A recent stay in the hospital became the most relaxing, inspiring, spiritual week I’ve had in a while.  There was a peacefulness that comforted me.  There was a coming together of all that is good in my life.  I have never felt more grateful for being alive, regardless of my health.  Somehow, I had managed to rise above my current circumstances. 

I became connected to my humanity in a way that included my mind, body and spirit, which is the manifestation of love in its purest form.

There are many studies that have shown that a person’s emotional state may affect his or her physical health.  More important is our perception and subjective interpretation of a stressor such as an illnes and how we react to it.  However, stress is an integral element in our lives, it plays an important role in our survival.  You can balance its negative effects by practicing relaxation, meditation, prayer and or anything that soothes your soul.  I must confess to utilizing the skills of a massage therapist, nail technician, and an esthetician as often as I deem necessary.

Many therapists have told me that I have a unique perspective, a coping style that embraces many perspectives of psycho-social analysts of past and present.  I also believe that when we are open and receptive to situations, we are given a gift, an opportunity to learn something on this path, this journey we call life. 

It is through our pain that we connect with others, it softens our criticisms of one another.  It is by walking in their shoes, that we can have empathy for one another.  Practicing our SPIRITUALITY is the way you and I find meaning, hope, comfort and inner peace in our lives.

                                                                                                                      -April Sharkey

                                                                                                                            Consultant