One of the best ways to reduce stress and anxiety is through deep breathing. I suggest to my clients that they slowly inhale and exhale three times with their eyes closed if possible, while focusing on their inner light. This can be challenging for people who aren't used to the exercise, and who aren't sure how to quiet their mind, but it gets easier with practice.

Audrey Grider
www.facebook.com/audreygridertherapy

Managing Anger

I've been co-leading an Adult Anger Management group, and I was wondering what coping skills other people use when they're feeling angry. Please feel free to add your comments. Thanks!
- Audrey

STARTING OUT ON MY PATH AS AN MFT TRAINEE

At the beginning of this month I began to meet with clients individually and in groups, and am thankful to be at such a great practicum site. Since I am just initiating my work as an MFT Trainee, I can see how much there is to learn in order to become a proficient counselor. So far, I find the work to be invigorating, even though it is demanding. My clients have been great and they are teaching me so much.

Follow my journey through graduate school!

I've been experiencing a lot of growth and new awareness during the time that I've been in graduate school, where I'm studying to become a Marriage and Family Therapist. You can follow my blogs, or become a fan of mine on facebook (search Audrey Grider and click "like" on my page). I'm also on twitter @AudreyGrider.

This is a really exciting time in my studies with lots of changes happening soon. I look forward to sharing my journey with you, and will be posting updates every week.

Thanks for stopping by!

- Audrey Grider
www.audreygrider.com

The Power of Journaling

Recently I was feeling kind of down. As a student, businesswoman, spiritual seeker, and artist, my responsibilities were becoming pretty overwhelming. Fortunately, I was traveling with a good friend who makes it a habit to write in her journal every day. This is something that I have done in the past, but I had let slide as life “got in the way.” How silly of me! During my workshops and client meetings I often talk about the power of journaling, but here I was, not following my own advice. Isn’t it funny how we sometimes create our own obstacles, even when the knowledge and resources are right in front of us?

My friend and I talked about how much her journaling has helped her through some profound challenges, and this motivated me to begin journaling again. In the past I have tried using the computer, but I have to say that somehow it just does not have the same impact. There is also something very special about taking out my journal that establishes a special space just for me, honoring the value of my individuality. A great time to do this is first thing in the morning, and I know that it helps me to set a positive tone for the day as I create my intentions. I open my journal and write whatever comes to mind, without any self-imposed requirements about content or length. Sometimes I sit down with my journal thinking that I have nothing to say, but once I let go of expectation, the words begin to flow. Some days I put down a few lines and other days I may add several pages to my writings. Forget about rules and guidelines, and give yourself the freedom to experience a stream of consciousness. In our daily lives we already have more than enough “musts” and “shoulds!” This can be your special time, just for you.

One aspect of journaling that I find so motivating is how I can write down a thought or feeling, and just putting it into physical words leads to new ideas and solutions. This action makes my process more concrete, and therefore, more real to me. Going through life we experience all kinds of emotions. If you are feeling happy, then celebrate it with your written words! If you are angry or upset, this is a great way to release the negativity in a healthy way, and journaling can help you figure out how you may want to work through the situation. Not only that, but even though our problems sometimes seem to loom as very large in our minds, oftentimes, on paper they do not look as bad. On days when my self-esteem is faltering, journaling allows me to be my own cheerleader, reminding me of my value, worth, and self-efficacy.

The most magical part of journaling is using it as a pathway to manifest dreams and goals. Once I begin to write down my thoughts, I love how the process flows. It seems like this activity helps me to connect with my higher self and access intuitive flashes that might otherwise be missed. The very act of creating a safe space opens the gate to expanded consciousness, almost like meditation. Journaling helps me to regain a cheerful attitude when I am feeling down, it leads to more cohesive thoughts, and it is a vital part of my creative process. Many people have shared how they experienced manifestation after they affirmed their positive intentions with written words. You can also discover the power of journaling!

Expressive arts programs help us explore our emotions

Expressive Arts Programs

Expressive activities allow us to tap into emotions that cannot be put into words.
Over the years, they have been demonstrated to help people work through challenging life experiences and move forward in emotional breakthroughs.

I conduct sessions and workshops that include one or more of the following activities:

Art Projects
Using a variety of art media, specific art projects are offered that are designed to help us find new ways to express our thoughts and feelings without words. Empathic discussion often follows each project. Depending upon the needs of the individual or group, a specific intention forms the basis for each creation.
No art experience is needed.

Dance and Movement
For millennia, people have used music, dance, and movement to tell stories, share their emotions, and release tension. Exercises are tailored to individual physical abilities and often include props. Empathic discussion may be used to complement the experience.

Drumming
All around the earth, people from diverse cultural backgrounds use drums and other percussion instruments to express emotions and connect with others. Participants join in group drumming sessions using a variety of instruments that suit a range of physical abilities.

Journaling
Writing down our thoughts often leads to new insights about our challenges and feelings. Journaling allows us to create a stream of consciousness that reflects our experiences, and is often used together with the other expressive activities.

Meditation and Mindfulness
Using a variety of approaches that include guided meditation, breath work, and mindfulness exercises, relaxation techniques are learned that can be used to help us feel greater control over the stresses in our lives.

Programs are offered for individuals, groups, families and organizations.

Audrey Grider
info@audreygrider.com

Therapeutic Uses of Art

As a professional artist and student in a Therapeutic Uses of Art program, I am learning how to incorporate art into my healing practice. Art allows us to express emotions that cannot be put into words. Over the years, it has been demonstrated to help people work through challenging life experiences and move forward psychologically. In the past, I helped children gain a greater appreciation of the world's prominent artists and art forms through the Art Masters school programs. Now, I am offering adults workshops to explore art as a means of achieving greater spiritual wellness. After I become a licensed counseling therapist, I intend to include art in my counseling practice. One of my greatest goals is to help my clients and students experience the healing powers of art.

This month I am offering an introductory workshop focusing on exploring art for spiritual wellness. The great thing about using art as a healing modality is that it doesn't require any skill. You are expressing what is inside of you, so it has nothing to do with being a good artist. Whether you are a Picasso or someone who "can't draw a stick figure," you can benefit from creating art! During the workshop, we are going to complete an expressive art project, followed by group discussion. Friday, May 14, 2010 7 p.m. - 8 p.m. $20 includes art materials Pre-registration required Space is limited click here to register Temple of Light Spiritual Community 23832 Rockfield Blvd,. Suite 195 Lake Forest, CA 92630 Thanks for visiting my blog! Have a great day.