Complementary Practices
If I can’t make it through one door,
I’ll go through another door—or I’ll make a door.
~Rabindranath Tagore
Archive for the ‘Complimentary Practices’ Category
Affirmations
Never ask whether you can do something. Say, instead, that you are doing it. Then fasten your seat belt. The most remarkable things follow.
~Julia Cameron
The “I” statements at the bottom of each Dark/Light Meditation in Section I are affirmations. If you find any of them particularly meaningful, copy and display them where you will see them frequently. These short phrases have the power to change your life by changing the way you think. This is not an overnight process, which is why it’s important to expose your mind to the message repeatedly, even if you do not read the entire phrase at each pass. Absorbing its essence will help your thinking to become more positive. Thinking more positively will build your confidence and help you move in the direction of your desires.
It sounds almost too simple to be effective but it really works. Healing does take place with the use of affirmations. You can use mine, or create your own.
When I was working through Julia Cameron’s book, The Artist’s Way, I followed her suggestion of writing affirmations at the bottom of my journal entries. For a while I wrote those she had provided. Then I began to invent some that targeted specific obstacles in my personal journey. The act of creating these new perspectives, and then rehearsing them was empowering.
Did I get where I wanted to go? Many times. You can too.
Creating Your Affirmation
Step 1. Identify your need.
Think of something you aspire to, either a situation you’d like resolved or a dream you long to come true.
Step2. Identify your obstacle(s).
What beliefs and feelings keep you from getting to where you want to go? If that’s not obvious to you now, take some time to explore the possibilities through painting or writing. Allow yourself to vent, doodle and ask questions.
Let’s say, for example, that you have an issue with the behavior of a significant person in your life. You want to confront this individual, but you’re not sure that you can. What would keep you from expressing your thoughts and feelings? Worry that you would look foolish? That your concerns will appear trivial? Fear that the person might say or do something hurtful in return? That the relationship might end and you’d be lost without him or her?
Once you’ve identified what’s holding you back, you can take the next step towards changing how you see your self, your relationships, your life.
Step 3. Get it out in front where you can see it.
In your journal or on a blank sheet of paper, draw a vertical line to create two columns. On the left side make a list of the beliefs/feelings that block your way. Choose words that reflect your specific situation. Trust your instincts, and go with those that come immediately into your conscious thoughts.
Step 4. Identify positive personal qualities.
In the right hand column, across from each belief/feeling, name at least one positive quality that would help you overcome your apprehensions. This may be something you imagine to be lacking within yourself but recognize as a desirable quality.
Sample Chart
Beliefs/Feelings Positive Qualities
| I’ll say something I would regret | Sensitive, articulate, compassionate, loving |
| My concerns are trivial | Worthy, valid, genuine |
| I feel timid, weak, helpless | Powerful, strong, self-sufficient, competent |
| I’m afraid to be alone | Courageous, daring, bold, independent |
| No one will want me | Desirable, lovable, loved |
Step 5. Create a new perspective.
Using the sentiments expressed in your own chart, fill the blanks in the following statement:
If I could have my way, I would feel (select a Positive Quality from the right hand column), instead of feeling (the corresponding Belief/Feeling in the left hand column).
Rewrite the statement, this time using only the portion that expresses your Positive Quality:
I would feel (Positive Quality).
Now claim that feeling, make it a part of you. Write it again in the present tense, as if you were actually feeling it this very minute (punctuate for emphasis, if you like, with an exclamation mark):
I am (Positive Quality)!
You have just created an affirmation, “a positive statement that something is already happening” (Jeffers, 1987). Say it out loud. Write it out several times. Put it on a sticky note or one of your paintings, and place it in a spot where you’ll see it frequently.
It may seem phony or inaccurate, at least for the time being. Don’t try to deny your true response. Instead, be willing to accept new feelings and perspectives. In time you will do more than affirm how truly amazing you are. You will know. With practice you will do more than affirm the goodness life has to offer. You will live it.
Whole Body Relaxation &Visualization
Experience, even for a painter, is not exclusively visual.
~Walter Meigs
Visual and visualize are both words that indicate the use of sight. A visual exists outside of the body, and is brought inward through our eyes. Visualizing takes place within, more specifically within the mind’s eye or imagination, and can be employed to create experience and/or reality from our thoughts. It is not necessary to actually “see” images. Visualizations include all the senses, and may simply involve remembering or imagining how something smells, tastes or feels.
The Secret Garden Visualization (below) is modeled after the practice as I learned it at age eleven. Through the years I’ve used it as a means of pleasant diversion from everyday obligations, to offset anxiety, and to bring desired change into my experience. In the role of moderator, I’ve even used it to help children settle into sleep.
The wording and the settings may vary (feel free to improvise), but the process always begins with relaxing the body**. Because this includes closing your eyes, you will only truly benefit from it if you have someone read the script as you recline on a flat chair or surface. You or someone else may read and record it so that it can be played whenever you like. Whoever reads should use a clear, soft voice and pace the directions so that you have ample time to follow along when you actually do the whole body relaxation and visualization. For added effect, soothing music can be played lightly in the background.
When you are ready to begin the relaxation, remove your shoes and loosen any restrictive clothing. If you plan to sit in a chair, be sure that the circulation in your legs flows freely. Place a large book (perhaps a phone book) under your feet, if necessary. If you are using a recording, set the volume just high enough to hear the spoken words. Get into a comfortable position, and begin.
** Depending on your physical health, it may be unadvisable to tighten muscles as described in the relaxation portion of this practice. Please consult with your health care professional before proceeding. Consider trying The Secret Garden Visualization, Version Two, which describes an alternative method of relaxing the body.
The Secret Garden Visualization
Take a deep breath in through the nose. And let it go out through the nose.
Close your eyes and take another deep breath. In the nose. Out the nose. Blow away distracting thoughts.
Curl your toes, tightening the muscles briefly.
Now relax the muscles and release tension.
Tighten all the muscles in your feet. Hold for a few seconds. And release.
Remember to breathe. Breathe easy. Breathe naturally. Do so deeply when it feels right.
Tighten the muscles in your calves. Hold for a few seconds. And release. Let tensions go away from you.
Tighten the muscles in your thighs. Hold for a few seconds. And release.
Let your legs go limp. Remember to breathe.
Tighten the muscles in your buttocks and hips. Hold for a second or two. And release.
Give yourself permission to relax.
Make a fist and tighten all the muscles in your hands. Hold for a few seconds. And release.
Clench your fists again. This time, tighten the muscles of your forearms also. Hold for a few seconds. And release.
Feel the tensions drain away. Breathe.
Tighten the muscles in your upper arms. Hold for a few seconds. And release.
Allow your arms to be limp, like those of a rag doll.
Tighten your tummy muscles. Pull them inward towards your back. Hold for a second or two. And release. Breathe. Let the tension go.
Now, concentrate on the muscles of your lower back. Gently, slowly, tighten for a second or two and release. Allow the tension to seep through the fibers of the chair, cot or floor, far away from your body.
Breathe deeply. In the nose. Out the nose.
Tighten the muscles of your upper back, around your shoulder blades. Hold for a second or two. And release.
Focus on the muscles in your neck and shoulders. Gently tighten for a second. And release. Let it go. Let it go. Let tension go away from you.
Swallow, if you can. Tighten the muscles in your jaw gently for a second or two. And release.
Take a deep breath in through the nose. Feel your chest rise. Breathe out through the nose and tighten the muscles in your chest, around your collarbone and the front of your shoulders. Release, and remember to breathe. Easily. Naturally.
Make a face. Scrunch the muscles in your forehead, around your eyes, nose and mouth. Hold for a few seconds. And release.
Take a breath and concentrate on the parts of your body that may have tension. Tighten. Hold. Release. And relax. Breathe easy. Breathe naturally.
Be still, and at peace.
All worries and cares have floated away. This moment is yours to enjoy.
Bring to your mind a favorite treat. It can be anything you want. Anything.
It might be something you like to eat.
Or perhaps something you enjoy doing.
It can be somewhere you like to go.
Whatever it is, there is an abundance of it in your Secret Garden. And you are on your way there, right now.
You’re in no hurry. You are satisfied, full, relaxed. There is plenty of time and this space is your own. You are the only one who has the key to the door of your Secret Garden.
Do you feel the key in your hand? What shape is it? What colour is it?
Move slowly towards the door.
As you fit the key into the lock, and open the door, what sounds do you hear?
Step into the garden and close the door. Turn the lock. No one may follow unless you invite them to do so. This is your Secret Garden, your personal, intimate space. It is exactly as you wish. You are safe and at peace here.
Take a few moments to admire your garden. What is there? Are there any distinct shapes, colours or textures? Are there any odors?
Feel free to reach out and touch at any time, if you like. These are your things.
Breathe deeply. Do you smell something? What is it? Is it something good to eat? Breathe in the aroma. Enjoy.
As you move about the garden, does the light change from one area to another? Focus on where you prefer to be and go there now. Take whatever you like with you.
What things are in this special place?
Is it well lit? Softly lit? Dark?
What do you do there? Something you’ve done before but would like to do more of? Or something you’ve only dreamt of trying? In your Secret Garden, all things are possible. You can do anything you like.
Decide what time of year is it in your special place. Is it Summer? Spring? Winter? Fall?
How are you dressed? Heavily? Scantily? Not at all?
Get comfortable. Settle in.
You are safe. You are free.
Enjoy.
When you are ready, prepare to leave the garden.
Touch, smell, taste, hear and observe whatever pleases you as you make your way to the door.
Feel the key in your hand. Insert the key, open the door, and let yourself out. Hear the door quietly shut behind you, and the lock click into place. Everything will be as you wish should you decide to return. You have the only key.
Slowly become aware of your body again. Become aware of your breathing. Wiggle your fingers and toes. Say, silently or out loud, that you are the keeper of your garden and you manage it well. When you are ready, come back to the room, alert and refreshed.
Secret Garden Visualization, Version Two
The Secret Garden Visualization, Version Two
Take a deep breath in through the nose. And let it go out through the nose.
Close your eyes and take another deep breath. In the nose. Out the nose. Blow away distracting thoughts.
Relax and think about the muscles in your feet.
Let any tension that is stored there move outward from your body and away from you.
Remember to breathe. Breathe easy. Breathe naturally. Do so deeply when it feels right.
Think about the muscles in your calves and allow them to relax. Let tension float away.
Now focus on the muscles in your thighs. Release any tension you feel in that part of your body.
Let your legs go limp. Remember to breathe.
Think about the muscles in your buttocks and hips. Allow tension and pain to seep through the fibers of the chair, cot or floor, out and away from your body.
Give yourself permission to let go and relax.
Bring your attention to your hands. Imagine tension slipping away from each finger, as if you were removing the fingers of a glove one-by-one. Take your time. As the gloves slip away, feel tension and pain ease from your hands and wrists.
Relax. Breathe.
Think about the muscles in your upper arms. Release any tightness there.
Allow your arms to be limp, like those of a rag doll. Feel yourself grow light, comfortable, at peace.
Concentrate now, on your tummy. Feel a warm, soothing liquid slide through your inner body like a magic tonic. Take a deep breath; in through the nose, then out through the nose. Let pain and tension go.
Let your breathing return to normal.
Think about the muscles of your lower back. Allow tension there to seep through the fibers of the chair, cot or floor, out and away from your body.
Focus now on the muscles of your upper back, around your shoulder blades. Release tension. Release pain. Relax.
Think about the muscles in the back of your neck and in your shoulders. Let tension go. Let it go. Let it go. Let tension go away from you.
Think about the muscles in the front of your neck. Swallow, if you can. Then open your mouth slightly and release all tensions.
Think about the muscles in your jaw and release any tightness there.
Take a deep breath in through the nose. Feel your chest rise. Breathe out through the nose and release tension in your chest, around your collarbone and the front of your shoulders. Relax, and remember to breathe. Breathe easy, naturally.
Now focus on the muscles in your forehead, around your eyes, nose and mouth. Let go any tension you may feel in your face.
Take a breath and concentrate on the parts of your body that may have tension. Release. And relax. Breathe easy. Breathe naturally.
Be still, and at peace.
All worries and cares have floated away. This moment is yours to enjoy.
Bring to your mind a favorite treat. It can be anything you want. Anything.
It might be something you like to eat.
Or perhaps something you enjoy doing.
It can be somewhere you like to go.
Whatever it is, there is an abundance of it in your Secret Garden. And you are on your way there, right now.
You’re in no hurry. You are satisfied, full, relaxed. There is plenty of time and this space is your own. You are the only one who has the key to the door of your Secret Garden.
Do you feel the key in your hand? What shape is it? What colour is it?
Move slowly towards the door.
As you fit the key into the lock, and open the door, what sounds do you hear?
Step into the garden and close the door. Turn the lock. No one may follow unless you invite them to do so. This is your Secret Garden, your personal, intimate space. It is exactly as you wish. You are safe and at peace here.
Take a few moments to admire your garden. What is there? Are there any distinct shapes, colours or textures? Are there any odors?
Feel free to reach out and touch at any time, if you like. These are your things.
Breathe deeply. Do you smell something? What is it? Is it something good to eat? Breathe in the aroma. Enjoy.
As you move about the garden, does the light change from one area to another? Focus on where you prefer to be and go there now. Take whatever you like with you.
What things are in this special place?
Is it well lit? Softly lit? Dark?
What do you do there? Something you’ve done before but would like to do more of? Or something you’ve only dreamt of trying? In your Secret Garden, all things are possible. You can do anything you like.
Decide what time of year is it in your special place. Is it summer? Spring? Winter? Fall?
How are you dressed? Heavily? Scantily? Not at all?
Get comfortable. Settle in.
You are safe. You are free.
Enjoy.
When you’re ready, prepare to leave the garden.
Touch, smell, taste, hear and observe whatever pleases you as you make your way to the door.
Feel the key in your hand. Insert the key, open the door, and let yourself out. Hear the door quietly shut behind you, and the lock click into place. Everything will be as you wish should you decide to return. You have the only key.
Slowly become aware of your body again. Become aware of your breathing. Wiggle your fingers and toes. Say, silently or out loud, that you are the keeper of your garden and you manage it well. When you are ready, come back to the room, alert and refreshed.
Making Your Way
The shoe that fits one person pinches another; there is no recipe for living that suits all cases.
~Carl G. Jung
The roads in recovery of self are as plentiful as the numbers of people who travel them. Some find their way by association with one or more self-help groups. Others, through ties to a religious organization. Many have found that an individualized approach works well, either on their own or with the guidance of a professional. Resources are often combined. There is no one right way to go, and each of us must decide what suits us best.
Making art has been a major, but not the sole means of progress in my personal journey. Much wisdom, comfort and inspiration have come through traveling other avenues, including those mentioned above. Without any one of them, my art would not be the same. Nor would my life. Neither is perfect, but just right, perfectly right for me.
You may have discovered a need to explore your creativity. I encourage you to do so. Please remember, especially at the outset, to keep it simple. Stay close to those who respect your needs and your choices. Draw on your experience, and create something beautiful. Grow into the life you dream of, the one that is just right, perfectly right for you.
Enter joy.
Pass it on.
The real importance of the journey is simply that we’re making it, alone and yet mysteriously together.
~Karen Casey and Martha Vanceburg, The Promise of a New Day
Creating Recovery 