Letting Go of the Reins: Learning to Relax into Trust
Thu Nov 13 2025
Episode 60 of the Yes! We Rise podcast
In this powerful solo reflection, Christine shares on Yes! We Rise what has unfolded during one of the most difficult seasons of her life. What began as a promising year—healthy, strong, training for her first marathon—shifted dramatically when she developed a sudden cascade of health symptoms that ultimately led to a Lyme disease diagnosis.
At the same time, her family was navigating major transitions with her oldest preparing for college, and her team was facing unexpected federal funding freezes on long-standing projects. The combination became overwhelming, leaving Christine exhausted, disoriented, and unable to rely on her usual anchors.
In this episode, Christine explores:
The experience of watching her health rapidly change The emotional impact of hitting pause on her marathon training The grief and pride of parenting a child preparing to leave home The strain of major work uncertainties Why control stopped working—and what happened when she let go How mindfulness, movement, friendship, and creativity supported her healing A trip to Florida that became a "reset point" after finishing treatment A Season of Surrender
Christine shares how this period brought her "to her knees"—but also how surrender became the doorway to trust. By releasing her grip on the outcomes she couldn't control, she discovered unexpected calm, clarity, and a renewed connection to her inner resilience.
For Listeners in a Hard Season
If you're navigating your own challenges, Christine offers this reflection as a companion and reminder: our strength often grows from our struggle, and sometimes the path forward begins with letting go of the reins.
Links & Resources
Learn more about Yes We Rise: https://www.yeswerise.org Join Christine's community work at Dialogue + Design: https://www.dialogueanddesign.com Follow on social @yeswerise
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Episode 60 of the Yes! We Rise podcast In this powerful solo reflection, Christine shares on Yes! We Rise what has unfolded during one of the most difficult seasons of her life. What began as a promising year—healthy, strong, training for her first marathon—shifted dramatically when she developed a sudden cascade of health symptoms that ultimately led to a Lyme disease diagnosis. At the same time, her family was navigating major transitions with her oldest preparing for college, and her team was facing unexpected federal funding freezes on long-standing projects. The combination became overwhelming, leaving Christine exhausted, disoriented, and unable to rely on her usual anchors. In this episode, Christine explores: The experience of watching her health rapidly change The emotional impact of hitting pause on her marathon training The grief and pride of parenting a child preparing to leave home The strain of major work uncertainties Why control stopped working—and what happened when she let go How mindfulness, movement, friendship, and creativity supported her healing A trip to Florida that became a "reset point" after finishing treatment A Season of Surrender Christine shares how this period brought her "to her knees"—but also how surrender became the doorway to trust. By releasing her grip on the outcomes she couldn't control, she discovered unexpected calm, clarity, and a renewed connection to her inner resilience. For Listeners in a Hard Season If you're navigating your own challenges, Christine offers this reflection as a companion and reminder: our strength often grows from our struggle, and sometimes the path forward begins with letting go of the reins. Links & Resources Learn more about Yes We Rise: https://www.yeswerise.org Join Christine's community work at Dialogue + Design: https://www.dialogueanddesign.com Follow on social @yeswerise