During the course of the WRAP Wellness Retreat, participants will have the opportunity to go to the following workshops. This is in addition to the time each person will spend with the group working on different parts of WRAP. All workshops are optional. Below are workshops that have been held at other WRAP Retreats.
ZENTANGLE – is an easy to learn art form and method of meditation which creates beautiful images using repetitive patterns. It supports relaxation, focus and inspiration and can be a wonderful daily ritual. There is much to discover about life and one’s self through this simple act.” With Zentangle, anything is possible one stroke at a time.” from zentangle.com
YIN YOGA – so named because of its correspondence to the Taoist concept of yin, is a very distinct style of Chinese yoga similar to hatha yoga that stretches the connective tissue (joints) rather than conditioning the muscles, the latter being the aim of most other styles of hatha yoga. Experientially, the practice is characterized by passive asanas held for several minutes each. Some[who?] believe that yin yoga is the oldest form of hatha yoga, since it is the ideal method of physical conditioning for prolonged meditation, which is the principal concern of the ancient Hindu practice of Raja Yoga
JOURNALING – This powerful wellness tool can be used in many different ways it can help you chronicle, empower, celebrate, problem solve, comfort and more along your life’s journey. What better way to check in with yourself as you investigate the choices, adventures, and possibilities of your life? Let your journal be your best companion throughout this Wellness Retreat. In this workshop we will explore using a journal in the creation of, or updating your toolbox and WRAP. No writing experience necessary.
WRAP for VOICES and HALLUCINATIONS - Voices and hallucinations are triggered by the same things and respond to the same wellness tools. Hallucinations are more rare and frightening. They are only a “symptom” if they interfere with your life. Some are spiritual gifts. People who attend this workshop will learn to make a WRAP plan for their voices and hallucinations, and WRAP facilitators will learn to help people make WRAP plans for their voices.
EXCHANGE LISTENING – is a structured form of mutual attention and support. Come learn about this technique that gives you an opportunity to express yourself any way you choose, while being supported by a trusted ally, then use the Rise and Shine activity to practice.
WRITING AND TELLING YOUR RECOVERY STORY – Tools and techniques to tell your story in public, write it for publication in newsletters and websites. Many people think they can’t write because they were taught wrong in school. This workshop will explore other ways to approach writing a recovery story, without confusing rules, many of which are not even rules. Individual help will be available all week to anyone who wants to try writing.
CHANGING NEGATIVE THOUGHTS TO POSITIVE – One of the easiest and most effective ways to empower your life is to get in the habit of changing negative thoughts to positive ones. In this workshop, we will also explore the power of “opposites” and the use of affirmations. At the end of the day combine your favorite quotes, affirmations, or words with watercolor free play in the Words and Watercolor activity to end the day.
FACILITATING WRAP – This workshop is an opportunity to ask and process all those questions we have about facilitating in a context of mutual support.
MEDICATION & MEDICAL MANAGEMENT – most of us have multiple, complex health care problems for which we are prescribed many medications while many of our physical health concerns may be overlooked. Learn tips and techniques for managing these very important aspects of our health care.
SEX AND INTIMACY – A group-directed, candid discussion of sex and intimacy issues in every stage of mental health recovery in a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment.
SLEEP HYGIENE – Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial to our overall well-being. We will discuss good sleep habits, lots of ways to get to sleep, what to do when you wake up in the middle of the night, and share effective sleep ideas with each other! Z-Z-Z-Z-Z
TALKING WITH OUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS – This workshop will provide participants with an opportunity to explore the relationships with their health care providers and talk about questions such as: What are issues we find challenging to discuss with our health care providers? What are we not telling our doctors and why?
WORK AND VOLUNTEERING – Volunteering and returning to work are not only crucial steps towards independence, they are also extremely important for rebuilding self-esteem and helping one to define a role in the community. In this workshop WRAP facilitator and Employment Counselor, George Nostrand, looks at how to use WRAP not only for preparing to go back to work, but also to help you keep the job once you get it.
100 WAYS TO LAUGH – Join Carol Bailey Floyd, the founder of the Laughing Club of N.E. Ohio, and greet the day with laughter! Relaxation, energy, and overall well-being are just a few of the many benefits of laughter.
TAI CHI - although a martial art, is practiced primarily for its health benefits. Scientific studies show that is helps chronic conditions such as arthritis, heart disease and diabetes and that it also improves balance, prevents falls and reduces stress. There is a lot more to the soft flowing movements of Tai Chi than meets the eye. Come find out how it can improve your health. Susan Hebson has been teaching Tai Chi in and around the Brattleboro area for over 15 years. She studied with a master in Japan while living there and has also studied with Dr. Paul Lam.
