Off the Couch Psychology - Innerwork Cafe

In my experience as a psychologist I’ve noticed that people, both inside and outside the therapy room, seek a way to feel at ease with themselves and their lives. Although there are many ways to work toward this, in my mind they all involve developing new ways to understand oneself -- in relationship to others, in relationship to life circumstances and in relationship to (sometimes hidden) aspects of oneself. I think of this push toward self-understanding as inner-work.

Working on oneself, I believe, is serious business. It means you are taking in the lessons experience provides and working to create a life increasingly characterized by resilience and wisdom. But it is also a happy gift. Self-work sets the foundation for increased meaning in life, more access to positive experiences, better self-esteem and more rewarding relationships. It results in less sadness and fear, and more joy and contentment.

I have created InnerWork Cafe to be a forum for anyone who is excited or curious about this inner path. I am especially inspired by my friends, colleagues and clients who are finding all sorts of ways to grow and stretch themselves. I hope to post ideas and resources, along with my own thoughts, struggles and recommendations. I’d love to add your thoughts and postings as well. I hope to create a community where like-minded folk can connect with each other and share information.

Before I end, I’d like to throw out some of examples of what inner work can look like. Any activity that is aimed at increasing self-understanding and greater psychological awareness of oneself is, in my opinion, a form of inner work. There are many ways to gain this insight. Some that come to my mind include:
• Creative work, such a journaling, poetry or any artistic expression
• Contemplative practices such as meditation, centering, or prayer
• Jungian techniques including dream work and active imagination
• Projective techniques such as the I-ching or working with symbolic images
• Simple self-reflection and insightful conversations with friends.

This list is far from conclusive. I invite you to notice your methods of inner work and post about them.

For more information about my psychology practice, Off the Couch Psychology, in Mission Viejo, CA, please visit my website: www.OfftheCouchPsychology.com.