Study and Application

“Happiness is not something ready made.  It comes from your own actions.”
-H.H. Dalai Lama

Learning the tools to optimize your health, happiness and well-being is a process.  First, we decide which tools are the best fit.  Next, we practice each tool and finally, create a reasonable practice schedule for you.  At  our weekly meetings, I will offer you the support and knowledge you need to optimize your use of these tools.

Using a Wholebeing approach to your life creates the foundation for well-being, resilience, and happiness.  My role is to teach, coach and support you during your process of change and integration. 

Sessions consist of checking in, discussing homework and reviewing  your practice.  You will build upon your knowledge and experience with each tool as you Step towards Wholebeing.

How much practice time is needed?  It varies but is based on the research results for each tool.  For example, with mindfulness training, the optimum benefits develop when sessions are 30 minutes long.  But as beginners, we begin a 5 minute practice and let it grow over time.  Here are some of the wonderful benefits of a mindfulness practice:

  • reducing stress, depression, anxiety
  • strengthening the immune system
  • improved social relationships
  • increased openness to experience
  • increased conscientiousness
  • increased happiness and well-being

Some tools may be scattered throughout your day and others may be practiced while alone.

A writing tool that we use can be practiced in the evening before going to bed.  It only takes 5 – 10 minutes. It consists of reviewing the day and finding three to five things that inspire gratefulness from our day.  Savoring the feelings, we write down our three to five things in a notebook or journal.  This practice can strengthen our recognition of the good in our life.  Benefits of this practice are:

  • Stronger immune systems and lower blood pressure;
  • Higher levels of positive emotions;
  • More joy, optimism, and happiness;
  • Acting with more generosity and compassion;
  • Feeling less lonely and isolated.

We do know that consistent practice creates a small shift in thought, and behavior that over time becomes integrated and natural.  These small changes add up quickly creating confidence and positive emotions while boosting our self-esteem and well-being.  As new neural pathways emerge from our practice, our new thoughts and behaviors promote further practice and growth.  It’s a cycle of positive change.

To begin your practice, schedule your complimentary consultation and let’s discuss how we can work together to help you make changes in your life.

We can work in person at the office at 1924 Arlington Blvd., Suite 205, Charlottesville, VA 22903 or we can work via Skype.

“For everyone, well-being is a journey.  The secret is committing to that journey and taking those first steps with hope and belief in yourself.”

– Deepak Chopra