The practice of gratitude and appreciation reduces stress and aggression, new studies show. This makes sense: Allowing ourselves to be thankful for what we have places the focus on the importance of our existence and our inherent worth. Being thankful also connects us to one another, because gratitude is often directed to the people in our lives who have affected us in positive ways. Perhaps … [Read more...]
Getting creative with your inner child
Staying connected to our inner child -- or as Carl Jung would say, our 'eternal child' -- provides an expansion of who we are both emotionally and creatively. There are great rewards in preserving the rights of the little one within us. By treating ourselves with kindness and compassion -- providing gentle and steady encouragement -- our psyches are more inclined to maintain a sense of wonder … [Read more...]
The secret words are ‘you time’
Money frees you from doing things you dislike. Since I dislike doing nearly everything, money is handy. -- Groucho Marx Truth is, most of the time we'd rather be doing something other than what we're doing. Work alone eats up a third of weekdays or more. Then there are the chores, errands, little emergencies, social obligations, issues to work through with friends, kids and lovers -- the list … [Read more...]
Spending the holidays with your inner child
Be generous with your inner child this festive season. While many of us experience excitement and joy at this time of year, there are others who struggle to get through the days. With all the emphasis on good tidings and cheer, things can be even more challenging for those in crisis or without loved ones. The adage have yourself a merry little Christmas (or holiday season) suggests a way … [Read more...]
Getting to know triggers from the past
It is important to remember that healing is a journey, a lifelong process. Wounds from the past can be triggered in unexpected ways. We use the word "trigger," meaning an event that evokes an experience from the past, summoning emotions such as shame, pain or anger. In this way the present can be distorted by the past. For example, current doubts about your worth -- or fears for your safety … [Read more...]