Finding ways to ground yourself during this continuing time as Fall approaches the season of change, endings, and new beginnings

I have often felt as though September feels more like a New Year than January, as the return of school approaches and the hint of Fall in the cool evenings and mornings.  We are reminded of the impermanence of all things as we witness the leaves turning a beautiful crimson and falling from the trees.  Fall Equinox brings with it the promise of new birth, new…

How can I get better at coping with uncertainty?

The good news is that the skill of tolerating uncertainty is like a muscle. If we train and practice coping with uncertain situations, we can grow stronger and improve at doing so. Here are some tips for coping with uncertainty:

Finding Joy in Small Simple Pleasures

Today I am reflecting on the small ways I find joy in my daily life.

For me, it is found in the simple pleasures, making my first cup of coffee from scratch - grinding the beans and enjoying the sweet, strong aroma of the ground beans as I pour my first cup.

I find joy in enjoying a quiet walk in nature with my dog Bayley, appreciating the smell of flowers along our way and the beauty of the trees and trails alongside the river.

I find joy in having a daily…

The Importance of Rest

We are living in a time of uncertainty and unprecedented change.   The pandemic and onset of COVID-19 has touched us all in some way.

This summer is different than our usual. Although we are entering Stage 3 in our economy, we are all still physical distancing, washing our hands and hopefully, wearing our masks.

The need for rest in our culture has typically been underestimated.  We are taught that being busy, productive and accomplishing tasks is valued and important;…

Where do you find inspiration?

Life has changed dramatically with the onset of COVID and as we slowly re-open our economy, there are so many unknowns and lingering fears regarding what our new way of being looks and feels like.

Self care has become more than a luxury we fit into our lives and busy schedule. It is now a necessity and essential to our overall wellbeing. Self care activities directly supports your overall mental, physical and emotional health.

Think of some ways you can take care of…

A practice for finding contentment and joy each day

Practice intentional gratitude.  Each evening before bed reflect on the day you had.  In a notebook or journal write down two specific things that occurred, or you noticed that day which you are grateful for. Be specific as you can, then reflect on a quality of yours which you exhibited or shared that you are also grateful for.

Keep this journal at your bedside to continue this practice each evening before bed, finding three things you are…

My name is Amy - Cancer Care Counsellor at HopeSpring Cancer Support Centre.

I have been a social worker and therapist for the past 20 years and earned my M.S.W from Wilfrid Laurier University.  My passion and much of my clinical work has been in the field of mental health, mindfulness, wellness and trauma.

I love yoga and am a certified advanced yoga and meditation teacher.  I studied and had a life-changing pilgrimage throughout India with my best friend in my early 20s.  I have discovered that…

A Note from Amy, Cancer Care Counsellor

I would like to share a practice with you that I do often and recommend to others. It is called Mindful Walking and is a practice which cultivates present moment awareness. Each day prepare yourself to take a mindful walk. What does this look like you might ask?

I invite you to choose one of your five senses before leaving your home and let that become the entire focus of your walk outside in nature - whether it is for 10 minutes, 20 minutes or perhaps even…

A Note from Amy, Cancer Care Counsellor

 Here are a few things to keep you nourished during this difficult time we are all living through with COVID-19:

1. Find a way each day to move; get outside for a stroll in your backyard, take a walk with your fur baby or simply step outside your front door and do some simple rejuvenating stretches outside.
2. Remember to stay connected with loved ones, although we are practicing physical distancing staying connected is essential for each of us. Call your…