My Body of Healing Workshop
a monthly series for people with chronic illness, chronic pain or disability
NEW SERIES BEGINS MARCH 6, 2010 (It will meet 4 times through June, 2010)
Feeling isolated or overwhelmed by your chronic condition? Interested in exploring a variety of traditional, spiritual and alternative tools to enhance your body and mind?
My Body of Healing provides a supportive, affirming environment in which to share and learn with “like-bodied” individuals who are going through similar challenges. Whether you are newly diagnosed or have lived with a condition for years, this workshop will provide a roadmap of physical and spiritual tools, practical resources, emotional support and community to help you navigate your unique path towards healing.
Techniques include:
* Mindfulness Meditation * Eastern and Western healing systems
* Visualization * Easy and enjoyable movement exercises
* Journaling * Sharing collective experiences and ideas
Topics include:* the difference between “healing” and “curing”
* the benefits of having a “pity party” for yourself
* how to feel compassion for yourself and your body
* learning to ask for and receive help
* how to maintain hope without forcing “positive thinking”
* how to be an athlete without leaving your bed
Facilitator: Karen Myers is editor of the anthology
My Body of Knowledge: Stories of Chronic Illness, Disability, Healing and Life. Since being diagnosed with a type of muscular dystrophy over 30 years ago, at the age of 14, Karen has published numerous essays that reflect her struggles and insights on living in an “imperfect” body. Throughout the years, she has investigated and experienced an array of traditional, alternative, physical and spiritual modalities, which have all led to a greater understanding of her body’s inner wisdom and guidance. She is a co-founder and member of a support group for people with chronic conditions that has been meeting since 1996.
When: One Saturday a month, 11:00 am - 1:30pm:
March 6, April 3, May 1, June 5 (These dates are subject to change if all group participants agree on different meeting dates.)
Where: Outer Sunset district of San Francisco
Cost: $35 per month
To Register: Call 415-753-2242 or e-mail CrackedBell@sbcglobal.net
Feel free to call with any questions.
Workshop is limited to 6 people, so sign up early.
Please note there are 15 steps with a handrail leading to the meeting place.
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Comments From Former Workshop Participants:
* From the very beginning, Karen creates a safe
and welcoming space that encourages a sense of community and
connection between workshop participants. She gives a clear idea of what
to expect from each meeting and checks in with the group to make sure that we
use our time together well.
* As a workshop leader, Karen keeps things
genuine, honest and real. She is an excellent moderator, making sure everyone
has a chance to speak and that discussions stay on topic. But she is also
flexible according to the needs of the group.
* My Body of Healing helped me to feel less isolated
as a person with a chronic illness. I came away from Karen's workshop
feeling validated, heard, supported and ultimately empowered. The
information, ideas and resources I collected from our meetings are things
that I still refer to and use today. I found this work to be invaluable. It's a
tool in my survival toolbox; it's the magic in my bag of tricks that helps
me to live my life.