'Tis the Season for Joy, Reflection, Gratitude

Christmas is my favourite time of year. I admit it. There’s a slowing that happens this time of year for me despite the frenzied commercial demands of Christmas shopping. Cooler weather, Christmas lights, the tree, the food… for me it’s a peaceful time of reflection and gratitude. This was a huge year of transition and growth for me. I broke out from the world of non profit counselling agencies and jumped into private practice with both feet. In the midst of that I was a busy mom and raised a puppy. To slow down a bit feels nourishing to me. I use the extra time to reconnect with friends and enjoy family, to sleep in, and to reminisce about the year’s highs and lows. This process for me allows me to enter each new year feeling happy and grateful.
I know that the holidays aren’t like that for everyone. For some the holidays stir up some painful memories. For anyone that has lost someone close to them this year, this holiday season can be particularly full of grief. I encourage you, if this year has been challenging, to take the time to slow down and be good to yourself. However that looks. Identify what it is your soul needs to heal, and gravitate to that. Seasons like this can bring new rituals and memories that can help us get through the experiences that have hurt us. With that – if it feels too overwhelming, please do consider finding someone qualified to talk to. I am working limited hours and Skype hours through the holidays and know many others that are as well so that we are available for people that are hurting and need some help through the holidays.
In my reflection of a year of successes mixed with heartache, I embrace this season for all it has to offer. I am grateful for new connections and peers and colleagues that inspire me. I am excited to be continuing in the next year to assist with training other professionals in Self Regulation Therapy with the Canadian Foundation for Trauma Research and Education. I feel blessed by every client that has had the courage to walk through my door. You honour me with your honesty and your bold determination  to heal your life and move into the fullest and most joyful expression of it. I learn from you all every day and am blessed by those hours we spend together. I celebrate with you your achievements and health this year and look forward to another year of even more. Thank you for being this part of my journey. I truly love being a part of yours at this time of your life.
Merry Christmas to my friends, family, clients, colleagues and visitors. May health and happiness decorate your homes this season and into 2015.

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