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Continuting education, mindfulness, megan, bartley

Continuting Education Opportunities: Private Practice Success Strategies

03 March 2023/in Blog/by Megan Bartley

We are excited to announce we are now offering Continuing Education Opportunities for Mental Health Providers.

The Mindfulness Center was recently approved as a sponsor for continuing education courses by the Kentucky Board of Social Work. Megan Bayles Bartley is scheduled to teach therapists techniques she’s learned from Lynn Grodski, Casey Truffo, Therapist Consultants, and others, to best take care of themselves as they build a successful, thriving private practice from a systemic/holistic framework.

Participants will learn 1) what “Success” means differently for each therapist, 2) practice-building techniques therapists can use to achieve what “Success” means to them, and 3) how to set mindful boundaries with clients and practice responsibilities for therapist self-care.

The Mindfulness Center is waiting on sponsor approval from the Kentucky Board of Licensure for Marriage and Family Therapists.

For training dates and locations, please visit us HERE!

https://mindfulness-center.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/4E6A3237-scaled.jpg 2560 2404 Megan Bartley https://mindfulness-center.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/logo-small.png Megan Bartley2023-03-14 15:03:492023-03-14 15:06:24Continuting Education Opportunities: Private Practice Success Strategies
finding your new now

Creating the Emotions You WANT!

03 March 2023/in Blog/by Megan Bartley

Let’s recap Episode 22 of Shifting Our Sh!t (S.O.S.) Podcast: Megan and Rob catch up after Megan’s trip to the Bahamas and discuss the possibility of it being a future retreat location. Megan recently appeared on WHAS news and discussed how to focus on mental health, self-compassion, and being one’s own Valentine. They also discuss Megan’s painting, “Me and Peace,” which is inspired by her meditation on peace and reflects her thoughts on bringing peace to individuals, relationships, and larger communities.

Find inner peace.

Finding inner peace can be a difficult journey, especially in today’s world with so much chaos and stress. It can be hard to find a moment of stillness and clarity amidst the noise. However, it is possible to find inner peace and it starts with being mindful and present. 

 

Megan Bartley and Rob Giltner, the hosts of the SOS podcast, recently discussed finding inner peace. Megan had just returned from a trip to the Bahamas, where she was able to take a break and relax. She also discussed her son Jack, who is now seven months old. With a baby in the house, Megan has to be more aware and present. This is a great reminder that even with a chaotic life, it is possible to find moments of peace.

 

Megan also discussed her recent appearances on WHAs with a great day live. Her topics included focusing on mental health and mindfulness in the New Year, and how to be your own Valentine and practice self-compassion. These are great topics for anyone looking to find inner peace.

 

Megan also discussed the artwork behind her, which is a hand folding a piece sign and the word Pax, which is the Latin word for peace. Megan has been meditating on peace and how to bring it to individuals, relationships, and communities. This is an important reminder that peace starts within ourselves and we can help spread it to others.

 

FIND INNER PEACE:

Finding inner peace can be a difficult journey, but it is possible. It starts with being mindful and present, and taking the time to focus on mental health and practice self-compassion. It also involves being aware of our thoughts and feelings and how they impact us and the people around us. Finally, it is important to remember that peace starts within ourselves and we can help spread it to others. With these tips, we can all find inner peace.

 

3 Ways to create positive emotions deliberately. 

  1. One way to create inner peace is to deliberately create positive emotions. This means that instead of letting our emotions take over us, we can take the time to be mindful and deliberate in our thoughts and feelings. We can do this by focusing on the positive aspects of our lives and the people around us. For example, if we are feeling angry or frustrated, we can take the time to think about all the good things that are happening in our lives and the people who care about us. This can help us to shift our focus away from the negative and towards the positive. 
  2. Another way to create positive emotions deliberately is to practice self-care. This may include taking a break from stressful situations, engaging in activities that you enjoy, and getting enough rest. Taking the time to take care of yourself can help to reduce stress and create a sense of inner peace.
  3. Finally, we can create positive emotions deliberately by being kind to ourselves and others. This means being mindful of our words and actions and treating ourselves and those around us with kindness. We can also practice gratitude and appreciation for the things we have in our lives, as well as for the people who are important to us. 

Creating positive emotions deliberately is an important part of finding inner peace. By being mindful and deliberate in our thoughts and feelings, taking the time to practice self-care, and being kind to ourselves and others, we can create a sense of inner peace and harmony. With these tips, we can all find inner peace and create positive emotions deliberately.

 

Empathize to create safety. 

However, it is also important to be mindful of the emotions of others and to try to empathize with them. Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. It is a powerful tool that can be used to create safety in relationships, both romantic and platonic.

 

When we empathize with someone, we are able to view the situation from their perspective. We can understand why they are feeling hurt, angry, or sad, and we can provide comfort and support. This understanding can help to bridge the gap between two people, allowing them to communicate more effectively and work through their differences.

 

Empathy also allows us to recognize when someone is feeling overwhelmed or stressed out. By being mindful of their emotions, we can provide a listening ear and a comforting presence. We can also offer advice and support, or simply listen without judgment. This can help to create a safe space in which both parties can express themselves and work through their issues.

 

Finally, empathy can help to create a sense of trust and understanding between two people. When we take the time to listen and understand the feelings of another, we are showing that we care about their feelings and their needs. This can help to build a strong bond between two people, creating a safe and secure environment for both parties.

 

Empathy is an important tool that can be used to create safety in relationships. By being mindful of the feelings of others and taking the time to understand their perspective, we can create a space of understanding and trust. This can help to bridge the gap between two people, allowing them to communicate more effectively and work through their differences. In this way, empathy can be used to create a safe and secure environment for both parties.

 

Seek help for relationships. 

Unfortunately, it can be difficult to create and maintain empathy in a relationship. This is especially true if there has been a history of hurt or trauma. In these cases, it can be difficult to break the cycle of negative patterns that have been established. It is important to remember that it is possible to shift the dynamic and create a new, healthier relationship. 

 

One way to do this is to seek help from a professional. Couples therapy can be an effective way to break the cycle of negativity and create a new way of relating to one another. Therapists can help couples to better understand each other, to express themselves in a healthy way, and to develop a new way of communicating. They can also provide tools to help couples to create a more compassionate and understanding environment.

 

It is important to remember that seeking help for relationships is not a sign of weakness. On the contrary, it is a sign of strength and commitment to creating a healthier and more fulfilling relationship. Taking the time to invest in a relationship and to seek help when needed can be an incredibly rewarding experience. It can help to create a space of understanding and trust, allowing both parties to feel more connected and secure. 

 

Overall, seeking help for relationships is an important step in creating a healthier and more fulfilling relationship. By taking the time to understand each other and to seek professional help when needed, couples can create a safe and secure environment for both parties. This can help to break the cycle of negativity and create a new way of relating to one another.

 

Relationships require evolution. 

When it comes to relationships, it is important to remember that they require evolution. Relationships can change over time, and it is important to recognize and accept these changes. As couples progress through different stages of their relationship, they must learn to adjust and adapt to the changes that come with each stage. Whether it is a new baby, a new job, or just a new stage of life, couples must continue to work together to make sure their relationship remains strong. 

 

Couples therapy can be an effective way of helping couples to understand and work through the changes that come with each stage of the relationship. It can provide a space for couples to talk openly and honestly about their feelings and experiences. It can also provide a safe and secure environment for couples to express their needs and wants, and to work together to find solutions to any issues that may arise. 

 

It is also important for couples to remember that communication is key. It is important that both parties feel heard and listened to, and that they are able to express their feelings and needs. This can help to create a stronger bond and understanding between the two parties. 

 

Relationships require evolution, and it is important for couples to recognize and accept this. By taking the time to understand each other and to seek help when needed, couples can create a safe and secure environment for both parties. This can help to break the cycle of negativity and create a new way of relating to one another.

 

Evolve and manage anxiety in relationships.

One of the most important aspects of managing anxiety in relationships is to recognize when it is present. Anxiety can manifest itself in various ways, such as feeling overwhelmed, lacking confidence, or feeling stuck in a negative cycle of thoughts. It is important to recognize these feelings and to talk to your partner about them. By communicating openly and honestly with each other, couples can work together to manage anxiety and create a safe and secure environment.

 

It can also be beneficial to seek professional help when needed. Couples therapy can provide a safe space for couples to discuss their feelings and to work on understanding each other better. This can help to create a stronger bond between partners and to break the cycle of negative thoughts and feelings.

 

In addition to seeking professional help, couples can also take steps to manage their own anxiety. For example, taking time for self-care and engaging in activities that bring joy can help to reduce stress and create a more positive outlook. Additionally, couples can practice mindfulness and meditation to help them stay in the moment and to manage their anxiety.

 

Evolution and managing anxiety in relationships is an ongoing process. It is important for couples to recognize that relationships require effort and to take the time to understand each other. By taking the time to communicate openly and honestly and to seek professional help when needed, couples can create a safe and secure environment for both parties. This can help to break the cycle of negativity and create a new way of relating to one another.

 

Show yourself compassion. 

One way to create a new way of relating is to practice self-compassion. Self-compassion is the practice of being kind to ourselves and understanding our own feelings and emotions. It is important to recognize that it is okay to make mistakes and to forgive ourselves for them. We could not be too hard on ourselves and instead, focus on the positive aspects of our lives. 

 

Self-compassion can help to break the cycle of negative thinking and create a more positive outlook on life. It can also help to reduce stress and anxiety. It is important to recognize that we are all human and that it is okay to make mistakes. We could not be too hard on ourselves and instead, focus on the positive aspects of our lives.

 

When it comes to creating a new way of relating to one another, it is also important to recognize that we are all different. We all have our own individual beliefs, values, and opinions. It is important to be open to learning from one another and to be respectful of each other’s differences. 

 

Self-compassion is an important part of creating a healthy relationship. It is important to recognize that we are all human and that it is okay to make mistakes. We could not be too hard on ourselves and instead, focus on the positive aspects of our lives. We could also be open to learning from one another and being respectful of each other’s differences. By practicing self-compassion, we can create a healthier and more positive relationship with ourselves and with those around us.

 

Empower yourself to find the right fit.

When it comes to finding the right fit for a relationship, it is important to empower yourself and to take the time to find the right person for you. It is important to be honest with yourself and to take the time to explore different options. It is also important to be open to new experiences and to be willing to listen to the advice of others. By doing this, we can gain a better understanding of ourselves and of the person we are looking for.

 

It is also important to be aware of the different types of therapists available and to take the time to find the right fit for you. Different therapists have different approaches and it is important to find the one that best suits your needs. It is also important to be open to trying different types of therapy and to be willing to work with a therapist who is not the perfect fit. By doing this, we can gain a better understanding of the different types of therapies available and the different approaches that may be more suitable for us.

 

Finally, it is important to recognize that relationships take effort and that it is important to be patient and to be willing to put in the work. It is important to be open to learning and to be willing to communicate with each other. By doing this, we can create a healthier and more positive relationship with ourselves and with those around us.

 

In conclusion, it is important to empower yourself to find the right fit for a relationship. It is important to be honest with yourself and to take the time to explore different options. It is also important to be aware of the different types of therapists available and to take the time to find the right fit for you. Finally, it is important to recognize that relationships take effort and that it is important to be patient and to be willing to put in the work. By practicing self-compassion and by being open to learning and communicating, we can create a healthier and more positive relationship with ourselves and with those around us.

https://mindfulness-center.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/alexei-scutari-MDUVM0_cCAM-unsplash-scaled.jpg 1707 2560 Megan Bartley https://mindfulness-center.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/logo-small.png Megan Bartley2023-03-12 23:48:072023-03-29 23:58:19Creating the Emotions You WANT!
Compassion Fatigue, Anxiety, Caregiver, fatigue

Who Helps the Helpers?

02 February 2023/in Blog, Boundaries, Mindfulness, Self Love, Stress/by Megan Bartley

Is caring for others part of your job? Maybe you are a healthcare worker, faith leader, teacher, or non-profit leader who cares deeply about the people you serve, but sometimes you feel exhausted, frustrated, anxious, or irritable. If so, you may be experiencing compassion fatigue.

My name is Britt Riddle, and I have over fifteen years of experience working in a variety of helping professions and navigating and recovering from compassion fatigue and burnout. Compassion fatigue is a common response to the complex and overwhelming situations we may find ourselves in when working with people who have experienced trauma or other significant stressors in their lives. Now, as a therapist at The Mindfulness Center, I specialize in working with people in helping professions who want to prevent or reduce compassion fatigue—by clarifying their values, nurturing inner peace, cultivating mindfulness practices and perspectives, and rediscovering what brings joy in their lives.

Compassion fatigue refers to the emotional, physical, and spiritual exhaustion that comes from being consistently exposed to stressors in other peoples’ lives.

 Signs you may be experiencing compassion fatigue may include:

  • Emotional Exhaustion: Feeling overwhelmed, burned out, and emotionally drained from caring for others;
  • Physical Exhaustion: Experiencing physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and difficulty sleeping;
  • Spiritual Exhaustion: Feeling disconnected from your values, beliefs, and sense of purpose;
  • Depersonalization: Feeling detached and removed from the people you are trying to help, and experiencing a decrease in empathy and compassion
  • Challenges with Emotional Regulation: Feelings such as anger, frustration, sadness, and hopelessness may feel more intense and may make it more difficult to feel grounded;
  • Decreased Sense of Self-Worth: Feeling that your work is unimportant and not making a difference.

 The good news is that researchers have identified specific risk factors and protective factors for compassion fatigue and burnout. This means we can work on shifting our perspectives, learning new skills, and making small changes to our environment to reduce compassion fatigue. When protective factors for compassion fatigue are cultivated, compassion resilience can emerge—the ability to maintain our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being while compassionately caring for others.

People and workplaces that foster resilience on a regular basis create an environment where employees feel less stress, experience fewer feelings of imposter syndrome, are more socially connected, and find greater meaning in their work. This leads to greater work satisfaction, increased productivity, and less burnout/turnover.

 In addition to providing therapy, we often get requests from organizations about how we can support their work and their employees. We care best for others when we ourselves feel supported, which is why we would be glad to partner with you to customize trainings, workshops, and support/education groups to support your employees and organization as you do the important work of caring for others.

Britt, Riddle, Religious, Spiritual, Development, Injury If you are interested in exploring compassion fatigue and compassion resilience, either for yourself or your organization, I would be glad to talk with you more about this to see how we might work together. You can contact me or schedule a free 10-minute consultation or first appointment with me here: https://mindfulness-center.com/our-team/britt-riddle-dmin-mamft/. I look forward to hearing from you!

 

 

https://mindfulness-center.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/anxiety.jpg 400 600 Megan Bartley https://mindfulness-center.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/logo-small.png Megan Bartley2023-02-24 20:30:042023-02-24 20:35:10Who Helps the Helpers?
WHAS, Valentine, Be your own valentine, Megan Bartley, Megan, Mindfulness, Great, Day, Live

Be Your Own Valentine

02 February 2023/in Blog/by Megan Bartley

WHAS Great Day Live: The Mindfulness Center shares how you can be your own Valentine

Recently, Megan Bayles Bartley joined Great Day Live on WHAS to discuss how to practice self-compassion and be your own Valentine. Valentine’s Day can bring a lot of pressure and stress, especially for those who have experienced recent losses or are not coupled. Megan talks about the pressure that comes with the holiday and provides some tips for celebrating oneself, such as treating oneself to a favorite food or drink. The interview emphasizes the importance of taking small steps throughout the day toward self-compassion.

 

Practice self-compassion.

 

Valentine’s Day can be a difficult day for those who have recently suffered a loss or are uncoupled. Thankfully, the Mindfulness Center is offering advice on how to be your own Valentine and practice self-compassion. Self-compassion is a blend of kindness and love towards yourself, which can help to combat the inner critic that often speaks to us in a negative way. 

 

Megan Bayles Bartley, the director of the Mindfulness Center, explains that self-compassion is important because it helps to build a muscle that will eventually replace the negative inner critic. She advises that one can start to practice self-compassion by treating themselves to something special, like nachos at Porch Kitchen or wine at Koi. 

 

The Mindfulness Center offers various tools to help people practice self-compassion. They have a free podcast on Spotify and Apple, an online course on the art of saying no, and a special event to create a vision board. All of these tools are meant to be accessible to everyone. 

 

Self-compassion is not selfish, but rather a way to prioritize oneself and invite the people around us to do the same. Taking the time to practice self-compassion can help us to be our own perfect Valentine this Valentine’s Day.

 

Mindfulness Center giveaway.

The Mindfulness Center is offering a special giveaway for Valentine’s Day. This special giveaway is available to anyone who visits their website, mindfulness-center.com/whas. This giveaway includes a variety of goodies that will help people practice self-care and self-compassion. 

 

The goodies offered in the giveaway will help people practice mindfulness and self-compassion. This includes items such as aromatherapy candles, essential oils, and soothing music. These items will help to create a calming atmosphere for people to practice mindfulness. Additionally, Mindfulness Dash Center offers a variety of online courses and resources to help people learn more about mindfulness and self-compassion. 

 

The Mindfulness Dash Center giveaway is a great way to show yourself some love this Valentine’s Day. Taking the time to practice self-compassion is a great way to show yourself some love. By taking the time to practice self-care and self-compassion, we can create a more positive and peaceful atmosphere in our lives. 

 

If you’d like to learn more about The Mindfulness Center giveaway, simply visit their website at mindfulness-center.com/whas. There you will find all the information you need to take advantage of this special offer. So, this Valentine’s Day, why not show yourself some love and take advantage of The Mindfulness Center giveaway?

 

Watch the entire segment online HERE!

https://mindfulness-center.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Screenshot_20230214_200315_Chrome.jpg 1080 2400 Megan Bartley https://mindfulness-center.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/logo-small.png Megan Bartley2023-02-14 20:24:582023-04-24 20:30:18Be Your Own Valentine
Discover the healing power that art can provide

Mindfulness Through Creativity: Making Vision Boards

01 January 2023/in Blog, Mindfulness, Self Love/by Megan Bartley
Are you having difficulty moving forward and achieving your goals?
Do you know what you want, but do not know what steps to take to get you there?
Have you heard of vision boards?

Creating a vision board is a creative and fun way to put your ideas on paper so you can see them.

A vision board is a type of collage. You can add magazine images and words, copies of photographs, or meaningful quotes. If you have any personal items or things you have gathered from nature you can add them to your artwork. It is up to you how you arrange everything and attach it to your board.

The vision board is a tool to help you to see yourself achieving your goals. Set your goals high and be open and willing to go outside of your comfort zone. When you do this it will help you to let go of negative thoughts and bring your dreams to life.

A vision board can help you develop an awareness of the specific changes you want to make in your personal life, career, or relationships with others. It is an inspirational way to explore exactly what it will take to get you to your ideal life.

You can put the finished board somewhere where it can be a daily reminder to help you to stay focused on what you really want to do this year.
Mental Magnetism
Mental magnetism is when you can see something, you can actually believe it. Sometimes it helps to have an actual picture of what you desire. It helps to draw positive things you are wanting into your life. Otherwise, you may have a blurry picture of what it is you want and it can keep you from reaching your goals.
Creating a vision board is an interactive way to move toward what you want. The pictures and words you select are very powerful. They can allow what is on the inside to come out so you can actually see it. It is like bringing them to life. It helps you to create a new image so you can see what is possible and allows you to move toward your amazing future.

Group Synergy

art therapy, art therapist, rachel martin, rachel

While you can create your vision board in the comfort of your own home, it can be very helpful to make yours in a group setting. Creating your vision board with a group of people can be fun and exhilarating. When a group of people gather together with a similar goal in mind – achieving new things, thinking positively, and creating – the synergy can elevate the process and perhaps even help you accomplish your goals quicker!

Art Therapist, Rachel Taylor Martin, invites you to join her on Friday, February 17th from 6-9 pm to make your own vision board for 2023. She will provide all the supplies and light refreshments.
Space is limited so please register at THIS LINK to reserve your spot. Feel free to invite a friend and register together!
https://mindfulness-center.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/How-is-Art-Therapy-Beneficial.jpg 300 300 Megan Bartley https://mindfulness-center.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/logo-small.png Megan Bartley2023-01-25 20:15:192023-01-25 20:19:28Mindfulness Through Creativity: Making Vision Boards
Self-Compassion, compassion, anxiety

Making Friends with Discomfort: Self-Compassion for Anxiety

01 January 2023/in Blog/by Megan Bartley

Practice self-compassion

Self-compassion is an important part of living a healthy life, but it can often be overlooked and neglected. Self-compassion is the practice of being kind and understanding towards oneself, even in difficult or challenging times. It is an important part of self-care and mental health.

The practice of self-compassion is especially important in times of anxiety. Anxiety can be overwhelming and can lead to feelings of self-doubt and criticism. Self-compassion can help to combat these negative thoughts and can help to create a sense of calm and peace. Ashley Vaden, a therapist at the Mindfulness Center, explains that self-compassion is a “superpower” for addressing the alarm and anxiety that we experience.

One exercise that Vaden recommends for practicing self-compassion is a seven-minute meditation. This meditation involves checking in with your body and noticing the different sensations that you feel. The point of this exercise is not to try to change the sensations, but to build your tolerance for them and to increase your interoceptive awareness. This exercise also encourages people to notice the lightness in their bodies, and not only the tension and alarm.

 

Self-compassion can also be practiced in other ways. It is important to be mindful of the language that you use when speaking to yourself. Instead of being self-critical, it is important to use positive and encouraging words. It is also important to take time for yourself and to do things that make you feel good. This could include anything from reading a book to going for a walk.

Embrace discomfort for growth

One way to practice self-compassion is to embrace discomfort. Discomfort is a normal part of life and it is important to learn how to accept and embrace it. Doing so can help to reduce feelings of anxiety and can help to promote growth and self-improvement.

Embracing discomfort can help:

  • Cultivate self-compassion and can help to create a sense of safety and security
  • Promote self-awareness and self-reflection
  • Promote resilience and can help to increase our ability to cope with difficult situations

Protect your energy with armor

One way to protect your energy is to use armor. Armor is a form of protection that can help to prevent any negative energy from entering your space. It can also help to protect you from any external influences that may be draining your energy. The armor can be visualized in any shape you desire, such as a pumpkin, triangle or any other shape. Visualizing the armor can help to create a sense of safety and security, and can help to create a force field that will protect you from any negative energy or influences.

Another way to protect your energy is to cleanse yourself of other people’s energy. This is especially important for those who are highly sensitive or empathic. It is important to be aware of how other people are feeling and to be mindful of any energy that you may be absorbing from them. There are various ways to cleanse yourself of other people’s energy, such as taking a salt bath, using essential oils, or using visualization techniques.

 

Intentionally protect your energy

Armor can be an effective way to protect your energy. This can be done by creating a mental force field around yourself, or by using physical objects to create a sense of protection. For example, you can imagine a shield of light around your self to help protect you from any negative energy that may be coming your way. You can also use physical objects such as crystals or jewelry to provide a sense of protection. By wearing these items, you can create a sense of security and safety and can help to protect your energy.

Cleansing yourself of other people’s energy is another way to protect your energy. This can be done through activities such as taking a shower and imagining that the water is washing away any negative energy that you may be carrying. You can also use sound baths and sound bowls to help clear away any negative energy. By using sound to create a vibration, you can help to neutralize any negative energy that may be lingering in your space.

Being mindful of how you are feeling is also important when it comes to protecting your energy. Paying attention to your thoughts and feelings can help you to recognize when you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed. Once you have identified these feelings, you can take steps to redirect your attention and to focus on something more positive. By intentionally choosing to focus on the positive, you can help to protect your energy and to create a sense of peace and calm.

Protecting your energy is an important part of self-care and mental health. By using armor, cleansing yourself of other people’s energy, and being mindful of how you are feeling, you can take steps to protect your energy and to promote a sense of peace and calm. By intentionally taking steps to protect your energy, you can help to create a sense of safety and security and can help to promote self-compassion and personal growth.

Notice, name, distract, refocus, repeat

One way to protect your energy is to practice the concept of “notice, name, distract, refocus, and repeat.” By using this concept, you can take steps to protect your energy and to create a healthier relationship with yourself and with your thoughts. The idea is that when you notice a thought or feeling that is causing you distress, you name it. This allows you to be mindful of the thought and to take a step back from it. Once you have named the thought or feeling, you can then distract yourself with something else. This could be a physical activity, such as going for a walk or doing some yoga, or it could be a mental activity, such as reading a book or listening to music. Once you have distracted yourself, you can then refocus your attention on something positive or something that brings you joy. This could be a hobby or activity that you enjoy, or it could be something that helps you to relax and to feel at peace. Finally, you can repeat this process as often as needed. 

By using this process, you can take steps to protect your energy and to create a healthier relationship with yourself. This process can help to create a sense of safety and security and can help to promote self-compassion and personal growth. Additionally, by using this process, you can create a stronger neural pathway for more positive thoughts and feelings, rather than allowing yourself to be pulled into a spiral of negative thoughts and feelings. 

 

Be kind to yourself

Self-compassion is an important part of self-care and mental health. It is the practice of treating yourself with kindness and understanding, and it can be a powerful tool for healing and growth. Self-compassion involves recognizing our own humanity and understanding that we are all imperfect, and that mistakes are part of the human experience. It is about being kind and gentle with ourselves and recognizing that we are all worthy of love and acceptance, regardless of our mistakes or failures.

One way to practice self-compassion is to be mindful of your thoughts and feelings. Taking the time to pause and observe your thoughts and feelings can help you to recognize when you may be engaging in negative self-talk or thinking patterns that are not helpful. It can also help you to recognize when you may be feeling overwhelmed or stressed, and to take steps to address and manage these feelings.

Another way to practice self-compassion is to be mindful of your physical needs. Taking the time to practice mindful movements, such as walking, stretching, or yoga can help to reduce stress levels and can help to promote a sense of well-being. Additionally, taking the time to engage in activities that bring you joy, such as listening to music, spending time with friends, or engaging in creative activities, can help to foster a sense of self-compassion.

 

Explore with curiosity and wonder

One of the most important aspects of self-compassion is to explore with curiosity and wonder. By taking the time to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with curiosity and wonder, you can gain insight into yourself and your life. This exploration can lead to a greater understanding of yourself and your journey.

 

When exploring with curiosity and wonder, it is important to be mindful and present. This means being aware of your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. It also means being open to learning new things and allowing yourself to be vulnerable. When exploring with curiosity and wonder, you can be gentle with yourself and allow yourself to feel whatever arises.

 

Exploring with curiosity and wonder can help:

  • Create a sense of peace and contentment
  • Develop greater self-awareness
  • Foster self-compassion

Love and compassion are key

Love and compassion are key components of self-compassion. Through self-compassion, we can learn to accept ourselves and our experiences with kindness and understanding, rather than judgment and criticism. We can also learn to be kind and understanding to others, recognizing that everyone is on their own journey and we all have our struggles. 

Love and compassion can be cultivated through a variety of practices, such as mindfulness, meditation, and self-reflection. Mindfulness can help us to be present and aware of our thoughts and feelings, without judgment or criticism. Meditation can help us to cultivate a sense of inner peace and contentment, and to become more aware of our thoughts and emotions. Finally, self-reflection can help us to gain insight into our lives, and to recognize our strengths, weaknesses, and potential for growth.

Through these practices, we can learn to be more compassionate and loving towards ourselves and others. We can learn to recognize our worth and value and to accept our imperfections. We can also learn to be kind and understanding to those around us and to recognize that everyone is on their own journey. 

 

Unconditional loving presence

One way to cultivate this type of unconditional loving presence is to practice meditation or mindfulness. By focusing on the breath or body, we can become more aware of our thoughts and feelings, and learn to be more compassionate and accepting of ourselves. Additionally, we can use self-reflection to explore our thoughts and feelings and to gain a better understanding of our experiences.

 

Another way to cultivate a sense of unconditional loving presence is to use the power of our intuition. By taking the time to tune into our own inner wisdom, we can gain insight into our experiences and develop a deeper understanding of our needs and desires. Additionally, we can use our intuition to help us to connect more deeply with others, and to be more open and accepting of their perspectives and experiences.

 

In Summary:

Megan hosts the SOS podcast and has invited Ashley Vaden as a special guest. Ashley is a marriage and family therapist, discusses the use of self-compassion for healing anxiety, and demonstrates a 7-minute meditation exercise to build one’s tolerance for body sensations and emotions.

 

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE SHIFTING OUR SH!T PODCAST

https://mindfulness-center.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/20220510_175925-1-scaled.jpg 1153 2560 Megan Bartley https://mindfulness-center.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/logo-small.png Megan Bartley2023-01-20 16:39:092023-03-01 16:42:16Making Friends with Discomfort: Self-Compassion for Anxiety
Reset, Bartley, Book, Focus

RESET: Focus on What Works

01 January 2023/in Blog/by Megan Bartley

In a world filled with distractions, it can be difficult to focus on what works. We often get caught up in the minutiae of everyday life, and it can be hard to remember what our goals are and how to reach them. This is why it is so important to take the time to reset and focus on what works.

The SOS podcast, featuring Megan Bartley and Rob Giltner, recently discussed the importance of resetting and focusing on what works. Megan shared that she has recently released her second book, Reset, which is the curriculum she uses for her retreats in Napa Valley. She explained that the book is designed to set people up for success, no matter how they use it. It contains six powerful exercises to help people refocus their attention on what works and release what doesn’t.

The book encourages readers to look at the past year and what they did or didn’t do. It also helps them to think about where they want to be a year from now, so they can have a clear focus or path. Additionally, it helps them to understand where they are right now and what they need to let go of or what they might need more of. There is a gratitude exercise as well as affirmations, and it also includes a 12-week guided journey with daily and weekly journaling. This helps readers to develop a theme for the year and to be reminded of it every day.

Rob shared that he found the book to be helpful and that he has written in it and sometimes journals with it. He mentioned that his theme for the year was about creation, and it was interesting to look back and see how a lot of it had happened.

It is clear that focusing on what works is important for reaching our goals. Taking the time to reset and focus on what works can help us to stay on track and to make sure that we are putting our energy into the things that matter most. Megan’s book is a great resource for anyone looking to refocus their attention and reset their goals.


We want work to be fun and easy.

This is something that I have been striving for since I moved back to Louisville eight and a half years ago. I have been working hard to build my business in the Mindfulness Center, write books, create online classes, and host retreats. I love what I am doing, but it can become overwhelming and exhausting. It is important to take breaks and to turn off work by a certain time each day. This will allow us to rest and reset so that we can be more productive and creative. 

It is also important to remember that hustle culture can be damaging. We need to move away from comparing ourselves to others or feeling guilty or ashamed if we are not able to keep up with the hustle. It is important to focus on the quality of our work, not the quantity. We can strive for balance and sustainability, not just hustling as hard as we can. 

In order to achieve a sense of work-life balance, it is important to set goals and intentions. Taking the time to write out how we imagine the year will go and what we want to achieve can help us stay on track and be more productive. It is also important to remember to celebrate our successes and to be kind to ourselves. 

In conclusion, it is important to remember that work can be fun and easy. We need to strive for balance and sustainability and take the time to celebrate our successes. Taking the time to reset and to focus on what works can help us to stay on track and to make sure that we are putting our energy into the things that matter most.

 

Value family time.

Family time is an important part of this, and it needs to be valued. Taking the time to be with our family and to enjoy each other’s company can help us to reset and to focus on the things that matter most in our lives. It can also help us to stay connected and to build strong relationships with the people we care about. Taking the time to be with our family can help us to remember what is important, and to stay grounded and focused on our goals. 

In Louisville, Kentucky, there is a culture of valuing family time. Taking the time to be with our family and to enjoy each other’s company can help us to reset and to focus on the things that matter most in our lives. It can also help us to stay connected and to build strong relationships with the people we care about. Setting boundaries around work and making sure to take the time to be with our family can help us to stay balanced and to keep our focus on the things that matter most. 

We can strive to make sure that we are taking the time to be with our family, to enjoy each other’s company, and to build strong relationships. Taking the time to reset and to focus on what works can help us to stay on track and to make sure that we are putting our energy into the things that matter most. Valuing family time is an important part of this, and it can help us to stay grounded and focused on our goals.

 

Rest is resistance.

The idea of rest is resistance is something that is gaining traction in recent years. Tricia Hersey, author of the book “Rest is Resistance”, has been a guest on Glennon Doyle’s podcast and has talked about the importance of resting and the need for balance. She believes that we need to take the time to rest in order to be productive and to reach a state of flow. Hersey also believes that rest is a form of resistance to the “grind culture” that has become so popular in recent years. 

The idea of rest is resistance is an important one, and it is something that many of us need to take to heart. We need to take the time to rest and to take care of ourselves, and to enjoy the moments we have with our family and friends. Taking the time to rest can help us to be more productive and to stay focused on our goals. It can also help us to stay grounded and to remember what matters most.

We all have different demands on our time, and it can be hard to find the time to rest. But it is important to remember that taking the time to rest and to recharge is essential for our physical and mental health. We need to make sure that we are taking the time to rest, and to enjoy the moments we have with our family and friends. Taking the time to reset and to focus on what works can help us to stay on track and to make sure that we are putting our energy into the things that matter most. 

Rest is resistance, and it is an important concept that we all need to remember. Taking the time to rest and to recharge is essential for our physical and mental health, and it can help us to stay focused on our goals and to make sure that we are putting our energy into the things that matter most. We could strive to make sure that we are taking the time to be with our family, to enjoy each other’s company, and to build strong relationships. Taking the time to reset and to focus on what works can help us to stay on track and to make sure that we are putting our energy into the things that matter most.

 

Learn from mistakes and move on.

Another important concept is to learn from mistakes and move on. We all make mistakes, but it is important to recognize that mistakes are part of the learning process. We could strive to learn from our mistakes and to move on. We don’t need to dwell on our mistakes, but instead, take the time to reflect on what we could have done differently and to use that knowledge to inform our future decisions. It is important to recognize that mistakes are a part of life and that we can learn from them and move on.

 This is something that I heard recently in a podcast, and it really resonated with me. The speaker was talking about how, when we reach our 40s and 50s, we often hit a wall of exhaustion. We have been in the grind for so long, and we have accomplished so much, that we may start to feel as though we have done everything we set out to do. This can lead to a feeling of exhaustion and a need to reevaluate our lives and our goals. We may be wondering if we want to keep doing the same things for the next 40 or 50 years, or if we want to make changes. This is a great time to take a step back and to reflect on our lives and our goals, and to make sure that we are still on track.

 We could also strive to be perfectly imperfect. We can often put a lot of pressure on ourselves to be perfect, and this can lead to a lot of stress and anxiety. We could strive to be okay with being perfectly imperfect. We could recognize that we are all making things up as we go, and that we learn from our mistakes and move on. We don’t have to let our mistakes hold us back, but instead, take the time to reflect on them and use them to inform our future decisions. 

 In conclusion, rest is resistance and learning from mistakes and moving on is an important concept that we could all strive to remember. Taking the time to rest and recharge is essential for our physical and mental health, and it can help us to stay focused on our goals and to make sure that we are putting our energy into the things that matter most. We chould also strive to be perfectly imperfect and to recognize that mistakes are a part of life and that we can learn from them and move on.

 

Be kind to yourself.

Being kind to yourself is an essential part of living a healthy and happy life. It means being gentle with yourself and forgiving of your mistakes, and it means recognizing that you are human and that you will make mistakes. It also means taking the time to rest and recharge, and to be mindful of your intentions and your actions. It means recognizing that you are not perfect and that you will make mistakes, and that it is okay to make mistakes. Lastly, it means being kind to yourself and recognizing that your mistakes do not define you. By taking the time to be kind to yourself, you can create a more peaceful, balanced, and meaningful life.

 

Be authentically vulnerable.

One of the best ways to be kind to yourself is to be authentically vulnerable. Vulnerability is the ability to show up as your true self, to be honest about your feelings and your mistakes. It is about being open and honest about your struggles and your successes, and about being willing to accept help and support from others. It is about being able to take risks and to make mistakes without worrying about the consequences. It is about being able to recognize that you are not perfect and that you will make mistakes, and that it is okay to make mistakes.

Vulnerability can be difficult to practice, especially in a world where hustle culture is so prevalent. We are constantly told to be perfect, to strive for perfection, and to never make mistakes. This can lead us to become rigid in our thinking and to be overly critical of ourselves and others. It can also lead us to become overly judgmental and to forget that mistakes are a part of life.

By practicing vulnerability, we can model for others how to be kind and forgiving of mistakes. We can show up in a way that is authentic and true to ourselves and that is open to the possibility of making mistakes. We can also show up in a way that is understanding and compassionate towards ourselves and others. We can trust that if we make a mistake, people will be forgiving and understanding. We can also trust that if we show up authentically, others will show up authentically in return.

Being authentically vulnerable is an important part of being kind to yourself and to others. It is about being open and honest about your feelings and your mistakes, and about being willing to accept help and support from others. It is about being able to take risks and to make mistakes without worrying about the consequences. It is about being able to recognize that you are not perfect and that you will make mistakes, and that it is okay to make mistakes. By practicing vulnerability, we can model for others how to be kind and forgiving of mistakes, and how to show up authentically.

 

Support small businesses and creators.

When it comes to supporting small businesses and creators, vulnerability is key. We all have a responsibility to each other to show up and support one another, and that starts with being vulnerable and open to new ideas, perspectives, and experiences. In today’s world, small businesses and creators are often overlooked and undervalued. They often don’t have the same resources and access to capital as larger companies and are often overlooked by potential customers and investors.

One of the best ways to support small businesses and creators is to buy their products and services. By doing this, you are directly contributing to their success and helping to sustain their business. Additionally, if you know someone who has written a book, buy their book and leave a positive review. This is an easy way to show your support and appreciation for their hard work and dedication.

Another way to support small businesses and creators is to share their work with your network. Social media is an invaluable tool for creators to reach new audiences and to build relationships with potential customers. By sharing their work, you are helping to spread their message and to create more visibility for their business.

Finally, be mindful of how you talk about small businesses and creators. Be mindful of your language and be sure to recognize the hard work and dedication that goes into creating a business and a product. Speak positively about them and be sure to recognize the value that they bring to the table. 

 

Supporting small businesses and creators is an important part of being kind and compassionate. It is about being open and vulnerable to new ideas and perspectives, and about being willing to invest in the success of others. By buying their products and services, sharing their work, and speaking positively about them, we can show our support and appreciation for the hard work and dedication that goes into creating a business and a product.

 

Be flexible and open.

At the same time, it is important to remember that we could also be flexible and open. We don’t have to feel pressured to start a new project or make a big change in January, just because it is the start of a new year. We can take our time to explore different avenues and make sure that our decisions are right for us. We could be open to trying new things, and we could be flexible when it comes to our schedules and our plans. We could also be open to the idea that things may not always go according to plan, and that is okay. 

We could remember that the most important thing is to be kind to ourselves and to those around us. We could take the time to listen to our own needs and to the needs of others. We could be open to new ideas and perspectives, and we could be flexible when it comes to our plans and our schedules. By taking these steps, we can show our support for small businesses and creators, and we can also ensure that we are living our best lives.

https://mindfulness-center.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Reset.jpg 928 928 Megan Bartley https://mindfulness-center.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/logo-small.png Megan Bartley2023-01-10 15:24:362023-03-01 15:24:55RESET: Focus on What Works
WHAS, New, year, you, new year, 2023, Megan Bartley

New Year, New You

01 January 2023/in Blog/by Megan Bartley

WHAS Interview Starts the New Year with a Clear Mind with The Mindfulness Center

The new year is all about a clean slate and why not start the year off right with a clear mind. According to  Nailah Spencer from WHAS, “The Mindfulness Center has all the resources to find your personal zen.”

Recently, Nailah Spencer from WHAS visited the Mindfulness Center in Louisville, Kentucky, and interviewed Megan Bayless-Bartley, the founding director, about how people can be more intentional about their mental health this year. Megan gave three takeaways: do a routine task differently to create neuroplasticity; be curious and wonder what to learn from a scenario or person, especially if it’s difficult; smile and laugh as much as possible to lift your mood. The segment emphasizes the importance of prioritizing mental health and provides practical tips for incorporating mindfulness into daily life.

Be more intentional.

We all have mental health goals that we want to achieve in the new year, but how do we actually make them happen? One conversation that has been popular lately is the idea of mindfulness and prioritizing our mental health. To learn more about this, Nailah Spencer from WHAS visited the Mindfulness Center in Louisville, Kentucky and spoke with the founding director, Megan Bayless-Bartley. She shared three takeaways for how we can be more intentional about our mental health this year. 

 

  1. The first takeaway was to do a routine task differently. This is a great way to create neuroplasticity and can be a fun challenge for the whole family. 
  2. The second takeaway was to be curious. Instead of pushing away difficult situations or people, take the time to wonder what we can learn from them. 
  3. The third and final takeaway was to smile and laugh as much as possible. This can be done by watching funny videos, listening to comedians, or even just looking at pictures of cute animals. 

 

At the Mindfulness Center, they offer therapy, coaching classes, online courses, retreats, and even help organizations and corporations become more mindful. Mindfulness means awakening the autopilot and being aware of the present moment without needing to change it. The Mindfulness Center also has a podcast called SOS, which is all about shifting perspectives and seeing things from new angles. 

 

If you are interested in learning more about the Mindfulness Center, you can visit their website, mindfulness-center.com, or find them on social media at Rainbow of Options. Megan Bayless-Bartley also has two books on Amazon, one about helping parents be calmer at bedtime and the other about six powerful exercises to help people focus on what works for them and release what doesn’t. 

 

Be curious and smile; it’s a great way to start the new year!

More options, less stuck.

In life, we often find ourselves in situations where we feel stuck and unable to move forward. We are presented with two options, one that we feel is right and one that we feel is wrong, and we feel unable to choose. We become stuck in a cycle of indecision, and it can be difficult to break out of it. 

 

Fortunately, there is a way to break out of this cycle and move forward with more options and less feeling of being stuck. This approach is called the Rainbow of Options and Mindfulness. This approach encourages us to move away from black-and-white thinking and to instead consider a range of options. When we have more options, we feel less stuck and can make decisions more easily. 

 

The Rainbow of Options and Mindfulness also encourages us to be mindful of our choices. We can take the time to consider each option carefully and think about how each option will affect us in the long run. This can help us to make more informed decisions and to feel more confident in our choices.

 

Having more options and being mindful of our choices can help us to break out of the cycle of feeling stuck. We can make decisions with more confidence and move forward in our lives. 

 

So, when you find yourself feeling stuck, remember the Rainbow of Options and Mindfulness. Take the time to consider all of your options, and be mindful of how each choice will affect you in the long run. With this approach, you can move forward with more options and less feeling of being stuck.

 

Watch the whole segment HERE!

https://mindfulness-center.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Screenshot_20230201_105707_Chrome-1.jpg 1080 2400 Megan Bartley https://mindfulness-center.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/logo-small.png Megan Bartley2023-01-07 20:12:332023-04-24 20:21:29New Year, New You
Stutz, Documntary, podcast

Stutz

01 January 2023/in Blog/by Megan Bartley

Everyone’s been raving about the show “Stutz” featuring Jonah Hill and his therapist. Our clients have all been telling us, it’s a must-watch!

Jonah Hill is passionate about making the tools his therapist uses with clients more widely available, and it’s an incredible journey. He has created a “toolbox” that is filled with valuable resources and stories that will help people in their own lives. It’s absolutely captivating to watch this relationship unfold, as he hopes to create a lasting impact on how we approach mental health struggles in our society today.

The Mindfulness Center’s motto, if you will, is “Tools for Your Toolbox to Cope with Life Stressors.” This statement encapsulates the idea that each of our therapists has their own tools and strategies to help clients understand concepts more easily and motivate them towards change. It serves as a reminder that there are simple ways to make progress in life quickly!

Additionally, there are plenty of different themes and storylines throughout the show.

Client-Therapist Bond

The client-therapist bond plays a major role in successful therapy. The connection between Jonah Hill and his therapists is particularly fascinating because it has both advantages and disadvantages, as well as areas where we may need to supplement elsewhere.

Jonah Hill expressed an invaluable thought that really resonated with me, he said…

“I listened to my friends and they give me advice, but I pay a therapist to listen and they should be reversed”

We ask our clients “What would you like me to be as a therapist?” – someone with whom you can simply express yourself and feel secure? Or something else? It appears that this expectation is not the same for everyone.

Providing Tools

Many clients tell say that they want to move forward and need the necessary tools to do so. This sentiment really lends itself to Stutz’s approach: he understands when someone like Jonah Hill needs something more than just advice in order to progress – they need tangible results.

Clients are paying us to create something tangible, and then move forward. This reminds me of Stutz’s comment on mentorship when he asked ‘how can we help them get better?’

The psychiatrist said that treatment was focused on long-term therapy, which is the opposite of what we focus on in our mindfulness center. My goal as a provider here is to give clients tools they can use going forward – resources they can draw upon for any situation or challenge.

Therapy Goals

Our goal is to ensure that clients don’t have to be in therapy long-term and can schedule check-ins as needed, whether it’s monthly, yearly, biyearly or even weekly. There isn’t a “right” way.

We are evaluating what kind of progress our clients hope for and how they perceive their success. This is essential to define, as without concrete goals, it can be difficult to determine if we have achieved our desired outcome; in this case, reducing levels of anxiety.

Ultimately, the focus is on understanding how we can reach this broad goal. What methods will help us measure our progress? We may need to experiment with different tools and tactics before finding a successful solution.

Visualization, Tools, and Sketches

Stutz manufactures these pieces of art and provides them to clients.

His explanation of this type of connection with a client truly resonated with us. It is as if we have provided something tangible to them, and they can physically hold onto it. Hearing him explain it further solidified my appreciation for his creative tools and strategies.

Therapist Don’t Have a Magic Wand

This theme was especially prominent in the movie. It is a common misconception that therapists have all the answers and an ideal life outside of therapy hours; however, we must remember that they are humans too with their own issues to sort out. Thus, I hope most therapists remind themselves of this truth to not become overburdened by unrealistic expectations.

Vulnerability Equals Connection

Achieving a true connection with another person is impossible without vulnerability, however, it’s difficult to be vulnerable when you don’t feel completely secure. This may especially ring true with family members – parents, siblings, and grandparents in particular. During the holiday season, we can strive for full authenticity by being open and honest without fear of judgment or rejection. When this happens, a deep level of connection between individuals can be found that was not previously there before!

It’s all about understanding your audience. Will it be welcomed, or will I need to conceal an aspect of myself? Is this a secure place for me to express my true self, or shall I stay quiet in fear of being judged negatively? Let’s look at it another way — when discussing certain topics, is it more beneficial for both parties involved if we remain private and withhold information that could potentially hurt us instead of helping the situation?

A Safe Harbor

Stutz and Jonah’s relationship created a safe environment for the two to build trust, establish connections, and appreciate each other. In this film, another eye-catching theme is that of discomfort; learning how to make friends with it. What are some other themes in this movie that you particularly admire?

The 3 Givens in Life

They particularly focused on three inescapable truths of life: pain, uncertainty, and change. It was a fascinating thought; how can we accept these as unavoidable parts of our lives? Pain, uncertainty, and perpetual growth will be a part of us forever.

In order to effectively manage uncertainty, we must arm ourselves with coping skills – like tools in a toolbox. How do I approach emotional pain or physical distress when the future is foggy? What if my job suddenly ends or my relationship breaks apart? That sort of unpredictability weighs heavily on us. Having the right resources at our disposal enables us to confront any situation with courage and resilience.

The ongoing effort required for success in our lives, be it a job or relationship, can often feel overwhelming. This is why I am drawn back to the book “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck,” which really shows us how we could approach these challenges with an attitude that is less about giving up and more about taking control.

To sum up, it’s not about caring for nothing. It is all about deciding what you actually care deeply for and giving attention to that. If we direct our focus on the unfortunate conditions of life, how can I express this? “What you feed grows,” undoubtedly there will always be suffering, pain, and hard work ahead; but instead of being disheartened by these facts – could we accept them as part of our journey? Can we consciously pick out which challenges to face?

Is Stutz worth the watch?

The movie Stutz encapsulates many important themes that we can all relate to. We are reminded of our own pain and uncertainty while also being encouraged to embrace it as part of life’s journey. The idea of vulnerability equaling connection is a powerful one; let us strive for full authenticity this holiday season by being open and honest without fear or judgment from others. Finally, understanding our audience is essential in order to decide what information to share and when it’s best kept private. We take inspiration from Jonah Hill’s character in the film – who showed courage and resilience despite facing challenging situations – so that we too may develop coping skills to confront anything with strength and grace. Give it a watch and let us know what you think.

https://mindfulness-center.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/stutz.jpg 1440 960 Megan Bartley https://mindfulness-center.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/logo-small.png Megan Bartley2023-01-05 15:09:322023-03-01 15:16:09Stutz
self love

The Healing Power of Art

11 November 2022/in Blog, Mindfulness, Self Love, Stress, Therapy, Trauma/by The Mindfulness Center

Did you know that you can be creative without actually drawing?!

Art therapy is an “expressive therapy” like dancing, music, drama, and writing. The purpose is to express yourself in a way that works best for you and open up new ways of thinking. Making art can give you a sense of empowerment and confidence as you work through what is bothering you. The most important thing to remember is to relax and trust the process as you explore what your mind, body, and spirit are telling you so that you can heal.

Doing something physical and creative, creating something outside of ourselves, is a wonderful way to restore peace. Holding, touching, and experiencing the sensation of changing the art material into something we can relate to is very rewarding. It can be done with model magic, Play-Doh, or clay. Something happens as we tap into our feelings and just allow the natural process of creation to occur. It reminds me of simpler times when our ancestors would make their own pottery, furniture, and clothing.

The simple act of slowing down and connecting with our thoughts and feelings can be a wonderful journey to self-discovery. Oftentimes, people seek therapy when they have come to a point in their life where things have built up inside and they are having difficulty balancing or functioning. It is challenging to unlock these feelings by yourself. Having someone to talk to and validate your feelings can speed up the healing process.

Here are a few ways art therapy can help unlock the healing power of art:

Collage art is kind of like scrapbooking. You can combine colorful papers, magazine words, and various images to express yourself creatively. As you arrange the art materials on the paper it allows you to make sense of your world and what is going on inside of you so you can get a better understanding and clear your mind of the clutter that has been building up. It can be eye-opening when you look at the final product and see how the art tells your story.

Creating mandalas (circle-shaped designs), mosaic designs (small pieces of colored paper or materials arranged to provide texture), and Zentangles (tiny doodles, patterns, or spontaneous designs inside of a space) are great ways to get focused and lost in the zone as you slow down and connect with the art.

Painting gives you an opportunity to use the colors to unlock the feelings you have been holding inside. You may experience relief as the feelings appear on the paper and you can see what has been hurting you. Just holding the paintbrush in your hand can give you some emotional distance as the feelings move from inside of you onto the paper. Remember it is not about producing a beautiful piece of artwork it is more about healing and discovering what has been going on inside and letting it out.

Journaling is another way to experience this. You can play around with colored pencils, markers, crayons, and chalk or oil pastels which allows the intensity of your underlying feelings to appear visually with soft or vibrant colors. Something happens as the thought or feeling travels from your mind to your hand and on to the paper in front of you. It is a kind of release that can be a very emotional and healing experience depending on what you are expressing as you create your art.

Art therapy is for all people. Of course, children will benefit because they are so open to trying new things. After all, everything is new to them. They are eager to learn and love the colors because they are engaging and fun. When a child doesn’t know the words they can express themselves with art. It can give them a voice if they have been unable to talk about deep feelings. And, the same thing can happen with adults. Most of us do not make time for ourselves. However, finding time to explore what is causing our pain will provide comfort and relief so we can have more time for things that really matter to us.

If this sounds like an interesting experience for you, and you’d like to find out more, feel free to schedule a free 10-minute consult with me at your convenience online HERE!

art therapy, art therapist, rachel martin, rachel

Rachel Taylor Martin, LPAT specializes in art therapy with people of all ages to help process, heal, and make sense of feelings and experiences that are hard to put words to. If you have a sense that art therapy could be an interesting experience and/or right for you, then likely it will be! Plus, there’s no need to be artistic! It is in the act of creating that healing and insight can come, not necessarily in the finished product. Creating art connects us to our subconscious which is full of wonderfully helpful information. Clients report Rachel is genuine, compassionate, holistic, and non-judgmental.

Megan Bayles Bartley is excited for Rachel to join the team and knows she will be a wonderful resource for you.

Find out more on Rachel’s bio page on the Louisville Mindfulness Center website!

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