, offer a unique perspective on this critical topic.

Together, we unlock the profound impact of trauma on individuals, unmasking behaviors and sensations that might signal unprocessed traumatic experiences. As we recognize the importance of acknowledging our past traumas, we also discover the potential for post-traumatic growth. As we all grapple with collective traumatic experiences, like the current pandemic, Natalie's validation and support provide us with crucial tools for the healing process.

Finally, we embrace the path towards healing - a journey that often calls us to seek help from God and others. It's in Psalm 139 that we find reassurance of God's unwavering presence and love, even in the most challenging times. We invite you to join us as we surrender to God's healing power, reminding ourselves that He can restore us to wholeness. So, sit back, relax, and prepare for an enlightening exploration of the mind-body connection. Let's journey together towards a holy and holistic life, filled with healing and restoration.