Summer Newsletter

Dear Friends of Full Circle, This Spring/Summer letter is a bit delayed this year. For the past two months, I have been gratefully busy with Full Circle Counseling. The website will be updated soon! I've also needed to take some time to focus on my own wellness. I am grateful that I have tools like the Circle of Life process and a plan to stay on top of my health. I have been undergoing some lifestyle changes that have brought a need for some guidance. Recently, I came across a great exercise to try when difficult questions or situations come into your life. The next time you are struggling with direction or the next right thing to do, try this: Get out your journal, or pen and paper. Still your mind and take a few deep breaths. Then, write down the following question: " What is it that I need to do, or know to bring peace to this situation" . Close your eyes and just sit with this for a moment. Then begin to write down your first thoughts, impressions and feelings. Do not filter any words, ideas or thoughts that come to you. Write them down. Shut off the critic in your mind, and see what comes up. It may not make sense to you at first, so you might want to let it sit for a day or two and then revisit it. When I practiced this exercise in regard to some recent health concerns, this is what I wrote down: Prayer I will practice prayer and meditation. I will pray for others and take the risk to ask others to do so for me. Courage I will do whatever it takes to maintain optimal wellness. I will not give up, give in, or lose hope. I will not allow myself to surrender to anything that does not bring me joy. Love I keep my heart open to give and receive love. I will remember to practice compassion, knowing that we all have challenges from time to time. Trust I trust in my higher power to give me answers and direction. I trust that I will be restored to optimal health. Please remember that emotional or physical pain is not normal and should never be ignored. Stay in tune with your body. Consider wellness practices such as diet, exercise, massage, acupuncture, relaxation, prayer, meditation, guided imagery, music, nature, friendships, pet therapy, art therapy, energy work and counseling as an integral part of your health and healing. Complimentary and alternative medicine is gentle, and supportive to traditional treatment. It has been a very positive addition to my life while I am using traditional medicine. Additionally, doing work that you love brings purpose and joy to your life. There are so many options to enhance your wellness. I hope you consider trying something new. If you would like additional support for your health and wellness goals, I will be starting another Circle of Life Health and Wellness Coaching Circle in July. If you would like more information, or prefer a private session, please give me a call. Have a very happy summer and I hope to see you at the 7th Annual Fall Retreat in November! "Instead of focusing on the problem, focus on the solution"~ Ernest Holmes Love Your Life! Elizabeth R. Hartshorn, MS, LPC (503) 588-2113 www.fullcirclecounseling.com