24 June 2013
11 November 2009
THE WISDOM OF A 4-YEAR OLD
"Switch it off and switch it on again"
On a recent trip to see my family, I was talking to my brother about computers and how they can sometimes cause a huge amount of stress when they go wrong. My brother told me, his 4-year old Grandson (my Great Nephew, Joe) had the perfect solution. As we discussed this, it occurred to me it wasn't only a brilliant solution for computers, but a great lesson in life and in positive Stress Management. What was it that he said?
Well, as you know, computers can be a wonderful asset, but sometimes when they go wrong, the only solution is (in Joe's words) to "Switch it off and switch it on again". Often when the computer reboots, it works perfectly and can be the quickest solution to the problem.
Sometimes when we start to feel angry, upset, stressed or overwhelmed, we also need to follow the same advice. We need to put a bit of space between ourselves and what we feel, so that we can come up with a calm, rational solution to whatever's going on in our lives. We too need to reboot.
Our bodies are designed to balance periods of activity with periods of inactivity and this gives both our physical and mental wellbeing a boost. This is why we often come up with our best solutions when we're not trying to 'fix' a situation.
So next time you're feeling under pressure, upset and about to explode, follow Joe's advice :
Switch it off
Take some time to remove yourself from the situation which is upsetting or aggravating you and making you feel off-balance. Take a walk round the block, take a few days away, go and do some exercise, do some meditation, work with a breathing & relaxation CD or switch the task you're working on. If you need to, get some advice from someone you trust to give you honest, open and unbiased feedback.
Use deep breathing where you draw the breath deep down into the lungs and expand the diaphragm and, as you breath out, let go of whatever it is that is bothering you and send any negative energy down into the earth to be neutralised. When we slow down our breathing, we also calm down our heart rate, respiratory rate and release tension.
Switch it on again
When you've had time to calm down and think things through rationally and peacefully, come back to the issue you were working with, giving it new, more positive energy and with a view to finding positive solutions. You may not be in control of every situation, but you are in control of how you deal with it.
So, when the going gets tough, give yourself time to relax and reboot.
If you have any feedback or questions about this or any other Breathing Space article, please feel free to contact me by phone or email. I'm always happy to hear from you.
IF YOU SOMETIMES STRUGGLE TO MAINTAIN YOUR EQUILIBRIUM AND NEED TO DOWNLOAD IN A RISK-FREE, NON-JUDGMENTAL ENVIRONMENT, please contact Annie Lawler on 0772 581 8884. You can also reach me on annie@breathingspacetherapies.com
On a recent trip to see my family, I was talking to my brother about computers and how they can sometimes cause a huge amount of stress when they go wrong. My brother told me, his 4-year old Grandson (my Great Nephew, Joe) had the perfect solution. As we discussed this, it occurred to me it wasn't only a brilliant solution for computers, but a great lesson in life and in positive Stress Management. What was it that he said?
Well, as you know, computers can be a wonderful asset, but sometimes when they go wrong, the only solution is (in Joe's words) to "Switch it off and switch it on again". Often when the computer reboots, it works perfectly and can be the quickest solution to the problem.
Sometimes when we start to feel angry, upset, stressed or overwhelmed, we also need to follow the same advice. We need to put a bit of space between ourselves and what we feel, so that we can come up with a calm, rational solution to whatever's going on in our lives. We too need to reboot.
Our bodies are designed to balance periods of activity with periods of inactivity and this gives both our physical and mental wellbeing a boost. This is why we often come up with our best solutions when we're not trying to 'fix' a situation.
So next time you're feeling under pressure, upset and about to explode, follow Joe's advice :
Switch it off
Take some time to remove yourself from the situation which is upsetting or aggravating you and making you feel off-balance. Take a walk round the block, take a few days away, go and do some exercise, do some meditation, work with a breathing & relaxation CD or switch the task you're working on. If you need to, get some advice from someone you trust to give you honest, open and unbiased feedback.
Use deep breathing where you draw the breath deep down into the lungs and expand the diaphragm and, as you breath out, let go of whatever it is that is bothering you and send any negative energy down into the earth to be neutralised. When we slow down our breathing, we also calm down our heart rate, respiratory rate and release tension.
Switch it on again
When you've had time to calm down and think things through rationally and peacefully, come back to the issue you were working with, giving it new, more positive energy and with a view to finding positive solutions. You may not be in control of every situation, but you are in control of how you deal with it.
So, when the going gets tough, give yourself time to relax and reboot.
If you have any feedback or questions about this or any other Breathing Space article, please feel free to contact me by phone or email. I'm always happy to hear from you.
IF YOU SOMETIMES STRUGGLE TO MAINTAIN YOUR EQUILIBRIUM AND NEED TO DOWNLOAD IN A RISK-FREE, NON-JUDGMENTAL ENVIRONMENT, please contact Annie Lawler on 0772 581 8884. You can also reach me on annie@breathingspacetherapies.com
12 March 2008
Simple Pleasures!
I returned to simple pleasures while reading a childs story book to my, mum, then another, and another. time elapsed, when from the sitting room, I heard my son declare "my favourite is the one where the mum holds her son and looks out at the stars!" my son is 14! yet he recalls one of his favourite children's stories and fondley remembers the words.....in fact it isn't a mother and her son, it is two animals one big one small! where the theme is 'love never dies' yet in his mind as a child, he had created the characters to be a mum and her son, (that's us that is!)
It moved me to know that in the struggle to raise our children and protect them from the less desirable aspects of modern life, he had held on to the simple pleasures and memories of his bedtime stories as a small child, it reminded me to ensure I invest in this precious commodity and read to my grandson as often as possible, even though he is only 3 months old, already he relaxes in my arms and watches the pages as i tell him all about it! the investment of reading is not only a simple pleasure, it's a time for bonding and sharing of knowledge for life.
It moved me to know that in the struggle to raise our children and protect them from the less desirable aspects of modern life, he had held on to the simple pleasures and memories of his bedtime stories as a small child, it reminded me to ensure I invest in this precious commodity and read to my grandson as often as possible, even though he is only 3 months old, already he relaxes in my arms and watches the pages as i tell him all about it! the investment of reading is not only a simple pleasure, it's a time for bonding and sharing of knowledge for life.
19 November 2007
Conscious Conception
On the subject of conception, is it that we are blessed with child or is it a conscious decision we make to conceive? many women I have known who are desperately trying to conceive are met with an abundance of hurdles that appear to be preventing the natural process of conception happening. It would appear that the more you think (mental conscience) the more hijacked the women becomes, and the ongoing arrival of the unwanted monthly cycle, seems to bring nothing but dread and upset....furthermore stalling the couple having their much wanted baby....frequently there are no definitive answers and it would appear as soon as the couple stop consciously trying to have a baby, 'voila' there he/she is...implanted in the womb, ready for the journey through to birth some 40 wks later
I think there is nothing more luxurious and gracious than having a relaxed approach to conception, deciding that it is for you both and allowing nature to do the rest, save to say, when medical issues are preventing a pregnancy.....however it is suggested by the medical profession, that the average couple will take up to 12 months to conceive. I am of the approach that if it is meant to be, it will happen, if you are relaxed about the reality of having a baby and enjoy the loving and being loved by your partner, then it makes sense that your body will be accepting to the miracle of pregnancy....
This is the point to cease contraception, obviously everyone to their own and advice should be sought ref, the contraceptive pill and hormone related methods, if a IUD is used then an appointment with your doctor should be made to have it removed.....commence folic acid as recommended by the medical profession 3 months prior to conception and up till 12 weeks of pregnancy, to help the prevention of nural tube defects.
But most of all know that it is right for you and your partner, know that you both are committed and bound, in producing this little miracle and nurturing and protecting him/her through life. Easing your baby into the world, not thrusting him/her into it. knowledge has brought much change and the return of natural nappies, and many organic and natural products allows for a purer essence in which to bathe our babes so to speak and swaddle them in naturalness.it makes sense does it not?...Nurture our babies at the breast and ensure dad has skin to skin contact as much as mum does.....starting from the moment of birth, the fundamental bonding fest...most of all create you baby out of love and bring him/her up secure within that love........
I think there is nothing more luxurious and gracious than having a relaxed approach to conception, deciding that it is for you both and allowing nature to do the rest, save to say, when medical issues are preventing a pregnancy.....however it is suggested by the medical profession, that the average couple will take up to 12 months to conceive. I am of the approach that if it is meant to be, it will happen, if you are relaxed about the reality of having a baby and enjoy the loving and being loved by your partner, then it makes sense that your body will be accepting to the miracle of pregnancy....
This is the point to cease contraception, obviously everyone to their own and advice should be sought ref, the contraceptive pill and hormone related methods, if a IUD is used then an appointment with your doctor should be made to have it removed.....commence folic acid as recommended by the medical profession 3 months prior to conception and up till 12 weeks of pregnancy, to help the prevention of nural tube defects.
But most of all know that it is right for you and your partner, know that you both are committed and bound, in producing this little miracle and nurturing and protecting him/her through life. Easing your baby into the world, not thrusting him/her into it. knowledge has brought much change and the return of natural nappies, and many organic and natural products allows for a purer essence in which to bathe our babes so to speak and swaddle them in naturalness.it makes sense does it not?...Nurture our babies at the breast and ensure dad has skin to skin contact as much as mum does.....starting from the moment of birth, the fundamental bonding fest...most of all create you baby out of love and bring him/her up secure within that love........
5 November 2007
Love Foundations (To Share)
Thinking about it....what is love?...................
love is......the rise and fall, the foundation wall, surrounding your world.
The pick me up, when you fall down, then the staying with you without the frown, the replacement glass, after the smash, loving arms,surrounding you at the end of 'that day'....!
The insulation that encapsulates the warmth, the smile that lifts your day, the look that tells you, absolutely,without a doubt, 'it's ok!'... the acceptance and showing the way. it's the hope, the belief the truth, the crowning glory, the highest point the roof.....!
Most of all, it's that special connection, the wonder with fascination, the bud of creation, the being overwhelmed, coupled with, admiration and exhilaration, surrounding each other with inspiration. Dressing up, dressing down, trudging through mud in wellie boots, it's the becoming each other's, without a doubt,.... absolute, foundation, solid roots......!
love is......the rise and fall, the foundation wall, surrounding your world.
The pick me up, when you fall down, then the staying with you without the frown, the replacement glass, after the smash, loving arms,surrounding you at the end of 'that day'....!
The insulation that encapsulates the warmth, the smile that lifts your day, the look that tells you, absolutely,without a doubt, 'it's ok!'... the acceptance and showing the way. it's the hope, the belief the truth, the crowning glory, the highest point the roof.....!
Most of all, it's that special connection, the wonder with fascination, the bud of creation, the being overwhelmed, coupled with, admiration and exhilaration, surrounding each other with inspiration. Dressing up, dressing down, trudging through mud in wellie boots, it's the becoming each other's, without a doubt,.... absolute, foundation, solid roots......!
24 October 2007
Congruence
Congruence (Honesty from within)
Interestingly, people who struggle with finding answers and perceptions within their lives, seek therapists to aid this process. The key to the success of this interaction is the build up of trust between therapist and client.
Fundamentally the honesty within the material that the client reveals or shares! is the true source to improving their lives and the perceptions that are guiding their mind set...However interestingly I have noticed time over with people who claim to be the helpers....! in fact, repeatedly have un resolved issues of their own. Maybe not so within their working roles, but harboured in their own private worlds....it limits individuals growth and abilities to shine, mainly as congruence isn't always met head on.
To ensure you make the best of your abilities, talents and opportunities honesty is essential, be honest with yourself primarily and towards others, and the transition will become evident.We often find ourselves in situations, where we may be faced with opinions that we are uncomfortable with. This is a prime example of how we can be congruent with people... There you are listening to someone rattling off about some far from savoury subject and or having an opinion that is wide of your boundaries....! Perfect is the opportunity to express our feeling or understanding towards the subject...combining UPR (unconditional positive regard) at this point is a good marker and sets a good standing for your congruence.....
What is UPR? the basis of Unconditionl Positive Regard is the distinction between non judgment of the person,so acceptance of them, but addressing unacceptable and
negative behaviour.
.....Take for example the stance that " I don't necessarily agree with your comments and your approach, but obviously I respect your choice of opinion. however this is how I see it and wondered what you felt about that?!" then you are offering truth from your perspective and offering food for thought. that way you tend to leave feeling less "stressed" with comments that are far from your acceptance, yet you have offered an alternative perspective for the speaker to consider. You have expressed your inner feeling. Offered an opportunity for debate and or acceptance of your perspective, thereafter it is out of your control, but you have used congruence to express yourself.
In terms of the wider picture, where I reflect back to my earlier paragraph, it is not honest enough to promote ourselves as open books of positive splendour, when inside we are jostling with unresloved issues, to state that we are confident, then express or expose our lack of self worth or self confidence, is far from our true selves, it cannot be hidden, we become exposed so, take some time to work through the bits you wish to cast to one side, find a way of opening the shutters and letting the sun radiate around you and envelop you...let it's rays reflect off you and in turn bring light to someone else's life and in the meantime, radiate who we are, take charge of your congruence and in turn blossom as the person you want to be..............
The best and most active method of teaching is to show by example,
work with yourself and lead the way in helping others with congruence.
Interestingly, people who struggle with finding answers and perceptions within their lives, seek therapists to aid this process. The key to the success of this interaction is the build up of trust between therapist and client.
Fundamentally the honesty within the material that the client reveals or shares! is the true source to improving their lives and the perceptions that are guiding their mind set...However interestingly I have noticed time over with people who claim to be the helpers....! in fact, repeatedly have un resolved issues of their own. Maybe not so within their working roles, but harboured in their own private worlds....it limits individuals growth and abilities to shine, mainly as congruence isn't always met head on.
To ensure you make the best of your abilities, talents and opportunities honesty is essential, be honest with yourself primarily and towards others, and the transition will become evident.We often find ourselves in situations, where we may be faced with opinions that we are uncomfortable with. This is a prime example of how we can be congruent with people... There you are listening to someone rattling off about some far from savoury subject and or having an opinion that is wide of your boundaries....! Perfect is the opportunity to express our feeling or understanding towards the subject...combining UPR (unconditional positive regard) at this point is a good marker and sets a good standing for your congruence.....
What is UPR? the basis of Unconditionl Positive Regard is the distinction between non judgment of the person,so acceptance of them, but addressing unacceptable and
negative behaviour.
.....Take for example the stance that " I don't necessarily agree with your comments and your approach, but obviously I respect your choice of opinion. however this is how I see it and wondered what you felt about that?!" then you are offering truth from your perspective and offering food for thought. that way you tend to leave feeling less "stressed" with comments that are far from your acceptance, yet you have offered an alternative perspective for the speaker to consider. You have expressed your inner feeling. Offered an opportunity for debate and or acceptance of your perspective, thereafter it is out of your control, but you have used congruence to express yourself.
In terms of the wider picture, where I reflect back to my earlier paragraph, it is not honest enough to promote ourselves as open books of positive splendour, when inside we are jostling with unresloved issues, to state that we are confident, then express or expose our lack of self worth or self confidence, is far from our true selves, it cannot be hidden, we become exposed so, take some time to work through the bits you wish to cast to one side, find a way of opening the shutters and letting the sun radiate around you and envelop you...let it's rays reflect off you and in turn bring light to someone else's life and in the meantime, radiate who we are, take charge of your congruence and in turn blossom as the person you want to be..............
The best and most active method of teaching is to show by example,
work with yourself and lead the way in helping others with congruence.
16 October 2007
The role of a Doula (Trained birthing partner)
I am frequently asked 'what is a dealer?' no dear "I'm a Doula! not a dealer!!" what on earth is that? the dictionary states "mothers maid" one who cares for the mother!! for want of a better explanation a birthing partner offering knowledge, experience, support and nurture to pregnant ladies, their partners and families....including ante-natal/post natal support! I have included in my training specialist areas and top up support packages which, combined with my counselling training and breast feeding counselling, serve to offer an all round reassuring package to would be clients....thus allowing me to work with a variety of clients, with a variety of requirements and expectations!
Fundamentally, I like to build a relationship early on with the mum-to-be and her partner/family, we establish what the expectations are and then I tend to lean towards a 'de-brief' of any earlier birthing experiences, as each birth is unique as is every child conceived! therefore earlier disappointing labours need to be put to rest as much as is possible and trust built between you and the mum, towards a more positive birth outcome, this in my experience comes from the mere presence,of a woman who herself knows what 'she' is experiencing! the more bodily and self aware you are the more assistance you can be to a labouring woman.
Doulas work independently and are not medically trained, therefore we offer no medical advice although we discuss with clients the options laid down by the medical profession. Another vital area within our work, is to ensure the mother and father- to-be, have their birth plans followed through and are given informed choices, should any complications arise. I again have witnessed, interventions, that may not have been accepted, with better information and explanation,
In an ideal world, Doulas' would work with natural births and predominantly choose home births over hospital! I myself have experienced both. preferring and advocating home over hospital, save to say any medical reason that my baby would be in danger and therefore need medical intervention. However, I simply support whatever each individual chooses for themselves, although I feel if you are booking an epidural the minute you walk through the labour ward door, then inevitably your money would probably be best spent at a spa for recouperation, instead of employing my services, which are fundamentally in situ, to take you through a gentler and as near to natural an experience as we can achieve together. Ultimately, I am happy to support ANY type of labour, inclusive of caesarean delivery, As the purpose of my role,alongside, My personal goals, are to work with my clients,alleviating fear and be totally there for the expectant mum, supporting her individual challenges and choices.
Resulting in a more relaxed and enpowered mum, caring for her baby with confidence and dads benefit from the reassurance of an experienced, hand holder by his and his labouring partner's side, encouraging interaction and loving support to welcome his baby with ease into the world.....
Fundamentally, I like to build a relationship early on with the mum-to-be and her partner/family, we establish what the expectations are and then I tend to lean towards a 'de-brief' of any earlier birthing experiences, as each birth is unique as is every child conceived! therefore earlier disappointing labours need to be put to rest as much as is possible and trust built between you and the mum, towards a more positive birth outcome, this in my experience comes from the mere presence,of a woman who herself knows what 'she' is experiencing! the more bodily and self aware you are the more assistance you can be to a labouring woman.
Doulas work independently and are not medically trained, therefore we offer no medical advice although we discuss with clients the options laid down by the medical profession. Another vital area within our work, is to ensure the mother and father- to-be, have their birth plans followed through and are given informed choices, should any complications arise. I again have witnessed, interventions, that may not have been accepted, with better information and explanation,
In an ideal world, Doulas' would work with natural births and predominantly choose home births over hospital! I myself have experienced both. preferring and advocating home over hospital, save to say any medical reason that my baby would be in danger and therefore need medical intervention. However, I simply support whatever each individual chooses for themselves, although I feel if you are booking an epidural the minute you walk through the labour ward door, then inevitably your money would probably be best spent at a spa for recouperation, instead of employing my services, which are fundamentally in situ, to take you through a gentler and as near to natural an experience as we can achieve together. Ultimately, I am happy to support ANY type of labour, inclusive of caesarean delivery, As the purpose of my role,alongside, My personal goals, are to work with my clients,alleviating fear and be totally there for the expectant mum, supporting her individual challenges and choices.
Resulting in a more relaxed and enpowered mum, caring for her baby with confidence and dads benefit from the reassurance of an experienced, hand holder by his and his labouring partner's side, encouraging interaction and loving support to welcome his baby with ease into the world.....
11 October 2007
Shopping Bags...
We have all heard about Modbury in Deven, being the first town in the UK to go completely plastic bag free. www.plasticbagfree.com
This week, Living Coasts in Torquay - a birdlife conservation centre, got a group of volunteers together, along with some scrap material and a few sewing machines and started making reusable shopping bags from a pattern supplied from www.morsbags.com - you can download the instructions and make your own!!! in 20 minutes you can have your very own unique shopping bag!!!
They then gave away the bags to the visitors at the centre, asking them to re-use the bags. Explaining how so many of the plastic bags end up in the sea where birds and other wild life either ingest or get tangled up in them. If we all do our bit, we could soon have a plastic bag free country!!!
This week, Living Coasts in Torquay - a birdlife conservation centre, got a group of volunteers together, along with some scrap material and a few sewing machines and started making reusable shopping bags from a pattern supplied from www.morsbags.com - you can download the instructions and make your own!!! in 20 minutes you can have your very own unique shopping bag!!!
They then gave away the bags to the visitors at the centre, asking them to re-use the bags. Explaining how so many of the plastic bags end up in the sea where birds and other wild life either ingest or get tangled up in them. If we all do our bit, we could soon have a plastic bag free country!!!
8 October 2007
Crevasse participation
Whilst at a party last Saturday I found myself invited into a round of Tarot card reading. Never one to shy away from others opions of what what's around the corner I choose my card.
'Participation' it was headed with. I thougtt I was (participating that is), but read on regardless. Notice the dusk, the end of the light of day and appeciate the setting of the sun, knowing it will soon return. The point was to participate in every moment of the day as if you've just been pulled from a deep ice crevasse to live another day.
'But that'll never happen to me' is often the response to that. But it happened to me twenty-five years ago. During the forty minutes or so I spent jammed down that crevasse I promised myself that if I ever got out of my seemingly hopeless situation that my life would be a bonus and I would appreciate every moment of every day, whatever may happen in life.
I guess the Tarot card was a reminder to me and all of us of the bonus of life, and perhaps to include in in our conscious living ways.
Damian
'Participation' it was headed with. I thougtt I was (participating that is), but read on regardless. Notice the dusk, the end of the light of day and appeciate the setting of the sun, knowing it will soon return. The point was to participate in every moment of the day as if you've just been pulled from a deep ice crevasse to live another day.
'But that'll never happen to me' is often the response to that. But it happened to me twenty-five years ago. During the forty minutes or so I spent jammed down that crevasse I promised myself that if I ever got out of my seemingly hopeless situation that my life would be a bonus and I would appreciate every moment of every day, whatever may happen in life.
I guess the Tarot card was a reminder to me and all of us of the bonus of life, and perhaps to include in in our conscious living ways.
Damian
4 October 2007
Spanish Living
The Spanish have had a conscious living approach for years, especially in southern Spain.
You will be pushed to find an open shop in the midday heat because the Spainish will be tucked up in bed. This is not just because of the punishing heat of southern Spain, but also because it is cool for everyone to be eating tapas and drinking wine at 3am.
This works for everybody, not because it's the law, but because the spanish have long been conscious of there own health and wellbeing and have adjusted their lifestyle to suit.
I have just got back from Marbella and noticed how laid back the Spaniards of the tourist areas are. It's out of peak season now so the reduced number of hoards of drunken Engish tourists may indeed help and one quickly learns the laid back drivers only consider red traffic lights important if the junction being crossed is reasonably busy.
Maybe the change of perception has come about since Spain's release from dictatorship of General Franco in 1975- freedom can certainly help one focus on the important things in life.
You will be pushed to find an open shop in the midday heat because the Spainish will be tucked up in bed. This is not just because of the punishing heat of southern Spain, but also because it is cool for everyone to be eating tapas and drinking wine at 3am.
This works for everybody, not because it's the law, but because the spanish have long been conscious of there own health and wellbeing and have adjusted their lifestyle to suit.
I have just got back from Marbella and noticed how laid back the Spaniards of the tourist areas are. It's out of peak season now so the reduced number of hoards of drunken Engish tourists may indeed help and one quickly learns the laid back drivers only consider red traffic lights important if the junction being crossed is reasonably busy.
Maybe the change of perception has come about since Spain's release from dictatorship of General Franco in 1975- freedom can certainly help one focus on the important things in life.
26 September 2007
Perception
What is your perception of life?
Generally speaking, how do we see life, how do we distinguish between what is important and what is not?
In my twenty’s I was diagnosed with MS, but remembering I was the only person to ever be pulled out of an ice crevasse in Hintertux ski resort alive, my perception was challenged but remained positive about life. Always one to rise to a challenge, my transformation from rugby playing, surfing, skiing hero to the less physically mobile but much more developed emotionally and spiritually human being I am today has been made easier by remembering
how cool it is to be alive at all.
I guess the most important thing in life is living your to the life to the full and avoiding falling down whatever crevasse life may throw at you.
Let’s say the perception is like viewing life through goggles. If the tint of the goggles is blue, the world appears blue, if its black the world too 'becomes' black.
If you see yourself as a degenerative, incurable case, that’s what you’ll get. In the same way if you think life’s so positive and you’re really happy with how you feel about life, that’s what you and your life will be. Whilst it can be difficult or impossible to change reality, you can change your perception of it. By doing this you have in fact changed your own reality.
Damian Houston
Generally speaking, how do we see life, how do we distinguish between what is important and what is not?
In my twenty’s I was diagnosed with MS, but remembering I was the only person to ever be pulled out of an ice crevasse in Hintertux ski resort alive, my perception was challenged but remained positive about life. Always one to rise to a challenge, my transformation from rugby playing, surfing, skiing hero to the less physically mobile but much more developed emotionally and spiritually human being I am today has been made easier by remembering
how cool it is to be alive at all.
I guess the most important thing in life is living your to the life to the full and avoiding falling down whatever crevasse life may throw at you.
Let’s say the perception is like viewing life through goggles. If the tint of the goggles is blue, the world appears blue, if its black the world too 'becomes' black.
If you see yourself as a degenerative, incurable case, that’s what you’ll get. In the same way if you think life’s so positive and you’re really happy with how you feel about life, that’s what you and your life will be. Whilst it can be difficult or impossible to change reality, you can change your perception of it. By doing this you have in fact changed your own reality.
Damian Houston
25 September 2007
A few words....
A few words from recently read books that I want to share with you.
Your spirits plan purpose was agreed upon before your present incarnation and is inscribed in every cell of your body.
Our directive from the Lord of Life is to reactivate what is lying dormant in your consciousness and awaken your Higher Self’s commitment to your true nature.
Always live with an open heart, compassionate, acceptance and unconditional love for yourself and all of the Universe’s Creatures and Creations.
Once a day has passed, that lesson is over and its time to move on to the next. Dwelling on what is gone is the greatest waste of our precious gift of life and serves no useful purpose what so ever.
Have compassionate acceptance and unconditional love and forgiveness every moment of your life. There is nothing more profound, greater or more urgent than this.
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery and Today is a Present.
Divine Magic – The Seven Sacred Secrets of Manifestation – Doreen Virtue
How to Heal Toxic Thoughts – Sandra Ingerman
Soul – Lessons and Soul Purpose – Sonia Choquette
Your spirits plan purpose was agreed upon before your present incarnation and is inscribed in every cell of your body.
Our directive from the Lord of Life is to reactivate what is lying dormant in your consciousness and awaken your Higher Self’s commitment to your true nature.
Always live with an open heart, compassionate, acceptance and unconditional love for yourself and all of the Universe’s Creatures and Creations.
Once a day has passed, that lesson is over and its time to move on to the next. Dwelling on what is gone is the greatest waste of our precious gift of life and serves no useful purpose what so ever.
Have compassionate acceptance and unconditional love and forgiveness every moment of your life. There is nothing more profound, greater or more urgent than this.
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery and Today is a Present.
Divine Magic – The Seven Sacred Secrets of Manifestation – Doreen Virtue
How to Heal Toxic Thoughts – Sandra Ingerman
Soul – Lessons and Soul Purpose – Sonia Choquette
See through transparency
Gepetto, Jiminy and the Blue Fairy by Paul Wolf
(link to original article)
(link to original article)
I can tell a lie, and so can you. In fact, lying is often preferable to the truth. It's good manners to lie. It takes maturity to withhold the truth.
Myprimetime.com readers who have voiced their love of a good lie on our discussion boards agree. They think Radical Honesty author Brad Blanton is headed for a life with only the cold hard truth to keep him warm.
Blanton claims that we are all duty-bound to speak our minds at all times - not just for our own sake, but for the sake of everyone on the receiving end of our radical honesty, including the obese woman in front of you at the check-out line, or the co-worker with the grating voice."I recommend that you hurt people's feelings, but that you stay with them until they get over it," says Blanton.
Let's see how long your boss will stay with you after you've insulted his wife at the company party.
"Eventually this person is going to realize that they've hurt everyone they care about or like and they will be literally alone," writes myprimetime.com reader Riverdale.
No doubt, alienation is the eventual outcome of practicing pure truthfulness. Civilized existence is all about lying. Cooperation requires we swallow our pride, turn the other cheek, let things slide and let others have the last word.
"Children don't know how to hold their tongue and it is something they are taught as they get older as they learn restraint," says marriage and family therapist Cindy McCrea.
She explains that honesty dwells in a field of checks and balances. Speaking the truth is like any other action that has impact, and its impact must be weighed.
While Blanton makes a strong case that dishonesty can cause stress, muddy true communication and even hamper personal growth, his argument falls apart when he fails to distinguish between acceptable lying and unacceptable lying.
We tell acceptable lies every day, and are probably the better for it. We tell them when our agenda is more important than the truth. Like when Al Gore, in his first debate with George Bush, said he never questioned his rival's qualifications for president, "only his policies." Gore then went on to talk about Bush's policies.
Was it a lie? Of course. He had questioned Bush's qualifications. But he didn't want to waste his two minutes on name calling when the policy differences were more relevant to the occasion.
What about sex? Now there's something worth lying about from time to time. Take Elizabeth Hurley who recently recanted her quote in Talk magazine, the one in which she says that ex-lover Hugh Grant was "less than adequate" in bed.
No doubt realizing she'd crossed the line, Hurley came back saying he was "fantastic" in bed. Someone was lying. In that she never insisted she was misquoted, but only said that there was confusion in the interview, we're guessing Hurley's the one with her pants on fire.
Transparency is (in) the air
The UK Core team has been wrestling with some practical implications of interacting transparently for the past couple of weeks. In the light of this I was intrigued to discover this post from Web Worker Daily (the comments are particularly interesting). The increasing use of social networking via the web has made the lives of many people much more transparent than they would have been a few years ago, but problems are arising because it is an unconscious transparency.
One of the commenters says,
An issue that is raised that was of interest to me is that there is a responsibility on the viewer of an activity to make conscious choices too. Do I need to know this? Do I want this level of intimacy? By our bravery in breaking our cocoons we force others to make brave decisions about what they want to know.
Another commenter links to a strong article by Molly Holzschlag about her experiences of being transparent in her professional life in IT and how that has benefited her career. These articles are coming from a more mundane approach than our venture, but they are dealing with the same issues we are.
We have embraced an idea that is coming to the surface here and we have with that a great opportunity for positive influence. We will need courage to follow this through but we are not doing this alone, and we have the key element of consciousness in our approach.
Molly Holzschlag includes a powerful quote in her article that is helping me in my battle for transparency;
One of the commenters says,
“Don’t write it unless you would say it in front of 100 strangers, your mom, your best friend and your spouse/partner.”Perhaps that could be reframed to: Don't do it unless you would do it in view of 100 strangers, your mom, your best friend and your spouse/partner.
An issue that is raised that was of interest to me is that there is a responsibility on the viewer of an activity to make conscious choices too. Do I need to know this? Do I want this level of intimacy? By our bravery in breaking our cocoons we force others to make brave decisions about what they want to know.
Another commenter links to a strong article by Molly Holzschlag about her experiences of being transparent in her professional life in IT and how that has benefited her career. These articles are coming from a more mundane approach than our venture, but they are dealing with the same issues we are.
We have embraced an idea that is coming to the surface here and we have with that a great opportunity for positive influence. We will need courage to follow this through but we are not doing this alone, and we have the key element of consciousness in our approach.
Molly Holzschlag includes a powerful quote in her article that is helping me in my battle for transparency;
Never apologise for showing feeling. When you do so, you apologise for truth.One day we will wonder why it wasn't always this way.Benjamin Disraeli
On a mission?
If you think a personal mission statement might be useful, but don't know where to begin, try this:
http://www.nightingale.com/mission_select.aspx
http://www.nightingale.com/mission_select.aspx
Bankruptcy and the universe
I think bankruptcy is the universe's way of saying wake up, slow down and do something worthwhile that makes you happy.
Be sure to pay all those that actually did a job for you, but don't worry about the money lenders- it's all part of their job.
It certainly worked for me, and this new life brings alot of laughter and fun, positivety and healing.
Why wait for your universal bankruptcy, why not follow your own conscious living path and have fun now?
Good luck,
Damian Houston
Be sure to pay all those that actually did a job for you, but don't worry about the money lenders- it's all part of their job.
It certainly worked for me, and this new life brings alot of laughter and fun, positivety and healing.
Why wait for your universal bankruptcy, why not follow your own conscious living path and have fun now?
Good luck,
Damian Houston
24 September 2007
New social perspective
I love experiencing the forever changing environment we live in.
This morning I went to my local social security office to get a form I needed stamped and wow, I was I amazed. Gone were glass shielded booths and half drunk rolly smoking unshaven visitors (and that was just the women) of five years ago. Instead I was greeted by a modern, open plan environment with comfy seats to sit on whilst waiting and pleasant staff.
Gone was the victim attitude; it seemed you that whether you were there to try and get a better job or check on your benefit payments you felt respected and worthy of a posh job. One's perception of visiting the local social security office has changed to a business like place to help you better yourself, instead of just queuing for money.
The whole experience made peeling the parking ticket off my car outside so much easier to bear...
Damian Houston.
This morning I went to my local social security office to get a form I needed stamped and wow, I was I amazed. Gone were glass shielded booths and half drunk rolly smoking unshaven visitors (and that was just the women) of five years ago. Instead I was greeted by a modern, open plan environment with comfy seats to sit on whilst waiting and pleasant staff.
Gone was the victim attitude; it seemed you that whether you were there to try and get a better job or check on your benefit payments you felt respected and worthy of a posh job. One's perception of visiting the local social security office has changed to a business like place to help you better yourself, instead of just queuing for money.
The whole experience made peeling the parking ticket off my car outside so much easier to bear...
Damian Houston.
The Universal Law of B*ll*cks by Henk J.M. Schram
Thanks to Peter Shepherd at Metamorphosis (Tools for Transformation - www.trans4mind.com) for pointing to this:
The Universal Law of Bollocks by Henk J.M. Schram
These days you can hardly go through any articles, books, DVDs, movies, films, documentaries with regard to self-improvement or self-help without coming across at least one mentioning of some 'Universal Law'.
Suddenly, there appears to be a Universal Law for anything. Like we haven't got enough Laws to deal with already!...
(whole article)
....But the last thing you need are instructions that are either overly symbolic, or too complex to apply. What you want to keep things simple and straightforward. Or else you may get lost in the details. You want just enough straightforward knowledge for simple application of the principles, while still having a total view on the big picture that is comprehensive enough to not forget about any universal principle, or Law for that matter.
The Universal Law of Bollocks by Henk J.M. Schram
These days you can hardly go through any articles, books, DVDs, movies, films, documentaries with regard to self-improvement or self-help without coming across at least one mentioning of some 'Universal Law'.
Suddenly, there appears to be a Universal Law for anything. Like we haven't got enough Laws to deal with already!...
(whole article)
....But the last thing you need are instructions that are either overly symbolic, or too complex to apply. What you want to keep things simple and straightforward. Or else you may get lost in the details. You want just enough straightforward knowledge for simple application of the principles, while still having a total view on the big picture that is comprehensive enough to not forget about any universal principle, or Law for that matter.
If you want to make life simple for yourself, to start pulling the right strings at once to create the life and destiny of your dreams, then don't waste another second on trying to find out every small, detailed, insignificant 'Universal Law' someone came up with today. You'll be like a cat chasing its own tail: a never-ending story that leaves you exhausted and depressed. Neither should you merely think positive thoughts and then wait for things to happen. There's a little more to it. Just a little, nothing complex, but still extremely important.
Just keep it simple. There are 6 main Universal Principles (or Laws) that cover all universal principles automatically. Attend to them all, which is a simple thing to do without much effort required, and you'll be off living more than your dreams before you can even consciously realize you created such an incredible experience!
Keep it straightforward and easy-to-apply. The game of life wasn't intended to be complex and difficult. The game was supposed to be simple and easy, and most of all FUN! And there's a simple road to it, and it's just a small decision away. Welcome to the Revolution...
Nicholas P. Kidd and Henk J.M. Schram are the instigators of the alleged 'Great Revolution', which provides the members with truthful instructions regarding the universal principles of life.23 September 2007
Barefoot Paths
I have just read an article in this months Natural Health magazine about Britain’s first Barefoot Park that has opened at the Trentham Estate, Stoke-on-Trent, www.trenthamleisure.co.uk It’s a playground for your feet, with lots of different textures to stimulate the feet, they say its DIY Reflexology. There are 7000 nerves and 26 bones in the feet!! That’s a lot of stimulation!! In the East Reflexology paths have been around for thousands of years, and according to the article ‘experiencing the sensation of different textures underfoot is invigorating’. And it reminded me that only last week while playing football with friends three young boys!!! I took off my sandals while running around on the grass, it was so enjoyable, I realised I hadn’t been barefoot on grass for a very long time. The feeling was WONDERFUL.
Watching Pretty Woman yet again last week!! Julia Roberts takes Richard Gere to the park and takes off his shoes and socks and makes him walk around on the grass barefoot, a workaholic who is always at his desk wearing a suit!!! Getting him to connect back with nature.
As a rebellious teenager I used to walk most places barefoot and I had forgotten how good it feels. It is so easy to forget our inner child, and not take them out to play, why not yours out today for a Barefoot Walk.
Also, in the article it talks about Elizabeth Marazita, a doctor of Acupuncture who has designed many Barefoot Paths in America, and has also developed and indoor mat!!! www.pathsofhealth.com like walking on a pebble beach in your own home!!!
And finally a quote from a book by Adele Coombs ‘Barefoot Dreaming’ Going barefoot is the gentlest way of walking and can symbolize a way of living – being authentic, vulnerable, sensitive to our surroundings. It’s the feeling of enjoying warm sand beneath our toes, or carefully making our way over sharp rocks in the darkness. It’s a way of living that has the lightest impact, removing the barrier between us and nature” so why not kick off your shoes and start enjoying today…..
Watching Pretty Woman yet again last week!! Julia Roberts takes Richard Gere to the park and takes off his shoes and socks and makes him walk around on the grass barefoot, a workaholic who is always at his desk wearing a suit!!! Getting him to connect back with nature.
As a rebellious teenager I used to walk most places barefoot and I had forgotten how good it feels. It is so easy to forget our inner child, and not take them out to play, why not yours out today for a Barefoot Walk.
Also, in the article it talks about Elizabeth Marazita, a doctor of Acupuncture who has designed many Barefoot Paths in America, and has also developed and indoor mat!!! www.pathsofhealth.com like walking on a pebble beach in your own home!!!
And finally a quote from a book by Adele Coombs ‘Barefoot Dreaming’ Going barefoot is the gentlest way of walking and can symbolize a way of living – being authentic, vulnerable, sensitive to our surroundings. It’s the feeling of enjoying warm sand beneath our toes, or carefully making our way over sharp rocks in the darkness. It’s a way of living that has the lightest impact, removing the barrier between us and nature” so why not kick off your shoes and start enjoying today…..
22 September 2007
Corinne's Video!
This is a short clip that was played to the copper beach team a while back in torquay
It was originally made as present for a friend (just a friend) on her birthday - since then it's become my most watched piece...
Its a fairly short clip for my animations being only 286 pictures long, made in stop motion using just simple plasticine, my phone and a cardboard box
If you want to know more about it, my work or me please email me
derrybradfordtydeman@hotmail.co.uk
or check out my youtube for more of my work (type derrybradfordtydeman into search bar)
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