Journal to Wholeness at Pathways Learning Center

Begins Wednesday, January 25, 2012
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

The pianist in the band I was traveling with, he was always writing in his journal. When I asked why, he replied, peering out from behind his wire-framed, tinted-blue glasses, “We’re in North Dakota, man. It’s just a way to pass the time.” Then he dove back into his writing as if his journal were his literary piano.

When the tour ended, I purchased a journal of my own and made my first entry: “A good day…,” I wrote. “Welcome to Volume 1.” Forty-two volumes later, I am still writing in my journal.

In my own practice, however, I have come to recognize that journal writing is more than just a way to pass the time. It’s a healthy way to pass the time. Among its many benefits, it is a way to explore thoughts and feelings; to heal relationships; and to organize your time. It also gives you the opportunity to explore artistic venues such as poetry writing, sketching, even making collages.

In Journal to Wholeness, you will explore a variety of techniques to help you grow and maintain your own journal writing practice. These include Launching Pads, a way to explore highly compelling topics or themes; Glass Half Empty, Glass Half Full, a way to help you find the upside of difficult life circumstances; and Art Journaling, a way to give shape, form, and color to your thoughts and emotions.

When it comes to journal writing, of course, there is no one-size-fits all approach. You must find the techniques that work for you and learn to apply them in different situations. Journal writing, like any other pursuit, requires commitment, but the more experience you gain, the more you will benefit.

In Journal to Wholeness, you won’t get to tour North Dakota, but you will get a chance to discover and affirm the person you are coming to be.

Journal to Wholeness is open to individuals who are at least 18 years of age, have a psychiatric disability or diagnosis, and who are interested in exploring personal growth, support, and wellness opportunities through Laurel Hill Center and Pathways Learning Center. To register, phone Laurel Hill Center at 541-485-6340.

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To learn more about the ways in which you or your organization can benefit from a Cascadia Arts and Healing Landscapes workshop, feel free to contact us and we will be happy to discuss our services with you.