Pets and Mental Health

Head on over to Mental Floss to learn more about the benefits of having a pet. 10 Benefits of Being a Dog Owner While that article focuses specifically on dogs, there is ample evidence that pets of all kinds are good for our health (including mental health!). 12 Ways Pets Can Improve Your Mental Health (Huffington Post)  Pets for Depression and Health (webMD) The Truth About Cats and Dogs: Pets are Good for Mental Health of 'Everyday People' (American Psychological Association)

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Making Difficult Choices

Life is rarely straightforward.  At times, you come to a juncture where you face a difficult decision.  Do you continue in a job that is ‘okay’ but not great?  Do you try a new alternative health remedy for a condition that has plagued you for too long?  Do you end a friendship that no longer feels positive?  Do you ask for help for your problems? When facing tough choices, reflect on the questions below.  Such questions allow you to arrive at a decision that is best…

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A Meditative Art Experience

If you are looking for a highly approachable avenue for creativity, I encourage you to hop on over and explore this site: Zentangle Creating a piece of art in this meditative form (the Zentangle Method) has a decidedly calming effect.  The official theory is included on the site along with resources you can explore to learn more.

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Overcoming Self-Doubt

Many of the clients I work struggle with overwhelming self-doubt.  This self-doubt is pervasive in and it limits a person’s ability to engage fully with the world.  Even worse, It is often accompanied by harsh self-judgment that serves to diminish self-esteem.  A poor choice becomes just another reason to not trust oneself rather than an opportunity to learn and grow.   This is a vicious cycle - a single suboptimal outcome becomes an instance of self-doubt.  If unchallenged, this self doubt erodes confidence and leads to…

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Triangle Breathing

Today's video introduces triangle breathing.  It's a simple calming technique that you can use at any time. https://youtu.be/O7xI76BJujE Music courtesy of Kai Engel (http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Kai_Engel/Chapter_One__Cold/Kai_Engel_-_Chapter_One_-_Cold_-_04_Snowmen)

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Hide – Desirée Dawson

Desirée Dawson is an incredible musician from Vancouver.  I have seen her perform live and she is inspiring with lyrics that reach inside your soul.  I was thrilled to hear that she recently won CBC's Searchlight competition. Her contest entry video shows her beautiful spirit and her celebration of authentic expression.

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