Relaxation and recuperation

[Bruce Kirkcaldy]

Today is my first day's vacation for the Christmas season. Ive taken the "luxury" of closing my practice for 14 days. This is my method of coping with potential stressors involved in the professional of psychotherapy. I will be visiting the opera a few times, going out for the occasional meal with my spouse, sleeping longer, jogging more regularly and listening to some of the audiotapes and video material - several on counselling and therapy - that I have collected during the last few months.
I would be very interested in how other therapists cope with the "innate" pressures related to the psychotherapy profession. At some stage Id like to get an article published in this area, so any material would be useful.
Happy Christmas everyone, and remember to remember yourself and your personal needs in therapy!

[Beverly Snodgrass]

Yes self care is so important in this field. I find that because my sense of hearing gets is so utlized during the week, the quieter the better. I enjoy yoga, walking around the lake, browsing antique stores, sitting by a particular rushing stream, taking pictures, doing pilates, working out, and cooking. Last week I made pizza from scratch and it was very therapuetic.

[Bruce Kirkcaldy]

Thanks for your welcomed reply Beverly. I have turned to listening to more music (classical), concerts and watching operas. Certainly after over 10 years of running my own practice my needs are focussed on adopting strategies to enhance active listening by doing a different kind of "listening".
Festive Greetings to you.

[irene russon]

This might surprise you - but I enjoy my work as an art therapist.
Not sure what is meant by "innate" pressure of psychotherapy?

[KounselorK]

Given that therapy is a relatively sedentary activity (physically anyway), I need to do simply the opposite. I find that when I feel stressed over my profession it is most helpful to get physical. The activities that work best for me is to go dancing, do some gardening, and work with horses. Often this is very tiring stuff, but afterward I am refreshed, my mind is clear, and I'm ready to attend to my practice. For the most part, I make every effort to incorporate some physical but fun activities into my every week. Plus I have found that having ritual behaviors for the end of every day to signal a change of environment helps to refocus my attention, keep my mind clear and relax my body while at home.

[Matthew Tooley]

Hi there,

I find that at times I need to go for a really good run. This seems to help me to not only clear my mind but also allows the energy/rythms of both my mind and body to settle and be like a peaceful lake.

Theres something about being immersed in water too that seems to settle and calm a person.

Often though, I always utilise some time to meditate - this really helps me to 'let go'.

[Carol Ann Rowland]

I practice energy work and relaxation techniques. I find it just lets the stress drain away.

I also find exercise helpful - going for walks and yoga. :)