Meet Me at The Cottage Podcast

06/19/2024

Posted • The newest podcast is out! Make sure to listen and learn!

Jenn Ewald, LCSW and Jen Sellitto-Penoza, LCSW (affectionately referred to as “The Jenns”) founded the 501c3 non-profit organization, Postnatal Support Advocates, Inc., in mid 2023. Our mission is to revolutionize the postpartum experience for Delaware Families through emotional wellness support during the foundational 4th trimester and beyond. We wholeheartedly believe that when adequately served and supported, postnatal parents have access to the rest, recovery and care that their mind and body needs. This ultimately means a reduction in postpartum mood disorders and better opportunity for a secure parent-infant bond.

Postnatal Support Advocates

05/15/2024

On this latest episode of the , Crystal + Jenn discuss all things mental health & grief (naturally!), with a special emphasis on maternal emotional wellness and the amazing work being done by . This is an episode you don’t want to miss. Available for download on , and listen 🎧
🔗 in bio

In honor of is offering a series of FREE Maternal Wellness Workshops at both and throughout the month of May. Visit www.balancedmindjourney.com/events to learn more 💻

04/12/2024

Where are our fellow lovers of ? 🎭Crystal + Jenn are both fans, especially of ❤️ In their FIRST episode of 2024, these musical-loving pals discuss what’s been going on over the past year, not only personally but professionally (from the comfort of their of course). Jenn’s allergies are the uninvited guest, along with their friends Madame Sniffles & Your Royal Highness Stuffy Nose 😂 As always, there is lots of laughter and even some unapologetic moments of almost crying. Do you expect anything else from these two? 🤔

🎧 Listen now on and
🔗 Link in bio ⬆️
Don’t forget to download, rate, review & hit that button

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and the duo discuss ’s contract with to provide to survivors AND victim service professionals. Interested in learning more or registering? ➡️ through the slides

is thrilled to be hosting the 2nd on April 27th from 10am-2pm. This year’s proceeds (minus costs) will be donated to . We hope to see you there!

Crystal + Jenn may be the voices behind the mics, but everything else is credited to Marcus! He sets up, mixes, edits and is basically the sound magician that they wouldn’t be able to make a podcast without! 🙏

02/17/2024

Posted • We are thrilled to announce that proceeds from this year’s event will be going to - a local non-profit providing affordable emotional wellness support for postnatal parents ❤️

Our mission with DE Moms Community Wellness Day is to support moms and moms-to-be by connecting them with the services they may need at any time in motherhood.

PSA is doing amazing things and we hope to increase their impact by raising funds that will allow them to support even more parents without the barrier of cost ❤️

Visit the link in our bio to get your tickets and to donate now!

12/31/2023

Please feel free to share!

Here is a preview of our upcoming events for the month of January.

Remember to make sure you are following our page so that you don't miss out on our first giveaway event once we reach 1K followers.

12/20/2023

Greetings friends! Crystal, Jenn + Marcus are back with their final episode of 2023! 😱 This episode was recorded in November, but as the title suggests, Grief, Trauma & The Holidays happened, and it's coming to you a little later than expected. Thank you for your patience as the trio continue to heal their respective grief and traumas. 🙏

Crystal + Jenn continue to have difficult conversations surrounding grief and trauma with an added dash of the holidays thrown in just for funsies. Crystal's cold is the unexpected, uninvited third co-host on this episode. 😆 (apologies in advance for the annoying sniffles, coughs and throat clearing).

Although this was a heavy conversation (honestly, when are they not?!), Crystal + Jenn had a lot of fun, as evidenced by the giggles and laughter. This trio truly has a blast together, especially on recording days. They hope you have as much fun listening.

Like a lot of things, this podcast is something that was mentioned in passing a few years ago, and Jenn took the ball and ran with it, sending Crystal articles on how to start your own podcast. Crystal + Jenn are grateful that they get to share their stories and experiences with all of you. They're both passionate about having deep conversations about difficult subjects, sitting in discomfort and creating space for healing. Vulnerability isn't easy, but it's necessary when you're working to normalize grief, heal generational traumas and dismantle the oppressive systems of white supremacy and patriarchy.

Marcus, Jenn + Crystal want to thank everyone for tuning in, sharing their feedback and support. Exciting things are in store for 2024, including special guests!

Don't forget to rate, review and subscribe. Listen to this latest episode and catch up on previous ones by clicking the link in our bio.

Wishing you peace, comfort and ease as 2023 draws to a close. If your heart and soul are feeling heavy, please know that ours are too. Healing isn't done in isolation, and we hope you're able to find connection and community during these difficult times, even if it's listening to our podcast.

11/28/2023

Join me & for our second walk through the woods on Saturday, December 2nd at 10am to get the powerful benefits of community and nature, both of which are sources of comfort and healing while grieving. This is a completely FREE event. Details below:

EVENT SCHEDULE:
10am: Meet Nature Center
10 - 10:15am: Brief introductions from Crystal & Sydney, and whoever else is comfortable sharing who they are grieving
10:15am: Walk & Talk!
11 - 11:30am: Crystal & Sydney will hang around and be available to talk more or answer any questions
WHO ARE CRYSTAL & SYDNEY?
Crystal, of Cohabitating with Grief, is a David Kessler Certified Grief Educator, Trauma-Informed Yoga Instructor, and the Co-Founder and Director of the Healing Cottage. After the unexpected loss of her mother in 2021, she decided to focus her attention on sharing yoga and holistic healing with the community.
Sydney, of Shift Life Coaching, is certified in Grief & Life Coaching. She found her way to grief & life coaching after losing her fiancé in August 2022. Her own process of rebuilding her life after a tragic loss has inspired her to support others in a similar process to find hope and look forward to the future again.
Crystal & Sydney have a shared intention of creating an abundance of space to talk about death, dying, and grief. They hope to change the narrative around grieving and serve others experiencing grief through education and support.
You can find out more about each of them here:
Crystal - https://www.balancedmindjourney.com/crystal
Sydney - https://www.shiftlifecoachingllc.com/

**IN CASE OF INCLEMENT WEATHER, THERE WILL BE A ZOOM LINK ON THE FACEBOOK EVENT PAGE FOR THOSE WHO WOULD STILL LIKE TO MEET**

11/20/2023

Crystal, Jenn + Marcus recorded another episode of the over the weekend from the comfort of our + celebrated Jenn’s birthday with cake 🥳

New episode dropping soon, but in the meantime, catch up on previous episodes. Link in bio ⬆️

11/11/2023

This is a picture of my mom, Shirley. She passed away suddenly on September 25, 2021, and I miss her every day. 💔 People often ask what, if anything, they can do to honor their loved ones following their death, and I would love to share with you the ways in which I honor my mom (and myself).

This is a picture of the Grief Alter I made for my mom's birthday this year (June 10th). Everything was chosen with intention & purpose:

✨ I took this photo of her on our annual Mother-Daughter trip to the beach we would take every March. My mom only drank twice per year: once during this trip, and the other on her birthday.
✨ I found the shell on the left at the beach on her birthday last year (the first one after her passing). I released some of her ashes into the ocean that day, in front of the hotel we stayed at on our trips. This shell is a reminder of those trips 🥰
✨ The feather bookmark is a gift from a friend. Feathers & butterflies are signs that my mom is always with me. In the glass ball is amethyst, my birthstone. Purple is also a color that reminds me of my mom. 💜
✨ The rose quartz is for amplifying love. Love for myself and a reminder of my mother's love. No one will ever love me as much as she does.
✨ In the 'Breathe' jar is a Grief spell candle that I bought last year prior to her 1st deathiversary. I read the spell as I light the candle and take a few deep breaths to quiet my mind and listen to my heart.
✨ The cardinal is a gift from my beloved partner, Jayne, in honor of my mom. Cardinals are said to be a sign that a departed loved one is with you.

Just like grief, how and if you honor your loved one is deeply personal, and there is no right or wrong way to do it.

Grief can be hard & feel lonely, but it doesn't have to be. I would love to walk with you on your journey, helping you to integrate grief into your life & supporting you every step of the way. I am currently offering a limited-time discount on your first 1:1 grief support session (in-person or virtual). The promo code can be found on the second slide. Comment 'honor' below or direct message me to learn more.

Sending love & hugs to everyone.

11/11/2023

11/08/2023

Posted • 👋Hello grievers,

Join me on December 15th for an intimate, in-person Grief Education & Support Group. You'll have the opportunity to have your grief witnessed, validated, and supported. 💕✨

I believe that having a safe space to share your story and emotions is crucial in finding healing and peace. 🤗💔Connect with others on their own grief journeys, and together we can create a nurturing and compassionate space for growth and healing. 🙏❤️

Mark your calendars for this in-person . 🗓️ Space is limited, and pre-registration is required. Click the link in my bio to learn more and save your spot. ☝️Also, register by DECEMBER 1st and save $$ by using code EARLY10. 💰🤩

Remember, you're not alone in your grief. Let's come together and support one another on this healing path. ❤️🌈

Comment below or send me a DM if you'd like to learn more or have any questions. I'm here for you every step of the way. 💌💫

11/02/2023

Join our very own Crystal Dalton of Cohabitating with Grief for this FREE virtual grief support group on November 30th. Visit www.balancedmindjourney.com/crystal to learn more

10/23/2023

Greetings, community! Episode 6: Support through Community, Connection & Storytelling is available now! In this episode, Crystal & Jenn discuss support and how important it's been on their respective healing journeys. ✨❤️‍🩹

During their conversation Crystal & Jenn make mention of the following Delaware-based agencies/resources. 🔗 Click on the links to learn more about each:

1. Victims' Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP):
https://attorneygeneral.delaware.gov/vcap/

2. Center for Grief & Trauma Therapy: https://www.centerforgrieftherapy.com/

3. Sexual Violence Protection Order (SVPO):
https://legis.delaware.gov/BillDetaillegislationId=79113

🎧Listen to all episodes on Spotify, Amazon Music and YouTube! Don't forget to rate, review and subscribe. 🙏

🤔Have questions, comments or a topic you'd like us to cover? Send us a direct message or leave a comment below.

10/18/2023

👋Hello everyone! Gentle reminder that I'm offering a limited-time discount of 50% off your first one-on-one grief education and support session, in-person or virtually. 💕 PROMO CODE: POST50

💔 Grief can often feel confusing and isolating. It's a rollercoaster of emotions, and sometimes it can be hard to find the support we need. That's why it's crucial to have our feelings validated, witnessed, and supported by someone who truly understands.

🌟 From my own personal grief journey, I've come to realize just how much our country needs to become more grief literate. I'm on a mission to change that and create a safe space for others to process their grief without shame, judgment, or time constraints.

😊 If you're ready to embark on a healing journey and find the support and understanding you deserve, I'm here for you. Drop a comment or send me a DM to learn more about this special offer and how I can support you in your grief journey. Let's walk this path together, my friend. 💙

10/18/2023

Posted • 👋Hello everyone! Gentle reminder that I'm offering a limited-time discount of 50% off your first one-on-one grief education and support session, in-person or virtually. 💕 PROMO CODE: POST50

💔 Grief can often feel confusing and isolating. It's a rollercoaster of emotions, and sometimes it can be hard to find the support we need. That's why it's crucial to have our feelings validated, witnessed, and supported by someone who truly understands.

🌟 From my own personal grief journey, I've come to realize just how much our country needs to become more grief literate. I'm on a mission to change that and create a safe space for others to process their grief without shame, judgment, or time constraints.

😊 If you're ready to embark on a healing journey and find the support and understanding you deserve, I'm here for you. Drop a comment or send me a DM to learn more about this special offer and how I can support you in your grief journey. Let's walk this path together, my friend. 💙

10/04/2023

09/29/2023

Continuing to send love to Jenn + Marcus as their family continues to heal from their house fire. 🫂 Jenn has been candid about the grief, trauma + sadness she has felt since this happened in March. Please listen to our previous episodes to hear her story. 🎧Authenticity + vulnerability are what is ALL about ❤️‍🩹
Link in bio☝️
Posted • About 6 months ago, our family lost our home and everything we owned to a house fire. Today we went to the house to meet with the architect to start the process of rebuilding. Most everything has been gutted, and the second floor completely removed. Yet this was left standing and in tact as if no fire had ever occurred. Having a mix of feelings and choosing to share with our Cottage Community today 💜

09/29/2023

🌟 Trust Your Inner Voice and Fulfill Your Soul's Purpose 🌟

🌌 Deep down, we all have a whisper guiding us towards our true calling. It's time to release the fear that holds us back and find the courage to listen to our intuition. 🦋

💪 Stepping outside of our comfort zones is where the magic happens. It's where growth blooms, challenges are conquered, and dreams come to life. 🌱

✨ Today, let's embrace the power within ourselves to follow our gut instincts and live a life aligned with our soul's purpose. 🌈

🔎 Share with us: What's one small step you can take today to honor your intuition and move towards your deepest desires? 🌟✨

09/29/2023

You need to hear this: You’re doing better than you know, so hang in there, and remember... If you could use some help taking one thing off your plate like processing your grief, shoot me a DM, and I'll be happy to support you any way I can! You don't have to walk this journey alone! 💕🌺

09/28/2023

✨You don’t want to miss this amazing workshop with Trudi Hawke! ⭐️🌸

🗓️ October 14th
📍 The Healing Cottage
⏰ 10 AM- 12 PM

💫 Space is limited, pre-registration is required! Secure your spot by visiting www.balancedmindjourney.com/events

🌟 Discover the Power of Yoga & Nervous System Healing! 🧘‍♀️💫

🧘 Yoga & Your Nervous System Workshop 🌈
Date: October 14th
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: The Healing Cottage (Middletown, DE)

Yoga is a scientific system of various practices that support each other in order to help the
practitioner in pursuing a whole & purposeful life. Many of the benefits of yoga can be
physically observed, such as increased flexibility, range of motion, balance, coordination & strength. There are also improvements to one’s physiology, such as blood pressure,
immunoresponses & respiration, just to name a few. And specifically with regards to the
functioning of the nervous system, practicing yoga is effective in reducing & managing stress, improving sleep & regulating all the hallmarks of calmness in the body & brain.

This two-hour educational, interactive & practical workshop is intended to give you an
introduction into the “How?” and “Why?” of a yoga practice as it relates to the components & operations of a human nervous system. There will be a presentation of our body’s anatomical structures and their roles, as well as ample time for discussion & questions. An abbreviated asana practice (yin-style) with brief meditation and breath work incorporated will be led by Trudi.

Whether you're new to yoga, an experienced practitioner or instructor, this workshop is designed to meet you wherever you are on your journey. It's a safe and supportive space where you can explore the incredible connection between mind, body, and spirit. 🌿✨

Space is limited, so be sure to pre-register and reserve your spot today! 🎟️🌟

Don't miss out on this transformative experience! To secure your spot or learn more, head to the link in our bio or send us a direct message. We can't wait to see you there as we discover the incredible healing potential of yoga & the nervous system together. 🙏❤️

Participants are encouraged to bring a mat & wear comfy/cozy clothing. Props will be available. Please feel free to bring notetaking materials as well.

09/22/2023

Posted • 🌟 Movement and Community: A Powerful Combination in My Grief Journey 🌟

When I reflect on my own grief journey, there are two key elements that have made a profound impact and helped me navigate the difficult road of loss: movement and community.

Movement, whether through exercise, yoga, or simply taking walks in nature, has been a lifeline for me, especially this week. Engaging in physical activity not only helps release stress and tension, but it also allows me to connect with my body in a positive way. Movement has become a form of therapy, giving me a sense of grounding and strength in the midst of grief's unpredictable waves. And I want to give a HUGE shout-out Nicole Dougherty, , for inviting me to be a part of her 5 Day Strong Mom Challenge. Don't let the name fool you, her services are open to moms and non-moms (such as myself!) alike. The workouts that she designed for this challenge were a lot of fun and something that I have looked forward to all week! 😊

What truly makes the journey easier is the power of community. Finding a support system that understands and empathizes with my grief has been invaluable. Surrounding myself with others who have been through similar experiences creates a safe space where I can share my emotions, be heard, and feel understood. It's a reminder that I'm not alone in this journey, and that healing is possible, even in the midst of pain.

Have you found movement or community to be important in your own grief journey? Share your thoughts and experiences below. Let's support each other and find solace in knowing that together, we can navigate and grow through grief. 💕🌈