January 2008

HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY ASSOCIATES!!

In this newsletter:

1) Fast Help: Meditation
2) Therapist Q&A
3) Clinic Announcements

Fast Help: Meditation and It’s Benefits

The practice of meditation has gained popularity in our culture in recent years. Prior, meditation was often depicted as something only a monk practiced barefoot atop a mountain, or something practiced only by eastern religions. In truth, meditation is a practice that can be practiced by anyone, by persons of any faith, of any age. Western society has begun to appreciate the art of meditation and it’s many benefits.

What is meditation?
Meditation is a practice used to heighten awareness. Meditation is commonly described as only a relaxation technique. This is a misconception of the goal of meditation. While relaxation is a beneficial effect, the main purpose is to gain greater insight and to access your own inner wisdom. Experienced meditators find that they can access answers to difficult questions by turning to this inner wisdom. Oftentimes, we can get the greatest insight to an issue we are “stuck” on during meditation. Or, we might realize that the issue isn’t so big after all. We also find that, through meditation, we become more mindful of ourselves, others, and our experiences.

Meditation can be practiced by anyone, anywhere. Even at work, on a bus, or in a waiting room, we can turn our attention to our breath, clear our minds (even temporarily) and refocus our energy on the present. We can find that by daily practice of meditation, we can train ourselves to remain calm and in control, even in stressful situations.

Meditation takes practice. You may not realize heightened awareness or immediate calming effects once you begin meditating. However, as with anything else, practice is key. You may realize results after a few days or even weeks of meditation. Researchers are beginning to show the physical and mental health benefits of mediation as it relates to disease prevention and management.

Meditation is a practice, or way of life. Like exercise and healthy eating, you must make a commitment to continuing practice in order to reap it’s benefits. There are many different types of meditation. The Institute for Applied Meditation has a comprehensive list of various types of meditation on their website: types of meditation .
And know that, while mediation takes work and practice, it can also be fun!

2) Therapist Q&A: How can I get my partner to change?

This is a very common question asked of therapists. Change is a complex process as we must first understand the person and their background and life circumstances which contribute to the person they are today, and why change may be difficult. Generally speaking, you may have observed how difficult it is to try to force others to change in any human relationship. In intimate relationships, differences or disagreements often create power struggles and, thus, individuals’ refusal to change. It is important to consider what your motivation may be for wanting another person to change. Oftentimes, we find that others aren’t ready to change. Thus, some people in relationships fear ultimately finding out that relationship may not be a healthy one or that two people ultimately aren’t meant to be together. Lack of self-esteem, fear of being alone, or worry about what others might think are common worries that keep many people in unhealthy relationships. Alternatively, ask yourself, how can I change? Therapy can assist you in this process by helping you identify what is in your control, be it ending an unhealthy relationship, learning about healthy vs. unhealthy relationships, how to avoid unhealthy relationships, and how to attract healthy ones. You may find that your partner is not ready to make changes, and, although this can cause you hurt, know that you have the power to change. We wish you all the best in your relationships and are here to assist you when the complexities of relationships arise.

If you have a question you'd like us to address in upcoming newsletters, please send your question to cpa@wi.rr.com. Your confidentiality will be maintained.

3) Clinic News

Please speak with your therapist to address any outstanding balances on your account. This will help us all to make a fresh start to the new year. We are accepting new clients at this time. If you know of anyone who you think would benefit from counseling or a consultation with us, please have him or her give us a call. We thank you in advance for any referrals you provide.