With all the stressful things going on in the world, it’s really hard on our mental health to be isolated, or disconnected. Individual therapy is really helpful and important, but there is nothing like being in a group of people who “get it.” I have spent years exploring ways to help respond to this need I see all around us. Creative Survival is a trauma informed approach that connects the arts and somatic mindfulness with community work and social issues.
To put that into simpler language, its somewhere to be with other people who care about what is going on in the world, and get support expressing your emotions about it. You will experience art and writing activities, practice listening to your inner self, practice interacting in supportive ways with others. We will also discuss material by inspiring and interesting writers, artists, poets, and activists.
All together, this is meant to help you when you feel overwhelmed by the news, or difficult subjects come up with friends and family. The environment of the in-person class is a big, open yoga studio space where you will be encouraged to listen to your body and really get in touch with how you experience being in the presence of other people, while also listening to your own needs. For the online group, you will be similarly encouraged to attune to each other, while also honoring your own comfort in your chair/space.
We are combining the arts, community, and mental health. This approach is also neurodiversity and LGBTQ affirming. We will also practice what it means to center marginalized communities in our healing. (Click here to sign up for Creative Survival Group, or here for the Creative Survival for Therapists group)
How we will use art in this group
-writing prompts, like short journal exercises
-drawing prompts along with somatic mindfulness
-viewing/sharing/discussing art and writing that is inspiring or moving
How we will use movement in this group
-sitting on bolsters, yoga mats, leaning against the wall
-gentle movement that is not for stretching or strength but to enhance awareness
-you will be encouraged to make yourself truly comfortable while sitting, including if you need to shift positions often
How we will develop new interpersonal skills in this group
-practice speaking with people collaboratively
-practice reflective listening
-practice mindful relating
-explore how perfectionism, either/or thinking, and other habits get in the way of connection
Six sessions, 90 minutes long
This group is six sessions long, every other week. While six sessions can definitely create new experiences, skills, and insights, we will only scratch the surface of these very complex subjects. When the sixth session is completed, you will be welcome to sign up for another six sessions. Some content will repeat in the next group. However many of these activities are great to practice more than once. And with new people it will likely spark different conversations and outcomes. I may also create a level 2 if enough people want to continue with completely new content.