My Ski Biking Disaster That Taught Me This | Therapy in Long Island, New York
My family went Bike-Skiing in Switzerland when I was fourteen.
My grandparents treated us to a trip to Switzerland and we were ecstatic! As we headed to the slopes, my family decided to try "bike skiing". [It's basically a bike, but instead of wheels, skis]. It sounded fun, until I jumped off the ski-lift, and realized I had no idea of how to use the ski bike.
The trainer looked at me with a smile and said "ok, now go!". He had hardly said much, but just showed us with his hand motion how to go about using the bike. Most of my family was fine, but I was not.
His english was far from communicate-able, but I was hoping he'd help me out a bit. In a matter of minutes, he showed me how to slow down, and how to jump off the bike. Then he said I'm good to go. I saw most of my family going ahead, said a prayer and did my best. Thankfully my mom saw me struggling, and stayed alongside me, so that I was not entirely alone, but it was still pretty scary. That night, I cozied up around the fire place, with many bruises.
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When I think about those beginning therapy, or navigating a new season of life, this story comes to mind. I needed my instructor to better guide me on the slopes and the bike, as it was all new for me. I needed to be better "geared up" with tools and support.
So my dear reader... if you’re living in New York or somewhere in Long island, i’ve got some messages for you.
If you are either beginning therapy, or navigating a season of change, I am here to help you get "geared up" with tools for the way.
Here are some examples of change and the impacts they may have.
Beginning therapy can bring up some big emotions, AND may shift some relationship dynamics.
Reflecting on your needs in your family dynamic can be insightful AND may propel you to set new boundaries.
Beginning to take stock of your avoidance behaviors (alcohol, sex, food, electronic use, numbing, overworking) can help you be more present AND will likely highlight some underlying pain you've been avoiding.
Each of these are objectively good and will lead you to improved quality of life, but none of these can be done with a "flip of a coin".
Each step needs reflection, support and tools. Support can be from a therapist, friend, mentor or group. And, having tools is crucial for feelings that come up. As well, the best way to navigate change is coming from a healthy and grounded place - and not a chaotic one.
Where to begin? I've got a tool for you! It's a tool I've used, myself, and have used with many of my clients and I want to share this with you.
Scroll below to get your FREE Boundaries and Containment Exercise.
I created a download for you to use that helps you notice your emotions, and an easy-to-use tool to "contain" the intensity of the feelings so that the emotions don't consume you, but rather move through you.
It's packed with a rich Journal Entry page and Visual Container Exercise.
Try this and let me know how you feel after you use this exercise. I read each of your emails and look forward to your replies!
You can print a few copies and use it more than once - I actually hope you do! The more you practice Emotional Containment, the better.
Sending support your way <3
Esther & The Integrative Team