MDP Holistic Health & Healing

17/12/2023

17/12/2023

Above the Conscious Mind

I recently found a wonderful pocket size book while rummaging through the shelves of a local Op shop the book was called Buddha by Manuela Dunn Mascetti.

The book itself is an illustrated introduction to the story of Buddha, and includes the regular prayers, blessing and mantras that one would expect.

However rather unexpectedly one of the chapters talks about “The psychology of Buddhas” and it discusses the paradigm of psychology of Buddhism vs the psychology of the west.

It states the main differences between the two schools of practice is the following:

Western psychology studies the layers beneath the conscious mind whereas the psychology of Buddhism focuses its attention on the direct experiences, with the layers above the conscious mind.

This statement gave me much to think about.
One of the things I have always found a little uncomfortable with the practice of traditional psychology for healing mental health is the necessity to delve deep beneath our conscious mind to uncover the root causes of our emotional pain.

This in fact is one of the main reasons I chose to practice holistic health for healing as I believe that we can all heal ourselves from emotional pain and suffering through more gentle holistic healing methods that re-connect us to our spirit which is above our conscious mind.

Whichever way we choose to heal ourselves, we all share the same goal to find the answer to our own happiness. It is a personal quest each of us are on. Reconnecting with our mind, our body & our spirit, forming deeper connections with the universe is sure to help bring us one step closer to achieving this ambition. And it may also unintentionally bring us one step closer to becoming Buddha (that is one who has become enlightened).

Wishing everyone happiness health & healing in 2024

Maria Wrenn
Holistic counsellor/Reiki practitioner

22/10/2023

11/05/2023

Mental Health First Aid - A personal journey I recently completed an accredited Mental Health First Aid course and have joined a growing community of Mental Health First Aiders (MHFA) in Australia. The course took place over 2 consecutive days, in a small group setting with an MHFA

11/05/2023

A lived experience of mental health problems can be very common, but it’s something that nobody experiences in the same way, or to the same degree.

For those who have gone through a mental health crisis, their lived experience and ability to connect and empathise can be an extraordinary aid to those looking for support.

Remember, sometimes the best support can come from someone who has been exactly where you are 💚

28/04/2023

Tips for Feeling Grounded Being grounded means feeling at home within yourself. Whilst for some this translates as a connection to nature, or to the earth, for others it is more about an awareness of their own core or centre. When you are grounded you feel at peace

20/04/2023

Everyone has their own experience of what means to them. No two people go through the same thing the same way.

And everyone has their own experience too, of what has helped them face their challenges.

If you’re unsure of how to help - Listening makes a difference. Not judging makes a difference. Having a conversation makes a difference.

Anyone can have a conversation that could save a life. Everyone should know how.

Visit community.mhfa.com.au/blog/ to learn more.

07/04/2023

Mental Health First Aid

I recently completed an accredited Mental Health First Aid course and have joined a growing community of Mental Health First Aiders (MHFA) in Australia.

The course took place over 2 consecutive days, in a small group setting with an MHFA facilitator who shared many personal stories and anecdotes on the wide variety of mental health problems & illness.

Since Covid started, we have all become more familiar with the term “mental health”. But if asked what is “Mental Health?” and what is a “Mental Health Problem? “how would you respond?

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) considers that Mental Health is a continuum ranging from having good mental health to mental health illness.

MHFA describes a person with good mental health is someone, who will feel in control of their emotions and cognitive functioning and has positive interactions with people around them. A person with good mental health generally performs well at work, in their studies and in family social relationships.

In contrast a Mental Health Problem broadly speaking is the opposite. And a person experiencing a mental health problem may have a mental health illness, mental health condition or be suffering symptoms of mental illness.
And a Mental Health Crisis is having thoughts of su***de.

As a natural holistic health practitioner, I too believe that Mental Health, like Physical & Spiritual Health travels on a continuum.
I believe we all experience times of poor Mental health and / or will be affected in one way or another either through a lived experience or through someone we know. Mental Health, Mental Illness or Symptoms of Mental illness, and Mental Health Crisis is all part of what makes us human.

Our MHFA facilitator assured us, post the course, whether we choose to apply for Accreditation or a Certificate of Completion, there will be no doubt that we will apply Mental Health First Aid to someone in need sooner than you think.

For me it came shortly after my course, 3 days later, I applied my MHFA training to a neighbour who had been experiencing symptoms associated with a Mental Health Crisis.

I applied the simple yet highly effective MHFA - ALGEE First Aid Action Plan.
• Approach the person, assess and assist with any crisis.
• Listen and communicate non-judgementally.
• Give support and information.
• Encourage the person to get appropriate professional help.
• Encourage other supports.

In writing this article, I would like to take this opportunity to encourage my peers, family, friends, and anyone who is interested in Mental Health to undertake a Mental Health First Aid Course (MHFA) and help expand Mental Health knowledge. http://www.mfha.com.au

Maria Del Pilar Wrenn
Holistic Counsellor
Mental Health First Aider

Mob:0481 760 783
mdpholistichealth@gmail.com
AHHCA registered Practitioner
ABN: 64 508 859 117