In this episode of the Love After Kids series, I’m joined by somatic therapist Kim Torrence for a deeply grounding and insightful conversation about what it means to find balance in motherhood and in our relationships. Kim specializes in burnout prevention and recovery for professional women, and her work focuses on the mind-body connection, helping clients reconnect to themselves, manage stress, and find more ease in everyday life.

Together, we dive into the tension that so many moms feel between wanting to be a present and loving parent while also being an emotionally available and connected partner. Often, these two roles feel like they’re in direct conflict, and the pressure to do both well can feel unbearable. Kim and I talk about how balance isn’t about doing it all perfectly—it’s about knowing yourself well enough to recognize when something feels off and having the tools to come back to center.

One of the most powerful threads in our conversation is the idea that balance looks different for everyone, and it can shift over time. What you needed to feel grounded when your kids were toddlers might not be the same when they’re older. Kim invites us to ask deeper questions about what balance truly feels like in the body—not just what it looks like on the outside.

We also explore how burnout can sneak into relationships, especially when everything starts to feel like a task or a responsibility. You might be getting everything done, but if you’re not feeling connected, seen, or supported, something’s missing. Kim shares how somatic practices and internal reflection can help moms identify the parts of themselves that have been pushed aside and how tending to those parts can lead to healing and reconnection—not just with ourselves, but with our partners too.

We also touch on the concept of “spiritual reparenting” and the importance of self-leadership. When we begin to speak for our emotions instead of from them, we create more opportunities for authentic communication in our relationships. That’s where repair and deeper intimacy can really happen.

This episode is full of gentle reminders that you don’t have to have it all figured out. You don’t need to be perfect. And even if you’ve lost touch with parts of yourself, you can always find your way back. If you’ve ever felt like you’re holding everything together but losing yourself in the process, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, supported, and a little more hopeful.

Helpful Links:

Website: https://kimtorrence.com/

Recommended Podcast Episodes:

Spotify: Episode 61 & Episode 62

Apple Podcasts: Episode 61 & Episode 62

YouTube: Episode 61 & Episode 62

Thank you so much for joining me this week on today’s episode. Be sure to follow me on IG @therapy.with.kayla

I love hearing about your insights and aha! moments from the show.

About the Podcast Host
Kayla Nettleton is a licensed TX-based therapist, business owner, mom of 3, and marketing coach for therapists.

In her private practice, Kayla helps women break free from cycles of anxiety, perfectionism, and people-pleasing. Her holistic approach guides clients toward authentic, fulfilling lives by reconnecting with their intuition, setting boundaries, and building confidence.

Kayla also works with couples, especially parents balancing marriage and family. She offers both traditional couples therapy and focused intensives (6 to 18 hours) to help partners address key issues like communication, trust, and intimacy.

Through empathy and effective therapeutic tools, Kayla helps couples reconnect, thrive, and create healthier, more supportive relationships—benefiting the entire family. Her practice transforms self-doubt and disconnection into growth, healing, and lasting change.

Find Kayla on IG: @therapy.with.kayla

Find Kayla on TikTok: therapy.with.kayla

Find Kayla On YouTube: The Modern Mom’s Roadmap to Balance Podcast

Email: kayla@kaylanettleton.com

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