Catching more than fish

Catching more than fish

by | Sep 5, 2025 | Communication, Community, Creativity, Gratitude, Growth, Outdoor Adventures, Relaxation, Wellbeing

Catching more than fish 

On our Community Connection excursion a couple weeks ago, Mackenzie and I decided to share a fly rod. She took the first cast. Almost instantly, she felt the tug of a fish nibbling at the line. Eyes wide, she quickly thrust the rod back to me. “You take it,” she exclaimed. “I don’t want to catch anything!” We both burst into laughter.

I stepped up, still chuckling, and tried my hand at casting. To my surprise I caught a fish almost immediately. What I neglected to mention is, that while I love fish, I hadn’t actually wanted to catch one either. It had been over forty years since I last held a fish or removed one from a hook.

There I stood, a reluctant angler facing a slippery reality. But with some fumbling and help from a certain brave veteran, the catch and release was successful. The fish swam away unharmed.

Reflecting back, I realize that the excursion wasn’t really about fishing. It was about the connections we build in shared experiences, stepping out of our comfort zones, laughing at our mistakes, and supporting each other in moments of uncertainty.

Sometimes, what we “catch” has little to do with the line and everything to do with the bonds formed along the way.

 

Warmly,

 

Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong

When freedom meets responsibility

When freedom meets responsibility

by | Aug 22, 2025 | Anxiety, Belinda's Thoughts, Communication, Compassion, Courage, Wellbeing, Wisdom

When Freedom Meets Responsibility

I’ve always found my deepest sense of calm in the woods; it’s my sanctuary. So when the recent restrictions came into effect, limiting access to forested trails, I felt a surge of frustration. It seemed unnecessary, even intrusive, as though a small but important freedom was being taken from me.

A few days ago, while walking the Blockhouse Loop I spotted a man standing over dry grass, cigarette in hand. Ashes dropped onto the tinder-dry vegetation at his feet. I felt a spike of alarm. I approached him gently, asking him to move to the paved area, pointing out the risk of fire and our shared responsibility to take extra care. He laughed, smiled, and thankfully, complied.

It was after this moment that my perspective shifted. Common sense I realized, isn’t always common. Sometimes restrictions exist because not everyone takes precautions on their own. Rather than being resentful I now hold deep respect for those tasked with maintaining safety for all.

My gratitude extends too, to the first responders working tirelessly to contain the wildfires sweeping our provinces. The few hours of smoke we inhaled last Saturday were but the faintest hint of what they endure daily.

Freedom I’ve learned isn’t only about what I want. It’s about choosing care for the greater good.

We’re currently filling two great group programs, and fall is the perfect time to join us.  We have Identity & Transition coming up on Fridays September 19, 26, October 3, 10, 17.  We also are loading up our popular Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction program September 9th, 16th, 23rd, October 2nd (Thursday), 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th. (945am to noon)
Optional 3-hour retreat Nov 4th. (9 to noon)

Contact Julie to learn more and to get on the list! 902-472-2972 or info@landingstrong.com 

 

Warmly,

 

Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong

Finding our way together

Finding our way together

by | Aug 15, 2025 | Belinda's Thoughts, Communication, Community, Growth, Leadership, Support, Wisdom

Finding our way together

The other day was incredibly hot. Joe was out of town, so I found myself in charge of our three dogs. Normally, on days like this, we’d head to Grey Mountain to let them cool off in the river.

“I can do this,” I thought to myself, even though I have absolutely zero sense of direction.

We made our way up the mountain, and just as we started, the sky opened into a sudden, freak thunderstorm. The first part of the trail went smoothly, and feeling braver than usual, I decided to try a second loop.

Big mistake.

Within minutes, I was turned around, completely soaked, and had no idea where I was. After ninety minutes wandering in rain-drenched clothes, with poor 13-year-old Nara struggling to keep up, I began imagining what I might need to do if we were stuck out there overnight.

Then, by sheer luck, a chance turn brought me back to the right road, and there was my car, appearing from the opposite direction than I’d expected. Relief washed over me.

Reflecting back, it struck me how tempting it is to tell ourselves we can handle things alone. And often, we can. But that doesn’t always mean it’s the wisest, or kindest choice.

Trauma recovery isn’t so different. Just because you can try to navigate it by yourself doesn’t mean you should.

There’s strength in reaching out. In choosing to walk the trail alongside others who understand the twists and turns.

At Landing Strong, that’s exactly what we’re here for: to help you find your way, even when the path feels unclear.

You don’t have to do it alone. And truly, you were never meant to.

Warmly,

 

Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong

A place to call home

A place to call home

by | Feb 21, 2025 | Belinda's Thoughts, Communication, Community, Growth, Recovery, Resilience

                                               

                                           

A place to call home

One of the things I’m most proud of is the warmth with which the Landing Strong community welcomes new members.

In a recent Community Connections group, I noticed a steady stream of participants coming up to a new member to introduce themselves in welcome.

They all remember how hard their first day was, and the strength it takes to simply show up.

Walking through the doors for the first time is the hardest part. Once you witness the warmth with which you’re greeted, you’ll know you’ve come to the right place.

Not only will you be greeted with open arms, but you will also be supported on your journey of recovery. Last week, one of our members debuted a new song he had just written. Surrounded by the support of friendship and encouragement of his peers, he courageously sang of an imaginary Inn where a safe refuge exists for those who are struggling. His words of hope hung like droplets of sweet honey that we all drank in.

There’s a spot for you in our programs and a seat for you at our table. We’re currently loading up for our Overcoming Trauma and Resiliency program, we’d love to see you there.

 

Warmly,

 

Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong

Connection is key-the power of community

Connection is key-the power of community

by | Nov 29, 2024 | Belinda's Thoughts, Communication, Community, Relaxation, Resources, Wellbeing

Connection is key – the power of community

When we think of PTSD, we might envision a person hunched over, sitting alone in a dark room. Operational stress injuries can indeed be isolating when we bear the burden alone.

Only through connection with an understanding community, can we melt away the shame that keeps us immobilized.

If you have been following our social media, you’ll have seen many photos of people in active recovery. They’re full of smiles and are clearly in good company. That’s not by chance. They know something important.
They know that working in groups speeds up recovery and allows us to go further. Significant forward momentum requires knowledge, support, and community.

By working together, we will all go further. Look for the smiles…you’ll know where to find us. Trauma recovery might not look the way you imagined.

We’re loading up programs for the new year, connect soon to save your seat.

 

Warmly,

 

 Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong

Do your actions reflect your values?

Do your actions reflect your values?

by | May 10, 2024 | Belinda's Thoughts, Challenge, Communication, Community, Creativity

Do your actions reflect your values?

I recently made the effort to visit an old friend who is near and dear to my heart. I knew her from a previous life, and we both had intentions of staying in touch. But you know how it goes…weeks turn into months which somehow turn into years. The visit was wonderful, and we picked up right where we left off. I left feeling grounded, happy and inspired.

Do you have someone in your life who has somehow made their way unintentionally into your rearview mirror? If so, I encourage you to drop them a line, reminding them what they mean to you.

Our actions do reflect our intentions. This is very much the theme of our upcoming Healthy Living program which allows an opportunity for participants to examine habits, try new skills and develop new hobbies. Mornings are spent at Landing Strong. After enjoying lunch together, we go as a group to Windsor Maker’s Studio for an opportunity to develop our artistic skills (e.g., pottery, woodworking, painting, drawing, glasswork).

Is the life you are leading reflective of the values and people you hold most dear?

Come get involved with us…you may be surprised by how much fun you have.

Warm thoughts,

Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong