We learn to take care of ourselves, combat loneliness, and feed families while enjoying a night out!
A Letter From Our Founder
Dear reader,
Since I last wrote you, I got a rare stretch of days with more breathing room. My kids went to sleepaway camp for the first time ever, and in between traveling to visit family and getting them ready for school, I found myself with hours that were entirely my own. I can’t remember the last time that happened.
I didn’t have to rush anywhere. I didn’t have to rush anyone to bed. And what surprised me most was what I did with that freedom. I spent time with friends. I ate what I wanted when I wanted. I actually tended to myself, in ways I don’t often make time for even when I have the time.
It got me thinking about how many of my clients describe the exact same thing. Not eating when hungry or resting when tired; not even using the restroom without holding it until a better moment. These are things that get pushed aside in favor of whatever feels more productive. It shows up regardless of what someone’s life looks like on the outside. It’s what this month’s article is about, and I hope it’s useful whether you recognize yourself in it, or you’re someone who has watched a partner, a parent, or a friend run themselves into the ground this way.
As always, if you’re looking for support with this or anything else, we’re here. You can reach us at info@takeroottherapy.com or call or text (323) 388-5578.
Warmly,
Saba Harouni Lurie (she/her/hers)
P.S. I also want to share that our beloved and incredible care coordinator, Carla, has gone back to school and is transitioning out of the role. We are so excited for them and genuinely sad for the practice. We’ll hopefully have news soon of someone who can try to fill their shoes.
On The Blog
Why Is Self-Care So Hard for High Achievers?: Learning to Listen to and Care for Your Body
I grew up with two immigrant parents who seemed to live to work. I can’t speak to who they could have been if they hadn’t immigrated to the United States and specifically to West Los Angeles, where they were surrounded by wealth and always trying to keep up. But I can share that my father was often up before 5 am to head to the dry cleaners he co-owned, and that I often wouldn’t see him until late, late into the night, even on Saturdays. My mom, who worked in banks when I was young, had more typical office hours, but she was still working until 6pm or later. As a family, we subsisted on takeout and leftover pizza. I bolstered this diet with cereal and milk…
How to Help
Volunteer at Food Fridays
Every Friday morning we’ll be open from 10-11:30 to sort and pack food bags. We then distribute the food bags to nonprofits all over LA.
Big Sunday has given away food for ages, but due to the overwhelming need- we’re now doing it weekly. Every single Friday we pack at least 100 food bags and then give them away to those facing food insecurity all over the Los Angeles area.
These food bags provide relief to unhoused individuals, seniors on fixed incomes, people in temporary housing, students who rely on LAUSD for consistant meals, and many other individuals who just need some assistance. When you attend this event, you make a direct impact and truly help the hungry.
WHEN:
Friday Mornings
10:00 am -11:30 am
WHERE:
1741 North Cherokee Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90028
The Anti-Loneliness Club
A biweekly group of young adults volunteering at retirement homes, foster care centers, and other places where loneliness is prevalent.
For the first meeting, we’ll get to know each other, share our own experiences with loneliness, and brainstorm places to volunteer at.
WHEN:
Monday, August 31st
10 AM – 12 PM
WHERE:
Barnsdall Gallery Theatre
4800 Hollywood Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Community Events
Hunger Ain’t No Joke – A Comedy Fundraiser to Feed LA!
Want something fun to do solo? Night with friends? Date night? Look no further!
Enjoy comedians from Netflix, HBO, late night, and more at the Lyric Hyperion while supporting the LA community! One in four LA households is food insecure – but you can help feed families while enjoying a fun night out at Hunger ain’t No Joke!
WHEN:
Saturday, August 29th
Doors 5:10PM // Show 5:30PM
WHERE:
Lyric Hyperion Theater & Cafe
2106 Hyperion Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Featured Publications
This Is A Rude Way To End A Friendship. But A Lot Of Us Do It Anyway
featuring Saba Harouni Lurie
What therapists wish everyone understood about loneliness
featuring Saba Harouni Lurie
8 ways to zone out and relax that don’t involve being on your phone
featuring Saba Harouni Lurie