Stewardship of Energy
Continue Reading: Stewardship of EnergyThings We Never Really Own There is an uncomfortable truth that nature quietly teaches us: nothing truly belongs to us. Not the towering oak that shades the garden, not the changing seasons that arrive without our permission, not even the breath we are taking at this very moment. For a time, we are simply entrusted with them. During my years as a hospice spiritual counselor, I came to understand something that no textbook could have…
Reflections from the Iris Respite House Healing Gardens April 2023
I don’t think there is any time during the year when I’m not anticipating one or more of Mother Nature’s hat tricks. Forsythias in bloom, sometimes referred to as the “Easter Tree,” bear the hope and good news of early spring. Continue Reading
Reflections from the Iris Respite House Healing Gardens March 2023
If you’re a caregiver, I’m sure there are times when you find yourself neglecting your own nutritional needs for the good of your care receiver. The great thing about nutrition, though, is that if you take the time to prepare healthier meals, even just once a day, benefiting from the built-in healing mechanisms within the… Continue Reading
Vitality
One metaphor for this journey of vitality is that of a tree. Like a tree, we need strong roots to withstand the challenges of life. These roots can include social support systems, healthy coping mechanisms, and self-care practices. Just as a tree requires sunlight and water to grow, we also need to nourish ourselves with… Continue Reading
Loneliness
Reflections from the Iris Respite House Healing Gardens – February 2023
“When it’s inhospitable outside, what other forms can nature therapy take?” Continue Reading
Reflections from the Iris Respite House Healing Gardens – January 2023
The past month at Hope Grows has been one of new beginnings. The December ribbon cuttingmarked a new era as the Iris Respite House is finally poised to welcome its first guests. HopeGrows now has a brand new (big!) sign that is actually readable from the road. And, the wintersolstice heralded the return of the… Continue Reading
Rest, Relax, Restore
The impact of providing care takes a toll on the mind, body, and spiritual wellness of the caregiver. The Hope Grows Care Model is about helping the caregiver to find ways to take time for self, which is the main reason the #ThinkCaregiver™ program and the Simple ‘Self-Care’ Suggestions, which are popular among those reaching… Continue Reading
Feel Trapped Caring for Elderly Parent? Here’s How to Get Help
Adult children take care of elderly parents out of love and loyalty, but they must stay aware of signs of burnout and feeling trapped. Continue Reading
Be The Season of Giving With Kindness and Cordiality
Be the cordial change you wish to see in the world by setting healthy boundaries and understanding where your energy is being spent. Continue Reading
The Connection Between Faith, Acceptance and Giving Up Control
Acceptance can be interpreted in many ways. Avoiding a negative connotation & learning how to embrace the positivity is what we’ll explore together now. Continue Reading
The Importance of Freedom and Peace of Mind
The power of freedom is an amazing gift many take for granted. What does freedom mean to you and in what forms does it materialize? Continue Reading
Quiet Time: It’s More Important Than You Might Think
We explore quiet time ideas for busy people including caregivers who are in need of some relaxation and alone time. Continue Reading