It’s Not Woo, It’s Experiential Learning, and Transformation Science

The biggest misconception about wellness, mindset coaching, and holistic retreats is that they are "woo.” What does that actually mean?

Urban Dictionary defines "woo" as pseudo-science, dubiously mystical, or unscientific. But here’s the truth: many things once considered "woo" are now scientifically validated. Mindfulness, for example, was dismissed as a fringe practice, but today, research supports its effectiveness in reducing stress and improving mental health.

Holistic medicine, another formerly "woo" concept, has also been proven to be a potent and effective approach to health and well-being. 

What we often label as "woo" is simply something unfamiliar or different from traditional problem-solving methods.

Why are we afraid of unfamiliar?  In medicine, the unfamiliar is potentially dangerous.

We tend to only believe problem -> solution, means it is an impactful intervention.

But what if "woo" is actually about changing the way we think, allowing us to tackle complex problems from a new perspective?

Traditional learning environments can be rigid: uncomfortable chairs, stale conference rooms, endless slide decks, and mediocre food. 

But what if we could learn and grow in a way that feels natural, refreshing, and actually transformative?

Everything I offer at Pause and Presence challenges the misconception that transformation experiences are "woo."  It is all grounded in neuroscience, learning science, and evidence-based strategies.

• Mindset coaching is a science-backed approach to shifting perspectives.

• Mindfulness is proven to reduce burnout and enhance well-being.

• Yoga is a well-documented practice for stress relief and physical resilience.

It is accredited for Continuing Medical Education (CME) Credits because it offers value to patient care.

Many still think it might be “woo” or “voodoo.” 

“Of course you are thinking–this sounds like what I need, but it also sounds way too ‘woo.’ And these CME credits—can they be real?! 

As soon as you take another Tylenol for the chronic daily headaches that have become a constant part of your life, trust the words of this pediatrician, mother, wife, Canadian who was once skeptical too. Now, after attending the retreat, I know it’s exactly what I needed.” 

- Dr. Zaneta, Pediatrician

What would love do? sounds like a woo question when I first teach you how to use it. Over time you might feel like Roxanne Almas.

“Jessie Mahoney taught me to ask a very important question: What would love do? 

It’s like a pause button in crisis, in decision-making, in the stretching moments of motherhood, wifehood, doctorhood. 

This single question builds connection and uplifts spirits.” 

Next time you hear something dismissed as "woo," ask yourself: is it really unscientific? 

Or is it just different from what you are used to?

Transformation isn’t about consuming more information; it’s about integrating new ways of thinking into your life.  And that’s exactly what science-based experiential learning is all about.