Women of F&W Series: Jan N.

At what moment did you realize you needed healing —mentally, emotionally, physically, or spiritually, etc.?  

Over the years, I’ve prioritized my health and fitness, working out several times a week. However, I soon realized that I was using the gym to mask or run away from the emotional pain in my heart. Childhood trauma kept resurfacing, influencing my decision-making and shaping my choices in ways rooted in that unresolved pain. It was then that I understood I needed a deeper kind of healing—one that the gym alone couldn’t provide.

Based on challenges or struggles you were or are facing, how has faith helped you find strength in your healing journey? 

Faith has played a vital role in my healing journey, alongside therapy. I quickly realized that neither my own strength nor therapy alone could heal the deep, rooted pain I was carrying. I distinctly remember a church service where I was brought to tears, overwhelmed by the realization that I didn’t have to face this journey alone. I could lean on God to guide me through, which hasn’t always been easy, as I tend to rely on myself to navigate life’s challenges. But time and time again, God has proven his faithfulness, showing me that I am never truly alone.

How have wellness practices contributed to your healing journey?

Working out consistently and therapy have both played a crucial role in my healing journey by helping me build physical strength, release emotional tension, and gain deeper insights into my past. Together, they’ve empowered me to confront my pain, and move forward with resilience.

Share an affirmation, scripture, or words of encouragement for the women navigating their healing journey.

To any woman navigating her healing journey, I encourage you to give yourself grace. Healing is not a straight path, and some days will be more challenging than others. The key is to keep moving forward, taking each step toward healing, and doing your best, no matter how small the progress may seem.