tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88412208804888130192024-03-12T21:14:38.044-04:00Authentic VidaAviva Kamander, LCSW Mindful CBT PsychotherapistAuthentic Vidahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14349036258092745334noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-31304332119966364352022-09-02T21:44:00.001-04:002022-10-13T11:19:18.502-04:00Trade-offs<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJFFb08E2fEJsMO5-PSwSARz39V5U9ukjX9oEoqb-3Jo0Mysw-0QIXnT6bFKQBEld7yGF6zqneCGF8vJlJ0__MSkwpirYQCHimEEuOtPcw6XWU56a91P50CQuRR56NGhSCfAZAh4LWoi9pdAS1N24K83_m6QrLU15wlZGeopBMwna1RhJ3T9vD-LA/s2048/Trade-Offs.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJFFb08E2fEJsMO5-PSwSARz39V5U9ukjX9oEoqb-3Jo0Mysw-0QIXnT6bFKQBEld7yGF6zqneCGF8vJlJ0__MSkwpirYQCHimEEuOtPcw6XWU56a91P50CQuRR56NGhSCfAZAh4LWoi9pdAS1N24K83_m6QrLU15wlZGeopBMwna1RhJ3T9vD-LA/w640-h480/Trade-Offs.png" width="640"></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">"We must all suffer from one of two pains: the pain of discipline or the pain of regret." - Jim Rohn</p><p><br></p><p>Every decision involves trade-offs, this can be a tough realization to accept.</p><p>For example, taking the day off from work to go to a concert, choosing something fun includes the tradeoff of losing a day's wages or a vacation day.</p><p>When we choose to stay up binge watching Netflix, we trade our sleep time and possibly our alertness, focus, & mood for the next day.</p><p>When it comes to our values and goals, compare the pain of progress to the pain of stuckness.</p><span></span><a href="https://www.authenticvida.com/2022/09/trade-offs.html#more">Read more »</a>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-1415435790932796292022-09-02T20:55:00.004-04:002022-10-13T11:19:44.083-04:00<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU3WJkRiXIOpvS4SWhie6oVzB0Rc15IkJsppOH_PFel1m6nFZRpfjO2BWnC7cMQCkCnAUi_JBgjX4D_iu2fPa3O3CH4mm5m7_WG78pgCzXFeeYPXzpTUwG13brvcsoz-ICVHX8l9ri34mTqqndHk0ShdsWTIQpnpv8YM33WDNBDlHtwosD_IR16FGc/s1080/Confidence%20Booster%20for%20Blog.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU3WJkRiXIOpvS4SWhie6oVzB0Rc15IkJsppOH_PFel1m6nFZRpfjO2BWnC7cMQCkCnAUi_JBgjX4D_iu2fPa3O3CH4mm5m7_WG78pgCzXFeeYPXzpTUwG13brvcsoz-ICVHX8l9ri34mTqqndHk0ShdsWTIQpnpv8YM33WDNBDlHtwosD_IR16FGc/w640-h640/Confidence%20Booster%20for%20Blog.png" width="640"></a></div><br>Confidence is a feeling you can develop, it isn't a fixed trait. Knowing you can handle situations that come your way brings peace of mind even during difficult times.<p></p><p>Ways we can boost our self-confidence include</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Keeping the promises you make to yourself. Self-trust is important for believing you can meet life's challenges.</li><li>Forgive yourself for mistakes you've made. Make peace with the past and learn from your regrets.</li><li>Consistent effort, even tiny steps, in the direction of what matters to you is a way of honoring yourself</li><li>Communicate your needs directly, accepting that people have different preferences and sensibilities.</li><li>Savor your accomplishments</li></ul><p></p><span></span><a href="https://www.authenticvida.com/2022/09/confidence-is-feeling-you-can-develop.html#more">Read more »</a>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-24533405470712759502022-02-27T20:41:00.000-05:002022-02-27T20:41:11.167-05:00Self-Love: Loving Kindness and Guided Meditation<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhcZFcx1XYXsRuYoR5Gvfeqrdsk5tXta_kVHONqSm36UUIz6AG6AyTlC5Yy70LQ0-wIIaO7F2OyL2w_Eb6pvpN8DVrDHCzSJonfbprLydmIX3ZKH-4sw8mFto-0fWrfidB8B2UADBUU3vaSpb_lcveHDYE-9iXO_QYIqycXxYJi-4VzUWLF7zAZuADY=s889" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="889" data-original-width="886" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhcZFcx1XYXsRuYoR5Gvfeqrdsk5tXta_kVHONqSm36UUIz6AG6AyTlC5Yy70LQ0-wIIaO7F2OyL2w_Eb6pvpN8DVrDHCzSJonfbprLydmIX3ZKH-4sw8mFto-0fWrfidB8B2UADBUU3vaSpb_lcveHDYE-9iXO_QYIqycXxYJi-4VzUWLF7zAZuADY=w638-h640" width="638" /></a></div><br />Slow down and connect with us this Valentine's Day for conversations about love and loving-kindness meditation, experience guided meditation and yoga. <p></p>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-69584646187511488912021-12-31T10:15:00.017-05:002022-01-16T14:21:16.923-05:00Daily Wellbeing - A Therapist's 5 Key Elements for Graceful Living With Uncertainty<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjawwk4l7ZbBBZdbL1Wpo2cqqcs-Xpk1a912Zs7Y96ug-nW9vN_L7vFAm5reevJuFwd7DUK6FhW9s028Vw3-frtce_OhYbIjtJb6cjhcZqNiIRPbjGiLgrRoWh-TNlCoUIfzAf3o-qJKG_x_XA-aZUxAt8Jw6Sn63aj_Cch4LSoFRDx0Q8iOgGcI-Pg=s5184" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="3348" data-original-width="5184" height="413" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjawwk4l7ZbBBZdbL1Wpo2cqqcs-Xpk1a912Zs7Y96ug-nW9vN_L7vFAm5reevJuFwd7DUK6FhW9s028Vw3-frtce_OhYbIjtJb6cjhcZqNiIRPbjGiLgrRoWh-TNlCoUIfzAf3o-qJKG_x_XA-aZUxAt8Jw6Sn63aj_Cch4LSoFRDx0Q8iOgGcI-Pg=w640-h413" width="640"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image by Aziz Acharki at Unsplash</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="font-size: x-small; text-align: right;"><br><br></div><div style="font-size: x-small; text-align: left;"><br></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><div style="text-align: center;">“Today, well lived, makes every yesterday a memory of happiness and every tomorrow a vision of hope. Look well, therefore, to this day” </div><div style="text-align: center;">― ancient Sanskrit proverb</div><div><br></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Daily Wellbeing </h3><h3 style="text-align: left;">A Therapist’s 5 Key Elements for Graceful Living with Uncertainty</h3><div><br></div><div><div>These past few years have been so challenging for many of us. Living through a global pandemic, climate change, and social unrest means living with uncertainty. Change is the one constant we can all depend on; difficulties and pleasures coming and going at every stage of life. </div><div><br></div><div>The human brain is an anticipation machine, making predictions about future events is what it does. When there is so much uncertainty in so many areas of our lives, we are unable to effectively predict what we can expect and what’ll happen next; this contributes to feelings of anxiety and exhaustion. </div><div><br></div><div>Figuring out what is still true about what you need and want, two years into a global pandemic, is a way of focusing on what is in your control. You can be intentional with your time and mindset even during difficult times to remind yourself you are not powerless. You get to decide how you want to go through this time of uncertainty. </div><div><br></div><div>For over 15 years, I have worked as a psychotherapist and coach specializing in helping adults struggling with anxiety and life transitions. The ideas I share below come from psychology, mindfulness, and communication theory and have helped me deal with my own self-doubt and feelings of loss during the pandemic. (A life transition is any change, big or small, that impacts your life in a significant way). </div><div><br></div><div>Whether it’s the beginning of a New Year, new month, or simply a new day, checking-in with what is working well for you and identifying what is needed during these tough times will help you forge a path towards graceful living with uncertainty. The five elements of daily wellbeing I describe here include self-awareness, centering, connection, perseverance, and fun.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Self-Awareness </b>- knowing how you feel about things as they happen and what matters to you, identifying your values and priorities</div><div><b>Centering </b>- the practice of calming the body-mind, focusing, & shifting negative evaluations </div><div><b>Connection </b>- with self and others you feel supported by</div><div><b>Perseverance </b>- doing the work, taking action in the areas you figured out are important to you; health, family, self-development, career, etc. </div><div><b>Fun </b>- spend some time on enjoyment and pleasure, it’s essential for wellbeing</div></div><div><br></div><span></span></div></div><a href="https://www.authenticvida.com/2021/12/new-years-fresh-start-5-key-elements-of.html#more">Read more »</a>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-62733485586353441082021-03-04T14:15:00.008-05:002021-03-07T14:33:56.434-05:00Experiential Workshop: Writing Prompts and Guided Imagery<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-93_X-J-LyZ4/YEUpoa15NrI/AAAAAAAAGpM/kw6i78WOw4QhKnPnRblmdmPFxOFDDD9DQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1080/Let%2Bthe%2BBeauty%2BWe%2BLove%2BBe%2BWhat%2BWe%2BDo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-93_X-J-LyZ4/YEUpoa15NrI/AAAAAAAAGpM/kw6i78WOw4QhKnPnRblmdmPFxOFDDD9DQCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h640/Let%2Bthe%2BBeauty%2BWe%2BLove%2BBe%2BWhat%2BWe%2BDo.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="text-align: left;">Excited about launching the 3 week virtual workshop </span><i style="text-align: left;">Centering During Uncertain Times - Focusing On What Matters Most Now.</i><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">Self-reflection exercises include writing prompts and guided visualizations. In a supportive setting connect with your heart for sustainable energy and focus. </span></div>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-9069639036815500282021-03-01T11:32:00.005-05:002021-03-01T11:33:45.720-05:00Recognizing 1 Year of Covid <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UCXntQq_VgI/YD0VvFmzEoI/AAAAAAAAGnA/HQBjFmVz3tY8PFvItBKdzgsESCoIh2bHQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2000/Knapp%2BHouse%2BCovid%2BRecognition.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1545" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UCXntQq_VgI/YD0VvFmzEoI/AAAAAAAAGnA/HQBjFmVz3tY8PFvItBKdzgsESCoIh2bHQCLcBGAsYHQ/w494-h640/Knapp%2BHouse%2BCovid%2BRecognition.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Looking forward to co-hosting this zoom event with Jackie Frederick-Berner and the The Rye Historical Society as we recognize 1 year of living with Covid. </span></p></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Join us to discuss what the past year has been like, explore how to face the continuing uncertainty, and what has been helpful for you.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hope to see you there!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>March 15th</b>, either <b>9:30am or 1pm</b>, e</span>ach meeting is approximately 1hour.<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Register at <a href="mailto:alison.relyea@ryehistory.org">alison.relyea@ryehistory.org</a></span></p><p><br /></p>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-50108802257439220542020-11-15T12:47:00.009-05:002021-03-01T11:33:17.583-05:00Centering During Uncertain Times - Connecting With What Matters Most<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aT4J9bIX4_w/X7GrYiJgJTI/AAAAAAAAF5I/W0D19Lz5ivAMEjliQeQ7kWXVgZawaXEywCLcBGAsYHQ/s1056/Centering%2BDuring%2BUncertain%2BTimes%2BFlier%2BNov152020.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1056" data-original-width="816" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aT4J9bIX4_w/X7GrYiJgJTI/AAAAAAAAF5I/W0D19Lz5ivAMEjliQeQ7kWXVgZawaXEywCLcBGAsYHQ/w309-h400/Centering%2BDuring%2BUncertain%2BTimes%2BFlier%2BNov152020.jpg" width="309"></a></div><span></span><a href="https://www.authenticvida.com/2020/11/centering-during-uncertain-times.html#more">Read more »</a>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-86118470506445031092020-11-10T15:38:00.002-05:002020-11-15T15:42:52.728-05:00The Benefit of Labeling Your Experiences<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-12uilK5ToXE/X7GR2lS3KYI/AAAAAAAAF48/gI-Vz8r2LswSgn4Sj0Er9gqBFYgcwuBLgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1080/Labeling%2BExperiences%2BNov2020.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-12uilK5ToXE/X7GR2lS3KYI/AAAAAAAAF48/gI-Vz8r2LswSgn4Sj0Er9gqBFYgcwuBLgCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h640/Labeling%2BExperiences%2BNov2020.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />When we take the time to describe what we are thinking and feeling, it helps us contain and manage our inner experience. This is a skill we can all use. <p></p><p>"I am all alone, there is no one I can count on," is an example of a belief. </p><p>Labeling the situation to include "I am having the thought that I am all alone, and there is no one I can count on," inserts a slight interruption, a space which can be used to evaluate thoughts and one's situation more carefully.</p><p>Using "I am having the thought that...," is a great way to pause, reflect, and decide if the belief we describe to ourselves is true or not. Distressing feelings may exist regardless of if thoughts are true or not. Fusing with untrue thoughts can amplify these distressing emotions, adding more pain to the current situation, without offering any benefit of learning or healing.</p><p>Naming emotions is another aspect of labeling. Continuing with the example above, if we believe we are all alone with no one to count on, it is likely we will experience unpleasant emotions such as fear, loneliness, sadness, anger, etc. Developing an emotional vocabulary can help with identifying, perspective taking, and containing emotions. </p><p>Labeling our experiences helps us take the looming unformed sense in our bodies, and give it shape and definition, which allows us to think more critically about our interpretations and our current situation. Real change happens as our awareness grows, especially if we learn to allow difficult emotions to be as they are without detailing us from what matters most. </p><div><br /></div>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-39862290574474506782020-11-06T15:18:00.003-05:002020-11-15T15:33:01.177-05:00What Would You Do If You Weren't Afraid? <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W_EyfF4Qr4g/X7GO5a9qS9I/AAAAAAAAF4w/hwvEh-h_P-8S6NAmSpqFkffqZopcTWhDgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1080/What%2BWould%2BYou%2BDo%2BIf%2BYou%2BWeren%2527t%2BAfraid_.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W_EyfF4Qr4g/X7GO5a9qS9I/AAAAAAAAF4w/hwvEh-h_P-8S6NAmSpqFkffqZopcTWhDgCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h640/What%2BWould%2BYou%2BDo%2BIf%2BYou%2BWeren%2527t%2BAfraid_.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p>"What would you do if you weren't afraid?" famously asked in the book Who Moved My Cheese by Dr.SpencerJohnson is an important question for anyone who has a yearning for something different.</p><p>Fear is an important emotion, protecting humans from predators and threats to our survival. In the modern world, it is common for minds to become overcome and overrun by fear, both actual threat and imagined perceived threat. </p><p>Asking yourself endless "what if" questions, along with physiological sensations such as heart racing and tightness of the stomach are signals to look out for to see if you are experiencing a threat state. Danger exists for sure and fear serves a function which is to keep us alive. It's that sometimes in the effort to keep us safe, our minds may be spinning stories, trying to make sense of things that do not make sense. We may come up with solutions that are ineffective for our growth, such as believing it is better to wait for things to change before we make any change. Which can lead to unintended consequences such as irritability, lack of motivation, and feelings of hopelessness. Change is constant, we can actively participate in the process and as best as we can lead ourselves in the direction to what is meaningful, or dig our heels in the sand watching as things go one changing anyway. </p><p>I created this post before the election, and wasn't sure if now was a good time to share it or not. It makes total sense that anxiety levels are high and it is difficult to shift attention towards one's own values and priorities when some of us are feeling tapped out and understandably afraid of the impact of Covid on the rise, while we wait in anticipation of what will happen next in America, once all the votes are counted. My hope is for people to take care of themselves as best they can, attending to what offers a sense of meaning and peace and acknowledging all feelings as they are. It is the best way I know to get through this time.</p>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-65420355803019456572020-10-28T17:01:00.007-04:002020-10-28T23:05:53.949-04:00Self-Care As A Way Of Life <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J8kWOsBX9t0/X5nYAEvF9oI/AAAAAAAAFsg/z3s0cGqvpWc6IVJxfT7o6U7qKd8TefCWACLcBGAsYHQ/s480/Kayak%2BPix%2B2020.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 0em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J8kWOsBX9t0/X5nYAEvF9oI/AAAAAAAAFsg/z3s0cGqvpWc6IVJxfT7o6U7qKd8TefCWACLcBGAsYHQ/s600/Kayak%2BPix%2B2020.jpg" width="600"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"The ultimate source of a happy life is the attention we pay to our inner values" - Dalai Lama<br>“Neurosis is always a substitute for legitimate suffering” ― C.G. Jung </td></tr></tbody></table><div><br><h3 style="text-align: left;">Self-Care as a Way of Life</h3></div><div><div>K. returned home from an enjoyable trip where she had fun and did not have to rush to get anywhere. She felt rejuvenated for about a day, until responsibility and daily obligation returned. Many of us can relate to yo-yoing between high intensity work and then play, with what feels like a constant urge to escape and get away from it all. Self-care as a way of life is a paradigm shift away from temporary relief into long lasting satisfaction. </div><div> </div><div>Key pillars for self-care as a way of life include self-reflection, self-acceptance, and setting boundaries.</div><div> <span></span></div></div><a href="https://www.authenticvida.com/2020/10/self-care-as-way-of-life.html#more">Read more »</a>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-36903188755774460302020-07-04T19:20:00.000-04:002020-07-04T19:20:54.311-04:00Interview with Thrive Global with Beau Henderson<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" height="427" itemprop="contentUrl url" sizes="(max-width: 30rem) 480px,(max-width: 37.5rem) 600px,(max-width: 56.25rem) 900px,(max-width: 81.25rem) 1180px,(min-width: 81.25rem) 1550px,100vw" src="https://content.thriveglobal.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/1_K6gT-tkNHpsk20Con1lfSw.jpeg" srcset="https://content.thriveglobal.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/1_K6gT-tkNHpsk20Con1lfSw.jpeg?w=480 480w,https://content.thriveglobal.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/1_K6gT-tkNHpsk20Con1lfSw.jpeg?w=600 600w,https://content.thriveglobal.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/1_K6gT-tkNHpsk20Con1lfSw.jpeg?w=900 900w,https://content.thriveglobal.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/1_K6gT-tkNHpsk20Con1lfSw.jpeg?w=1180 1180w,https://content.thriveglobal.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/1_K6gT-tkNHpsk20Con1lfSw.jpeg?w=1550 1550w" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"We are wired for connection. Infants are born defenseless, completely reliant on their caregivers for several years after birth. From an evolutionary perspective, it makes sense because our survival was dependent on getting along with others and not being kicked out of the group. We continue to be interdependent with others throughout our lives. It is literally painful when we experience social rejection, heartbreak, or the loss of a loved one."<br />
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I am very grateful to be included in the series<br />
<i>"5 Things Anyone Can Do To Optimize Their Mental Wellness.” </i><br />
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Click the link below to read more about the interview and my 5 steps<br />
<a href="https://thriveglobal.com/stories/we-are-wired-for-connection-with-aviva-kamander-and-beau-henderson/">We Are Wired For Connection - Thrive Global Interview with Beau Henderson</a>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-39472303206868026262020-05-03T16:40:00.000-04:002020-05-03T16:42:05.893-04:00Maintaining Emotional Wellness During Covid-19<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PMaOZa4to8Q/Xq8po0OCIMI/AAAAAAAACz8/Pkd3K2nv5hobii4lGcmEk8K8rhzYK0KAgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/20170824_174016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PMaOZa4to8Q/Xq8po0OCIMI/AAAAAAAACz8/Pkd3K2nv5hobii4lGcmEk8K8rhzYK0KAgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/20170824_174016.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"The only way out is in" - Junot Diaz, The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao<br>
"May I live this day compassionate of heart" - John O'Donohue, Matins</td></tr>
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This experience of living in quarantine with all the uncertainty, loss and isolation is taxing on our bodies. Actively maintaining emotional wellness is a healthy way to cope with this crisis. The steps listed below are intended to be daily reminders of things we can all do to manage our emotional well-being. This includes making time for self-reflection, nurturing the body, connecting with others responsibly, and savoring moments of joy.<br>
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<b>Self- Reflection - Daily Questions To Ask Yourself</b><br>
What helps you?<br>
What do you need?<br>
What concerns you?<br>
What scenario are you replaying in your mind? If it were to happen, what would you do?<br>
What steps can you take today to lead you to a sense of satisfaction, achievement, and/or calm?<br>
What in your life is going okay?<br>
What are you feeling? Notice, allow, and name the emotions you are currently experiencing.<br>
What are the physical sensations you notice in your body? heart racing, brain fog, dizziness, tightness in chest or belly, tingling, vibrations, pulsing, cold, nausea, muscle tension, etc.<br>
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<a href="https://www.authenticvida.com/2020/05/maintaining-emotional-wellness-during.html#more">Read more »</a>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-21631857229139663092020-03-29T21:21:00.000-04:002020-03-30T18:05:48.191-04:00Living Through A Pandemic - When the Real is Surreal<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zq_SiI2x9jg/XoFEl02Qi7I/AAAAAAAACvM/FsKm5aj4svILqpjJzN7oqWnv15aRj4D9QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/COVID19-Pandemic.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" height="456" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zq_SiI2x9jg/XoFEl02Qi7I/AAAAAAAACvM/FsKm5aj4svILqpjJzN7oqWnv15aRj4D9QCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/COVID19-Pandemic.png" width="640"></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">"We have more possibilities available in each moment than we realize.” - Thich Nhat Hanh</span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">"The more we value things outside our control, the less control we have." - Epictetus</span></td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Veggie bags, scaly hands, itchy faces, and fear</span></b><br>
Last week driving through town, it looked a lot like 7am on Thanksgiving, the roads eerily quiet and empty until arriving at the jam-packed supermarket parking lot. Along the way, I start to notice some tightness around my chest, slight brain fog, and a tickle in my throat. “Is it Coronavirus?” a voice inside my head shouted with the alarm and fervor of George Costanza’s iconic Seinfield scene <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LNelnqsmnlM" target="_blank">“Is it Lupus?” </a>I softened my shoulders and reminded myself, more likely it’s anxiety. Under normal circumstances, I may not have even noticed these fleeting physiological sensations. After all, a minute ago I was feeling fine. In the past few days, many people have shared their own accounts of feeling worried by a cough or sneeze, wondering if they may have the virus, and then moments later realizing they are actually feeling okay.<br>
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<a href="https://www.authenticvida.com/2020/03/living-through-pandemic-when-real-is.html#more">Read more »</a>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-77195816094863404182020-01-10T20:11:00.000-05:002020-03-29T23:31:59.607-04:00"Good as Hell" Figuring Out Your Life After a Bad Break Up <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dJpF-7HjgsU/XoFoBF3YfZI/AAAAAAAACvw/_M6iUUiiSHELEjGAUV4jwJmgaAS5vccSgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Future%2BYou%2BCafe%2B-%2BGood%2Bas%2BHell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1171" data-original-width="1600" height="468" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dJpF-7HjgsU/XoFoBF3YfZI/AAAAAAAACvw/_M6iUUiiSHELEjGAUV4jwJmgaAS5vccSgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/Future%2BYou%2BCafe%2B-%2BGood%2Bas%2BHell.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
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"We are healed of a suffering only by experiencing it by the full." - Marcel Proust</div>
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"The human heart has a way of making itself large again even after it's been broken into a million pieces." - Robert James Waller</div>
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After a bad break up, it may take time before you are feeling <i>"Good as Hell."</i> Not to worry grief is a healthy response to loss. After a break-up, not only are you no longer connected with the person you had been with, you may also be grieving the loss of the relationship that you never had, the one you hoped would have developed and didn’t. These losses are sometimes more painful than no longer being with the person because the experience of what never was and what never will be is compounded.<br>
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If the break up wasn't mutual, or if there was a betrayal expect feeling good to take even longer. Lizzo's advice to take a deep breath, focus on you and all the big fights and long nights helps when it comes to moving on. If the relationship is over, it will be more beneficial to recall the reasons why you and your partner were not compatible, the regular arguments, or lack of trust and support, etc. Allow yourself to think about the recurring unhappiness you experienced during your relationship.<br>
<a href="https://www.authenticvida.com/2020/01/good-as-hell.html#more">Read more »</a>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-30287908021921945012019-12-10T11:01:00.000-05:002020-03-04T20:48:29.203-05:005 Steps to Optimize Emotional Wellness for Greater Fulfillment <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fCBZPseWx7Y/Xe-8XWUb_HI/AAAAAAAACiM/E0-53qrvvK4nrXq-Rkd1_WdW8xq1g8dNACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/South%2BWales%2Bblue%2Bgreen%2Bcliffs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fCBZPseWx7Y/Xe-8XWUb_HI/AAAAAAAACiM/E0-53qrvvK4nrXq-Rkd1_WdW8xq1g8dNACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/South%2BWales%2Bblue%2Bgreen%2Bcliffs.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Wellness is a daily practice" - anonymous<br>
"Who looks outside dreams; who looks inside awakes." - Carl Jung</td></tr>
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5 steps that each of us can take to optimize our mental wellness include: self-reflection, nurturing the body, spending time with others we feel supported by, making peace with all our parts, and having fun.<br>
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<b>Self-Reflection</b><br>
Good mental hygiene includes self-reflection. Spending time getting to know yourself is an investment in your mental wellness that pays dividends. Understanding your motivations, values, habits of thinking, rules you live by, feelings, and sensory experiences helps you to know when to take action, where to move your attention, and allows you to ask: what now?<br>
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<a href="https://www.authenticvida.com/2019/12/5-steps-to-optimize-emotional-wellness.html#more">Read more »</a>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-84270013954442816232019-11-27T08:06:00.000-05:002020-01-25T16:17:03.052-05:00Ideas for Living Well: Label Your Emotions, Thoughts, & Bodily Sensations to Experience Greater Calm and Clarity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Thought logs work, I learned from personal experience, about 10 years ago when I was first introduced to them. I had just returned to the field of social work and was fortunate to have a supervisor who was also a CBT Master trainer. She explained to me how to use them with clients. Not long afterward, feeling stressed out about Thanksgiving preparations, while juggling work and family, I applied what I learned to my own experience. What an amazing discovery, I felt much better after labeling and organizing my thoughts and feelings. This stuff really worked! I was calm again, having released the gnawing irritation that had me revved up while feeling sensitive and distracted.<br>
<a href="https://www.authenticvida.com/2019/11/ideas-for-living-well.html#more">Read more »</a>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-25392719401871871752019-11-25T10:08:00.000-05:002020-03-31T17:52:07.678-04:00Hook Up Regrets<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HD-yCwei76g/XcwJA4_6f3I/AAAAAAAACew/jI6AVekmymMFRLcTCjLdLxjJlNk-PdUDgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/20181031_205438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="792" data-original-width="1600" height="315" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HD-yCwei76g/XcwJA4_6f3I/AAAAAAAACew/jI6AVekmymMFRLcTCjLdLxjJlNk-PdUDgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/20181031_205438.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"It's not what you are, it's what you don't become that hurts." - Oscar Levant<br>
"Maybe all one can do is hope to end up with the right regrets." - Arthur Miller</td></tr>
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Hook up regret refers to the emotions consenting adults might feel when they are dissatisfied or unsettled after a sexual encounter. There are so many reasons people experience hook up regret after a tryst perhaps the encounter was awkward and or even unpleasant at times. Heartache may occur when expectations during or after hook up go unmet. Disappointment is understandable when personal standards were compromised, especially around preventing STDs. Experiencing anguish is common after feeling pressured or rushed, and not speaking up about it. Following one's own internal rule to “finish something you started,” when that something is no longer wanted may cause distress. Even when the rendezvous was satisfying, uncertainty about future contact or status may be uncomfortable for many. Especially confusing is when an enjoyable sexual encounter with a casual acquaintance induces a deep sense of sadness and loss. <br>
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Misunderstandings are more likely when hooking up with someone you just met or don’t know that well, though there are many reasons people choose to do so. We all have a natural desire for connection, closeness, and a sense of belonging. This normal drive can get skewed when intoxicated or feeling lonely. Sometimes we want others to like us, even when we don’t really like them. Sometimes we are turned on and want to satisfy the urge to be held and touched. Hooking up can also be a way to avoid other feelings or responsibilities.<br>
<a href="https://www.authenticvida.com/2019/11/hook-up-regrets.html#more">Read more »</a>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-50220929039949640542019-05-08T23:18:00.000-04:002020-01-10T21:54:18.337-05:00Navigating the Gray Zone: Dating with Assertiveness and Compassion - A Workshop<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-exQcYnqOeRQ/Xhk2sMw_wDI/AAAAAAAAuBc/wnb7MApnHvQxIHoYfory1vSEtwWQOdQ6wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Compass%2Bonly%2B-large.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="697" data-original-width="679" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-exQcYnqOeRQ/Xhk2sMw_wDI/AAAAAAAAuBc/wnb7MApnHvQxIHoYfory1vSEtwWQOdQ6wCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/Compass%2Bonly%2B-large.png" width="622"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">"When you doubt your power, you give power to your doubt" - Honore de Balzac<br>"What a curious power words have" - Tadeusz Borowski</span></td></tr>
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It has never been a more confusing time for dating, connection, and sex as cultural norms continue to change. Navigating the Gray Zone: Dating with Assertiveness and Compassion is a workshop intended to promote self-awareness, improve assertiveness skills, and prevent regrettable sexual encounters.<br>
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Improving self-awareness and assertiveness are ways to exert the power you have in your life. Like getting vaccinated, seeking awareness and assertiveness skills, counter some of life's maladies. Honing these skills prevents some unwanted situations; and like vaccines not all conditions are blocked.<br>
<a href="https://www.authenticvida.com/2019/05/navigating-gray-zone-dating-with.html#more">Read more »</a>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-12428043471429052222019-02-21T19:00:00.008-05:002020-08-19T00:03:49.678-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XHujfxqdAoY/XFcmV2v88MI/AAAAAAAACDA/lBbyp6nfqU0eAVKc6N-wF0hHLoam49kSwCLcBGAs/s1600/large.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Navigating the Gray Zone: Dating with Assertiveness and Compassion" border="0" data-original-height="404" data-original-width="1600" height="160" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XHujfxqdAoY/XFcmV2v88MI/AAAAAAAACDA/lBbyp6nfqU0eAVKc6N-wF0hHLoam49kSwCLcBGAs/s640/large.png" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>This experiential workshop, inspired by the #MeToo movement, is intended to develop self and other awareness as well as improve communication skills relevant to romantic connections. Understanding our behaviors, leads to informed choices and more satisfying experiences. </div><div><div><br /></div><div>Dating, relationships, and sex have always been complex and personal. Mix that up with the current flux of social norms and changing cultural narratives and it makes for an extra confusing time. </div><div><br /></div><div>Workshop objectives include: </div><div>• Expanding intrapersonal and interpersonal awareness as it relates to the many motivations regarding sex, dating, and connection. </div><div>• Reviewing qualities of healthy and unhealthy relationships </div><div>• Discussing concepts from Interpersonal Communications, Psychology, & Human Behavior</div><div>• Considering what makes expressing oneself difficult</div><div>• Experiential exercises, role plays, and compassion focused meditation </div><div><br /></div><div>This workshop is for anyone who wants to learn more about themselves, others, the impact of their environment, and have more satisfying relational experiences. </div></div><div><br /></div><div>For additional information please email: <a href="mailto:aviva@authenticvida.com">aviva@authenticvida.com</a></div>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-24732398631133203322018-12-31T01:32:00.000-05:002020-01-25T16:24:02.650-05:00Feel Unsupported - Reflect on the Need Being Unmet, Nurture that Part of Yourself, and Remember Your Power<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZS8yBygjQ-U/XNOVBlhvk9I/AAAAAAAACMI/ePF3OGR-nKgtEUKJrjcQ08vLoIyS--z_wCLcBGAs/s1600/Shadow%2Bpix.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1508" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZS8yBygjQ-U/XNOVBlhvk9I/AAAAAAAACMI/ePF3OGR-nKgtEUKJrjcQ08vLoIyS--z_wCLcBGAs/s640/Shadow%2Bpix.jpg" width="602"></a></div>
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If you landed here chances are you are experiencing a sense of feeling unsupported whether it be from a partner, family member, friend, or colleague.<br>
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When we receive any of the following responses, it comes across as unsupportive:<br>
<a href="https://www.authenticvida.com/2018/12/feel-unsupported-remember-your-power.html#more">Read more »</a>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-9841275411058926022016-10-02T12:32:00.000-04:002019-10-16T20:22:19.431-04:00Live the Life You Want<!--
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">“May your choices reflect your hopes not your fears.” - Nelson Mandela<br />
“The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.” - Confucius<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Achieving the results you seek will be our main objective. Through a collaborative process, we will work together to meet your objectives and create positive changes in your life. We will start by identifying what gives your life meaning, addressing obstacles that get in the way of success, and setting achievable goals. As you strive to reach your goals, I will continue to offer support and strategies to overcome challenges and attain desired outcomes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My goal is to help you enjoy life. Using proven methods from both psychotherapy and coaching, we can work together to help you manage problems and lead the life that you want to live. Sustainable happiness comes from a combination of factors, only one of which is a positive mood. Achieving long lasting fulfillment means feeling engaged in our lives, experiencing positive relationships, having a sense of meaning, and feeling a sense of accomplishment. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Emotions such as fear, shame, and anxiety are part of the human condition. Although these emotions feel unpleasant, at times they are informative, purposeful, and energizing. We will not rid ourselves of these emotions, but can diffuse the negative impact that they have on us by using approaches that have been proven to work. This process of acceptance helps us to problem-solve and focus on the things that <i>can</i> change.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Making change can be difficult and requires a level of interest, commitment, and the belief that change is possible. This is where many of us get blocked. Understanding the way we think and the impact of those beliefs empowers us to move forward towards the life we want to create. Therapy is a place where we tune in to ourselves, including the inner dialogue running in our minds. Through this process we gain greater awareness of our patterns of thinking and behavior that leads to a greater sense of personal control. Using evidence based principles, therapy teaches effective coping skills for tolerating distress, offers alternative interpretations of one’s experiences, and shows us how to turn ideas into action. Instead of waiting for external circumstances to improve, we learn to recognize our ability to create positive changes from within.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">"You can't stop the waves but you can learn to surf." - Jon Kabat Zinn</span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><i>Take your <a href="http://www.nhs.uk/Tools/Pages/Wellbeing-self-assessment.aspx" target="_blank" title="Copyright 2006 NHS Health Scotland, University of Warwick and University of Edinburgh.">Well Being Self-Assessment</a>.</i></td></tr>
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-->Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-82923843068053876772016-10-01T19:33:00.002-04:002016-10-11T07:57:53.497-04:00Beliefs About Events<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> "We know what we are, but know not what we may be." - William Shakespeare<br>"Every new beginning, comes from some other new beginning’s end." - Semisonic, 'Closing Time'</span>
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Ancient Stoics believed that inner calm and clear judgement could be attained through logic, reflection, and concentration. Albert Ellis the psychologist who developed rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT) and is generally considered to be one of the founders of cognitive behavioral therapy, was influenced by Stoic philosophers and recounts it is not the events we experience that distress us but our beliefs about these events.<br>
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<a href="https://www.authenticvida.com/2016/10/beliefs-about-events.html#more">Read more »</a>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-62466926873252605922016-09-04T13:32:00.001-04:002016-10-01T19:49:58.284-04:00WORKSHOP: Making PEACE With Complicated RELATIONSHIPS<!--<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HdASRX-7qHM/V9B8aWVlpOI/AAAAAAAAi20/DGo7NYppdWU5ZP8YQfXRAD76wFyg3_AEACLcB/s1600/Making%2BPeace%2BFlyer%2BImage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HdASRX-7qHM/V9B8aWVlpOI/AAAAAAAAi20/DGo7NYppdWU5ZP8YQfXRAD76wFyg3_AEACLcB/s200/Making%2BPeace%2BFlyer%2BImage.jpg" width="154" /></a>-->
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">WORKSHOP</span></b></h3>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Making PEACE With The Complicated RELATIONSHIPS </span></b><b><span style="font-size: large;">In Your LIFE</span></b></div>
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Date: Friday, October 21, 2016</div>
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Time: 10am to 12pm</div>
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Location: Rye Arts Center, 51 Milton Road, Rye NY</div>
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Cost: $100</div>
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Space is limited</div>
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Change the way you experience the complicated relationships you are committed to maintaining in your life such as with: parents, siblings, children, employers/employees, neighbors, ex-partners, etc.<br />
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Combining mindfulness and psychology, this experiential writing workshop will focus on the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that contribute to your dissatisfaction and distress. <br />
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<b>Workshop Objectives: </b>identify helpful skills and solutions for dealing with your difficult relationships.<br />
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Signup here or <a href="mailto:info@authenticvida.com" target="_blank"><u>contact me</u></a>:</div>
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This workshop is <b>NOT</b> intended for individuals involved in abusive relationships.
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Healing through writing. Sharing is optional but recommended.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EQpdUospUlA/V_AnDvwAgeI/AAAAAAAABKM/W4IfUJTQEG0_qo2XbVoUqANRCqWSzyq5QCLcB/s1600/Father%2527s%2BDay%2BGreen%2BRoad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EQpdUospUlA/V_AnDvwAgeI/AAAAAAAABKM/W4IfUJTQEG0_qo2XbVoUqANRCqWSzyq5QCLcB/s640/Father%2527s%2BDay%2BGreen%2BRoad.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">“Treat every moment as your last. It is not preparation for something else.” - Shunryu Suzuki<br>"There is nothing either good or bad but thinking makes it so." - William Shakespeare</span>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">“If you focus on results, you will never change. If you focus on change, you will get results.” - Jack Dixon<br />
"What you deny or ignore, you delay. What you accept and face, you conquer." - Robert Tew</td></tr>
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We are all capable of making small changes, bringing us closer to our idealized version of ourselves, and there’s never a better time to begin than right now.<br>
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<b>Start with a Plan</b><br>
It may sound obvious but figuring out what you need to do and when you have time to do it significantly impacts things getting done. Your plan will be your road map. You may have multiple goals such as: preparing more meals at home, getting to work on time, losing weight, exercising more, reading classic novels, visiting with relatives, etc. Start by listing all the changes that you are hoping for, and then pick one thing to start with. Small changes are easier to sustain. Eventually you may be able to work on multiple goals at once.<br>
<a href="https://www.authenticvida.com/2016/05/making-lasting-change.html#more">Read more »</a>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8841220880488813019.post-72599936127281612442011-10-17T11:00:00.000-04:002018-05-13T10:02:44.225-04:00About<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Aviva Kamander, LCSW - Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Therapist, Coach</span></h3>
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<span class="tr-caption">"Do what you can, with what you have, where you are." - Theodore Roosevelt<br />
<br />"Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It's a relationship between equals. Only when we know our own darkness well can we be present with the darkness of others. Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity." - Pema Chodron</span>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am a New York State licensed Clinical Social Worker with a private practice in White Plains, NY. I have had extensive training in various cognitive behavioral therapies such as CBT, REBT, ACT and STAIR a trauma focused CBT. I utilize coaching techniques from the Co-Active Coaching approach, and mindfulness techniques with significant success.<br />
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I have the privilege of working with people in a sacred way; honestly and directly dealing with experiences, thoughts, and emotions. Individuals are capable of immense change and growth. I use effective methods of treatment in a supportive, encouraging and accountable way. Reinventing oneself often leads to excitement and boundless creative energy. Making realistic dreams come true is where I come in.</span><br />
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My goal is that individuals who struggle with happiness will find regular contentment; a better way to get through life. From my diverse experiences I have learned that:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">How you think matters. Negative self talk can be detrimental and it can be changed.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Self-compassion is the way to happiness.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Life is hard, and at times unfair. Coping skills allow us to persevere and make the best out of life's difficult situations.</span></li>
</span></ul>
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In addition to my private therapy and coaching practice, I work as a psychotherapist for the Jewish Board of Family and Children's Services. Currently, I work with adults of all ages as well as couples </span><span style="font-size: large;">and families. I help people work through a variety of issues related to life events. In the recent past, I worked with older adults as a memory training counselor and as an adjunct professor for the graduate program at The College of New Rochelle.</span><br />
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Throughout my adult life I have searched for knowledge on how to identify personal fulfillment, improve health and wellness, build momentum for personal transformation, and acquire a sense of balance. My experience and training have led to a deep understanding about the process of change.<br />
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My approach is direct and action-oriented, with access to mindfulness.<br />
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<b>Additional Training:</b>
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<ul><span style="font-size: large;">
<li>First Annual Compassionate Mind Retreat and Summit 2018 <b>The Compassionate Mind Foundation</b></li>
<li>Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Adolescents <b>JBFCS</b></li>
<li>Attachment and Trauma: The Neurobiology of Healing <b>ISC International</b></li>
<li>End of Life Choices <b>Columbia University School of Social Work</b></li>
<li>The Therapeutic Use of Narrative <b>Columbia University School of Social Work</b></li>
<li>Essentials of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy <b>JBFCS</b></li>
<li>Understanding the Gut Brain: Stress, Appetite, Digestion, and Mood <b>IBP</b></li>
<li>Making Mindfulness Work Webinar Series <b>NICABM</b><span style="font-size: large;">(x2)</span></li>
<li>How the Brain Forms New Habits: Why Willpower is not Enough <b>IBP</b></li>
<li>New Brain Science Tele-webinar <b>NICABM</b><span style="font-size: large;"> (x2)</span></li>
<li>Co-Active Coaching Model - self learning</li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">ACT - Acceptance Commitment Therapy </span><span style="font-size: large;"> <b>JBFCS</b></span></li>
<li>MI - Motivational Interviewing <b>JBFCS</b></li>
<li>STAIR - Skills Training in Affective and Interpersonal Regulation, Trauma <b>JBFCS</b></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">CBT - </span><span style="font-size: large;">Cognitive Behavioral Therapy <b>JBFCS</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy <b>REBT/CBT – Advanced/Primary Practicum, </b></span><b style="font-size: large;">The Albert Ellis Institute</b></li>
<li><b>Master of Science - Columbia University School of Social Work</b></li>
<li><b>Bachelor of Arts - Speech Communications SUNY College at Oneonta</b></li>
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<b>Life Experience:</b></span>
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<ul><span style="font-size: large;">
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Psychotherapist</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Business and Parenting Coach</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Mother of 2 children (elementary and high school aged)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Memory Training Counselor</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Adjunct Professor</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Telecom Project Manager</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Network Administrator</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Academic Adviser/Career Counselor</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Real Estate Agent</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Administrative Assistant</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">and more</span></li>
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</span>Aviva Kamanderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14431477947323413952noreply@blogger.com