Light bulb moment: YouTube + a desire to learn = a video of Carl Rogers in his famous "Gloria" video!

"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBkUqcqRChg"

InfoxchangeTV

The Infoxchange Australia team is very excited to launch InfoxchangeTV today. 

InfoxchangeTV is a niche video sharing service that is targeted at the Australian community sector.

The video news and information channel has been established to allow people in the community to tell their stories and showcase their projects using a multimedia format. This assists in archiving ongoing projects, raising awareness about prevalent community issues and will have the capability to influence the broader national policies and practices from the community level.

Our vision is for InfoxchangeTV to be an insightful resource to share community news, events and information. A video repository that reflects the sectors work and represents all facets of the community, health and welfare sectors, regardless of project size or focus. Whether it be a grassroots, national or international project, if it impacts on the community, we’d be interested in its inclusion.

To provide an equal representation of content across the sector and to foster social and digital inclusion, Infoxchange encourages community groups and community service organisations to contribute video content or comments and feedback to the InfoxchangeTV Channel.

We are calling on all community organisations, not-for-profits, council representatives and individuals to contribute and share their videos and multimedia.

Infoxchange has over 75,000 subscribers who each week receive the newsletter Infocast, so this is a great opportunity to raise your project or organisation's profile and share the work you do and human interest stories.

If you have an informative and compelling video about your organisation and the work that you do, or your own, client or community group stories in video format, please email info@infoxchange.tv complete with the link to your video and any comments you may have.

Alternatively, we can upload this for you if you would like to send it to us. Please visit www.infoxchange.net.au for our postal address.


The new website launches today. You can check it out at www.infoxchange.tv

Embark upon an exciting journey!

The journey of life is exciting when you challenge your own weaknesses. Some times your enemy teaches you better than your friend.

A word is wisdom from HH The Dalai Lama

We can't be useful to ourselves unless we're useful to others. Whether we like it or not, we're all connected, and it is unthinkable to be happy all by oneself. Anyone concerned only by his own well-being will suffer eventually. Anyone concerned with the well-being of others takes care of himself without even thinking about it. Even if we decide to remain selfish, let us be intelligently selfish - let us help others.

Stress Down Day - Friday 23 July 2010

Friday 23 July, 2010 is Lifeline Australia’s Stress Down Day. This day is dedicated to reducing the burden of stress on our community, and will encourage people in schools and workplaces to have fun with their fellows, friends or family to reduce stress levels, have fun and raise funds for Lifeline.  The money will go towards helping run our 24 hour telephone support services, a service that is literally life saving for thousands of Australian’s every year.

You simply get sponsored to wear your slippers to work or school, dress up or dress down and have a bit of fun to show that you support Lifeline and its life saving work.  Or alternatively, other ways to show support could be:

• Purchasing Exclusive Stress Down Day Slippers
• Developing your own event (where slippers or a change in clothes are impractical/against OH&S)

The campaign will also provide participants and organisations with useful tools to manage stress in our everyday lives. For more information visit www.stressdown.org.au

Purity

A powerful, yet often misunderstood, aim of spiritual study is purity. Purity of the soul means to return to its original divine qualities. The soul has become so polluted with less than divine qualities, it can hardly enjoy being alive. Purifying the soul puts the higher self back in charge - useless and negative thoughts are removed and annoying habits finish. A pure soul cannot be touched by sorrow; indeed the power of purity is such, it serves to remove the sorrow of the whole world. Purity restores happiness - even bliss. All you need to do, in order to re-establish your purity, is want it. But you need to want it intensely, to the exclusion of everything else. The one thought, "I must become completely pure". sparks a fire of love between you and Source. This fire melts away all the pollution, and your purity becomes such a power that it frees you from all battles for ever.

Happiness...

Happiness is the art of living, the purpose of our existence. Happiness is the true index of quality of life.  Without happiness, life is dry and meaningless.


With happiness, life immediately becomes fulfilling and wonderful. Happiness is an infectious feeling that immediately lifts the sagging spirits of people.


Happy people keep themselves happy because they know the little ways to appreciate themselves and to see the humour and magic in each moment.

thoughtfortoday.co.uk

Insight...

There is a massive amount of spiritual change going on in my Self right now... it's amazing! An insight I want to share is this (and my tummy rumbles as I write this).

If we, as individuals (at the micro level), are doing a lot of spiritual work at the group (meso level), and the planetary climate signifies... collective conscious change, then the societal level needs to shift in order for the change to happy (at the macro level).

Thus, Gillard's upward rise to the positiion of PM is almost akin to Phoenix physically manifesting (Gillard's red hair signifying the notion of Phoenix) to facilitate the macro level change.

Big statements that I'm expressing here... but, it's what I feel so I may as well communicate it in a safe environment where I will be supported rather than judged.

Unprecedented political change in Australia!

In reference to Kevin Rudd being ousted from his position as Prime Minister of Australia in his first term, and following passionate political debate on my facebook profile, I offer the following commentary. 

I am amazed how much debate my comments sparked!

In hearing that Gillard is PM, I feel happy to have a person leading a party that I actually WANT to vote for rather than wasting a vote. In the 2007 election, I had little faith in either KRudd or JHoward's policies and outward facing profile, and hence voted Green.

However, at this point in time I feel happy that we have an intelligent POLITICIAN leading the country. JGillard is educated in politics and emotionally intelligent. It's refreshing to know that she told Abbott "Game on" in cabinet today when she shook his hand. This shows determination and a strong attitude.

It goes without saying that the environment must be acknowledged and considered, for our future generations. As a parent, I have made a conscious decision to only have one child so as that my choices place the least amount of burden on the earth's resources (be it material, social, physical etc).

As a person who works in the public sector, I can safely say that Unions have their place, they're a voice for the people when the people need advocacy. In my role I see people who need assistance in dealing with tough issues, and the Unions help with advocacy and representation.

I guess it's a matter of preference. I appreciate everyone's comments :D

I end my soap box contribution with a thoughtfortoday.co.uk meditation which is, as always, timely for the day's events!

'Give Regard to Every Soul: Because you recognise that everyone is of unique value, you give regard to every soul by never comparing it to another.'

IMPORTANT GetUp! CAMPAIGN to petition the Federal GOVERNMENT on MENTAL HEALTH REFORM

Major shake ups in Mental Health Reform in Australia...

Professor John Mendoza was the head advisor to the Federal Government on mental health. He resigned his position on Friday, citing years of inaction. Now he is joining this public campaign for mental health reform - please join him by adding your name (no matter your country of origin).

http://www.getup.org.au/campaigns/campaign.php?alias=healthreform&id=1125

Thoughts are like ripples on a pond...

Every thought creates vibrations. Vibrations are like sound waves or radiations. No obstacles, no hurdles can stop them.

Self Mastery

When life is reflecting message to you, be sure to stop and listen.

I'm using "critical reflection" in daily practice (the idea of exploring your thoughts and reactions in order to transform the Self) and received this message from thoughtfortoday.co.uk:

'Before trying to master others, be sure you are the master of yourself.'

On the notion of forgiveness...

Why is it hard to forgive others? Usually because we believe that they are 90% to blame for the problem, that I am not as bad as they are. So I start to carry the load of other people's actions. If my ego is too hurt, I will have the sense of correction, of justice: 'I know I am right', 'That is not fair'. But if I start to forgive from the heart, sincerely, then this kind of feeling and attitude begins to dissolve. I remain humble and this forgiveness will bring me closer to others. Then I do not carry regrets or anger, I just let go and remain light.

Shed the past to move forward into the future

A wise soul opens the window to the future by closing the doors to the past.

Child Centred Play Therapy

While interest in play as a therapeutic intervention has been around since the 1920’s, professional interest has grown steadily over the past decade. This has been driven in part by the recognition of the number of children and adolescents who require effective help, counsellors becoming increasingly aware of the seriousness of emotional difficulties often experienced by children and their likely need for treatment and the growing understanding of the usefulness of play in the child’s life.

Play therapy can be defined as a means through which a therapeutic relationship between the therapist and child is created whereby play becomes the principal medium of communication, shared understanding, insight and change (Wilson 2000).

Play is considered a necessity for normal childhood growth and development (Botkin, 2000). It is through play, that children learn the art of living. There is also a congruent honesty and vividness of expression in the way children interact and communicate while in a play situation (Axline, 1974).

Playfulness in children is considered to be a stable aspect of personality related to such things as creativity, imaginativeness, positive effect, emotional expressiveness and physical activity; which are all resources for creative solutions to problems (Botkin, 2000).

In the context of the important role that play has in the normal growth and development of the child play therapy has been specifically developed to take advantage of this in order to help children between the ages of 3 to 12 years of age to communicate and interact effectively with the therapist in order to address their problems or challenges (Geldard & Geldard, 2008).

Through the medium of play, child and therapist work together in a counselling space called a playroom, which is equipped with toys that aim to encourage clear and vivid expression of feelings while supporting the development of healthier behaviours in a safe, non-threatening environment (Herbert & Ballard, 2007; Levy, 2008; Rasmussen & Cunnigham, 1995).

Theories and practice surrounding play therapy differ within each child psychotherapy tradition. However, each tradition is connected by the central proposition that play transmits and communicates the child’s unconscious experiences, desires, thoughts and emotions whereby it can help the child contextualise meaning and communicate concepts beyond the scope of their limited vocabulary and current understanding of the world and the situation they may be facing.

Virginia Axline (1969, 1971) developed a play therapy for children based on key principles of the person-centred approach. Her approach became known as non-directive play therapy. The person centred approach, originated by Carl Rogers, places a primary focus on the relationship between therapist and client that is based on genuineness, acceptance and trust.

Axline devised a clear and concise Play Therapy theory and method around the same ideas and in doing so, identified 8 core principles of play therapy from this perspective of approach. These core principles are outlined below (Geldard & Geldard, 2008).

Axline’s Eight Principles of Play Therapy

1. The therapist must develop a warm and friendly relationship with the child in which good rapport is established.

2. The therapist accepts the child as he/she is.

3. The therapist establishes a relationship in which the child is free to express their feelings completely.

4. The therapist is alert to recognise the feelings the child is experiencing and reflects those feelings back to the child in a manner that allows the child to gain insight into his/her behaviour.

5. The therapist maintains a deep respect for the child’s ability to solve their own problems. The child has the responsibility to make choices and implement change.

6. The child leads the way. The therapist does not direct the child’s action or conversation in any manner.

7. The therapist does not attempt to hurry the therapy along. The therapist recognises that play therapy is a gradual process.

8. The therapist establishes only those limitations that are necessary to make the child aware of their responsibilities.

(Adapted from Ramirez, Flores-Torres, Kranz & Lund, 2005)

The primary goal of non-directive client centred play therapy is to encourage self directed growth and change in the child. This process occurs through the exploration of the child’s feelings through play to encourage the child’s increased sense of self worth (Moustakas, 1959).

Self directed growth is facilitated by the therapist showing the child they are understood while conveying to the child their potential for self growth. Guerney (1983) noted that client centred play therapy cultivates maturity in children by allowing them opportunity for self exploration. Within the permissive and accepting atmosphere of the play room, it is believed the child will come to recognise their own power for self directed growth.

The goal of the therapist therefore, is to establish a safe environment where through play, the child can freely express their emotions, facilitate decision making, gain a feeling of control, and verbalise their experience (Landreth, 1993).

This approach suggests that the therapist’s role is to create the right conditions to promote such desired therapeutic outcomes. There are 3 core conditions considered essential for the therapist to emulate, in order to catalyse the desired outcomes of this therapeutic approach with the child. These are listed below:

Genuineness and authenticity: the capacity to be real and be themselves as distinct from adopting a role or a defensive posture.

Non-possessive warmth: an attitude of caring and being engaged with friendly concern without becoming overly involved emotionally or offering help for self-serving reasons.

Accurate empathy: the ability to feel and articulate those feelings in a way that helps the child feel understood, and which also helps the child gain understanding of their own feelings.

The therapist also must accept the child unconditionally without any judgements, prejudice or stereotypes that may be derived from the child’s behaviour or history of treatment. In non-directive client centred play therapy, responsibility and direction are left to the child, unlike directive play therapy, in which the therapist may assume responsibility for guidance and interpretation of therapeutic dialogue and direction.

Therapeutic sessions are characterised by a warm, supportive, friendly, and accepting atmosphere that helps build rapport. The therapist aims to encourage the playroom to be seen by the child as their own special place, where they can play with things just about any way he or she would like.

References:

1. Botkin, D. R. (2000). Family play therapy: a creative approach to including young children in family therapy. Journal of Systematic Therapies, 19, 31-42.

2. Geldard, K. & Geldard, D. (2008). Counselling Children. A Practical Guide (3rd ed.). London: Sage Publications

3. Gurney, L.F. (1983). Client centred non directive play therapy. In C.E. Schaefer and K.J.O’Connor (Eds.), Handbook of Play Therapy. (pp.21-64) New York: John Wiley & Sons.

4. Hebert, B.B. & Ballard, M.B. (2007). Children and Trauma: A post Katrina and Rita response. ASCA

5. Landreth, G.L. (1991). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship.

6. Ramirez, S.Z., Flores-Torres, L.L., Kranz, P.L., & Lund, N.L. (2005). Using Axline’s eight principles of play therapy with Mexican –American children. Journal of Instructional Psychology, 32, 329-337.

7. Rasmussen, L.A. & Cunningham, C. (1995). Focused play therapy and non directive play therapy: can they be integrated. Journal of Child Sexual Abuse, 4, 1-20.


Source: www.mentalhealthacademy.com.au

On Making Mistakes

Mistakes matter. How you recover from them matters even more. The best way to handle a mistake is to learn from the mistake. Then you’ll not repeat it nor ever be paralysed by the fear of making another mistake.

Run Melbourne - 18 July 2010

Want to get fit and help kids? By participating in Run Melbourne and running for Berry Street YOU CAN DO BOTH!

Run Melbourne is a great opportunity for you to challenge yourself and participate in something fun and healthy. It is a great event for people of all ages and will be held on Sunday July 18th.

It’s also a wonderful opportunity to fundraise for Berry Street and help us to change the lives of Victoria’s most disadvantaged and vulnerable children.

It’s easy – simply register for the run at http://www.runmelbourne.com.au/. Then our online partner, Everyday Hero, will automatically create an online fundraising webpage on your behalf. You can then customize your page by selecting Berry Street as your chosen charity. Once completed, simply tell your friends and family so they can jump online and sponsor you.

There are three options available – a half marathon , a 10km run and a 5km run/walk (which gives participants the opportunity to run, do a mixture of running and walking, or you can walk the whole way).

With over 14,000 participants in 2009, 2010 is shaping up to be the biggest Run Melbourne yet. Be a part of this iconic Melbourne event and help to raise much needed funds for the children and young people in Berry Street’s care.

By participating in Run Melbourne you can make a difference.

The Big Swap

From the Fair Trade Australia website http://www.fta.org.au/thebigswap

Make The Big Swap and help make the world a better place.

Let’s get as many people as we can to swap as much as we can. Get active, challenge your friends and swap your usual stuff – your coffee, tea, bananas, chocolate – even your cotton tee shirt – to Fairtrade stuff.

The more we swap the bigger the impact we make on the lives of small-scale producers in developing countries. With 2bn people living on less than $2 a day - swapping your usual stuff for Fairtrade stuff helps create a better life for the coffee and cocoa growers, tea pluckers, cotton pickers and banana growers and their families. As well as a guaranteed minimum price, the extra Fairtrade Premium empowers growers to invest in the future for their communities and help themselves out of poverty. So get swapping!

What can I swap?

Fair Trade products are really taking off. It’s no longer just coffee on the shelves. There’s lot’s to choose from.

Refresh yourself with a Fairtrade hot drink and savour the thought that you’re helping to revitalise the local economy for the coffee growers, cocoa farmers and tea pluckers. Thanks to the Fairtrade premium they can send their kids to school or attend a new local clinic instead of having to walk for half a day for medical help. 

Look for the ever growing range of Fairtrade labelled products in your local supermarket or why not check out the great fair trade ranges from outlets such as Oxfam shops in Australia and Trade Aid stores in New Zealand. And even if your favourite shop doesn't stock Fairtrade, why not take one our 'Swap in Your Shop' postcards and ask them to consider swapping to selling some Fairtrade?

Centre for Reiki Research (by William Lee Rand)

A new web site has recently been launched that provides important resources for those interested in Reiki research. The site features a listing and summaries of all Reiki research studies published in peer-reviewed journals. The summaries have been produced using the Touchstone Process; a highly rigorous method of analyzing all the studies in a particular field. Its application to Reiki research is noteworthy. 

The Touchstone Process was developed by the CRR staff, a group of seven doctorally prepared researchers and five nurses and is unique to the field of Complementary and Alternative Medicine. The site also includes articles on research study design, how to write case reports, documenting Reiki sessions, insurance reimbursement for Reiki sessions and the scientific basis of Reiki. A consultation service is also offered for those wanting to conduct Reiki research. In addition, the site contains detailed descriptions of the Reiki programs offered in 64 hospitals across the US. 

The site is free although it is necessary to register to use the information on the site.  http://www.centerforreikiresearch.org/

Inaugural youth mental health conference with Prof Patrick McGorry

Professor Patrick McGorry is to convene the First International Youth Mental Health conference, which will be held in Melbourne on 29–30 July 2010. This important event will bring together health practitioners, researchers, youth sector professionals and young people and their families, and will ‘showcase the best of youth mental health from around the globe’. 

In addition to Prof. McGorry, keynote speakers include Professor Max Birchwood, Clinical Director, YouthSpace; Dr Christine Bennett, Chief Medical Officer, BUPA Australia; Mr Richard Eckersley, Founding Director, Australia 21; and Professor Bob Illback, Director of Planning & Evaluation, Headstrong. 

Key streams will be youth health and mental health; education and vocational issues; health promotion; drug and alcohol issues; and service reform. It is hoped that this will be the first of many similar conferences. 

For conference details, more about the keynote speakers and to register your interest and be notified when registration is open, go to: http://www.iymhconference.com.au/ 

(Source: Yikes!, newsletter of the Youth Affairs Council of Victoria, v.8, n.2, 2010.)