English
Every day, life sends small signals. A deep sigh in the midst of busyness. A thought that things could be different.
A longing for more time, meaning, and freedom.
My books and meditations are for those who feel the call—but also for those who feel nothing at all right now.
They equip you with the tools to navigate stress, make conscious choices, and create a life you truly enjoy living.
For me, the answer was to fight back, find new paths, and create a life with meaning and balance...
Several years ago, I hit a wall when I was diagnosed as a chronic pain patient due to accidents and fractures – my nervous system had become sensitized.
The chief doctor at the Pain Clinic gave me a choice: strong medication or mindfulness.
I chose mindfulness, and that became the start of a journey that changed my life.
Over time, I managed to completely leave the treatment system and create a life with much better balance and meaning – and I am no longer a chronic pain patient.
It became my mission to help others navigate life’s challenges.
For me, well-being is about creating balance between what is important. I am Mette first, a mother second, and then comes the rest. If I’m not Mette first, I can’t be the mother I want to be for my boys.
"Look around and choose your own ground"
Breathe, Dark side of the moon by Pink Floyd
I’ve learned how important it is to prioritize my time and energy. Like many others, I’ve tried to stretch myself too far to meet other people's expectations. I recognize the signs of burnout, and I’ve kissed stress. Twice. But when I truly learned to take leadership over my own life, things changed.
Since 2014, I’ve had 6,000 individual conversations and helped people rise from stress, anxiety, and struggles.
But my vision has grown – I don’t just want to help people find their footing again, I want to give them the tools to fly freely.
That’s why I wrote the stress book, Frøen i gryden, created the online courses Stress hjælp 2.0 and Mini-kursus i angst, made free meditations – and most recently published the book Den døde ligusterhæk about stress factors in our private lifes.
Life will always present challenges. But with the right tools, the right mindset, and inner leadership, we can go from surviving to living fully My mission is to help as many people as possible get hold of the good, stress free life. Less won't do.
The dead privet hedge is a reminder to discover whether you are spending too much energy and time on relationships that do not benefit you.
Too many of us are stuck, either in family dynamics or friendships that are essentially over, but we can’t break free, or we may hesitate to say anything, hoping things might become pleasant again.
Many of us also take on too much responsibility and find it difficult to set boundaries.
The book provides tools from Cognitive therapy and Mindfulness to help you identify necessary adjustments for living your best life.
"After experiencing Mette B. Lorenzen's insightful presentations and reading her first book, expectations were high—and once again, she delivers.
Her ability to make complex topics accessible and practical is impressive.
A must-read for anyone looking to prevent stress and create a more harmonious life."
Jakob Herbert Pedersen
Director, Global Manufacturing, Vestas
I use figurative language and humor to convey my points. A touch of humor and a smile go a long way.
But make no mistake; my books are based on cognitive therapy, which is evidence-based
In the book, I compare our relationships to a privet hedge. A hedge can both appropriately shield and inappropriately limit.
Imagine if there were more energy, time, and freedom to be found, even in private life?
Imagine if others also didn't feel up to all the events?
Imagine if it were allowed to set yourself even more FREE from it all?
There is more freedom! And my new book helps getting it.
The book, like my first book, is written in a concrete, engaging, and practical language - and it's also packed with explanations, tips, and tools to create more energy, enthusiasm, and freedom in your life.
The book is not yet in English but will be soon.
In the meantime feel free to use my guided meditations:
"Autumn has arrived, and I have the most wonderful book recommendation for you: The Dead Privet Hedge… and no, it’s truly not a gardening book. But maybe it will still inspire you to do some weeding. Is there something or someone draining your energy? The book creates space for reflection and inspires ways to bring more joy and energy into your life. In my daily life, I often hear about stress, dissatisfaction, and challenges balancing work and leisure. THANK YOU for reminding us of the importance of taking action, Mette B. Lorenzen."
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Nina May Hersig, Head of Pensions at Velliv
Excerpt from a book review in the Journal of Psychotherapy
"If you long for a deep sense of freedom—an inner freedom to be your true self—while also needing healthy and strong relationships with others, then you should definitely read Mette B. Lorenzen’s book The Dead Privet Hedge. Here, you’ll find guidance and valuable advice."
From the back of the book:
If you are worried about whether you have stress, it can be an additional stressor to start reading about it - but all the terrible stuff is not included in this book.
This book about stress is a little eye-opener that almost freely massages new thought patterns and habits into the everyday life that whips by, whether you feel like you can keep up or not.
The book is based on the third wave of cognitive behavioral therapy, which includes Compassion Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). The core philosophy is mainly influenced by Jon Kabat-Zinn and Paul Gilbert.
In the book, evidence-based theories are translated into drawings and imagery, spiced with quotes that can be actively used starting from today.
The book about stress is intended for everyone - high or low, young or old - who might want to optimize their everyday life and avoid becoming the frog in the pot. There are no tasks in the book; everything is offered, and you can start wherever you want.
"The book is written for laypeople, individuals experiencing stress symptoms, or perhaps just people in our fast-paced achievement-oriented society.
It is not a technical book, but as a professional working with those affected by stress, one can find inspiration in the book's accessibility and easily digestible manner."
Extract from a book review by The Danish Psychological Association
The book is not yet in English but will be soon.
In the meantime, try my free meditations on Insight Timer, for instance: Fire And Transformation: A Journey Of Cleansing | Mette B. Lorenzen
Have you heard about the frog in the pot? If you put a live frog into a pot of boiling water, it will jump out immediately - it doesn't want to stay there!
But if you place a frog in a pot of cold water and slowly heat the water until it boils - the frog will remain sitting. It doesn't realize that it's being boiled.
The same goes for stress. Often, you are the last person to notice that something is wrong.
My book, "The Frog in the Pot," aims to help you become aware of it and recognize the signs of stress before it becomes overwhelming.
Below is a selection of the clients for whom I have given presentations, courses, teaching, and programs.
The focus has been on stress, stress prevention, Mindfulness, and the path to a good (work) life.
My great strength is that I am able to share evidence-based knowledge in a language that is easy to understand.
I spice it up with tools and focal points that all employees and leaders can use immediately, regardless of their job function, age, and prerequisites.
Mindfulness – the invaluable tool
Mindfulness is an integral element and tool in all my presentations. I am originally certified as a mindfulness Instructor MBCT.
In 2014, as a mindfulness instructor, I completed 100 hours of education and training at the 7-day Residential Training Program "MBSR in Mind-Body Medicine" with Jon Kabat-Zinn and Saki Santorelli, co-founder of mindfulness.
Since then, I have received regular training in mindfulness and meditation from Saki Santorelli, and since 2022, on a weekly basis.
Jon Kabat-Zinn and Mette B. Lorenzen, 'MBSR in Mind-Body Medicine', 2014
"Thank you for a razor-sharp presentation and great tools for bringing the conversation about stress to the table before it hits. Mette B. Lorenzen engages and puts herself into play when prevention is on the agenda.
As one colleague put it: "Wasn't sure if I wanted to attend, because I didn't want to see more mechanical slides and statistics about stress, but Mette's presentation captured me, was present and offered practical tools served in an easily digestible way."
I can recommend speaking with Mette B. Lorenzen if it has to do with stress and stress prevention."
Jakob Herbert Pedersen Director, Global Manufacturing, Vestas
"Thank you, Mette! It was an excellent lecture, and I'm sure everyone took something valuable from it!
THANK YOU for your straightforward and calm way of discussing something difficult".
Ninna Stæhr-Petersen, CEO at ODEON and Comwell Hotels
"It was a great presentation! The best one I've heard!"
Employee at Erhvervshus Hovedstaden, Business House Capital Region
"Absolutely awesome and highly relevant presentation - I'm sure it will provide great value to the participants."
Lise Rekvad, Head Nurse, Pandemic Corps, Odense University Hospital (OUH)
"A big thank you to Mette B. Lorenzen. Odense Locksmith Services has gained valuable insights into stress, job satisfaction, and well-being after a very enlightening presentation from Mette. The number 4 is now being used extensively in the company."
Thomas Løvdal, Odense Locksmith Services
"With this message, I want to express my appreciation for a well-prepared, inspiring, and thought-provoking presentation at the Main Library in Odense on November 25th, 2014. I look forward to following your work in the future!"
Best regards, Freddy Vermod, Mentor at Odense Municipality
"Yesterday, IT-Branchen in Funen had the pleasure of attending a lecture by Mette B. Lorenzen.
Do yourselves a favor and spend a few hours with Mette and your team. She makes a difference!"
Lotte Jensen, Regional Manager at IT-Branchen, the IT branch organization
"Dear Mette, A thousand thanks for a wonderful, warm, and engaging presentation. Having been through some tough times myself, I can certainly benefit from qualified guidance and discovering that I am resilient. Thank you so much."
Participant at a public lecture
"Dear Mette, Thank you so much for a fantastic lecture that left a great impression on me. I am impressed by your authenticity and how you managed to keep the presentation lively and interesting on a regular weeknight.
I am delighted that I made the trip from Copenhagen back and forth. Wishing you all the best for the future."
Participant at a public lecture
"Today, as a company, we had Mette visit the brewery. Mette gave the most fantastic presentation about stress prevention and increasing job satisfaction.
In addition, we all received useful tools and a book to take home! A big thanks to Mette B. Lorenzen! "
Eddie Szweda, Midtfyns Bryghus, brewery
"Mette delivered an engaging, thought provoking and incredibly helpful session that appealed to each of them and met them where they were at."
Emma Burstow, Director of Developer Relations, Umbraco A/S
"Your presentation was specific and useful, and an important reminder to address both work life and life in general to maintain a good balance."
Carsten Hyldborg Jensen, Director at Fynbus, the regional public transportation
"It was impressive how you connected mindfulness to agility because it's not so straightforward and simple. You hit the mark."
"I have only heard praise about your presentation, so kudos to you."
Leader & Project Manager, Bankdata, the Danish Banks own IT business
"Thank you for an inspiring and engaging presentation that encourages reflection and brings good energy."
Morten Svensson, BDO Denmark
Thank you very much for a couple of really inspiring hours at Frederiks VI hotel last week together with EGN Female Leaders - truly an awesome experience!
Hanne Lund Madsen, DHL Global Forwarding (Denmark) A/S
We are 26 nurses who work daily across 14 different locations, meaning we collaborate with considerable geographical distance. Mette B. Lorenzen, known for the book "The Frog in the Pot," which revolves around mental health and stress management, came and held a fantastic two-hour lecture for us. Mette received tremendous praise from all of us. Her presentation was engaging, practical, and relevant.
Jette Lundegaard, Prison Nurse, The Correctional Services
It's liberating that Mette takes the lead - normally, it's us who hold it, but in this space, we can let go, as Mette takes charge, and there is care here.
Authority Case Worker about supervision, Vejle Municipality
Mette B. Lorenzen's course and book helped Alphalyse achieve a shared understanding and a common language when discussing stress prevention. Her presentation was entertaining, easily understandable, and incredibly beneficial. We highly recommend Mette B. Lorenzen to all companies looking to gain a better understanding of stress prevention and management.
Alphalyse
Dear Mette, I felt compelled to say thank you for the mindfulness course you held at my workplace. I had a bike accident just before the summer vacation and suffered a concussion, which resulted in a partial sick leave. During that time, I had some daily "rituals" where I would lie down and listen to your soothing voice through the links you provided us. I was experiencing severe fatigue, and meditation gave me much-needed energy. I am very grateful to have become acquainted with Mindfulness. Take care. I'm sure our paths will cross again someday. Thank you 😊
Employee after an 8 week Mindfulness course at Sanderumskolen, a public school
One of the more memorable people-focused sessions of the festival drew fascinating parallels between empathy and coding. The speaker, Mette B. Lorenzen, made compelling connections between the two domains and she made great practical suggestions on how to better empathise and connect with others.
Bluegrass, Cape Town, about talk at the tech conference Codegarden
Evaluation after a two-day course for the 2nd year in a row:
- It was once again pleasantly varied, with a good balance between input and exercises
-You are a skilled instructor.
-I'm glad that you included so much team-building; we are even stronger in team spirit and mutual understanding now
-Since last year, I have become much more aware of the importance of listening, not just fixing things, and that conversations don't always have to be so formal
-I have used the learnings from last year's course a lot regarding mentalization, which you conveyed well.
-Your voice is nice, soft, and soothing when you guide us.
-You are really good!
-I feel motivated to thoroughly review all the materials when I get home and consider how we can apply it with the youth.
Save the Children, Zealand
As an open source project, we at Umbraco are not just a company but we work closely with an engaged and global community.
We invite those on our community teams to spend time with us at HQ in Odense and they join us from all over the world. The US, Europe, Australia... The list goes on.
We invited Mette to create a workshop especially for this team and were delighted with what she created and delivered. Given the very specific nature of the attendees - people from a range of backgrounds, disciplines and who have no daily working relationship with, it was quite a challenge!
Mette delivered an engaging, thought provoking and incredibly helpful session that appealed to each of them and met them where they were at. We had incredible feedback from the participants and those from our teams who took part too are still talking about the things we learned from her.
Managing remote teams in a post-covid landscape, and volunteer teams at that, is incredibly challenging and we were so happy to be able to enlist Mette's help in that.
She improved their connection with eachother and thus their ability to collaborate, their connection to HQ and helped us to show them that their work is valued and most fruitful when they show up as themselves.
Thank you so much, Mette.
Emma Burstow, Director of Developer Relations
Umbraco A/S
Mette brings a new angle to handling stress to the table. As it is borderline impossible to remove all stress factors in your daily work life Mette brings focus to understanding stress and providing tools to manage how you can influence how you let stress impact you. Mette delivers a unique combination of evidence-based facts presented in a very digestible way spiced up with pictures from her great little book “Frøen i gryden”. But more importantly all this is served with a solid foundation based on own experience as well as an abundance of empathy and understanding of how different we all are as people.
Jan Thilkjer Eriksen FSR Manager Nordics, IDEXX Nordics
Yesterday, we set up a tent in the machinery house and fired up the gas heaters because Mette B. Lorenzen came to visit. She talked about "The Frog in the Pot," work satisfaction, life joy, and the signs we send to our surroundings when we start to feel pressured and stressed. How words spread, both the negative and the positive. How each of us can transmit positive energy to others with just a few changes, both at work and in our personal lives. How we can help each other by recognizing each other's signals before the cup overflows. It can strengthen each one of us and definitely make us an even stronger team than we already are. Thanks to Mette for the visit - it was a different but really great way to come together at Ronæs Entrepreneur. We can only recommend having Mette over for a presentation 😊
Thomas Rasmussen, Ronæs Entrepreneur
As a market leading company with ambitious targets and where the only constant is change stress is not only very present but also a high priority focus for us to address. Over the last few years tons of resources have been put into analyzing reasons for stress and projects have been initiated to reduce the number of stress factors, optimizing work processes etc.
And we have seen positive results from this, but we always aim to find ways to address this important topic even better.
Enter Mette!
Mette brings a new angle to handling stress to the table. As it is borderline impossible to remove all stress factors in your daily work life Mette brings focus to understanding stress and providing tools to manage how you can influence how you let stress impact you.
Mette delivers a unique combination of evidence-based facts presented in a very digestible way spiced up with pictures from her great little book “Frøen i gryden”. But more importantly all this is served with a solid foundation based on own experience as well as an abundance of empathy and understanding of how different we all are as people.
Our entire Nordic team was engaged 100% - both through the insightful sessions and through the various break-out sessions lead by Mette.
Comments like “OMG – this is scary shit!”, “This is good…This is really, really good!”, “When did she gain access to my brain?” and “I think I’m a little bit in love with her” speak for themselves.
So, if you (like most of us) deal with various degrees of stress in your team or organization, we can only highly recommend Mette. And if you’ve never had any issues with stress in your team, I have an article on Denial that might interest you 😊
Jan Thilkjer Eriksen FSR Manager Nordics, IDEXX Nordics
Anna-Carin Lagerlöf Country Manager Nordics,IDEXX Nordics
Some of the best talks at tech conferences are talks that you wouldn't always expect to see at a tech conference, and Mette B. Lorenzen is bringing that wonderful kind of fresh perspective to the final day of Codegarden with an exploration of how empathy and coding are not all that different. Lots of great practical tips and thoughtful takeaways as we begin to round out our week and head back to our daily lives.
Allen Smith, US, open source veteran and tech leader
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