Pausing With Purpose: Trauma, Rest, and Learning to Pivot

Pausing With Purpose: Trauma, Rest, and Learning to Pivot

Author: Iyana Anderson, LSW January 29, 2026 Duration: 19:23

In this episode of Mental Health Unscripted, I'm joined by Dr. Lawrencia Jenkins, licensed clinician, educator, and one of our upcoming Women in Wellness Summit speakers,for an honest and grounding conversation about rest, trauma, and what it really means to slow down in a world that rewards constant motion.

We talk about why rest can feel uncomfortable for high-achieving women, how stillness can bring up anxiety rather than relief, and why pausing does not mean you're falling behind. Dr. Jenkins shares powerful insights on how our bodies hold stress, how hustle culture intersects with trauma, and what it looks like to create space for rest in ways that feel realistic, human, and sustainable.

This conversation is an invitation to rethink the idea that rest must be earned, and to consider how slowing down can actually support healing, clarity, and long-term wellness.

Dr. Lawrencia will be expanding on these themes during her session, "Rest & Pivot: The Power of Stillness for High-Achieving Women," at the Women in Wellness Summit, and this episode offers a meaningful preview of what participants can expect.

If you've been feeling stretched thin, constantly "on," or unsure how to pause without guilt, this episode is for you.

Stay Connected

Connect with Dr. Lawrencia Jenkins


Finding a genuine conversation about mental well-being that moves beyond clinical terms can be a challenge. Mental Health Unscripted exists in that space, guided by the experience and empathy of Licensed Social Worker Iyana Anderson. As the founder of Well Together, Iyana approaches these dialogues with a deep understanding that our mental state is intertwined with every other aspect of our lives-our physical fitness, our work, and our personal growth. This podcast brings together a wide range of voices, from therapists and wellness practitioners to entrepreneurs and individuals with powerful stories, all contributing to a richer, more practical understanding of what it means to be well. You’ll hear unpolished, honest discussions that offer tangible insights and strategies, making complex topics accessible and relatable. It’s a resource for anyone who has ever felt stuck on their path or is simply curious about fostering a healthier mind. By tuning in, you join a community-oriented exploration, where the focus is on the whole person, not just a diagnosis. Each episode is designed to feel like a thoughtful conversation with a knowledgeable friend, providing both perspective and actionable steps for navigating daily life with greater resilience and clarity.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 25

Mental Health Unscripted
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