Just as an accountant often doesn’t do his taxes by April 15th, I’ve noticed that a lot of social workers, mental health counselors and psychologists don’t take the time to relax, stretch or restore energy. Talking to people takes a lot of energy. You are trying to figure out their situation with them, you are feeling someone’s pain and struggle, you also can get frustrated when someone seems to stay shut in their own box of thinking and perception. Sometimes we wish so much we could turn someone’s head around so they can see where they are stuck. But this is something someone needs to realize through their own insights. It’s important to not burn out as a therapist.
I try to introduce techniques into my sessions from yoga and meditation, but I also find it’s important to do this at home as well before work and after work. Even if it’s only 10 minutes, it is very helpful. I have a meditation teacher who says that people always remember to shower before going out to work, but people don’t take ten minutes to purify their mind before heading out. I thought that was a very good point. We are less concerned about showing the world an aggravated, worried mind than whether we’ve shaved our legs or not.
In the mornings, I do a few yoga poses, followed by chanting and then a meditation. Even if your mind is racing or impatient this helps get you set for the day. You can find some yoga books below. Remember that this is about inner growth. You don’t have to get a fancy yoga mat or a pretty piece of jewelry . It is all about your inner state.
My social worker has a msw and is certified but what I like about her is that she meditates daily and doesn’t just use social work explanations. When I called around to my hmo I made sure I got names and then I called a few people to make sure that someone I work with is sympathetic to meditation and consciousness stuff like Eckhard Tolle, Satchinanda and eastern therapy too. People should ask their insurance company for a few names to check out therapists and find a good match.
Rachael
Comment by Rachael — May 6, 2009 @ 1:47 pm