Audrey Grider - MFT Trainee

2011-08-27T20:47:00.000-07:00

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

2011-08-19T09:02:00.000-07:00

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

2011-08-10T04:57:00.000-07:00

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!

2011-06-05T22:27:00.000-07:00

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

2011-02-22T07:05:00.000-08:00

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

2010-05-30T14:31:00.000-07:00

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

2010-05-11T08:09:00.001-07:00

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.

A discussion about emotions

2010-01-26T09:26:00.000-08:00

Lately I've been giving a lot of thought to the different types of emotions that we experience as we go about our days. People talk about being happy, excited, sad, angry, frustrated, resentful, etc. In their purest form, all of our emotions can be simplified with two key feelings.

Love and fear.

Think about it. When you feel angry, at some level you are probably fearful of losing control over your life or the life of somebody else. This may have to do with loss of time, loss of respect, loss of a relationship, loss of money, and much more. When you feel joyful, this is founded on love. Love of self, others, life, or your higher power.

Recently I made a personal resolution to let go of the old angers in my life, and it was amazing how this simple intention changed my attitude. As much as possible, I focus on the blessings in my life with feelings of gratitude. I find that by being more positive and loving toward myself and others, I experience even more joy and inner peace. As you go about your business, I hope that you dicover opportunities to make life more pleasant for yourself and others.

Audrey Eve
www.audreyeve.com

Each of us has the potential to heal ourselves and others

2009-11-04T08:26:00.000-08:00

There's so much potential for us to heal others. Each of us has the opportunity to reach out in small and big ways to make life better for other people, as well as animals and the planet as a whole. When was the last time that you did something to help somebody else? Maybe it was today or yesterday, or maybe you can't remember the last time. How much energy does it take to share a smile with somebody who is having a difficult time, or acknowledge the employee who just helped you at the store? Our own family members deserve the same respect as anybody else. And it can be hard. Sometimes we're having a bad day, or we aren't getting along with a friend or loved one. That's the perfect chance to work on your own growth and extend yourself to become a better version of yourself.

My journey has given me the chance to write and share amazing spiritual messages. The first group of these messages is in my book "Messages from a Godly Place: Spiritual Insights for a Challenging World." It includes information about relationships, health, environmental issues, science, world affairs, and other relevant topics. In an effort to help people at an even deeper level, my path has motivated me to become a licensed therapist, and I am now working toward this goal.

Each of you has the potential to raise your awareness and in so doing, help increase the consciousness of the entire planet.

Upcoming Event: The Idea Camp

2009-02-21T17:23:00.000-08:00

There's a really interesting event coming up called The Idea Camp (theideacamp.ning.com).

The Idea Camp is a FREE, open source hybrid conference designed to help people move from the realm of ideas to implementation.

They are gathering some of the most innovative and creative leaders from around the country to share ideas, intentionally network, and move collaboratively into idea-making. Whether your passion is church leadership, non-profit work, social entrepreneurialism, technology, media, creativity, culture making, church planting, spiritual formation, compassionate justice, etc., this is the conference for YOU.

The focus of this conference will be on the participants and not on keynote speakers. We function under the belief that the crowd is always smarter and wiser than any one speaker. In fact, you are invited to create and refine some of the major components of the conference prior to the gathering itself via our web interface. You are welcome to suggest specific topics for our workshops (called Idea Sessions), leave comments, ask questions, share case scenarios for discussion, and even volunteer yourself to facilitate one of our Idea Sessions.

We desire the Idea Camp to be a conference for friends by friends. During the Idea Camp, there will be NO booths, banners, and mascots in funny suits pushing products.

We will have a few general sessions that will highlight the work of some phenomenal creatives from around the world in hopes that these examples will inspire us to stay committed to our dreams. The catch??? We just won’t tell you who will all be there. ☺ You’ll just have to come and see. (Maybe we’ll just call you up on stage to share!) We promise that you won’t be disappointed.

Dates: February 27-28, 2009

Cost: Absolutely FREE! (Thanks to the Generous Support of Our Sponsors)

Location: New Song Irvine (www.newsong.net/irvine) - 18842 Teller Ave Irvine, CA 92612

Learn to Love Yourself

2009-02-10T07:19:00.000-08:00

I have come to think that we cannot fully give of ourselves until we learn to love ourselves. I am not talking about an arrogant or egotistical love. And this does not mean that we ignore our own faults or carelessly set aside the harm that we have done to others. But it does mean that we achieve a realization that we hold the Divine spark within us, that we are important, that we do count, and that we can effect wonderful and positive change if we set our mind to it. When you love yourself, you approach life with a fully open heart. Why are you less deserving than your loved ones? You are a "loved one" too!

Until next time, wishing you peace and joy.

Audrey Eve

Entering the New Year

2009-01-26T08:17:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! This year is going to bring new challenges and opportunities to all of us. In troubling economic times we get back to basics - to the simpler pleasures in life, while putting more focus on taking care of ourselves and our loved ones. With my many activities, including writing, painting, public speaking, and my work as a spiritual intuitive, I find that my schedule can get quite full. One of my goals this year is to use even greater discipline and organization to make it all work together. In many ways, this is much like our connection to our Higher Power. There's no need to over-complicate the relationship. At it's core, we are connected through the bonds of love. Use this same attitude toward your relationship with self and follow your intuition to make the most out of the opportunities that are presented to you. Wishing you all the best.

Peace and Joy,
Audrey Eve

HOW TO BEAT HOLIDAY BLUES

2008-12-13T12:22:00.000-08:00

Hello Everybody,

As we all know, with the holidays come extra pressures on our time and energy. Visits with family and friends whom we may not see very often can stir up lots of positive feelings, but sometimes rekindle negative emotions as well. I am finding that the best thing I can do to keep up my energy and positive attitude is to make sure that I get adequate rest and take time to be by myself. Things can get pretty overwhelming and we really need to honor our own need for time to refocus and look within ourselves. So, whether it's taking a nature hike, reading a good book, doing some artwork, engaging in your favorite sport, or whatever calls to your soul in a positive way - try to set aside some time.

Wishing all of you peace, joy, and good health throughout the holidays and in 2009!

Audrey Eve
www.audreyeve.com

Upcoming Radio Shows and Special Events with Audrey Eve

2008-11-17T15:37:00.001-08:00

Tue, Dec 2, 2008
11:00am RADIO SHOW: Three Changes That You Can Make in Your Life to Achieve Greater Well-being - Radio Show (online or call 347-324-5661 - Pacific Standard Time)
online or call 347-324-5661 - Pacific Standard Time http://www.blogtalkradio.com/winninglifethroughpain Audrey Eve: Author, Artist, Public Speaker talks about her own healing from a health crisis, and how other people can improve their well-being. She conducts Motivational and Inspirational events about the path to greater internal balance, and shares insights from her writings. Questions are Welcome!! So have your phone ready to call in! That number is: 347-324-5661

Wed, Dec 3, 2008
5:00pm RADIO SHOW: Three Changes That You Can Make in Your Life to Achieve Greater Well-being - Radio Show
online or call 646-478-0017 - Pacific Standard Time http://www.blogtalkradio.com/stations/bc/teenaged_world_maddy Audrey Eve: Author, Artist, Public Speaker talks about her own healing from a health crisis, and how other people can improve their well-being. She conducts Motivational and Inspirational events about the path to greater internal balance, and shares insights from her writings.

Thu, Dec 4, 2008
10:00am SEMINAR: Hosted by Laguna Woods Paranormal Club, CA - Seminar
Audrey Eve will present an inspirational and motivational lecture about her compelling book MESSAGES FROM A GODLY PLACE: Spiritual Insights for a Challenging World. She will talk about the messages and give you insights about achieving greater health and happiness that she learned from her own amazing health breakthrough. Visit www.audreyeve.com for registration details.

Thu, Dec 4, 2008
1:00pm ART WORKSHOP: Inspired by Messages from a Godly Place, Laguna Woods, CA - Mandala Art Workshop
Audrey Eve will teach you how to let go of stress, relax, and explore your inner intention through artistic expression. You will learn how to work with watercolor pencils as you create your own artwork while exploring the phenomenon of mandala art. Visit www.audreyeve.com for registration details.

Tue, Dec 9, 2008
5:30pm RADIO SHOW: How to Identify the Toxic Relationships in Your Life and Get Over Them - Radio Show
online or call (718) 766-4299 - Pacific Standard Time http://www.blogtalkradio.com/holly-heinz Show: Coach's Corner with Holly Heinz Audrey Eve: Author, Artist, Public Speaker talks about her own healing from a health crisis, and how other people can improve their well-being. She conducts Motivational and Inspirational events about the path to greater internal balance, and shares insights from her writings. Questions are Welcome!! So have your phone ready to call in!

Thu, Dec 11, 2008
6:00pm RADIO SHOW: Who's in Charge? Power in Relationships - Radio Show
online or call 646-716-7414 - Pacific Standard Time http://www.blogtalkradio.com/sassyentertainment Audrey Eve: Author, Artist, Public Speaker talks about toxic relationships and how people can improve their well-being. She conducts Motivational and Inspirational events about the path to greater internal balance, and shares insights from her writings.

Finding peace in troubling times

2008-10-26T08:17:00.000-07:00

As a public speaker I frequently discuss the importance of looking within to find peace as well as the different ways that we can honor ourselves.

With our current troubling times, it becomes even more important to stay grounded and in touch with ourselves. For too long many people have been focused on material gain while ignoring the fact that true happiness comes from our own core selves.

How do we tune in to this aspect of our being?

For some people, sanctuary is the answer and may be found in nature, yoga, meditation, or prayer. Others find inner peace through creative activities such as art, singing, dancing, or writing. We may even find balance through charitable activities or environmental causes.

Pay attention to the positive influences that connect with your true self and take the time to honor that place.

Audrey Eve
www.audreyeve.com

2008-10-06T07:34:00.000-07:00

IT'S HERE!

I am very happy to announce that my book is now available!

Messages from a Godly Place
Spiritual Insights for a challenging World
for people of all spiritual and religious perspectives
Available at www.audreyeve.com

This book contains profound messages
and illustrations created by me.

Please help spread the word about this compelling book!

Peace and Joy,

Audrey Eve

MESSAGES FROM A GODLY PLACE is now available!

2008-09-26T00:21:00.000-07:00

Messages from a Godly Place:
Spiritual Insights for a Challenging World
is now available at www.audreyeve.com .

If you would like to suggest a spiritual question for a future book, please email it to question@goldenevebooks.com

Introducing Open Yourself Like a Giant Flower, a giclee art reproduction inspired by the book. The giclee is hand-embellished and artist signed.

There is a new Mandala art class: MANDALA ART INSPIRED BY MESSAGES FROM A GODLY PLACE, which is offered for private group instruction and makes a great team building activity.

If you would like to suggest a venue for Audrey Eve's motivational speech please send an email to info@audreyeve.com .

Thanks for spreading the word!

Audrey Eve
www.audreyeve.com

The Importance of Setting Boundaries in our Life

2008-09-13T08:23:00.000-07:00

Today I am going to talk about the importance of setting boundaries in terms of what we allow to affect us. Sometimes we get so wrapped up in other people's challenges that it affects us in detrimental ways, often causing negative effects on our health. We can become depressed, lose sleep, become irritable, or may even experience physical pain. It's OK to acknowledge somebody else's problems without making them your own. By doing this, we set boundaries on how deeply we allow the events around us to become internalized. This allows us to become even more effective at assisting our loved ones, and keeps us in a better place emotionally and physically.

I wrote MESSAGES FROM A GODLY PLACE: SPIRITUAL INSIGHTS FOR A CHALLENGING WORLD, which contains information that I received during my meditations and discusses a whole range of topics in a very profound way. This book is intended for people from all spiritual and religious perspectives. If you have a spiritual question that you would like to submit for consideration for a future book, please send it to question@goldenevebooks.com .

Peace and Light,
Audrey Eve

Toxic Relationships and Your Health

2008-09-03T00:43:00.000-07:00

During my last speaking engagement, one of the subjects that I focused on was toxic relationships, and how they can affect our health. It is important that we seek relationships with people who support our most positive dreams and goals. Otherwise, we can open ourselves up to depression and illness. This is something that I've experienced first hand, and my understanding of this issue helped me work through a health challenge. My book MESSAGES FROM A GODLY PLACE: SPIRITUAL INSIGHTS FOR A CHALLENGING WORLD discusses the power of loving relationships and I am happy to announce that it is now available on amazon.com!

Peace and Light,
Audrey Eve