Naty Matos's Blog

Dear Thrive by The Rising Muse community,

As the calendar turns to November and the warmth of the holiday season approaches, I want to pause, take a deep breath, and extend my deepest, most heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you. You—my dedicated listeners, wonderful guests, and engaged community members—are the true heart of this passion project.

Harvesting Our Shared Growth

Thanksgiving is a time for reflection, and as I look back on this journey, I am truly humbled. Your invaluable support, your willingness to share your stories, and your open-mindedness have been the fertilizer that has helped this community truly thrive. Watching our community grow from a seed of an idea into a vibrant ecosystem of personal growth and shared experiences has warmed my heart more than words can say.

Together, we are not just listening to a podcast; we are cultivating a beautiful journey. We’re exploring challenging topics, celebrating small victories, and committing to showing up as our best selves. Thank you for making this space one of genuine connection, inspiration, and mutual respect.

Exciting News: Tune In Wherever You Are!

We believe that cultivating personal growth should be convenient and accessible, no matter where your journey takes you. That’s why I am absolutely thrilled to announce that Thrive by The Rising Muse is now available on the incredible App Reveel platform!

This means you can now seamlessly integrate our episodes into your life, whether you’re relaxing on the couch, traveling, or just needing a boost of inspiration:

Direct Online Viewing: You can watch and listen to every episode right from your browser. Click here On Your TV: Simply search for us on your Roku or Fire TV Stick. On The Go: Download the App Reel app on your iOS or Android device.

Even more exciting news: Stay tuned, because App Reveel will soon be the exclusive home for special, exclusive episodes of the podcast, providing you with even deeper dives and unique content just for our community! Think extended interviews, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and focused Q&A sessions.

The App is FREE!

How to Connect with The Rising Muse Today

Getting started is easy! Choose the path that works best for you:

Click Here to Watch OnlineDownload the App Reveel App on your favorite device (search “App Reel”).Search for “Thrive by The Rising Muse” in the app. Or look for the show under the Reality TV CategoryTap the follow/subscribe button and start listening!

Thank you once again for being the most supportive, inspiring part of this endeavor. I look forward to continuing to share our experiences, celebrating our growth, and connecting with you across these new platforms!

Warmest wishes for a happy and meaningful Thanksgiving season,

Thrive by The Rising Muse

As Thanksgiving approaches, we often find ourselves reflecting on the blessings of the past year. But what if gratitude went beyond the dinner table and transformed our very way of living? In this episode of Thrive by the Rising Muse, Naty and Veda explore the profound impact of gratitude when it is intertwined with grace and mercy.

We are reminded that true gratitude isn’t just about acknowledging what we have; it’s about letting that thankfulness change how we see and treat others. They discuss the importance of extending grace, even when it’s inconvenient, and how this can lead to deeper, more meaningful relationships.

The episode delves into the concept of grace—giving others what they don’t deserve—and mercy—refraining from giving them what they do deserve. Naty shares personal stories that highlight the power of these virtues in transforming lives and fostering compassion.

Listeners are encouraged to let their gratitude be visible, to let it sound like grace, and to let it move like mercy. We’re challenged to embody the love and compassion that Thanksgiving represents, not just during the holiday, but every day.

This Thanksgiving, let’s make a conscious effort to let our gratitude transform us. By embracing grace and mercy, we can create a ripple effect of kindness and compassion in our communities. Tune in to this inspiring episode and discover how you can make your gratitude truly transformative.

Subscribe now to Thrive by the Rising Muse for more insightful conversations.

In this episode of “Thrive by the Rising Muse,” hosts Naty and Veda explore the profound topic of healing the inner child. This conversation is not just about revisiting the past but about embracing the journey to emotional and spiritual wholeness. Naty and Veda share personal stories and insights, reminding us that the inner child is the part of us that holds both joy and pain, shaping who we become.

Understanding the Inner Child

Naty and Veda explain how childhood experiences, both joyful and painful, influence our adult lives. They emphasize the importance of acknowledging these memories to facilitate healing and personal growth. Steps to Healing: The episode outlines practical steps for healing, including acknowledging hurt, reparenting oneself, and setting boundaries. Naty and Veda share their personal journeys of forgiveness and the freedom it brings. Spiritual Insights: Drawing on scripture, they explore how faith and God’s love play a pivotal role in the healing process, providing hope and restoration.

Join us for this heartfelt episode as we explore the path to healing and thriving. Tune in to “Thrive by the Rising Muse” and embark on your journey to wholeness.

Subscribe now to stay updated on our latest episodes and follow us on social media @TheRisingMuse for more insights and inspiration.

In today’s fast-paced world, setting boundaries is more crucial than ever for maintaining personal peace and emotional safety. Boundaries are not about shutting people out; they are about protecting your peace and energy. This episode explores the significance of boundaries, drawing on biblical references, personal anecdotes, and practical advice to help you establish boundaries without guilt.

The Importance of Boundaries

Boundaries are essential for protecting personal peace. They are like doors, not walls, defining where you end and others begin. Even Jesus set boundaries, withdrawing to rest and pray, showing us that saying no is a complete sentence and can be a holy act. Boundaries help prevent resentment and maintain healthy relationships.

Practical Advice on Setting Boundaries

Communicating boundaries clearly and lovingly is crucial. Expect pushback when setting boundaries, but remain consistent. Boundaries are a form of sacred stewardship of one’s emotions and peace. Choosing peace over guilt is a powerful act of faith.

Embracing boundaries is embracing peace. By setting boundaries, you guide your emotional well-being and show others how to love you well. Remember, boundaries are not a rejection; they are a direction.

Subscribe now to our podcast for more insights on living a balanced and peaceful life.

In today’s fast-paced world, burnout is a silent epidemic affecting countless individuals. It’s more than just feeling tired; it’s a deep soul-level exhaustion that leaves us feeling empty and disconnected. In this episode of Thrive by the Rising Muse, Naty and Veda open up about the hidden struggles of burnout and share insights on how to recognize and heal from it.

Burnout isn’t just about being overworked. It’s the exhaustion that comes when you give more than you receive, when the balance between pouring out and being poured into disappears. It manifests as irritability, numbness, loss of motivation, and even spiritual silence. Recognizing these signs is the first step towards healing.

Rest is not laziness; it’s sacred. In faith circles, we’re often encouraged to push through, but sometimes strength looks like taking a step back. Naty emphasizes that rest is a holy practice, modeled by God Himself. It’s essential to release the guilt associated with rest and embrace it as a form of self-care and stewardship.

Burnout thrives where boundaries are missing. Saying ‘no’ is crucial for maintaining balance and preventing burnout. It’s important to prioritize your well-being and understand that you can’t pour from an empty cup. Setting boundaries allows you to serve others from a place of abundance rather than obligation.

In faith communities, burnout can be mistaken for a spiritual attack. However, it’s often a sign that you’re doing too much of the wrong thing for too long. Naty reminds us that God doesn’t call us to burn out; He calls us to balance. By reconnecting with ourselves and God, we can find the strength to overcome burnout.

Burnout doesn’t mean you’re broken; it means you’ve been carrying too much for too long without refills. Remember, you are still enough, still chosen, and still loved. Embrace rest as your right and take the necessary steps to heal. Subscribe now to continue this journey with us and discover more insights on thriving in life.

Subscribe now to our podcast for more episodes on mental health and spiritual well-being. Let’s walk this journey together and find balance in our lives.

In a world where love is often portrayed as the ultimate healer, what happens when it becomes the source of our deepest wounds? Join Naty and Veda in this eye-opening episode of “Thrive by the Rising Muse” as they delve into the complexities of unhealthy relationship patterns, offering insights that are both personal and universally relatable.

Naty shares her personal journey through friendships and relationships that left her questioning her worth and identity. From constant criticism to emotional manipulation, she highlights the subtle signs that often go unnoticed until it’s too late. “Love is supposed to heal, not hurt,” she reminds us, urging listeners to recognize the red flags in their own lives.

Through candid anecdotes and heartfelt reflections, they emphasize the importance of vulnerability in healing. She recounts moments of self-doubt and the courage it took to break free from toxic dynamics. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that true love builds up, rather than tears down.

This episode is not just about identifying problems but also about finding solutions. The hosts provide practical resources and support for those seeking to escape unhealthy relationships. She encourages listeners to reach out, share their stories, and embrace the healing journey.

Whether you’re navigating romantic relationships, friendships, or family dynamics, this episode offers a beacon of hope and a path to healthier connections. Tune in to “Thrive by the Rising Muse” and discover how you can step into a love that truly reflects God’s heart.

Don’t miss out on this transformative episode. Subscribe to “Thrive by the Rising Muse” and join a community dedicated to healing, growth, and thriving in love.

In a world where faith is often a source of strength, there lies a shadowy corner where it can be twisted into a tool of control. This episode of “Thrive by the Rising Muse” delves into the often-overlooked realm of spiritual abuse, a form of domestic violence that manipulates faith and scripture to dominate and silence. Join us as we explore the profound impact of this hidden abuse and the path to healing.

Spiritual abuse occurs when religious beliefs are weaponized to control or harm. It can manifest in intimate relationships, families, and even within religious institutions. The episode highlights how scripture is sometimes misused to justify mistreatment, leaving deep emotional scars. Naty and Veda share personal stories and insights, shedding light on the subtle yet damaging nature of this abuse.

Resources for Healing: For those seeking support, the episode offers valuable resources, including the National Domestic Violence Hotline and the Faith Trust Institute. These organizations provide guidance and support for survivors of spiritual abuse. Additionally, the episode encourages listeners to connect with survivor groups and rediscover their faith outside the abuser’s influence.

Conclusion: Spiritual abuse is a silent epidemic that thrives in the shadows. By bringing it into the light, we empower survivors to reclaim their faith and their lives. Watch the full episode to gain a deeper understanding of this issue and learn how to support those affected. Remember, you deserve a life filled with faith, healing, and abundance.

Watch the full episode on our YouTube channel and share it with someone who might need to hear this message. Let’s spread awareness and support each other in the journey towards healing. Subscribe now to stay updated on future episodes.

In the heart of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we delve into the often-overlooked mental health challenges faced by those battling breast cancer and their caregivers. This journey is not just about survival but also about managing the silent battles of anxiety, depression, and fear that accompany the physical fight. Join us as we uncover these stories and insights in our latest episode.

The Unseen Struggles: Breast cancer is a formidable opponent, affecting one in eight women in the U.S.

While treatment advances have improved survival rates, the mental health toll remains significant. Patients often grapple with “chemo brain,” body image issues, and the constant fear of recurrence. Caregivers, too, bear a heavy burden, juggling medical appointments, emotional support, and their own mental health. Discover personal stories and expert advice in our episode.

Journaling, support groups, and therapy are vital tools for managing mental health. Movement, even gentle exercises, can offer healing. For caregivers, self-care is crucial. As one caregiver shared, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” Taking time for oneself is not selfish but necessary to provide quality care. Learn more about these coping strategies in our discussion.

Faith can be a powerful anchor, offering hope and strength. Community support, whether through churches or peer groups, provides a network of care and understanding. As one participant noted, “Faith doesn’t erase the pain, but it gives us an anchor.” Hear more about the role of faith in our episode.

Breast cancer is a journey of both physical and emotional healing. By acknowledging and addressing the mental health challenges, we can better support those affected. Remember, healing is not just physical; it’s emotional and spiritual. Let’s continue to raise awareness and support each other in this journey.

Don’t miss our latest episode of Thrive by the Rising Muse, where we dive deep into these topics with heartfelt stories and expert insights. Subscribe now and join the conversation. Together, we can navigate these challenges and thrive.

This may not be a popular topic, but here we go.

In the last decade or so, I have seen a movement of Christians trying to put laws in place according to what the Bible says we should or should not do. I am a follower of Jesus, but this movement, in my opinion, has brought out several issues.

1. Politicians who pretend to be Christian just to obtain votes.
The Bible says, “You will recognize them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:16). However, in my observation, the masses are bending over backwards to justify some people’s behaviors, decisions, and actions just because their mouths have said they are Christians—even though their fruits are not showing.

2. Looking the other way.
I’ve also observed Christians compromising their own values just to have someone in office who will get things done the way they want, something like “the end justifies the means.”

Here’s my issue with Christianity by law: Are people realizing that forcing someone into a particular behavior does not mean they are accepting or living for Christ?

For example, you could mandate by law that all citizens attend church every Sunday. People might show up at their nearest church, but that doesn’t mean the message is going into their hearts.

God gave us free will. “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Corinthians 3:17). Jesus never forced anyone to accept Him. Why are we? Jesus came to show us His unconditional love—a love that leads us to repentance and to fall in love with Him enough to follow Him to the ends of the earth.

When you force someone into submission, they don’t love what they’re doing—they resent it. They may outwardly show the “good” behavior you want to see, but their heart has not turned toward God.

Legislating Faith vs. Living Faith

Legislating faith is spiritual laziness. We are called to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19), to witness what God has done in our lives, and to show His love through our actions. Instead, some want the government to force people to behave according to our beliefs so we can feel like we’ve accomplished something—when in reality, we have not.

We don’t want to do the hard work of loving everyone, forgiving everyone, and showing mercy to everyone. Instead, we often live with selective love for those who think, believe, and behave like we do. We exercise selective outrage toward those we judge, while ignoring the person in the mirror.

Should society be a free-for-all? No. But when we impose laws to force our faith on the masses, we are not pleasing God. We are not making disciples—we are making people who resent the gospel. And it’s not because of their hardened hearts, but because of our hypocrisy.

We appear hypocritical when we only address the sins of others but excuse the sins of those “within the faith.” “Why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?” (Matthew 7:3).

When someone outside the church falls, we often respond with outrage. But when someone in our faith circle falls, we excuse it as a “moment of weakness.” That’s not mirroring Jesus—it’s hypocrisy.

The Call to Love

When someone doesn’t think like us, we dismiss them as evil, forgetting that God placed them in our path so we could witness to them and love them.

And yes, even love our enemies. “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).

So when I see people who claim to follow Christ spewing hate, it hurts my heart. Because we should know better. Did we forget where we were before Jesus rescued us? Did we forget that He forgave our sins—and continues to forgive them?

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8-9).

If that’s true for us, then it is also true for those around us.

The Harvest Is Plentiful

The Word says, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few” (Luke 10:2). It is time to reflect on how our thoughts and behaviors are either drawing people to Jesus or pushing them away.

You may say you’ve tried and seen no results. But sometimes you’re only meant to plant the seed. Someone else waters, and another sees the fruit (1 Corinthians 3:6–7). But don’t miss your role as a planter.

I know it’s hard not to give up, but I can testify: I was a wreck, and God chased me relentlessly to show me His love. Even now, when I fall flat on my face, He picks me up, cleans me off, and sets me back on solid ground. He knows my flaws, yet He still uses me to reach people. He has assigned each of us to love and serve specific souls.

The Bottom Line

It is our job to show God’s love, grace, and mercy. It is not the government’s job to legislate Christianity, so we can feel good about forcing people into behaviors that don’t lead to salvation.

We don’t win souls by writing laws. We win them by living out the gospel.

#FaithOverPolitics #ChristianLiving #discipline

In the quiet moments of our spiritual journey, we often encounter a profound silence that can feel both unsettling and enlightening. This silence, sometimes perceived as abandonment by God, invites us to explore the depths of our faith and the resilience of our spirit. On the most recent episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we discuss why this happens and how to overcome it.

Spiritual silence is a phase where the usual signs of divine presence seem absent. It’s a time when prayers feel unanswered, and the comforting sense of God’s presence is elusive. This silence can be a test of faith, urging us to seek deeper understanding and connection.

Feeling abandoned by God is a common experience during spiritual silence. It’s a period marked by doubt and questioning, where the absence of divine reassurance challenges our beliefs. Yet, this feeling can also be a catalyst for growth, pushing us to redefine our relationship with the divine.

Instead of resisting the silence, embracing it can lead to profound insights. This period of quiet can be an opportunity to listen more intently to our inner voice and to find strength in solitude. It encourages us to trust in the unseen and to find peace in the unknown.

Experiencing spiritual silence and feeling abandoned by God are integral parts of the spiritual journey. They teach us resilience, patience, and the importance of faith in the unseen. By embracing these moments, we open ourselves to deeper spiritual growth and understanding.

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