The following is a general description of each session. 

Each session is independant of the other with the exception of Sessions 2 and 3 which go hand in hand with each other -  It is greatly reccomended that you attend both to get the most out of each one.  

Even though every session is independant, elements of each session weave through the others. 

For example, Hypnotic themes, Questioning Stressful Thoughts, Sounds/Music, and doing Visualization and Breathwork, may be a part of every session. 

There is a meditation session included. It may be very different from what you think you know Meditation is. 

It is a practice brought from the East, and is most likely unlike anything you have ever experienced. 

Also remember that these are general descriptions.  Because of the Way of things, a session may take an unexpected turn and lead us down a different Path of Wellness. 

Just stay open, and bring your spirit of adventure with you!

9/10/2009: This session is an introduction to The Path of Wellness. Usually in traditional medical/psychiatric settings, the primary focus is on sickness and disease. When it comes to mental health, focusing on wellness and Inner Peace is often times lacking and most folks are left without guidance on these subjects.  Mental wellness focuses on integrating body, brain/mind, and spirit - acknowledging that all human beings have components of all three and that truly being “well” is more than just “not being depressed”.  We will discuss the many different pathways towards Inner Peace and how some, or all, can be helpful. We will also come to understand how important relaxation/stress management is and knowing how stress takes its toll on the body/mind system.

9/17/2009: This session involves one of the most important aspects of mental wellness - understanding how stressful thinking is the root cause of our suffering. Often times it's what we think about what happens which can make us angry, anxious or depressed rather than what truly did happen.  Our ‘Stories.’  So how do we deal with these thoughts especially in this day and age where we are bombarded with negative and stressful images streamlined through media and other people? Almost as if it's contagious? One way is to use a beautiful, graceful and loving process called ‘The Work of Byron Katie’.  “Judge your neighbor, write it down, ask 4 questions and turn it around” are the simple instructions of this inquiry process which you will be introduced to in this session. The Work contains aspects of Cognitive Behavioral, Experiential, Gestalt and Psychodynamic processes with a glimpse of Spirituality. It is truly life changing.

Next week's session is also strongly recommended to see the Work in action.

It is also highly recommended you read or listen to "Loving What Is" by Byron Katie prior to this and next week's session. You may also want to check out www.thework.com.

9/24/2009: In this week’s session, you will come prepared with a filled out ‘Judge Your Neighbor’ worksheet. This worksheet, when filled out, contains your Mind’s own projections about other people and situations. It is brilliantly used as a mirror to then notice the ‘projector’ itself. Self-Realization at its finest. By seeing your own stressful thoughts about other people, or yourself, you can only then truly begin the process of forgiveness. And with an open mind, comes an open heart.

You will have an opportunity to “work” your stressful thought(s) in front of the group using the Inquiry process. And what you may find with some bit of amusement is that the stressful thoughts of others may not be much different than your own [emphasizing the concept that there are ‘no new stressful thoughts’].

Whether you wish to share or simply participate silently, this session may open your Mind to new possibilities that you never thought existed.

10/01/2009: In this session we focus on the most vital part of every one of our lives - our breath. We notice how often we are not even aware that we are breathing [and most likely shallow and rapidly!] The process of focusing on our breath is an ancient Meditation practice which has been done for centuries in the East to bring deep relaxation and peace. This session is a guided meditation process where you will be encouraged to focus on breathing both deeply and slowly. We will notice the “gap” between inhalation and exhalation. We will learn to revitalize our body and mind with oxygen to invigorate our lives. We will become aware of the Watcher within.

10/08/2009: No man or woman is on an island alone. In some way or another, we all have to relate with other people in the world we live in. Relating with others, for many people, can bring high amounts of unnecessary anxiety and fear. In this session you will learn the art of “clicking” with other people. Whether it is improving your current relationship or seeking a relationship with someone else, this session may be very useful in helping to form connections with other people through using open and honest communication.

10/15/2009: This is another Experiential session. We will explore the phenomenon of Hypnosis together as a group. Common misconceptions and myths about Hypnosis will be addressed. Noone will be quacking like a duck! Hypnotic trance is a positive state where the power of the unconscious mind is used to create change. Your session will be safely guided with the intention set of having more peace and relaxation in your life, harnessing your own internal resources to create long-lasting change, and shifting your behaviors and language to be more healing and positive. Don’t be surprised if you leave the session feeling 10 times more relaxed than when you entered!

This session will require a 24 hour advance notice and intake questionaire completed if you wish to participate.