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!