Hello, my friend!

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As I sat with patients this week, I noticed something that made me reflect on my own behavior. One client apologized for not having a pedicure before her session. Then another apologized for being five minutes late. And another for her teenager calling during our time together.

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It struck me how frequently we, as women, say "I'm sorry" for simply existing in our natural state or managing the complexities of our lives. We're constantly trying to be pleasant, acceptable, and pleasing to others - but at what cost? I wonder if this constant din of apologies is drowning out our own internal needs and authentic selves.

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👇 In today's email:

• This week's inspiration: Do I Have to Say I'm Sorry?
• Latest blog post: How I Discovered Microcurrent Facials
• What I'm watching: Dying for Sex

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Do I Have to Say I'm Sorry?

Have you noticed how often you apologize throughout your day? We apologize for not having had a pedicure, for not shaving our legs, for being five minutes late, or for our family members interrupting us at inconvenient moments.

The Apology Reflex

This automatic “I’m sorry” has become so ingrained in many women that it’s almost a reflex - a social currency we pay to ensure we’re perceived as agreeable and considerate. But there’s a profound difference between genuine accountability and this constant state of unnecessary apology.

What’s Really Happening

When we apologize for simply taking up space or having normal human experiences, we’re subtly reinforcing a belief that our natural state isn’t acceptable. We’re telling ourselves and others that we should somehow be different, better, or less inconvenient.

Breaking the Cycle

This week, I challenge you to become aware of your apology patterns. Notice when you say “I’m sorry” and ask yourself:

• Is this something that actually requires an apology?
• What would happen if I acknowledged the situation without apologizing?
• Can I replace “I’m sorry” with something more empowering or another positive phrase?

Remember, taking care of your needs and living life isn’t something to apologize for - it’s essential to being human. Being considerate of others is important, but not at the expense of your own self-worth.

Yes, you can break free from the apology cycle and own your voice and presence!

Latest blog post
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​How I Rediscovered Microcurrent Facials​

My journey with electrical stimulation for health and wellness began almost 23 years ago during my study of acupuncture and Chinese medicine. I was fascinated by how gentle electrical currents could influence the body’s natural processes. My first personal experience was using a TENS machine during my pregnancies to help manage discomfort.

It’s important to note that a TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) machine is not the same as a microcurrent device, although they both use electrical stimulation. TENS machines use a higher current (milliamps) to modulate pain signals, while microcurrent devices use a significantly lower current (microamps) for other purposes like muscle stimulation or facial rejuvenation.

My rediscovery of microcurrent’s power came eighteen months ago when I found myself in the heart of Paris’s Jardin du Palais Royal, sitting in the studio of renowned facialist Sophie Carbonari. I’d read about her in the Financial Times and was intrigued by her approach to skincare.

What struck me most wasn’t just Sophie’s warm smile or the chic Parisian setting - it was the remarkable results I witnessed from the microcurrent device she used toward the end of my treatment. After a divine percussive massage, she applied this device that not only deeply relaxed me but left my skin looking absolutely fabulous.

I was so impressed that I took photos of her machine before leaving! Upon returning to the States, I discovered this particular device couldn’t be imported to the U.S. Not one to be deterred, I reached out to my old friend Rich Lang, who lives in Spain. Rich (who actually attended my wedding 20 years ago!) managed to find the machine and somehow get it through TSA to my office in Newport.

Now, I use microcurrent therapy regularly on myself and my clients. It’s essentially like a gym workout for your face - you look amazing afterward, with plumper, lifted skin and smoother fine lines. The gentle electrical stimulation increases cellular activity, enhances collagen production, and improves circulation and lymphatic drainage. Some clients even look a couple of years younger when they come off the table!

What began as an academic interest decades ago has come full circle, becoming an integral part of both my personal skincare routine and professional practice. The journey from TENS to sophisticated microcurrent facials reminds me how ancient wisdom and modern technology can beautifully complement each other.

​Read the full post on microcurrent benefits here →​

What I'm Watching
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​Dying for Sex​

This week, I binged all eight episodes of "Dying for Sex," starring Michelle Williams as a young woman with limited time left who pursues pleasure and works through childhood trauma through a series of sexual experiences.

Initially, I found some aspects of the show risqué and improbable (an oncology social worker bringing the protagonist to a sex club? Really?). The focus on salacious content threatened to overshadow the more meaningful messages.

What truly resonated with me were the authentic portrayals of human connection. Jenny Slate plays the protagonist's loyal, self-sacrificing best friend, highlighting the power of enduring friendship during life's most challenging moments. The mother-daughter relationship, with Sissy Spacek delivering a sensational performance, explores the healing of childhood trauma in a way that feels both raw and hopeful.

While the marketing of the show leans heavily on its provocative elements, what struck me most was how the characters were portrayed in their least glamorous light. These are attractive actors deliberately shown without the usual Hollywood polish. When you feel compassion for them, it's for their humanity - their fears, vulnerabilities, and resilience. That authentic humanity, not any manufactured façade, is what makes the series genuinely beautiful.

​Watch the trailer here →​

I’m cheering for you. Enjoy the sun and have a wonderful week!

Dr. Cat 🥰

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Dr. Catherine

Looking to book a session in my Newport Studio? If you are new to my practice, book a Free Consult or if you know what you want, reserve your spot for a One-on-One experience.

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© 2025 Dr. Catherine On Wellness. This content may convey general information related to medical conditions, research, testing, treatment, and other healthcare topics. Any such information is provided for informational purposes only. You should always consult a doctor or other health care professional for medical advice or information about diagnosis and treatment.