Rooted Reflections is a collection of grounded wisdom, seasonal practices, and soul-aligned insights. These writings are meant to nourish your nervous system, inspire inner balance, and reconnect you to the cycles of nature and your own deep knowing.

Coming Home to Your Inner Knowing: 7 Ways to Awaken Intuition

What if you already know?

What if there’s a voice inside you that’s never steered you wrong—
only been drowned out by the noise?

Intuition doesn’t come from effort.
It comes from softening. Listening.
Clearing space for the quiet to rise.

You don’t need to seek it.
You just need to make enough room to feel it.

7 Ways to Start Tuning In

1. Step Away From Social Media

It’s loud in there.

Even when you think you’re just “scrolling,” your energy is being siphoned. Social media fills your head with other people’s ideas, desires, and identities—and that static drowns out your own voice.

Taking a break, even a short one, can create the space you need to return to yourself.
Use that space to meditate, breathe, or simply sit in stillness—anything that helps you tune back into your own frequency.

The less noise, the more clarity.
The more presence, the more you remember.

2. Prioritize Sleep Hygiene

Your intuition needs a clear vessel.

Turn off screens at least an hour before bed.
Reduce blue light. Let yourself rise with the sun.

When you honor your natural rhythms, the wisdom inside you begins to whisper more clearly.

3. Take Breaks From Mind-Altering Substances

Alcohol, caffeine, weed, sugar, nicotine—they change your chemistry and can mask anxiety or dull clarity.

There’s nothing wrong with you if you use them.
But taking conscious breaks lets you notice how they affect you.

Sometimes the crutches we lean on most are the very things that muffle our deeper knowing.

4. Move Your Body (For the Love of It)

Not to punish it or “fix” it—just to feel alive in it.

Intuition lives in the body.
It speaks through sensation.

Dance, walk, stretch, roll, flow.
Let it be somatic exploration, not a workout.

And get bodywork.
Let skilled hands help you come home to yourself,
releasing what’s stuck and reconnecting you to what’s true.

5. Eat Well, Nourish Gently

Make your own food when you can.
Bless it. Smell it. Taste it.

This is how you build trust with your body—by feeding it with love and presence.

6. Make Something (Just Because)

Creativity is a sacred channel.

Journal stream-of-consciousness style.
Paint blindfolded. Tear up magazines and make vision boards.

No outcome needed. The process itself is a conversation with your soul.

7. Spend Time With Kids, Animals, or in Solitude

They don’t filter. They don’t force.
Kids and animals live in the now—fully present, fully honest.
They show you how to trust what’s real and respond from instinct, not expectation.

And solitude? That’s sacred too.
It’s where your own rhythm gets louder.
Where your energy recalibrates and your inner voice has room to rise.

Let presence—whether with others or with yourself—remind you of what you forgot.

✨ Journal Prompts to Awaken Intuition

  • When do I feel most connected to myself?

  • What do I know deep down, even if I don’t want to admit it?

  • Where in my body do I feel “yes”? Where do I feel “no”?

  • What kind of silence feels nourishing to me?

  • What have I been overriding that deserves my attention?

Final Thought

You’re not broken. You’re not behind. You’re not lost.
Like many of us, It is possible that you might a little out of tune with your natural signal.

And every small choice to slow down, to listen, to be with yourself—
brings you closer to that unshakable inner guidance you’ve had all along.

Ready to Go Deeper?

Come join me for a yoga class, a bodywork session, or a community circle.
This is what we’re here for—to remember who we are, together.

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Understanding the Ego: The Key to Growth, Freedom, and Self-Mastery

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re on a quest for growth and awakening. Something inside you is calling for more—more awareness, more clarity, more alignment with your highest self. And part of that journey means learning to navigate the ego.

The ego is often misunderstood. Many believe it’s something to destroy, an enemy that keeps us trapped in illusion. But the truth is, the ego is not meant to be eradicated—it’s meant to be understood, refined, and mastered.

Your ego is a tool. A protector. A powerful ally—unless left unchecked. When we fail to stay ahead of it, it can subtly control us, warping our perception of reality. It thrives on judgment, comparison, attachment, fear, victimhood, and illusion. But when we cultivate awareness, we can shift our relationship with the ego and use it as a bridge toward deeper self-awareness and growth.

The Ego’s Traps: How It Keeps You Stuck

To stay ahead of the ego, you must first learn to observe it in action. The ego’s primary goal is to maintain a fixed identity, and it will do whatever it takes to protect that identity—even if it means deceiving you. Here are some ways it operates:

1. The Trap of Judgment

The ego often judges others to create a false sense of superiority. When you catch yourself criticizing someone, ask:
🔹 What part of me feels the need to do this?
🔹 What insecurity or fear is this covering up?

Judgment is always a reflection. When we recognize this, we stop projecting and start taking responsibility for our own inner work.

2. The Trap of Superiority

The ego loves to compare. It will convince you that you are “above” others in intelligence, spirituality, or awareness. This is dangerous because it creates separation, the very thing that fuels illusion.

Instead, try asking yourself:
🔹 Am I truly seeing others for who they are, or am I measuring them against my own standards?
🔹 Am I staying humble, or am I feeding a need to feel special?

A true master doesn’t feel superior. A true master is constantly learning.

3. The Trap of Seeking Approval

Are you doing something because it feels aligned with your deepest truth? Or are you doing it to be liked?

The ego thrives on external validation, convincing us that our worth is dependent on how others perceive us. But the moment we seek approval, we become enslaved to the expectations of others.

🔹 Would I still do this if no one was watching?
🔹 Am I shaping my identity based on how I want to be perceived, rather than who I truly am?

Freedom comes when we stop performing and start living authentically.

4. The Trap of Defending Your Image

Do you get defensive when challenged? The ego hates being wrong because it sees it as a threat to its identity. But what if being wrong was actually an opportunity for growth?

Instead of reacting, try pausing and asking:
🔹 Is my ego feeling threatened, or is there truth in what’s being said?
🔹 What lesson is here for me?

When we release the need to defend ourselves, we step into a state of evolution rather than resistance.

5. The Trap of Victimhood

The ego doesn’t just thrive on superiority—it can also make us feel like we are powerless. Some egos operate by keeping us in a constant state of suffering, reinforcing the belief that life is unfair, that others are responsible for our pain, or that we are helpless in the face of challenges.

🔹 Do I often feel like life is happening to me rather than for me?
🔹 Am I blaming others for my circumstances instead of taking responsibility for what I can change?

True empowerment comes from realizing that, while we may not control everything that happens, we do control how we respond.

6. The Trap of Self-Sabotage

The ego doesn’t always try to inflate our sense of self—it can also keep us small. When you avoid stepping into your power, procrastinate, or feel like you’re “not ready,” this is the ego keeping you in the comfort of familiarity.

🔹 Am I afraid of my own potential?
🔹 Am I avoiding action because I fear failure—or even success?

Growth requires stepping beyond comfort, even when it’s uncomfortable.

7. The Trap of Perfectionism

Some egos don’t feel superior or powerless—they feel like nothing is ever enough. The perfectionist ego tells us that we need to work harder, do more, and be better before we can feel worthy.

🔹 Do I believe I have to earn love, success, or happiness?
🔹 Am I constantly chasing an unattainable ideal instead of embracing who I am now?

The truth? You are already enough. Growth is great, but it should come from a place of self-love, not self-rejection.

Transcendence is Endless

Here’s the humbling truth: You will never "arrive."

No matter how much inner work you do, there will always be more to uncover, more layers to shed. And that’s beautiful.

The mistake many make is assuming they have reached a certain level of awareness and are now “done.” This is the ultimate trap. The moment we believe we’ve fully transcended, the ego sneaks in through the back door and whispers:

"Look how evolved you are. Look how much wiser you are than others."

And just like that, we fall back into illusion.

True mastery isn’t about feeling enlightened—it’s about staying humble, open, and willing to see more.

Staying Ahead of the Ego

So, how do we prevent the ego from running the show?

1. Cultivate Daily Self-Inquiry

Check in with yourself regularly:
🔹 Where is my ego at play today?
🔹 Am I acting from truth or from a need for validation?

2. Embrace Discomfort

The ego resists change. If something triggers you, it’s revealing an area where growth is needed. Instead of avoiding discomfort, lean into it.

3. Detach from Identity

You are not your thoughts. You are not your successes. You are not your failures. You are the awareness behind it all.

4. Keep Moving Forward

Growth is an infinite path. The moment you think you’ve arrived, you’ve stopped seeing. Stay curious. Keep evolving.

Mastering the Human Experience

The human brain is wired for survival. It clings to identities, seeks validation, and creates illusions of separation. This is the density of being human. But when we develop awareness—when we stay ahead of the ego—we gain the ability to navigate life with clarity and freedom.

You are not here to destroy the ego.

You are here to master it.

And in doing so, you create a life of expansion, awareness, and true liberation.

Your Next Step: Integrate & Elevate

The awareness you gain is only as powerful as the action you take. So, how will you integrate this?

🔹 Observe yourself today—where does the ego show up?
🔹 Journal about a recent moment when you felt the need to prove something, compare yourself, or seek validation. What deeper truth can you uncover?
🔹 Share this with a friend or community and discuss—where do you see the ego influencing your life?

Growth is a journey, and you don’t have to walk it alone. If this resonated with you, let’s keep the conversation going. Comment below, share your thoughts, or connect with me for more insights on mastering the self.

Because the more we see, the more we become.

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self improvement, mindfulness, Personal Growth Jillian Coogan self improvement, mindfulness, Personal Growth Jillian Coogan

How Changing Your Self-Talk Transforms Your Reality & Awakens You

The Way We Talk to Ourselves Shapes Our Reality

Have you ever caught yourself saying something like, “I’m such an idiot,” or “I’ll never get this right”? It’s easy to brush off those little inner jabs, but they are far more powerful than we realize. The way we talk to ourselves—our inner dialogue—is the foundation upon which we build our self-worth, our perception of reality, and ultimately, the life we create.

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re on a path of awakening. You’re beginning to see that there is more—more to yourself, more to life, more to the way things work beneath the surface. And one of the most transformative keys on this journey is learning how to change the way you talk to yourself.

The Power of Words

Words are not just sounds or thoughts. They carry energy. Every time we tell ourselves something, we are reinforcing a belief. And over time, those beliefs become the lens through which we see the world.

Imagine watering two different plants. One plant gets loving words: You are growing beautifully. You are strong and resilient. The other plant is told: You’re weak. You’re never going to bloom. Which plant thrives?

Now, replace the plants with yourself.

When we shift from self-criticism to self-compassion, something incredible happens: we start to see ourselves differently. We stop shrinking, stop doubting, stop closing off. Instead, we open. We expand. We begin to love ourselves in a way we never imagined possible. And that self-love? It changes everything.

How Inner Dialogue Creates Your Reality

The way you talk to yourself impacts:

  • Your emotions – Negative self-talk triggers stress and anxiety, while positive self-talk fosters peace and confidence.

  • Your actions – When you believe in yourself, you show up differently. You take risks, you trust yourself, you follow through.

  • Your relationships – The love and kindness you give to yourself set the tone for what you accept from others.

  • Your perception – If you tell yourself life is against you, you’ll only see obstacles. If you tell yourself life is happening for you, you’ll start noticing opportunities.

Reality bends to meet the beliefs we hold. If you want to create a more beautiful, abundant life, start with the words you use inside your mind.

The Smallest Shifts Make the Biggest Impact

The good news? You don’t need a complete personality overhaul to start seeing change. Even the tiniest shifts in the way you speak to yourself can create ripples that expand into every part of your life.

Here are a few small yet powerful changes you can start making today:

🔹 Instead of “I’m not good at this,” try “I’m still learning, and I’m getting better every day.”

🔹 Instead of “I always mess things up,” try “I learn from every experience, and I grow stronger because of it.”

🔹 Instead of “I don’t deserve love,” try “I am worthy of love exactly as I am.”

It’s not about lying to yourself—it’s about rewiring your mind to see the truth: you are capable, you are evolving, and you are worthy of love and greatness.

Seeing More: A Natural Part of Awakening

When you change the way you talk to yourself, your mind naturally begins to see more. You start to notice things you never noticed before—the beauty in the ordinary, the synchronicities in your life, the way everything is connected.

This is part of awakening.

Awakening isn’t just about spiritual knowledge—it’s about perception. It’s about shifting from a limited, self-critical mind to one that is open, curious, and deeply loving. The more you soften the way you speak to yourself, the more you see.

And when you see more, you realize something profound:

You are creating this.

Your thoughts, your words, your energy—all of it is shaping your reality.

A Simple Practice to Begin

Tonight, before you go to bed, place your hand on your heart. Close your eyes. Take a deep breath and whisper to yourself:

"I am learning. I am growing. I am enough."

Feel the truth of those words. Let them sink in.

Because once you change the way you talk to yourself, you unlock a love for yourself deeper than you ever imagined. And from that love, you create a reality more beautiful than you ever thought possible.

If you’ve read this far, you are already on this path. Keep going. Keep shifting. Keep opening.

A whole new way of seeing—and being—is waiting for you.

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The Transformative Power of Feeling Seen: Why It’s the Key to Fulfillment

The Transformative Power of Feeling Seen: Why It’s the Key to Fulfillment

Have you ever experienced the profound relief of someone truly getting you—not just your words, but the emotions behind them? Or the quiet ache of being in a room full of people but feeling completely invisible? These moments remind us of the vital human need to feel seen. It’s more than recognition; it’s the foundation of meaningful connection, emotional healing, and personal growth.

In today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, feeling seen is rare, yet it’s something we all crave. The good news? You can cultivate this experience in your life—starting with yourself.

What Does It Mean to Feel Seen?

To feel seen is to know that someone values and understands the essence of who you are. It’s when someone looks beyond your surface and truly recognizes your experiences, emotions, and individuality.

The difference between being noticed and feeling seen:

  • Being noticed is superficial; someone knows you exist.

  • Feeling seen is profound; someone understands and values who you are at your core.

When you feel seen, it’s like a light is turned on inside of you.
It reminds you that your emotions are valid, your existence matters, and your presence has meaning.

Why Feeling Seen Matters

1. It Validates Your Humanity:
Feeling seen affirms that your feelings, struggles, and victories are real and meaningful.

2. It Builds Emotional Safety:
When someone truly sees you, you feel safe enough to let your guard down and show up authentically.

3. It Encourages Self-Acceptance:
Being seen by others helps you see yourself more clearly, encouraging you to embrace your strengths and flaws alike.

4. It Heals Old Wounds:
For those who’ve felt invisible or dismissed—especially in childhood—being seen can mend deep emotional scars.

5. It Strengthens Relationships:
Genuine connection thrives when both people feel seen and valued for who they are.

Why Seeing Your Children Matters

For parents, the importance of truly seeing your children cannot be overstated. Children naturally crave acknowledgment, understanding, and validation from their caregivers. When you take the time to truly see your child, you:

  • Teach them self-worth: They learn their thoughts and feelings matter.

  • Create emotional safety: They feel secure expressing themselves without fear of judgment.

  • Nurture their authenticity: They’re encouraged to embrace their unique qualities.

  • Prevent emotional wounds: They’re less likely to carry the pain of being unseen into adulthood.

  • Build lasting connection: They’ll grow into adults who value and maintain a healthy relationship with you.

A Personal Story: The Power of Feeling Seen

Years ago, I was caught in a cycle of seeking validation from people who didn’t have the capacity to see me. I would pour my heart out, hoping for understanding, only to feel more invisible.

The turning point came when I decided to see myself first. I began journaling, reflecting on what truly mattered to me, and surrounding myself with people who valued depth and authenticity.

✨ One moment stands out: a conversation with a close friend. I was vulnerable, sharing something deeply personal. Instead of rushing to offer advice, they simply listened, nodded, and said, “I see you.” Those three words shifted everything. I felt safe, understood, and profoundly connected. ✨

It was a reminder of what’s possible when we surround ourselves with people who can truly see us.

Navigating Family Relationships Where You Aren’t Seen

Some family members may never be able to see you for who you’ve become. Instead, they may continue to see you through the lens of who you were in the past.

For me, reconciling my relationship with my father has been one of the most challenging and painful experiences of my life. He cannot see me for who I am, nor does he seem to want to. This lack of acknowledgment has forced me to confront the thanklessness of trying to bridge a gap that isn’t reciprocated.

I’ve had to:

  • Grieve the relationship I wished we could have.

  • Accept that my energy is better spent elsewhere.

  • Take steps to protect my peace, even though it’s an ongoing process.

Sometimes, taking a break from these relationships can create space for healing and growth.
This time apart might even allow for a new dynamic to emerge, one where mutual understanding becomes possible.

How to Surround Yourself With People Who Can See You

Not everyone has the capacity to truly see you, and that’s okay. The key is to:

1. Seek Relationships With Empathy:

Spend time with people who listen deeply, validate your feelings, and make an effort to understand your perspective.

2. Prioritize Mutual Energy:

Healthy relationships involve effort on both sides. Look for connections where care and understanding flow freely.

3. Notice How You Feel:

Pay attention to how you feel after spending time with someone.
✨ If you leave feeling uplifted and valued, that’s a relationship to cherish. ✨

4. Be Intentional About Vulnerability:

Share your true self with those who’ve earned your trust. Vulnerability is a gift, and the right people will hold it with care.

How to Start Seeing Yourself

Feeling seen begins with seeing yourself. Here’s how:

  • Journaling: Write about your emotions, desires, and experiences. Explore what makes you feel alive and what feels misaligned.

  • Meditation: Create quiet moments to tune into your inner voice and reconnect with your truth.

  • Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge your efforts, no matter how small. Validation starts within.

Seeing Others: A Reciprocal Gift

The more we practice seeing others, the more we invite that energy into our lives.

Ways to truly see others:

  • Listen deeply without interrupting or offering solutions.

  • Reflect back what they share to show you understand.

  • Celebrate their unique qualities and contributions.

When you truly see someone, you create a ripple effect of connection.

Final Thoughts: Build a Life Where You Are Seen

Feeling seen isn’t just a luxury—it’s essential to our well-being. It’s a reminder that we are worthy of love, connection, and understanding.

Start with yourself. Reflect on your needs, honor your truth, and seek out relationships that celebrate you. Let go of the connections that don’t align and invest your energy in those that uplift and inspire you.

If you’re a parent, remember: Truly seeing your child is one of the greatest gifts you can offer. It shapes their self-worth, strengthens your bond, and lays the foundation for their emotional well-being.

You deserve to feel seen—not just in moments of strength, but in the fullness of who you are. Seek those connections. They’ll transform your life.

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