Take Time To Take Care

Author: dianetroyer

I am an art therapist and counselor in the state of Ohio. I love being in nature, cooking, reading, and making art.
Take Time to Listen — January 24, 2022

Take Time to Listen

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I have recently been introduced to the wonderful world of podcasts by a friend of my daughter.  We were talking about books we have read, and our family book club that was started during the pandemic, and the subject of podcasts came up.   She told us that she likes listening to the true crime stories. I thought I would see if I could find anything that I would like.  I found that I like the wellness, self-help, personal stories/ interview type.  It is amazing, there is something for everyone. I am always grateful for the things I learn from our younger generation (especially concerning technology).  I like the fact that unlike a video, you can listen to podcasts anytime, in the car, before going to sleep at night, while cooking or doing dishes, taking a walk or a jog. To me, the podcast is an audiobook plus much more. I choose provocative, spiritually enlightening ones, designed to draw the listener into a personal story, and instill in the listener increased feelings of positivity and hope as the story comes to its conclusion.  When I finish listening, I feel refreshed, motivated, and with the knowledge that I am not the only one who experiences storms on this journey we call life.

I listen to females for the most part, but also males so as not to discriminate; African American, Caucasian, Hispanic, Native American, young, old, straight, queer, I find the stories fascinating! Such a wealth of experiences to learn from.  For example, I am currently listening to Oprah’s Super Soul podcasts, and I am never disappointed.  Even if a particular guest does not sound interesting to me, I can simply find another to suit my need in the present moment.  I also like listening to educational podcasts by counselors, psychologists, scientists and spiritual leaders. Whatever your interest, I am willing to bet there is a podcast that relates to the subject.  Think of this time as selfcare. So…take time to listen to a good podcast, it is so worth it.

TODAY I WILL… — January 12, 2022

TODAY I WILL…

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One thing I have found to be helpful first thing in the morning is to set my intention for the day.  What do I mean by that?  Intent = purpose, so if I decide that I will look for the positive no matter what the day brings, my intent is to be positive.  That intention is what I hang onto when the going gets tough. Let’s face it, some days we need all the positivity the universe can give us. I try to stay away from negative intentions because there is plenty of negativity in the world, and it’s just human nature to lean toward the dark side sometime, especially if you are angry with someone, have an unpleasant experience, not feeling your best, or are just angry with the world!  There are so many positive words to choose from:  Joyful, empathetic, patient, forgiving, helpful, etc. Being positive is as much a choice as being negative.  So, take time to set your intention for each day, expect to encounter challenges to your intention because they will appear. Rise to the occasion!

Mindfulness — January 9, 2022

Mindfulness

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January 9, 2022

Hello and Namaste!

My name is Diane Troyer and I am an art therapist and counselor.  I believe in bringing a holistic approach to my practice which includes guided meditation, deep breathing and positive affirmations along with Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy and Art Therapy. Twenty twenty-one has been stressful, trying, depressing, and many more adjectives that describe what folks have been experiencing across the country and around the world.  The Scribner-Bantam Dictionary includes one definition of peace as “Any state of calm or tranquility”. Starting with as few as two or three minutes at a time just breathing, for example, will make a difference in your outlook on life if done regularly.  Steadily add more time as it becomes available and comfortable. Did I say more time as it becomes available?  Make the time.  You can build a meditation practice that brings you a positive outlook and calmer demeanor, and this is something that anyone can do.

This is a new year and I know it is traditional to make resolutions about eating healthier and exercising more; things that we think we should work on as the new year starts.  Improving the quality of our lives is good, and for those of us who like making resolutions, I support that.  But if resolutions don’t appeal to you, why not try setting a goal to find peaceful moments daily?  Today’s technology makes finding peaceful moments an achievable goal if we use the devices we have.  If you have a smart phone, set an alarm, or download one of the many apps available to start a meditation practice.  The same applies to using your smartwatch; perhaps you received one as a gift this past December or as a birthday present?  Don’t have either one of those, what about your laptop or kindle? Don’t have either one of those, no worries, use your alarm clock, or set a timer on your microwave or range.  I know that more mature persons, (of which I am one), may shy away from technology, but you’re never too old to start something new that is good for you!  Be creative, take a few moments to be good to yourself, you deserve it.  I was first introduced to yoga years ago as an undergraduate student in college.  My practice has ebbed and flowed over the years, and I have recently made a new commitment to my yoga and meditation practice starting with short sessions and building up minute by minute to longer ones.  Showing up is the first step. I have to thank my clients for my inspiration, because by introducing guided meditation to them, I became inspired to continue practicing on my own time. After all, I have to practice what I preach!  My best times are usually in the morning, but you may prefer time in the middle of the day, in the evening after work or later at night before bed.  Whatever works for you, do it.  They only person holding you back is the one who looks back at you in the mirror.