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# Inspiring Connections

Therapy and resources offered by Tracy Riley, M.A., Counselling and Clinical Psychologist

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Blog](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/blog/)
- [An Introduction to Solastalgia and Its Relevance to High-Speed-Rail](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/an-introduction-to-solastalgia-and-its-relevance-to-high-speed-rail/) - I am writing this post on February 27, 2026 in the context of a proposed high-speed-rail corridor that, if built, would span approximately 1000km between Toronto, Ontario and Quebec City, Quebec with 7 planned stops along the route. Alto is the federal Crown corporation overseeing the proposed project (AltoTrain, n.d., a) and is requesting feedback
- [Autumn Reflections and Intentions Retreat: A Full Day of Rest and Renewal](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/upcmoing-autumn-retreats/) - I offer an autumn retreat for people drawn to pause and reflection during this season. About This Retreat Spend a full day at a lakeside retreat during autumn's beauty (10 AM - 5 PM). Located near Sydenham, Ontario. Maximum 4 participants. Facilitated by Tracy Riley, an experienced registered psychologist. Your day includes: Guided reflection that
- [Welcome to the Inspiring Connections Blog](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/welcome-to-the-inspiring-connections-blog-wisdom-for-the-journey/) - We are always gardening whether we realize it or not. This blog offers wisdom and practices for conscious gardening of your influence. Here you'll find reflections on noticing goodness, working with your attention, cultivating self-compassion, and recognizing the beauty and interconnection that surrounds us. You'll discover resources for developing the emotional intelligence and inner clarity
- [Meeting Yourself with Listening and Friendship in Autumn](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/meeting-yourself-with-listening-and-friendship-in-autumn/) - As we move through late August, September, October, November, and December, you'll notice the qualities of daylight, dark night, and outdoor colours and temperatures shifting. What else do you notice moves and shifts? Things in the external world? Things in your inner landscape? Is now a time in your life when things feel like they
- [What internal radio station are you listening to right now? ](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/what-internal-radio-station-are-you-listening-to-right-now/) - I will begin by asking, what internal radio station are you listening to right now? Is it the All Anxious Messaging All The Time Station (W-O-R-Y - where the worry never stops)? The Greatest Hits of All Times from the Bullies and Self-Critics? Or maybe it’s Endless To Do Lists FM, or, potentially, Mentorship at
- [A journey is a web, a collage, a choose your own adventure series you did and didn't write](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/a-journey-is-a-web-a-collage-a-choose-your-own-adventure-series-you-did-and-didnt-write/) - A journey is a web, a collage, a choose your own adventure series you did and didn’t write. You build pieces of the web, strand it out. Not bad. Oh. Someone just walked through your web as they went out the door (or arrived) - as they crossed a threshold, now wearing your web. Okay.
- [Each year, I plant a garden regardless of failure or success](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/each-year-i-plant-a-garden-regardless-of-failure-or-success/) - Each year, I plant a garden - keep one going - regardless of failure or success. Each year, I feel this undeniable longing - an impulse, an urge, a life force - to plant seeds. Each year, I plant seeds. I observe what happens. Some seeds are the literal seeds, the literal, visceral things that
- [Outer space, lactic acid, and a bathroom stall—inspiration](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/outer-space-lactic-acid-and-a-bathroom-stall-inspiration/) - In her book, The Compassionate-Mind Guide to Building Social Confidence, Lynne Henderson wrote There are people everywhere who are working to make the world a better place and to build trust among all peoples. (2010, p. 55) Each time I recall this line, I find it comforting, uplifting, and connecting—connecting to so many people everywhere trying
- [Working with emotion: sometimes we all need a kind of Patronus](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/working-with-emotion-sometimes-we-all-need-a-kind-of-patronus/) - Love, not of the pain nor for that pain, but of the being who is in pain and for that being. ~Tracy Emotions and emotional experience are fundamental elements of life. We live. We go through our days. We feel or we don't feel (feeling of an absence of feeling, a flatness or a void).
- [Reading the book, "God's Hotel," by physician, Victoria Sweet](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/reading-gods-hotel-by-physician-victoria-sweet/) - I am currently reading the biography, God's Hotel: A Doctor, A Hospital, and a Pilgrimage to the Heart of Medicine by Victoria Sweet (copyright 2012). From this reading, I have learned many things not limited to but including the word, viriditas that viriditas comes from the Latin word for green, and that one meaning of viriditas
- [You are a sunset (free download)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/you-are-a-sunset/) - I wrote a poem today. (More apt, I mostly jotted down words on a scrap piece of paper and called them a poem.) I decided to share the poem because to me it feels relevant to many people's journeys toward self-acceptance and compassion, relevant also to a significant part of the work so many people do
- [Mindfulness includes mindfulness of the chaotic mind (not only of the pretty flowers)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/mindfulness-includes-mindfulness-of-the-chaotic-mind-not-only-of-the-pretty-flowers/) - In the book, Mindful Compassion, you will find an important sub-heading: "Mindfulness of the Chaotic Mind, Not Just the Still Mind" (see chapter five). The book is written by psychologist, Paul Gilbert, and mindfulness and compassion meditation instructor, Choden. The 10-word sub-heading is so important, containing a key concept, practice, and lesson in and of itself. As Paul Gilbert and
- [The efficiency of inefficiency: video of presentation by Dr. Victoria Sweet](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/the-efficiency-of-inefficiency-video-of-presentation-by-dr-victoria-sweet/) - Following up from one of my previous posts, here is a video of a presentation given by Dr. Victoria Sweet, author of the book, God's Hotel: A Doctor, A Hospital, and A Pilgrimage to the Heart of Medicine. In the video, Dr. Sweet shares some content from the book, talks about the concept of veriditas, the
- [Hearts in Nature](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/hearts-in-nature/) - While enjoying the blog of the Therapeutic Landscapes Network, I came across the post, "Hearts in Nature, from Suz Lipman". It included two photographs of heart shapes found in nature (a cloud formation framing blue sky and a small stone). The post was inspired by Suz Lipman's blog, Slow Family, specifically her post, "Hearts in Nature:
- [An Open Letter to Team Brazil (FIFA World Cup 2014)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/an-open-letter-to-team-brazil-fifa-world-cup-2014/) - Background: I wrote this letter last evening after watching a semi-final game in the FIFA World Cup, Team Germany playing against Team Brazil. On the one hand, it feels like a strange thing to post in this blog. On the other hand, it could be viewed as an example of connecting to the compassionate self, imagining
- [The Song, Courage, by Abdominal and the Obliques](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/the-song-courage-by-abdominal-and-the-obliques/) - In this post, let's turn our attention to music that has been dubbed the finest in middle-aged hip-hop. Let's also turn our attention toward courage. Courage was the first song I heard by the Canadian band, Abdominal and The Obliques. In the song, the band is joined by Abdominal's mother (an impressive rapper herself). I've since discovered
- [Music Video of Courage and a Studio Performance](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/music-video-of-courage-and-a-studio-performance/) - Here are two videos of the song, Courage, by Abdominal and The Obliques that was featured in the previous post. The first is a music video the group produced. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UXSW16rqDFw The second is a version recorded in-studio. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ikswuKe5_o
- [Next Up: Breathe Deep](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/next_up_breathe_deep/) - Continuing with the theme of the finest in middle-aged hip-hop, today I want to introduce you to another catchy gem of writing and performance by the Canadian band, Abdominal and The Obliques—specifically, the song, Breathe Deep. Nostrils flare, air enters travels down throat to centre of abdominal region, deep breathing feeding organs with much needed O2. Pollutants exhumed on
- [Two components of compassion](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/two-components-of-compassion/) - Compassion can be understood as having two components: (1) a sensitivity to suffering in yourself and others, and (2) a commitment to try to alleviate and prevent this suffering. This means that compassion also involves two different sets of skills, processes, and orientations. (This is also referred to as the two psychologies of compassion.) For
- [Breathe in the kindness](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/breathe-in-the-kindness/) - Recently, someone said to me an approximation of, "I have breathed in the kindness you have offered me." In response, I thought, "Wow, what a beautiful, honouring, and powerful thing to do—to pause and spend time breathing in the well wishes someone has offered, the kindness someone has felt toward you, to take some time
- [Compassion for Voices Video: A Tale of Courage and Hope](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/compassion-for-voices-video-a-tale-of-courage-and-hope/) - Compassion is the courage to descend into the reality of human experience. —Paul Gilbert, founder of Compassion Focused Therapy This quote appears toward the end of a fantastic, very moving animated short-film that psychologist, Dr. Charlie Heriot-Maitland, worked on with animator Kate Anderson. It is the story of Stuart who experiences internal voices that criticize
- [The Reverse Snowball Effect](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/the-reverse-snowball-effect/) - It is common that people describe the experience of what I will call, The Snowball Effect. One thing leads to another, which leads to another, which leads to another with the result being an exponential enlarging of a phenomenon, sometimes undesired, such as an enlarged state of anxiety or exhaustion, an ever enlarging array of mess and
- [Learning loveliness](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/learning-loveliness/) - .....sometimes it is necessary to reteach a thing its loveliness... -Galway Kinnell Do you know your loveliness? Some people do, some people don't, some people need to learn about it, or to find a way to relearn or to reconnect. Sometimes, this is
- [A visit to Avenstone in August: Magical and Meaningful](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/a-visit-to-avenstone-in-august-magical-and-meaningful/) - Just as there exists in writing a literal truth and a poetic truth, there also exists in a human being a literal anatomy and a poetic anatomy. One, you can see; one, you cannot. One is made of bones and teeth and flesh; the other is made of energy and memory and faith. But they
- [What is Mindfulness?](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/what-is-mindulness/) - Go to nearly any self-help or psychology section in a bookstore these days and you’ll probably find books with mindfulness in the title. Below is a link for a handout I've written that provides a brief introduction to mindfulness. It contains information you might find useful if you are learning how to experience mindfulness in
- [Free E-Book, "Compassion: Building Practice and Science"](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/free-e-book-compassion-building-practice-and-science/) - The e-book, Compassion: Building Practice and Science, edited by Tania Singer and Matthías Bolz is hot off the press! You can learn about and download the e-book here. The 531 page book is divided into four main sections: experiences with training compassion, concepts of compassion, science of compassion, and training programs of compassion. http://vimeo.com/74445892 I would
- [The quality and skill of honouring](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/the-quality-and-skill-of-honouring/) - He accepted--really accepted whole-heartedly--that he was angry and jealous, that he resisted and struggled, and that he was afraid. He accepted that he was also precious beyond measure--wise and foolish, rich and poor, and totally unfathomable. He felt so much gratitude that in the total darkness he stood up, walked toward the snake [a source
- [Heartfulness, Self-Compassion, Open-Heartedness](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/heartfulness-self-compassion-open-heartedness/) - It's been a while since I've written. The mid and late fall were taken up with seeing clients and with supervision meetings--preparing for what did end up being my final exam to complete my registration for autonomous practice with the College of Psychologists here in Ontario. (Note: I've passed. I'm done!) Tragically, a week later I
- [Tattoos on the Heart and other reflections](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/tattoos-on-the-heart-and-other-reflections/) - Recently, I read the book Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion by Gregory Boyle (2010, Free Press). I do not remember how I learned of the book (I am thinking it may have been a library search) but for whichever way it came across my path, I'm glad that it did. Gregory's
- [Write a Note to Yourself](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/write-a-note-to-yourself/) - From time to time, I invite clients in both individual therapy and group therapy to write a letter of understanding and encouragement to themselves. This letter can be long or it can be short. Sometimes people will adopt it as a practice, writing a few short lines to themselves each morning or each evening to
- [Egg-shapes Reflection](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/egg-shapes-reflection/) - Recently, inspired by a blog post of Modern Parents Messy Kids, I enjoyed creating many egg-shapes out of paper. While tracing and cutting and stringing and gluing, a word that came to my mind often was the word, potential. I reflected, in part, on the tremendous potential that lies within one single seed. I thought also of all the
- [Street Lovingkindness—Video By Sharon Salzberg](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/street-lovingkindness-meditation-video-by-sharon-salzberg/) - "Rush hour. No need to rush. Slow down. Stop. See ...." — Sharon Salzberg This quote is from a beautiful video that Sharon Salzberberg recently released to honour the 20th anniversary of the publication of her heartfelt book, Lovingkindess. The video is of a short loving kindness meditation, "Street Lovingkindness". I wish to express gratitude
- [Compassion includes kindness, yes, and also other qualities such as courage](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/compassion-includes-kindness-yes-and-also-other-qualities-such-as-courage/) - When people hear the word compassion, they tend to think of kindness. But scientific study has found the core of compassion to be courage. --Paul Gilbert, 2015, Compassion: Universally Misunderstood This is how the inspiring psychologist, Paul Gilbert's, inaugural Huffington Post article begins. The article, Compassion: Universally Misunderstood, launched on the Huffington Post website today. Curious? Click
- [29 Gifts - A Book, A Prescription, A Movement, An Opportunity](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/29-gifts-a-book-a-prescription-a-movement-an-opportunity/) - Earlier this fall, I stumbled across and read the autobiographical book, 29 Gifts: How a Month of Giving Can Change Your Life, by Cami Walker. Cami became very ill and subsequently received the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis when she was 30 years old. As she shared in the video I link you to below, this experience changed
- [Taking in the Good: Dr. Rick Hanson on Countering the Negativity Bias](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/taking-in-the-good-dr-rick-hanson-on-countering-the-negativity-bias/) - Did you know that the human brain tends to act like teflon to positive experiences and like velcro to negative experiences? This is a wonderful metaphor Dr. Rick Hanson uses in the video below to describe the brain's negativity bias, in essence, its tendency to absorb and remember readily negative experiences and potential threats combined with
- [When the Glitter Settles, There is Sparkle](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/when-the-glitter-settles-there-is-sparkle/) - When the glitter settles, there is sparkle. Let's take a few moments to make a craft. You'll need a clear jar with a tight fitting lid that won't leak, loose glitter, water. To make the craft, fill the jar to nearly full with water and some glitter. Put the lid on tightly. Voila! You are
- [A film about anger and how breathing helps the glitter to settle](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/a-film-about-anger-and-how-breathing-helps-the-glitter-to-settle/) - The short film, Just Breathe, features the craft from yesterday's post along with children speaking about the experience of anger and of how breathing helps "the glitter to settle". With thanks to a colleague who shared the film with me, here is the film, Just Breathe, by Julie Bayer Salzman and Josh Salzman (Wavecrest Films). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVA2N6tX2cg (Gift Four!)
- [Silent Night by Pentatonix](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/silent-night-by-pentatonix/) - Virtually every time I listen to this song, I am left with shivers, or the word whispered in my head or aloud, "Wow". I am bringing to mind the magic and beauty of a crisp cold night, the image of shining stars, or perhaps of the light of a candle safely and peacefully burning. I
- [What shape waits in the seed of you to grow...? (David Whyte)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/what-shape-waits-in-the-seed-of-you-to-grow-david-whyte/) - David Whyte is a poet who has offered so much richness to me through his poetry, offered me feelings of inspiration, aliveness, resonance. Re-reading some of his writing recently, these lines from the poem, What to Remember When Waking, stopped me in my tracks. They brought me to one of those, "take a deep breath moments"
- [I help people to develop this.](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/i-help-people-to-develop-this/) - "My whole heart for my whole life." I saw this quote in a piece of artwork hanging on a studio wall that served as part of the backdrop for videos in the online course, Self-Compassion, with Kristin Neff and Brené Brown. It was love at first sight. In essence, this is a focus of what
- [Bringing our whole heart does not mean bringing 25 percent of a heart (or somewhat more or even less)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/bringing-our-whole-heart-does-not-mean-bringing-25-percent-of-a-heart-or-somewhat-more-or-even-less/) - Think of a being you deeply cherish, maybe it is a person, maybe it is a cherished pet. Take a moment to feel the presence of this being, to feel the warmth you feel toward this being, the joy, the delight. What do you wish for this being? What does your heart wish for this
- [A Reflection on Heroes](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/a-reflection-on-heroes/) - I received a card once with the Maya Angelou quote on it, "I think a hero is any person really intent on making this place a better place for all people". It is a quote that has come to my mind at different points over the years since I first read it. I like the
- ["Compassion: An Introduction" — 2016 Video by The International Center for Compassionate Organizations](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/compassion-an-introduction-2016-video-by-the-international-center-for-compassionate-organizations/) - At this link you can watch a video on compassion that was produced, recently released, and generously shared by The International Center for Compassionate Organizations. For those who have participated in compassion-focused therapy sessions (e.g., via the mindful compassion group therapy program), some of the lines early on in the video will sound very familiar—I hope!
- [Begin where you are and go from there](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/begin-where-you-are-and-go-from-there/) - When people express feeling unsure how to proceed with working on something they are desiring to work on in their lives, and when my input about this conundrum is solicited, one of the responses I sometimes give is akin to this: to proceed, begin where you are and go from there. Recently, I won a painting
- [The heart and the Bottle: A book by Oliver Jeffers](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/the-heart-and-the-bottle-a-book-by-oliver-jeffers/) - The book, The Heart and the Bottle, written and illustrated by Oliver Jeffers (2010), wisely begins, "Once there was a girl much like any other...". The story is about someone and something common—someone and something understandable, relatable. The story is about a young girl who is curious about her world, engaged, creative, dreamy, joyful, and who
- [Your deepest presence is in every small contracting and expanding —Rumi](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/kinetic-sculpture-and-poem-by-rumi/) - (Photo by Tracy Riley.) 1. Your grief for what you've lost holds a mirror up To where you've been bravely working. Expecting the worst, you look and instead, Here's the joyful face you've been wanting to see. Your hand opens and closes And opens and closes. If it were always a first Or always stretched
- [Each thought provides the opportunity for a choose your own adventure](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/each-thought-provides-the-opportunity-for-a-choose-your-own-adventure/) - One of the things in life that is pretty much a guarantee for humans is that we will have thoughts, lots and lots and lots of thoughts. The reality is that our minds are thought generating machines. An important question for all of us is what will be our relationship to our thoughts? What are helpful and
- [Musings following from two cats and a cardboard box](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/musings-following-from-two-cats-and-a-cardboard-box/) - Sometimes the most everyday things can provide something to explore and/or something in which to take refuge. This phrase came to my mind last evening after observing Whiskers and Noelle interacting with a cardboard box. Everyday things can offer us so much to explore, and sometimes, can also offer us something in which we can
- [Compassion Definition(s) with Inspiration from Chris Germer](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/compassion-definitions-with-inspiration-from-chris-germer/) - I recently updated the compassion entry in the glossary section of the website—nothing fancy—but I realized it needed some attention. A common definition of compassion is "being moved by the suffering of oneself and others, and being motivated to reduce that suffering". Compassion involves sensitivity to suffering, as well as a motivation to reduce it. One
- [Audio Version of Compassion Definition(s) Blog Post Now Available](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/audio-version-of-compassion-definitions-blog-post-now-available/) - For when you prefer to listen rather than read, an audio version of the blog post, Compassion Definition(s) with Inspiration from Chris Germer is now available. You can listen to the audio version here, or from within the original post.
- [Dr. Maya Angelou on Receiving and Being Rainbows](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/dr-maya-angelou-on-receiving-and-being-rainbows/) - I wanted to share with you this short video of Dr. Maya Angelou speaking on an Oprah Winfrey Master Class that aired approximately 7 years ago, on January 16, 2011. Video: http://www.oprah.com/own-master-class/dr-maya-angelou-be-a-rainbow-in-someone-elses-cloud-video When I listened to Dr. Maya Angelou here, words that came to mind were beauty - conviction - fortitude. As you read this,
- [You Contain Multitudes](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/you-contain-multitudes/) - (As do I, as do we.) Here is a pivotal question: how do you respond to the multitudes within you?
- [Adequate Sleep as Life Support (Matthew Walker)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/adequate-sleep-as-life-support-matthew-walker/) - "Sleep is not an optional, lifestyle luxury. Sleep is a non-negotiable biological necessity. It's a life support system....And the decimation of sleep throughout industrialized nations is having a catastrophic impact on our health, our wellness, and the safety and the education of our children." —Matthew Walker, Talk at Google We cannot overestimate the profound importance
- [On Being Cheered and Cheering](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/on-being-cheered-and-cheering/) - I came across an email today that was sent to me on Thursday, April 5, 2001. It was from a dear friend and concluded, "YOU CAN DO IT, CHAMP!". From what I can tell, it appears I was about a day away from handing in my undergraduate thesis. Yesterday, another long-time and cherished friend brought
- [Healing as a Process. Inviting Spaciousness.](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/healing-as-a-process-inviting-spaciousness/) - For today, first, a quote: "Healing is an on-going, organic process, not a single 'big bang' moment" (Pat Ogden & Janina Fisher, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy: Interventions for Trauma and Treatment, 2015, p. 73). Aware that sometimes there can be overt, covert, external, internal, intentional, and/or completely unintentional and inadvertent messages that may lead one to wonder if
- [Book, "A Handful of Quiet," by Thich Nhat Hanh](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/book-a-handful-of-quiet-by-thich-nhat-hanh/) - In the sweet little book written by Thich Nhat Hanh, A Handful of Quiet: Happiness in Four Pebbles (2012), Thich teaches a meditation in which we imagine ourselves being something such as a flower, and we imagine feeling a quality of that thing within ourselves. (For example, in the case of the flower, he invites us
- [Travel hopefully](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/travel-hopefully/) - Travel hopefully. I am told a local psychiatrist who has passed away used to share this phrase often. The first time I heard the phrase, I never wanted to forget it. Isn't it beautiful?
- [Where does your attention go and what goes with it?](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/where-does-your-attention-go-and-what-goes-with-it/) - In any given moment, we can ask ourselves questions about our attention: "What is my attention focused on right now? Where is my attention going? Is my attention focused broadly or narrowly? Is it moving around or is it stuck on one thing?" In any given moment, we can also bring curiosity to what emotional
- [Poem For A Longest Night (and For Any Other Moment)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/poem-for-a-longest-night-and-for-any-other-moment/) - I wrote a poem this week after a monthly meeting with a group a cherished colleagues. I described the poem as a kind of collage of things. Later today (with the help of some feedback), I thought that perhaps it could be a nice poem for this longest night—this year's winter solstice—as well as being
- [What is forward?](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/what-is-forward/) - In an interview with Oprah Winfrey in December, 2017, Pema Chödrön shared that during her life, she has had an instinctual inner sense of what is forward. That really stayed with me, the idea, question, and inner sense for each of us of what is forward. At a recent group therapy session, I offered to participants the invitation (the option) to reflect between now and the next session on this inner sense of what is forward for each of them,
- [Orange bird, green bird, both](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/orange-bird-green-bird-both/) - Sometimes we are the orange bird, and sometimes we are the green bird, and one way or another—and in all the different ways—we are both.
- [May you be gentle toward yourself](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/may-you-be-gentle-toward-yourself/) - In case you need a reminder, may you be gentle toward yourself. (Equally, may you be gentle toward all of your selves.)
- [Resource: Daily Questions from Gratefulness.org](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/resource-the-daily-question-from-gratefulness-org/) - Daily Questions—or what I have been tending to refer to as the daily question—is a wonderful resource available on the website, Gratefulness.org, that I wanted to share here in case you or another might sense it to be a nice fit/resource for you at this time and/or it might be something you experience it as
- [Move Slowly. Breathe.](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/move-slowly-breathe/) - Move slowly.Breathe.Slow movements.Breath.Heart in.Heart out.Breath in.Breath out. Your heart toward your heart.Your hearttoward others'. Move slowly.Breathe.Breath in.Breath out.
- [We reach to expand and then something happens next.](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/we-reach-to-expand-and-then-something-happens-next/) - “You expand and then you meet your own resistance. In the human body and experience, as in nature, there is a continuous play between these forces. We reach to expand and are held back by constriction.” —Betsy Polatin, Humanual, from Chapter One, (c) 2020 Of the various things I’ve read over the last while, this
- [I see a heart with wings.](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/i-see-a-heart-with-wings/) - I see a heart with wings. I wonder, if your heart were to fly to you and say some version of "hello dear friend, I am here and so happy to be with you," what word or words might come next? From your heart to you? From you to your heart? I see your beautiful
- [Imagining Hearts of Supportive Presence](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/imagining-hearts-of-supportive-presence/) - I took this photograph today. Later, I noticed hearts lining the spines of some of the leaves. Noticing this led me to wonder: what would it be like if there were a heart residing in every single vertebra in every single spine of us - or a heart residing in every single visceral juncture (bone
- [The landscape looks dreary - and yet / also](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/the-landscape-looks-dreary-and-yet-also/) - (Video clips with all bobbing included recorded by Tracy Riley, 2021.)
- [Befriending Your Nervous System—Sounds True Interview of Deb Dana (2020)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/befriending-your-nervous-system-sounds-true-interview-of-deb-dana/) - Everyone has a nervous system. One of the things that this nervous system does is it listens. And then it reflects, and then it responds. A nervous system listens to internal and external environments. It takes in what it hears. It reflects: is this information a cue of safeness or threat? It responds: if it
- [What Wants to Shine Back?](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/what-wants-to-shine-back/) - "We have to open ourselves up to receive what wants to shine back." — Jessica Dore. I came across this line recently in the book, Tarot for Change, by Jessica Dore (2021, p. 17). It's a sentence that has lingered. There are questions and curiosities that might naturally follow from a sentence like this. Among
- [Caring for the earth is caring for each other](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/caring-for-the-earth-is-caring-for-each-other/) - I think a lot about plants. I think a lot about the interrelationships between things. Take for example, water. Take for example, the absolute necessity of swamps to support well being.1 Take for example, pollinators. Take for example, how, if you don't have conditions that support the well-being of pollinators, you don't have all manner
- [Journey, and also, a brief moment in time.](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/journey-and-also-a-brief-moment-in-time/) - Whatever you are experiencing in this particular moment, may you feel with you the good company of a kindness or loving energy, and/or the strengthening energy of an expansive sky.
- [Two Short(er) Loving Kindness Meditations to Try Guided by Sharon Salzberg](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/two-shorter-loving-kindness-meditations-to-try-guided-by-sharon-salzberg/) - In the free Insight Timer app (available for ios and adroid), you can find short, 6-minute and 10-minute guided loving kindness meditations offered and led by Sharon Salzberg. Loving kindness meditations involve silently repeating to yourself phrases that offer a benevolent or caring expression of the heart toward yourself and toward others. As Sharon Salzberg
- [Links to Audio Recordings of Loving Kindness Meditations](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/links-to-audio-recordings-of-loving-kindness-meditations/) - In this post, you will find an impressively non-exhaustive, small, fluid compilation of links to guided loving kindness meditation practices generously recorded and offered by various individuals for personal use. Some of the meditations are focused primarily on the practice of offering loving kindness to oneself, while others include the practice of offering loving kindness
- [Practicing Noticing Goodness  is Simply Practicing Noticing Goodness](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/practicing-noticing-goodness-is-simply-practicing-noticing-goodness/) - Practicing noticing goodness does not mean the invalidation or denial of all that is in contrast (and stark contrast) to goodness (to kindness, beauty, generosity, hope, wonder, awe....). Practicing noticing goodness is simply practicing noticing goodness. It is the cultivation and allowing of noticing, breathing in, savouring, appreciating, even celebrating, of goodness in any given
- [Thank you, Jann Arden](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/thank-you-jann-arden/) - I had the pleasure and good fortune to experience Jann Arden and accompanying musicians in concert this week. It was wonderful. For this post, I offer four lines of lyrics from her song, Good Mother—lyrics that stayed with me after the show (among others). Reflecting, I thought of life; of the journeying humans do; of
- [Winter Solstice Symphony and Poem by John Welwood](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/winter-solstice-symphony-and-poem-by-john-welwood/) - Today during the winter solstice, I had the pleasure of witnessing a symphony of trumpeter swans and geese creating music together. Their music echoed into the stillness of the surrounding landscape while the sun lowered and set beyond the horizon. It was magical. Also today, a poem by John Welwood came to mind. Some lines
- [October Photographs, Reflections, and Link to a Guided Meditation](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/october-photographs-reflections-and-link-to-a-guided-meditation/) - Life includes (or can include) really hard things and awful things, in various places and at various times. Life also includes (or can include) things that are beautiful, often profoundly. One of the things I like about the photographs below is how they include a mix of both shadows, stormy tones, and also vibrancy and
- [TED Talk by Richard Wilkinson: "How Economic Inequality Harms Societies"](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/ted-talk-by-richard-wilkinson-how-economic-inequality-harms-societies/) - Today I watched the talk "How Economic Inequality Harms Societies" given by Richard Wilkinson at TED.com and I wanted to share it. The presenter speaks of the compelling relationship between the degree of income disparity in a country and the degree of health of the individuals who live there. Over and over again, the findings
- [Forever (April Photo Challenge Week One)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/forever-april-photo-challenge-week-one/) - I imagine that the Forever inscribed and placed on this bench refers to the love and bond someone (or a group) has with another who is no longer living-- a bond that will last forever. Encountering this bench made me feel quiet, and it made me also reflect on other bonds that we have and
- [Bliss (April Photo Challenge Week Five)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/bliss-photo-challenge-week-five/) - Samples of my sources of bliss: being in wilderness, in nature, teaching, writing, reading, expressive arts, wholesome food, inspiring, caring, creating, listening to the songs of birds outside my window, sipping tea and watching the snow fall or the garden grow. What are some of your own sources of bliss? While it may not be
- [New German website and resource on compassion including audio exercises](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/new-german-website-and-resource-on-compassion-including-audio-exercises/) - For my German speaking and reading visitors: Thomas Heinsius and Mirjam Tanner have just started a website on compassion in German to disseminate information on compassion-focused therapy and compassion-based psychotherapeutic work in German speaking countries. You can find the website and it's gorgeous homepage here: www.mitfuehlen.ch/. As others have noted, the quote on the homepage
- ["The Future of Psychology: Compassion-Focused Outcomes" by Dr. Yotam Heineberg](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/the-future-of-psychology-compassion-focused-outcomes-by-dr-yotam-heinberg/) - I pledge to spend the rest of my life focused on developing and promoting ways to increase compassion among millions of people worldwide. —Dr. Yotam Heineberg (May 2013) Here is a recording of a short presentaiton given by Dr. Yotam Heineberg, "The Future of Psychology: Compassion-Focused Outcomes" (May 2013). I watched it this morning and thought
- [Musings from learning that a 2-minute posture can change hormone levels](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/musings-from-learning-that-a-2-minute-posture-can-change-hormone-levels/) - Compassion-focused therapy aims to help us cultivate certain skills, qualities, feeling states, and motivations (e.g., skills and qualities compassion, feelings of safeness, the motivation to show care and to alleviate suffering). These we can then use to help work with particular difficulties or situations such as shame, self-criticism, or difficult emotions. Compassion-focused therapy also aims
- [For fun...](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/for-fun/) - In light of Amy Cuddy's research in the previous post on the effect in her studies of posture on certain outcome variables such as hormone levels, what do you think might be the hormone levels (and other variables) for this little guy? (And trust me, he holds this posture much longer than 2 minutes!)
- [The Beautiful Song, Sisters of Mercy](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/the_beautiful_song_sisters_of_mercy/) - The first time I heard the song, Sisters of Mercy, written by Leonard Cohen and performed in this instance by Serena Ryder (studio version), I was riveted. At the song's conclusion, I took a deep breath and uttered, "Wow". Needless to say, I really like this song. The lyrics bring to mind the picture of
- [Matt Andersen's performance of "O Holy Night"](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/matt-andersens-performance-of-o-holy-night/) - The musician, Matt Andersen, is phenomenal. When I heard his live performance of the carol, O Holy Night, a few years ago, it took my breath away. Last week, while listening to his studio recording of the same carol, I was struck by pairing the end of one particular line paired with the beginning of
- [Heroes and the Heroic, Thank You](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/heroes-and-the-heroic-thank-you/) - Yesterday I watched from my neighborhood as Canadian military personnel arrived in a helicopter and, from that hovering helicopter, rescued a crane operator who was trapped at the end of the arm of the crane, due to a huge fire and smoke below the crane (and the crane's cab). I also witnessed, as so many others
- [New resource posted: "The Compassionate-Mind Guide to Building Social Confidence"](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/new-resource-posted-the-compassionate-mind-guide-to-building-social-confidence/) - I really enjoyed this book by psychologist, Lynne Henderson. You can find the book's publication details, as well as a brief summary of my praise in the IC resource section here!
- [Stillness](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/stillness/) - One of my many interests, as well as convictions, relates to the importance of stillness, of contemplation, slowness, quiet. This month, I finished reading Brené Brown's book, The Gifts of Imperfection, subtitled, Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are...Your Guide to a Wholehearted Life. In this book,
- [On the quest to cut open a pumpkin: phrases for self-compassion](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/on-the-quest-to-cut-open-a-pumpkin-phrases-for-self-compassion/) - Sitting on my counter for the past while has been a beautiful, locally, lovingly, organically grown baking pumpkin. This weekend, it was time to use it, and I opted to make gluten-free pumpkin muffins. One of the first steps, after washing it, was to cut the pumpkin open. Trials with five separate knives later, mission
- [April Photo Challenge: Photos and Thoughts](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/april-photo-challenge-photos-and-thoughts/) - Life can be full of distractions. Maybe life is one distraction after another on some level and sometimes satisfaction comes from engaging with what comes. I am moving offices May 1st and that has been one of my late winter/early spring distractions. To-do lists, anyone? Of course, some things that come our way are very hard,
- [Look Closely (April Photo Challenge Week Three)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/look-closely-photo-challenge-week-three/) - A quick glance from afar and we might conclude something is spent, dried up, haggard. We might feel this way sometimes too -- even as if there is nothing good or workable. Stopping and slowing and looking closely, we can still find a gem. Sometimes we need help from an outsider and their view. As
- [Torn, Muddy, and Golden (April Photo Challenge Week Four)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/torn-muddy-and-golden-photo-challenge-week-four/) - It is easy to fall down on your kneesFrom a long poem and wonderful book by Mary Oliver called The Leaf and The Cloud (2000, p. 48):It is easy to fall down on your knees when the shining rain begins to happen. It is easy to be thankful for the bundles of wild roses ledged
- [Go Slow to Go Fast: My Common Humanity with An Excavating Crew](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/go-slow-to-go-fast-my-common-humanity-with-an-excavating-crew/) - Let me begin with the introduction of some terms: spool (not the kind for thread), water box, elevation, drop, a "y", underground services, mains, laterals, hydraulic.... Earlier this month, I faced an emergency of sorts when the sewer drain outside my home became completely clogged and damaged by tree roots. This was an unexpected and vastly
- ["And yet." Two words to apply from reading the book, "How To Be Sick," by Toni Bernhard](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/and-yet-two-words-to-apply-from-reading-the-book-how-to-be-sick-by-toni-bernhard/) - This weekend, I had the great pleasure of candlelight, a handmade quilt, and a book (as well as other things). I read the book, How To Be Sick: A Buddhist-Inspired Guide for the Chronically Ill and Their Caregivers, by Toni Bernhard. I heard about the book on Facebook of all places and via Tara Brach,
- [Begin](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/begin/) - You have perhaps heard the expression, "begin wherever you are," -- and of course that's all we can do really at any point in time. You have to start right here with what is happening and how you are feeling and where you are. However, you may have also heard the suggestion to try to act
- [Healing a Soldier's Heart: A short documentary of a pilot program using mindfulness and loving kindness meditations.](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/healing-a-soldiers-heart-a-short-documentary-of-a-pilot-program-using-mindfulness-and-loving-kindness-meditations/) - This week, I would like to share a video I came across in the spring that I found interesting and inspiring. It's a documentary of a pilot program that was run through Veterans Affairs in Seattle teaching to veterans mindfulness meditation, loving kindness meditation, and concepts related to compassion for oneself and for others. The
- [Balance (April Photo Challenge Week Two)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/balance-photo-challenge-week-two/) - Balance. There is a concept in exercise physiology that to get maximum benefit, we need to alternate activity with rest, that we need to alternate more demanding activity with lighter activity, and that we need to have varied activity that differentially supports the development of flexibility, endurance, and strength. This sounds to me like a

## Pages

- [Home](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/) - Therapy and resources to help you find ways forward that feel meaningful, helpful, and wise. Sessions by video & in-person near Sydenham, ON, north of Kingston.
- [About](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/about/) - I work with people who are thoughtful, dedicated, and often hard on themselves; people dealing with anxiety, past trauma, stress, or change that is challenging.
- [Therapy for Adults](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/services/counselling/) - Therapy for navigating life's complexities, stress, anxiety, change, or impacts of past trauma. Video sessions across Ontario, in-person near Sydenham, ON.
- [Tracy Riley](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/about/tracy-riley/) - Learn about psychologist Tracy Riley, M.A., C.Psych. — offering compassionate therapy for adults in Ontario & virtual sessions in several provinces.
- [Contact](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/contact/) - Email me directly or use the form below.
- [Services](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/services/) - Individual therapy for people ready to understand what they're cultivating and become more intentional gardeners of their lives.
- [Restorative by Nature Group Therapy Programs](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/services/group-therapy/) - The Restorative by Nature Group Therapy Programs are focused on the cultivation of mindfulness and compassion (including self-compassion), and on the cultivation of stabilizing and resourcing practices and experiences. Programs foster a sense of safeness and supportive connection to oneself, to others, and to the natural environment. Group therapy programs are based on compassion-focused therapy
- [Training & Programs](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/services/workshops-training/) - The Restorative by Nature Group Therapy Programs are focused on the cultivation of mindfulness and compassion (including self-compassion), and on the cultivation of stabilizing and resourcing practices and experiences. Programs foster a sense of safeness and supportive connection to oneself, to others, and to the natural environment. Group therapy programs are based on compassion-focused therapy
- [Subscribe](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/subscribe/) - Subscribe to the Inspiring Connections newsletter. Be the first to know about new events, resources, and products.
- [Store](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/store/)
- [Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/services/heart-rate-variability-biofeedback/) - I help people develop helpful states and skills with the aid of heart rate variability biofeedback. I do this via Individual sessions either separate from or in conjunction with individual counselling and psychotherapy sessions Group sessions (e.g., I utilize HRV biofeedback during a portion of the Mindful Compassion group) Making portable heart rate variability devices
- [Programs for Professional Development](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/services/programs-for-professional-development/) - I am available to offer workshops, presentations, and/or group programs (e.g., compassion focused) that support continuing education and professional development. I am happy to support people working in a range of settings such as in outdoor education, wilderness therapy, health care, counselling and therapy, public service, and business settings. To date, the majority of presentations
- [Upcoming Events](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/services/workshops-training/upcoming-events/)
- [Book an event](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/services/workshops-training/book-an-event/)
- [External Resources](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/resources/external-resources/)

## Products

- [Loving Kindness Guided Meditation (mp3)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/store/loving-kindness-guided-meditation-mp3/) - Free loving kindness meditation by psychologist Tracy Riley. A gentle, compassion-focused resource—freely available with an option to donate.
- [Body Scan Guided Meditation (mp3)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/store/tools-for-mindfulness-meditation-body-scan-guided-meditation-mp3/) - Free guided body scan meditation from psychologist Tracy Riley. A gentle, grounding resource offered with care—freely available with an option to donate.
- [Autumn Intentions: A Seasonal Reflection Guide (PDF + Digital Companion Tool)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/store/autumn-intentions-and-seasonal-nourishment-a-seasonal-reflection-guide-digital-download/) - This resource is designed to help you meet yourself with listening and friendship in the season(s) you are in — whatever and all that that may entail — and specifically as you go through the months of late August through to the last day of fall. Through the gentle structure of reflection questions, the guide invites you to orient with intention toward your sense of what feels important, meaningful to you, and/or helpful during autumn. Your purchase includes: Downloadable PDF guide with a gentle structure for your reflection and engagement Access to the digital companion tool where you can type and download your responses as many times as you like Created by registered psychologist Tracy Riley.
- [Heart Leaf Greeting Card. Inside: The world is made better because you are in it.](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/store/heart-leaf-greeting-card/) - A greeting card featuring my photography. Inside is the message: 'The world is made better because you are in it".
- [Share the Work Forward](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/store/donation/) - Support the continuation and expansion of these resources with a contribution in any amount.

## Glossary Terms

- [Window of Tolerance](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/glossary/window-of-tolerance/) - refers to “a zone of optimal arousal, not too high and not too low, within which we can adaptively and flexibly process stimuli, incluidng thoughts, emotions and physical reactions, without becoming overwhelmed or numb” (Ogden & Fisher, 2015, p. 777). Words associated with being in one’s window of tolerance include, as examples: “in charge, capable,
- [Hyperarousal (Autonomic Nervous System)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/glossary/hyperarousal-autonomic-nervous-system/) - refers to “arousal that is excessively over the upper edge of the window of tolerance associated with intense sensations such as agitation, trembling, rapid heart rate, or overwhelming emotions such as rage, terror, or panic” (Ogden & Fisher, 2015, p. 774). Words associated with hyperarousal can include, as examples: “urge to run, leave, fight, verbally
- [Hypoarousal (Autonomic Nervous System)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/glossary/hypoarousal-autonomic-nervous-system/) - refers to “arousal that is excessively under the lower edge of the window of tolerance [and is] associated with the inability to move, heaviness, numbness or emotions like despair or hopelessness or an absence of feelings” (Ogden & Fisher, 2015, p. 775). Words associated with hypoarousal can include, as examples: “motionless, weak, still, powerless, unable to
- [High Arousal (Autonomic Nervous System)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/glossary/high-arousal-autonomic-nervous-system/) - refers to “arousal that approaches, or is slightly over, the upper edge of the window of tolerance” (Ogden & Fisher, 2015, p. 774) _________________ Reference Ogden, P. & Fisher, J. (2015). Sensorimotor Psychotherapy: Interventions for Trauma and Attachment. W.W. Norton & Company: New York.
- [Arousal (Autonomic Nervous System)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/glossary/arousal-autonomic-nervous-system/) - refers to “the degree of activation of the autonomic nervous system such as based on neuroception of safeness or of threat” (Ogden & Fisher, 2015, p. 773). _________________ Reference Ogden, P. & Fisher, J. (2015). Sensorimotor Psychotherapy: Interventions for Trauma and Attachment. W.W. Norton & Company: New York.
- [Low Arousal (Autonomic Nervous System)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/glossary/low-arousal-autonomic-nervous-system/) - refers to “arousal that approaches or is slightly under the lower edge of the window of tolerance” (Ogden & Fisher, 2015, p. 775). _________________ Reference Ogden, P. & Fisher, J. (2015). Sensorimotor Psychotherapy: Interventions for Trauma and Attachment. W.W. Norton & Company: New York.
- [Autonomic Nervous System](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/glossary/autonomic-nervous-system/) - refers to “the regulatory system of the body that is responsible for body functions, such as heartbeat, digestion, and breathing, [things] that are not consciously directed; it consists of the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system” (Ogden & Fisher, 2015, p. 773). _________________ Reference Ogden, P. & Fisher, J. (2015). Sensorimotor Psychotherapy:
- [Neuroception](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/glossary/neuroception/) - refers to one of the functions of the autonomic nervous system, specifically, how the autonomic nervous system scans for and responds to sensations, signals and cues of safeness and of threat from both inside the body (the internal environment) and from the external environment (Dana, 2018). This process of how the nervous system “automatically detects
- [Compassionate Attention](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/glossary/compassionate-attention/) - Compassionate attention refers to consciously directing our attention to notice and focus on things that our helpful to ourselves and to others -- and to do this in a way that is helpful to ourselves and to others. Compasionate attention involves connecting to a sense and motivation of caring toward ourselves and others. It doesn't
- [Compassion](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/glossary/compassion/) - A common definition of compassion is "being moved by the suffering of oneself and others, and being motivated to reduce that suffering". Compassion involves sensitivity to suffering, as well as a motivation to reduce it. A beautiful, colloquial way I've read Christopher Germer describe compassion is this When love meets suffering and stays loving, that's
- [Compassion-Focused Therapy](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/glossary/compassion-focused-therapy/) - Compassion-focused therapy is a multi-method, integrative therapy that utilizes compassionate mind training as part of a process-oriented therapy to help people develop and work with experiences of safeness, soothing, and inner warmth via compassion and self-compassion. Founded by psychologist, Dr. Paul Gilbert, compassion-focused therapy draws from evolutionary, developmental, social, and Buddhist psychology, as well as
- [Psychological Associate](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/glossary/psychological-associate/) - A psychological associate is a registered member of the College of Psychologists of Ontario who is authorized to provide psychological services autonomously in the province of Ontario. More info.
- [Self-Injury](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/glossary/self-injury/) - Self-injury is the intentional hurting of one’s body tissue done by oneself in a physical way without conscious suicidal intent and for purposes not socially sanctioned. There are three broad populations of people who self-injure. These are organized in terms of the context in which the self-injury is taking place: (1) those who self-injure in
- [Loving-Kindness](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/glossary/loving-kindness/) - Loving-kindness is an aspect of the caring feelings we can have in life that includes feelings of good-will, benevolence, unselfish friendliness, and love. It has a full, radiant quality to it. Loving-kindness can have the tone of friendly-care or gentle friend -- a loving, caring orientation we can experience toward others and toward ourselves. Loving-kindness
- [Self-Compassion](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/glossary/self-compassion/) - Self-compassion is an aspect of caring in life that deals specifically with how we relate to our own being in the face of suffering we are experiencing. It is compassion directed from from our being to our being, and thus is a way of how we relate and respond to ourselves. Self-compassion includes a sensitivity
- [Mindfulness](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/glossary/mindfulness/) - Mindfulness is moment-to-moment awareness of experience without evaluation or judgment. Mindfulness is presence to this moment and to what is happening in it, right now, with openness. When we practice mindfulness, we can direct our attention to the present moment, using our conscious awareness to observe whatever is happening in this moment, and we try

## Links

- [Overcoming Depression: A Self-Help Guide Using Cognitive Behavioral Techniques (3rd Edition) by Paul Gilbert](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/overcoming-depression-a-self-help-guide-using-cognitive-behavioral-techniques-3rd-edition-by-paul-gilbert/) - Third Edition (c) 2009
- [Sensorimotor Psychotherapy: Interventions for Trauma and Treatment by Pat Ogden and Janina Fisher](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/sensorimotor-psychotherapy-interventions-for-trauma-and-treatment/) - Written by Pat Ogden and Janina Fisher, (c) 2015, W.W. Norton & Company, Inc. Personal Note I consider myself very lucky to have had the opportunity to participate in trauma treatment training over time taught by one of the authors of this book, psychologist, Dr. Janina Fisher. That training has positively, significantly influenced me, and
- [Radical Compassion: Learning to Love Yourself and Your World with the Practice of RAIN by Tara Brach](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/radical-compassion-learning-to-love-yourself-and-your-world-with-the-practice-of-rain-by-tara-brach/) - (c) 2019
- [Anxiety Canada - Website](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/anxiety-canada-website/) - Anxiety Canada is a website providing numerous free resources to help people to manage anxiety. You can visit the website at anxietycanada.com.
- [Healing Trauma by Peter A. Levine](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/healing-trauma-by-peter-a-levine/) - (c) 2005, 2008 by Peter A. Levine Published by Sounds True, Inc., Boulder, CO
- [In An Unspoken Voice: How the Body Releases Trauma and Restores Goodness by Peter A. Levine](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/in-an-unspoken-voice-how-the-body-releases-trauma-and-restores-goodness-by-peter-a-levine/) - (c) 2010 by Peter A. Levine. Published by North Atlantic Books, Berkeley, California. An incredible book (and accomplishment) full of fascinating research and application, observations, experiences. Also, it has in it one of my long-standing, favourite poems.
- [Groups and Services offered via the Personality Disorders Service, Providence Care Community Mental Health Services](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/groups-and-services-offered-via-the-personality-disorders-service-providence-care-community-mental-health-services/) - The Personality Disorders Service, part of Providence Care Mental Health Community Services, offers the Managing Powerful Emotions Group: "a 12-week (90-minute) psycho-educational group offered several times a year for individuals who have significant challenges with tolerating their distress and regulating their emotions and behaviour" (source) as well as other groups and programs. You can view
- [Managing Powerful Emotions Psychoeducational Group](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/managing-powerful-emotions-psychoeducational-group/) - The Personality Disorders Service, part of Providence Care Mental Health Community Services, offers the Managing Powerful Emotions Group: "a 12-week (90-minute) psycho-educational group offered several times a year for individuals who have significant challenges with tolerating their distress and regulating their emotions and behaviour" (source). To access this service, you will need a referral from
- [Providence Care Community Mental Health Services](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/providence-care-community-mental-health-services/) - Website: https://www.providencecare.ca/community-services/community-mental-health/ Physician Referral Form (for accessing services): https://www.providencecare.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/LHIN-Mandated-Form-1-8.pdf
- [The Polyvagal Theory in Therapy: Engaging the Rhythm of Regulation by Deb Dana](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/the-polyvagal-theory-in-therapy-engaging-the-rhythm-of-regulation-by-deb-dana/) - Dana, D. (2018). The Polyvagal Theory in Therapy: Engaging the Rhythm of Regulation. W.W. Norton & Company: New York. Website for Deb Dana, LCSW: http://www.debdanalcsw.com
- [24-Hour Crisis Line and Other Mental Health Crisis Resources for Kingston & Area](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/24-hour-crisis-line-and-other-mental-health-crisis-resources-for-kingston-area/) - Click here to learn about mental health crisis services offered by Addiction and Mental Health Services-Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington (AMHS-KFLA). To reach the 24-hour mental health crisis line for Kingston and Frontenac, call 613-544-4229. (The 24-hour crisis line is offered by Addiction and Mental Health Services-Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington.) If there is a life-threatening emergency,
- [Compassion Focused Therapy for Dummies by Mary Welford](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/compassion-focused-therapy-for-dummies-by-mary-welford/) - (c) 2016, Chichester, West Sussex: John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. This is a fantastic book and contribution. I feel gratitude toward Mary Welford for writing it.
- [The Stress-Proof Brain: Master Your Emotional Response to Stress Using Mindfulness and Neuroplasticity by Dr. Melanie Greenberg](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/the-stress-proof-brain-master-your-emotional-response-to-stress-using-mindfulness-and-neuroplasticity-by-dr-melanie-greenberg/) - (c) 2006, New Harbinger Publications.
- [Dr. Kristin Neff's Website](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/dr-kristin-neffs-website/) - From her website: "Kristin Neff, Ph.D. is widely recognized as one of the world’s leading experts on self-compassion, being the first one to operationally define and measure the construct over a decade ago. In addition to her pioneering research into self-compassion, she has developed an eight-week program to teach self-compassion skills in daily life, co-created with her colleague Dr. Chris Germer, called
- [Dr. Chris Germer's Website](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/chris-germers-website/) - "Chris Germer is a clinical psychologist, meditation practitioner, author and teacher of mindfulness and compassion in psychotherapy and everyday life. He is also co-developer of the mindful self-compassion training program." (from website) Although I haven’t yet had the opportunity to meet him, Chris Germer is someone who has influenced me personally and professionally in significant,
- [CFT Made Simple: A Clinician's Guide to Practicing Compassion-Focused Therapy by Russell Kolts](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/cft-made-simple-a-clinicians-guide-to-practicing-compassion-focused-therapy-by-russell-kolts/) - Russell is a friend of mine, an inspiration to many, and a wonderful person. In his book, CFT Made Simple (2016) "you'll learn about compassion-focused therapy (CFT), a therapy that focuses on the purposeful cultivation of compassion, the skills and strengths that flow from it, and how to use these to work effectively with human suffering"
- [Therapeutic Landscapes Network](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/therapeutic-landscapes-network/) - A resource for gardens and landscapes that promote health and well-being. With thanks to Gardening and Giving, which is where I learned of this resource.
- [Mindful Compassion by Paul Gilbert and Choden](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/mindful-compassion-by-paul-gilbert-and-choden/) - Mindful compassion: how the science of compassion can help you understand your emotions, live in the present, and connect deeply with others is, in my opinion, a superb book written by Paul Gilbert, PhD and Choden, (c) 2014, New Harbinger Publications, Inc.
- [The Compassionate-Mind Guide to Recovering from Trauma and PTSD: Using Compassion-Focused Therapy to Overcome Flashbacks, Shame, Guilt, and Fear by Deborah A. Lee and Sophie James](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/the-compassionate-mind-guide-to-recovering-from-trauma-and-ptsd-using-compassion-focused-therapy-to-overcome-flashbacks-shame-guilt-and-fear-by-deborah-a-lee-and-sophie-james/) - (c) 2011, Oakland, CA: New Harbinger Publications.
- [The Compassionate-Mind Guide to Managing Your Anger: Using Compassion-Focused Therapy to Calm Your Rage and Heal Your Relationships by Russell Kolts](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/the-compassionate-mind-guide-to-managing-your-anger-by-russell-kolts/) - (c) 2012, Oakland, CA: New Harbinger Publications. Russell is a colleague of mine, courageous person, and kind teacher. It is an honour to help spread the word on his books.
- [The Power of Self-Compassion: Using Compassion-Focused Therapy to End Self-Criticism and Build Self-Confidence by Mary Welford](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/the-power-of-self-compassion-using-compassion-focused-therapy-to-end-self-criticism-and-build-self-confidence-by-mary-welford/) - (c) 2013, Oakland, CA: New Harbinger Publications. Thank you, Mary Welford, for all the effort you've put in to creating such a great resource in this book.
- [The Compassionate Mind: A New Approach to Life’s Challenges by Paul Gilbert](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/the-compassionate-mind-a-new-approach-to-lifes-challenges/) - (c) 2009, Oakland, CA: New Harbinger Publications, Inc.
- [The Cornell Research Program on Self-Injury and Recovery](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/cornell-research-program-on-self-injury-and-recovery/) - This is an excellent resource out of Cornell University for helping professionals, those who self-injure, and for caring others.
- [Fears of compassion: Development of three self-report measures (2011)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/fears-of-compassion-development-of-three-self-report-measures-2011/) - Gilbert, P., McEwan, K., Matos, M., & Rivis, A. (2011). Fears of compassion: Development of three self-report measures. Psychology and Psychotherapy, 84(3), 239-255.
- [Motivational Interviewing: Preparing People for Change (Second Edition)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/motivational-interviewing-preparing-people-for-change-second-edition/) - Written by W.R. Miller & S. Rollnick, (c) 2002. New York: The Guilford Press.
- [The Compassionate-Mind Guide to Building Social Confidence: Using Compassion-Focused Therapy to Overcome Shyness & Social Anxiety by Lynne Henderson](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/the-compassionate-mind-guide-to-building-social-confidence-using-compassion-focused-therapy-to-overcome-shyness-social-anxiety-by-lynne-henderson/) - Copyright (c) 2011. Oakland: New Harbinger Publications. This is another book that I've really enjoyed. It is currently one of my favourite books on the topic of shyness and social anxiety. Lynne's writing is personable, warm, uplifting, and encouraging. She demonstrates an inspiring wealth of knowledge and experience. Lynne was Director of The Shyness Institute
- [Conversations on Compassion](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/conversations-on-compassion/) - With Dr. James Doherty and Jon Kabat-Zinn (December 14, 2011).
- [Hearts in Healthcare](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/hearts-in-healthcare/) - “HEARTS in HEALTHCARE is an inspirational community of health professionals, students, patient advocates, health leaders, and many others who are champions for compassionate care. We believe bringing like-minded people together is the first step to re-humanizing healthcare around the world.” —from the Hearts in Healthcare website
- [The Compassionate Mind Foundation (Derby)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/the-compassionate-mind-foundation-derby/) - “Set up in 2006 the Foundation aims to promote wellbeing through the scientific understanding and application of compassion. We aim to do this by a number of different means: research, supervision, dissemination. This website is the Foundation's window on the world and as such we hope that it will provide both useful information and a
- [How Can I Help?: Stories and Reflections on Service](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/how-can-i-help-stories-and-reflections-on-service/) - Written by Ram Dass and Paul Gorman,© 1985, New York: Alfred A. Knopf, Inc. This is a beautiful book both in terms of one’s relationship to one’s self and one’s pain, as well as in relation to providing care and service to others. There are many touching passages in this book.
- [Introducing compassion-focused therapy (2009)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/introducing-compassion-focused-therapy-2009/) - Gilbert, P. (2009). Introducing compassion-focused therapy. Advances in Psychiatric Treatment: Journal of Continuing Professional Development, 15, pp. 199-208.
- [The Center for Compassion & Altruism Research and Education](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/the-center-for-compassion-altruism-research-and-education/) - This is a site with so many interesting and inspiring videos and resources. You can spend a lot of time here! Website - http://ccare.stanford.edu YouTube Channel - http://www.youtube.com/user/CcareStanford
- [The Journal Of Clinical Psychology: In Session, 2007, Volume 63(11)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/the-journal-of-clinical-psychology-in-session/) - This issue focuses exclusively on the topic of self-injury and contains many practitioner-friendly reviews.
- [Dialectical behavior therapy for impulsive self-injurious behaviors (2001)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/self-injurious-behaviors-assessment-and-treatment/) - Ivanhoff, A., Linehan, M. M., & Brown, M. (2001). Dialectical behavior therapy for impulsive self-injurious behaviors. In D. Simeon, & E. Hollander (Eds.) Self-injurious behaviors: assessment and treatment (pp. 149-173). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Publishing, Inc.
- [Self-mutilation (1992)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/radical-feminist-therapy-working-in-the-context-of-violence/) - Burstow, B. (1992). Self-mutilation. In Radical feminist therapy: Working in the context of violence (pp. 187-201). London: Sage Publications Inc.
- [Self-injury and self-capacities: Assisting an individual in crisis (2000)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/journal-of-clinical-psychology-569/) - Deiter, P. J., Nocholls, S. S., & Pearlman, L. A. (2000). Self-injury and self-capacities: Assisting an individual in crisis. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 56(9), 1173-1191.
- [Healing a Soldier’s Heart](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/healing-a-soldiers-heart/) - A short documentary of a pilot program using mindfulness and loving kindness meditations.
- [Loving-kindness and compassion meditation: Potential for psychological interventions (2011)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/clinical-psychology-review-31/) - Hofman, S. G., Grossman, P., & Hinton, D. E. (2011). Loving-kindness and compassion meditation: Potential for psychological interventions. Clinical Psychology Review, 31, 1126-1132.
- [The functions of deliberate self-injury: A review of the evidence (2007)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/clinical-psychology-review-272/) - Klonsky, E. D. (2007). The functions of deliberate self-injury: A review of the evidence. Clinical Psychology Review, 27(2), 226-239.
- [Solving the puzzle of deliberate self-harm: The experiential avoidance model (2006)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/behavior-research-and-therapy/) - Chapman, A. L., Gratz K. L., & Brown, M. Z. (2006). Solving the puzzle of deliberate self-harm: The experiential avoidance model. Behavior Research and Therapy, 44, 372–394.
- [The functions of self-injury in young adults who cut themselves: Clarifying the evidence for affect-regulation (2009)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/psychiatry-research-166-2-3/) - Klonsky, E. D. (2009). The functions of self-injury in young adults who cut themselves: Clarifying the evidence for affect-regulation. Psychiatry Research, 166(2-3), 260-268.
- [Self-injury: A research review for the practitioner (2007)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/journal-of-clinical-psychology-6311/) - Klonsky, E. D., & Muehlenkamp, J. J. (2007). Self-injury: A research review for the practitioner. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 63(11), 1045-1056.
- [Compassion and the Blocks, Fears and Resistances to Compassion: The Therapeutic Challenges](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/compassion-and-the-blocks-fears-and-resistances-to-compassion-the-therapeutic-challenges/) - A conference presentation given by Professor Paul Gilbert at the 2012 Compassionate Mind Foundation Conference in Manchester. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZp5-AHHx4k&feature=youtu.be
- [The Nature Principle: Human Restoration and the End of Nature Deficit-Disorder](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/the-nature-principle-human-restoration-and-the-end-of-nature-deficit-disorder/) - By Richard Louv, © 2011, Chapel Hill: Algonquin Books of Chapel Hill. Richard Louv is not necessarily suggesting a literal disorder here but he is suggesting in a compelling way that connecting with nature has value for one’s physical and emotional wellness and health. There are lots of interesting ideas and research presented here, as
- [Emotion Regulation in Psychotherapy: A Practitioner’s Guide](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/emotion-regulation-in-psychotherapy-a-practitioners-guide/) - Written by Robert L. Leahy, Dennis Tirch, and Lisa A. Napolitano, © 2011, New York: The Guilford Press.
- [Emotion-Focused Therapy: Coaching Clients to Work through Their Feelings](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/emotion-focused-therapy-coaching-clients-to-work-through-their-feelings/) - Written by Leslie S.Greenberg,© 2002, Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
- [Human Values in Health Care Forum](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/human-values-in-health-care-forum/) - “Working to promote ethical and humane healthcare.”
- [Mindfulness Research Monthly (MRM)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/mindfulness-research-monthly-mrm/) - “A monthly e-bulletin that aims to build awareness of and inform the latest scientific advances in mindfulness”. Edited by David S. Black. It is free to subscribe although donations are welcomed and appreciated. To subscribe, visit: http://www.mindfulexperience.org
- [Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/tattoos-on-the-heart-the-power-of-boundless-compassion/) - Written by Gregory Boyle,© 2010, New York: Free Press. I really like this book. It’s incredibly moving, beautifully written, and inspiring. It’s hard to pick a quote to share so perhaps I will choose simply this: “I heard someone say once, “just assume the answer to every question is compassion” (p 62).
- [Wisdom and Compassion in Psychotherapy: Deepening Mindfulness in Clinical Practice](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/wisdom-and-compassion-in-psychotherapy-deepening-mindfulness-in-clinical-practice/) - Edited by Christopher K. Germer and Ronald D. Siegel,© 2012, New York: The Guilford Press.
- [Arriving at Your Own Door: 108 Lessons in Mindfulness](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/arriving-at-your-own-door-108-lessons-in-mindfulness/) - Written by Jon Kabat-Zinn, (c) 2007, New York: Hyperion.
- [Full Catastrophe Living](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/full-catastrophe-living/) - Written by Jon Kabat-Zinn, (c) 1990, New York: Bantam Dell.
- [Search Inside Yourself: The Unexpected Path to Achieving Success, Happiness (And World Peace)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/search-inside-yourself-the-unexpected-path-to-achieving-success-happiness-and-world-peace/) - Written by Chade-Meng Tan, (c) 2012, New York: HarperCollins. As the author, a computer engineer at Google explains, he and some colleagues at work started out with the question of how to make contemplative practices accessible to others so that they could help others be successful in life and in work. From there, they developed
- [Self-Compassion: Stop Beating Yourself up and Leave Insecurity Behind](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/self-compassion-stop-beating-yourself-up-and-leave-insecurity-behind/) - Written by Kristin Neff, (c) 2011, New York: HarperCollins.
- [The Places That Scare You: A Guide to Fearlessness in Difficult Times](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/the-places-that-scare-you-a-guide-to-fearlessness-in-difficult-times/) - Written by Pema Chodron, (c) 2002, Boston: Shambala Publications.
- [Lovingkindness: The Revolutionary Art of Happiness](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/lovingkindness-the-revolutionary-art-of-happiness/) - Written by Sharon Salzburg, (c) 1995, Boston & London: Shambhala Publications
- [The Mindful Path to Self-Compassion: Freeing Yourself from Destructive Thoughts and Emotions](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/the-mindful-path-to-self-compassion-freeing-yourself-from-destructive-thoughts-and-emotions/) - Written by Christopher K. Germer, (c) 2009, New York: The Guilford Press. (self-compassion, loving-kindness) Although this book is geared to a general audience and is not specific to helping professionals, I’ll share a quote here where Christopher reflects on the quality of presence he aims to bring to his encounters of emotional pain, whether of
- [The Poetry Self-Compassion (CD)](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/the-poetry-self-compassion-cd/) - By David Whyte.
- [Self-Injury Outreach and Support](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/self-injury-outreach-and-support/) - This is an encouraging and burgeoning Canadian resource with researchers from the University of Guelph and McGill behind it. From their website (2013): “As part of a collaboration between the University of Guelph and McGill University, we are a non-profit outreach initiative providing information and resources about self-injury to those who self injure, those who
- [Adolescent self-injury: A comprehensive guide for counselors and health care professionals](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/adolescent-self-injury-a-comprehensive-guide-for-counselors-and-health-care-professionals/) - Written by Amelio A. D’Onofrio, (c) 2007, New York: Springer Publishing Company.
- [Women and self-harm](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/women-and-self-harm/) - Written by Gerrilyn Smith, Dee Cox, and Jacqui Saradjian, (c) 1998, London: The Women’s Press Ltd.. A book written for women who self-injure and those who want to support them. Has a particular focus on those who have experienced abuse, repeated invalidation, or other trauma.
- [Living on the razor’s edge: Solution-oriented brief family therapy with self-harming adolescents](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/living-on-the-razors-edge-solution-oriented-brief-family-therapy-with-self-harming-adolescents/) - Written by Matthew D. Selekman, (c) 2002, New York: W. W. Norton and Co. A book written for helpers with a focus on solution-oriented family therapy. In addition, includes a chapter on “one-person family therapy” and on a psychoeducation, skill-building group (“The Stress-Busters’ Leadership Group”) for adolescents where after completion, the adolescents are encouraged to
- [Self-injury: Psychotherapy with people who engage in self-inflicted violence](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/self-injury-psychotherapy-with-people-who-engage-in-self-inflicted-violence/) - Written by Robin Connors, (c) 2000, New Jersey: Jason Aronson. A book written for helpers with a focus on the role of trauma and invalidating environments. Includes sections on possible reactions of therapists and self-care.
- [Treating self-injury: A practical guide](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/treating-self-injury-a-practical-guide/) - Written by Barent Walsh, (c) 2006, New York: The Guilford Press. A book written for helpers which includes chapters on assessment and treatment. A second edition was published in 2012.
- [The scarred soul: Understanding and ending self-inflicted violence](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/the-scarred-soul-understanding-and-ending-self-inflicted-violence/) - Written by Tracy Tracy Alderman, (c) 1997, Oakland: New Harbinger Publications, Inc.. This book has a respectful tone and is written for people who self injure. It has several activities for people to try.
- [Freedom from self–harm: Overcoming self-injury with  skills from DBT and other treatments](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/link/freedom-from-self-harm-overcoming-self-injury-with-skills-from-dbt-and-other-treatments/) - Written by Kim L. Gratz & Alexander L.Chapman, (c) 2009, Oakland: New Harbinger Publications, Inc.. This book is geared toward people who self-injure.

## workshops

- [Autumn Reflections and Intentions Retreat: A Full Day of Rest and Renewal with Tracy Riley](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/workshops/autumn-reflection-retreat/) - Spend a full day at a lakeside retreat during autumn's beauty (10 AM - 5 PM). Located near Sydenham, Ontario. Maximum 4 participants. Facilitated by Tracy Riley, an experienced registered psychologist. Your day includes: Guided reflection that invites you to pause, listen to yourself, and consider what might be supportive for you over the coming
- [Mindful Compassion Group Therapy Program for Adults](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/workshops/mindful-compassion_group-therapy-program/) - The mindful compassion group therapy program is about learning how to listen to and to make friends with yourself: to meet yourself in whatever you are experiencing with understanding, patience, and support. It is about learning to notice and bring curiosity to your inner experiences and to develop compassionate ways to work with what arises inside—not limited
- [Inspiring Connections Through Collage](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/workshops/inspiring-connections-through-collage/) - The Inspiring Connections Through Collage group therapy sessions are focused on supporting your personal growth, healing, and/or self-nourishment within the guidance, safeness, and support of a welcoming group therapy setting. This group utilizes collage-making and reflective practices, group discussion and sharing, and skills in mindfulness and self-compassion as its structure. This group has a therapy

## Facts

- [Here is a download](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/download/here-is-a-download/)

## Categories

- [Articles](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/category/articles/) - Thoughts, ideas, resources, and announcements for helping professionals and for all
- [Mindfulness](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/category/mindfulness/)
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- [Compassion](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/category/compassion/)
- [Counselling Reflections & Skills](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/category/counselling-reflections/)
- [Working with Emotion](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/category/working-with-emotion-2/)
- [External Resources](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/category/external-resources/)
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- [Questions & Inner Wisdom](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/category/questions-inner-wisdom/)
- [Poetry & Reflection](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/category/poetry-reflection/)
- [Practices and Resources](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/category/practices-and-resources/)

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## Brands

- [Inspiring Connections](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/brand/inspiring-connections/)

## Product categories

- [Audio Meditations](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/product-category/audio-meditations/)
- [Influence Work](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/product-category/influence-work/)
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- [Digital Products](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/product-category/digital-products/)

## Product tags

- [guided meditation](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/product-tag/guided-meditation/)
- [stress relief](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/product-tag/stress-relief/)
- [loving kindness meditation](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/product-tag/loving-kindness-meditation/)
- [self compassion](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/product-tag/self-compassion/)
- [support](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/product-tag/support/)
- [energy exchange](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/product-tag/energy-exchange/)
- [contribution](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/product-tag/contribution/)
- [influence work](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/product-tag/influence-work/)
- [body scan meditation](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/product-tag/body-scan-meditation/)
- [mindful attention](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/product-tag/mindful-attention/)
- [self-awareness](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/product-tag/self-awareness/)
- [professional development](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/product-tag/professional-development/)
- [emotional intelligence](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/product-tag/emotional-intelligence/)
- [mindfulness practice](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/product-tag/mindfulness-practice/)
- [professional growth](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/product-tag/professional-growth/)

## subjects

- [Self Injury](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/subjects/self-injury/) - A selection of resources both for those who self-injure, as well as for helping professionals working with people who self-injure
- [Mindfulness & Compassion](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/subjects/mindfulness-compassion/)
- [Working with Emotion](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/subjects/working-with-emotion/)
- [Wellness in Nature](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/subjects/wellness-in-nature/)
- [Mental Health Crisis Resources for Kingston & Area](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/subjects/mental-health-crisis-resources-for-kingston-area/)
- [Community Mental Health Resources for Kingston & Area](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/subjects/community-mental-health-resources-for-kingston-area/)
- [Trauma](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/subjects/trauma/)

## mediums

- [Books](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/mediums/books/)
- [Links](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/mediums/links/)
- [Journals & Book Chapters](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/mediums/journals-book-chapters/)
- [Audio](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/mediums/audio/)
- [Videos](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/mediums/videos/)
- [Kingston and Area Resoruces](https://www.inspiringconnections.ca/mediums/kingston-and-area-resoruces/)