Delivering Midsummer Support

Hello dear community! I am thinking of all of you this summer.

For the past six months, we have been living in a stirred-up world. Anxiety and uncertainty are prevalent. How have you been coping and navigating this summer? 

As a counsellor and yoga and mindfulness teacher, I am seeing how our traumas can be activated during these times. I also see how mindfulness, self-compassion, and support from a trusted other can be so very helpful. Research backs this up.

I weave the practices of mindful self-compassion and somatic inquiry into my counselling sessions. I guide clients to investigate their bodies, hearts, and minds and I share practices that promote self-regulation, build capacity to be with difficult emotions, and foster healing. My approach includes a somatic component because our emotions, stories, and traumas are stored in our tissues. 

My sessions are offered using a HYBRID approach.


1. Connect with me online using the secure platform Doxy.me

AND/OR

2. See me in person* at the Healing Therapy Alliance on Mondays and Thursdays or at 889 Community on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

*If you see me in person, know that you will be asked to answer COVID screening questions. You will also be required to sanitize your hands and wear a mask until you enter my room, at which time you may remove your mask. We will respect social distancing guidelines and the environment is cleaned after each client.

Research is revealing that online counselling may be just as effective in many cases as face to face sessions. I must admit that initially I was resistant to taking my practice online, however, after six months of seeing clients in this manner, I have been pleasantly surprised at the results and the sense of human connection that is forged. Bringing my work online has been a great reminder of the value of keeping an open mind, experimenting, and learning. While I love seeing people in person, online sessions are effective, practical, and offer accessibility. I suspect that in the future, my practice will consist of both options giving people flexibility. 

If you are struggling, please reach out. You can experience relief from being able to share your experience in a safe, confidential and non-judgmental space. 

In the Meantime…

Make Friends with your Breath - Here's How:

  • Wherever you are, right NOW, bring attention to your breathing.

  • Take a slow deep breath IN for 4 counts.

  • Take a slow long breath OUT for 6 counts.

  • Do this 4 more times, maybe placing one hand on your heart and one hand on your belly.

You have just calmed your nervous system. This is called a mini breathing break – I do this all the time.

Did You Know…

Intentional breathing (or pranayama in yoga lingo) like this has been shown to lower stress, help reduce symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, PTSD insomnia and boost the immune system.

Breathing is practical, accessible and free!  When you learn to take slow steady breaths and lengthen your exhales just a little bit, your brain gets the message that all is well. Who wouldn’t benefit from feeling more safe and calm? Most of my students and clients report feeling more calm and centered after a few minutes of intentional breathing.  Remember this is a practice and breathing like this may also feel awkward or uncomfortable especially at first. It is okay to set aside the practice and come back to it another time. 

Online Yoga With Me!


I am excited to let you know that I filmed a 45 minute Move and Meditate yoga class for 889 Community to go into their online library. This class is gentle and mindful and includes breath work and a meditation.

If you are missing my teaching or want to experience my teaching, you can access this video on their website (a monthly subscription of $30 is required). In addition to my class, there are 150 online yoga and movement classes to experience.

If you want support with your breathing, stress relieving techniques, and/or counselling, get in touch. Please note that I will be away on vacation from August 17th - 31st.

May you remain healthy during this transformational time. My hope for you is that you notice and savour the small joys in your life this summer.

Sending abundant love, kindness, and support,

 
Kathryn Bowen