Written by Simone Usselman-Tod
October always feels like a turning point for me. The air shifts, the leaves begin to change, and it invites us to reflect on how we’re showing up, for ourselves and for the people around us.
In the Wild About Wellness community, our theme this month is Authentic Relationships and Wellness Through Connection. It’s a beautiful reminder that our relationships are more than just a part of life, they are a foundation for our well-being.
But there’s something I have learned over and over again: authentic connection always begins on the inside.
Prioritize Safety:
Internal safety matters. When we feel safe in our own skin, we are able to show up fully with others. Internal safety is that grounded feeling that says, “I can be myself here.” It’s the nervous system’s way of letting us relax, listen, and engage without the need to mask, perform, or protect.
Without it, our relationships can feel strained or surface-level. We might overextend ourselves, keep quiet about our needs, or go into autopilot just to “get through.” That not only takes a toll on our energy but also keeps us from experiencing the depth of connection we truly crave.
The Stress-Connection Link:
Sometimes life can feel like a roller coaster with highs and lows, sharp turns, and unexpected drops that leave us gripping tightly to keep from being thrown off track. Stress magnifies that ride. It doesn’t just live in the body, it spills into how we relate. When we are running on empty, we are more reactive, more sensitive, and less able to be present with others.
Over time, this can leave us feeling disconnected, even in the relationships that matter most. On the flip side, authentic, supportive relationships act like the safety bar on that roller coaster. They help us feel secure enough to ride the ups and downs without losing ourselves. They soften the edges of stress, give us perspective, and remind us we are not in this alone. Connection, in this way, is wellness in action.
“Authentic relationships are built on inner safety.
From that foundation, resilience and flow follow naturally.”
– Simone Usselman-Tod –
Practices That Nurture Both Wellness & Connection:
Here are some ways we can strengthen both our inner safety and our relationships:
- Prioritize Self-Care – Protect your rest, eat well, move your body, and give yourself permission to pause.
- Set Boundaries – “No” can be one of the most loving words we offer—to ourselves and others.
- Honour Your Needs – Whether it’s quiet time, fresh air, movement, or creativity, choose what helps you reset.
- Simplify & Outsource – Use planners, reminders, or systems to reduce overwhelm and free up energy for what really matters.
- Seek Supportive Circles – Spend time with people who celebrate you as you are.
- Communicate Clearly – Speak your needs with kindness and clarity. Authentic communication builds trust and safety.
Reflections:
As we step into this month’s theme together, I invite you to reflect:
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Where do you feel most safe to be your authentic self?
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How does your inner state impact the way you connect with others?
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What’s one small step you can take this month to create more safety inside and more connection outside?
About Simone:
Simone Usselman-Tod is a Neuro-Linguistic Coach and Neuro Change Practitioner with a 30-year background in Health Science. She blends neuroscience, psychology, and physiology to help entrepreneurial women master stress, regulate their nervous systems, and accelerate their goals with clarity and ease. With a focus on reprogramming limiting patterns and building inner resilience, Simone supports clients in achieving powerful, lasting results. Since launching her business in 2013, she’s been passionate about serving growth-minded women who value freedom, contribution, and personal transformation.
Simone is the founder and contributes to the Wild About Wellness Community online where members passionate about holistic health and wellness come together to share information, educate and contribute for the purpose of learning and growing. You are invited to explore the site with a free 1-month membership. Get your 1-month free membership HERE. Register for our FREE monthly events HERE