Clarity Therapy & Relational Counseling

Clarity Therapy & Relational Counseling Providing therapeutic services to individuals, couples & families

Understanding Bids of Connection: Insights from John and Julie GottmanWhat Are Bids for Connection?Bids for connection a...
05/29/2024

Understanding Bids of Connection: Insights from John and Julie Gottman
What Are Bids for Connection?
Bids for connection are attempts made by one partner to engage the other and receive positive attention, affection, or affirmation. These bids can be verbal, such as asking a question, or non-verbal, like a smile or a touch. The Gottmans’ extensive research at the Gottman Institute has shown that how couples respond to these bids significantly impacts their relationship’s success and happiness.

The Three Types of Responses to Bids

Turning Toward

Turning Away

Turning Against

The Impact of Responses on Relationships
The Gottman’s research indicates that couples who consistently turn toward each other’s bids for connection have stronger, more resilient relationships. In fact, they found that in successful marriages, couples turn toward each other’s bids 86% of the time, whereas in marriages that ultimately ended in divorce, this occurred only 33% of the time (Gottman & Gottman, 2015).

Bids for connection may seem small, but their cumulative impact on a relationship is profound. By learning to recognize and respond positively to these bids, couples can foster a deeper sense of connection, understanding, and mutual support. John and Julie Gottman’s work underscores the importance of these everyday interactions in building a lasting and fulfilling relationship.

References
Gottman, J., & Gottman, J. (2015). The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. Harmony Books.

Gottman Institute. (n.d.). The Research. Retrieved from https://www.gottman.com/about/research/

The Gunas: A Path to Inner HarmonyIn the realm of ancient Indian philosophy, there exists a concept known as the "Gunas....
10/28/2023

The Gunas: A Path to Inner Harmony

In the realm of ancient Indian philosophy, there exists a concept known as the "Gunas." These Gunas are fundamental qualities that are believed to influence our thoughts, actions, and even our overall well being. They provide valuable insights into our energies, and by understanding and balancing them, we can achieve a more harmonious and fulfilling life.

Rajas - The Energy in Motion

Rajas is the Guna associated with energy, passion, and activity. It is characterized by restlessness, ambition, and the desire for change (Sharma, 2009). When Rajas is predominant in our lives, we often find ourselves driven by a constant need for achievement and growth. While this energy can be highly motivating, an excess of Rajas can lead to stress, anxiety, and impulsivity (Chopra, 1993).

Tamas - The Slow and Lethargic

Tamas represents inertia, darkness, and a sense of heaviness (Sharma, 2009). When Tamas is dominant, we may feel lethargic, unmotivated, and resistant to change. It can lead to procrastination, laziness, and a lack of clarity (Svoboda, 1987). While periods of rest and introspection are necessary, an excess of Tamas can hinder personal growth.

Sattvic - Seeking Goodness for Self and Environment

Sattva is the Guna associated with purity, balance, and harmony. It represents a state of goodness, where our actions are guided by selflessness, compassion, and a desire to do good for ourselves and our environment (Sharma, 2009). A Sattvic individual seeks spiritual growth and inner peace while striving for the well-being of all living beings (Chopra, 1993).

Check the website for the full blog post.
www.claritytherapylv.com/blog

References
Sharma, R. (2009). The Practice of Sattvic Living: A Comprehensive Guide to the Ayurvedic Way. Lotus Press.
Chopra, D. (1993). Perfect Health: The Complete Mind/Body Guide. Harmony.
Frawley, D. (1999). Ayurveda and the Mind: The Healing of Consciousness. Lotus Press.
Svoboda, R. (1987). Prakriti: Your Ayurvedic Constitution. Lotus Press.
Sharma, H. (2007). Freedom from Disease: How to Control Free Radicals, a Major Cause of Aging and Disease. Lotus Press.

Clarity Therapy is transitioning back to in-person sessions on Mondays at the Mysore & Ayurveda yoga shala in Las Vegas....
10/11/2023

Clarity Therapy is transitioning back to in-person sessions on Mondays at the Mysore & Ayurveda yoga shala in Las Vegas. You can book an appointment by visiting the link in our bio

Exploring the Path to Self-Realization in the Yoga Sutras: Beyond Intellectual KnowledgeThe ancient Yoga Sutras, written...
07/19/2023

Exploring the Path to Self-Realization in the Yoga Sutras: Beyond Intellectual Knowledge

The ancient Yoga Sutras, written by the sage Patanjali, serve as a guiding light for seekers on the path to self-realization and inner transformation (Patanjali, c. 400 CE). This profound text primarily focuses on Raja Yoga, unveiling the secrets to achieving self-realization (Samadhi) through a holistic practice that encompasses ethical disciplines, physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), concentration (dharana), meditation (dhyana), and higher states of consciousness (Samadhi). While the Yoga Sutras provide invaluable wisdom, some interpretations and commentaries delve into the idea that knowledge alone might not be enough to know the higher self and spiritual truths (Feuerstein, 1979). This blog post explores the concept of knowledge as a potential barrier to self-realization, emphasizing the significance of direct experience and inner realization through personal practice and discipline.

Direct Experience and Inner Realization
The Yoga Sutras advocate the importance of direct experience and inner realization. To know the higher self and unravel spiritual truths, practitioners must engage in personal practice and disciplined effort. Mere theoretical knowledge may not suffice; one must dive into the depths of their own being through meditation, self-inquiry, and introspection. By connecting with their innermost essence, seekers can go beyond the limitations of the mind and experience profound insights about the true nature of reality and the self.

Check the website for the full blog post.
www.claritytherapylv.com/blog

References:
Patanjali. (c. 400 CE). Yoga Sutras.
Feuerstein, G. (1979). The Yoga-Sutra of Patanjali: A New Translation and Commentary. Inner Traditions.
Taimni, I. K. (1961). The Science of Yoga: The Yoga-Sutras of Patanjali in Sanskrit with Transliteration in Roman, Translation, and Commentary in English. The Theosophical Publishing House.

Immunity Tea - For A Nutrient Rich Transition Into the Warm Seasonal MonthsAs we transition into the seasonal change, it...
03/16/2023

Immunity Tea - For A Nutrient Rich Transition Into the Warm Seasonal Months

As we transition into the seasonal change, it is valuable to check in with the strength of your immunity. Staying hydrated during the hot summer months is crucial for maintaining a balanced gut microbiome as well as maintaining hydration and strengthening your immunity. Additionally, as we transition to the summer season, we are exposed to a variety of plants and herbs which can aid in strengthening our immunity and aids value to be mindful of these changes to support the immune system. Nutrient dense and immunity strengthening herb cubes may be made as a refreshing tea for morning sipping as you wake and spend time in the sunlight.

To make immunity tea, you will need:
* 1 lemon, peeled
* 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, whole
* 1-inch piece of fresh turmeric, whole
* A handful of fresh mint leaves
* Ice cube tray, silicon recommended
* Filtered water
* High speed blender

Instructions:
1. Place the lemon, ginger, turmeric, and mint leaves in the high speed blender, and blend until a thick, viscous consistency
2. Fill the ice cube tray with the herb matter
3. Freeze the ice cube tray until the contents are frozen solid.
4. Once frozen, remove the ice cubes from the tray and store them in a freezer-safe, preferably reusable container or bag.

To use the immunity iced cubes, simply add one cube to a glass and pour boiling water. Allow to sleep as the cubes will slowly melt, infusing the water with the flavors and health benefits of the ingredients. For additional flavor, add raw unfiltered honey.

Check the blog post for health benefits of every ingredient

The circadian rhythm is a natural process that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and other physiological functions in the h...
02/07/2023

The circadian rhythm is a natural process that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and other physiological functions in the human body over a 24-hour period. It is controlled by a "master clock" located in the hypothalamus of the brain and is influenced by external factors such as light exposure, meal times, and social interactions.

The circadian rhythm influences a variety of bodily functions, including hormone levels, metabolism, and body temperature. It also affects the release of certain neurotransmitters that regulate mood, alertness, and sleep.
Disruptions to the circadian rhythm, such as those caused by shift work, jet lag, or disrupted sleep patterns, can lead to a variety of health problems, including sleep disorders, mood changes, and decreased cognitive function.

In general, the circadian rhythm is a critical component of overall health and well-being, and maintaining a consistent sleep-wake cycle is important for physical and mental health.

Circadium Rhythm Contributive to Sleep Health
The circadian rhythm is regulated by an area of the brain known as the hypothalamus and is influenced by several hormones, including melatonin.
A healthy circadian rhythm is crucial for good sleep health as it helps to regulate the timing of sleep and wakefulness. When the circadian rhythm is in sync with a person's sleep schedule, they are more likely to feel alert and awake during the day and fall asleep easily at night. On the other hand, disruptions to the circadian rhythm, such as from shift work or exposure to artificial light, can lead to sleep disorders and decreased sleep quality.
Therefore, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, avoiding exposure to screens and bright lights before bedtime, and engaging in physical activity during the day can help keep the circadian rhythm in sync and contribute to better sleep health.

Utilizing the Circadian Rhythm for Sleep Improvement
To use the circadian rhythm to improve sleep, it's important to understand the ways that the body clock regulates sleep and wakefulness.

Review the blog post on the website.

How Is Ayurveda Connected To Mental Health?Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes the importan...
12/08/2022

How Is Ayurveda Connected To Mental Health?

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes the importance of balance in the body and mind for overall health and well-being. According to Ayurvedic principles, good mental health is achieved when there is a balance of the three doshas, or bodily energies, known as Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Imbalances in these doshas can lead to physical and mental health problems.

Mental health refers to a person's overall psychological well-being. It includes their emotional, social, and psychological well-being, and it can affect how they think, feel, and behave. Mental health is an important part of overall health and well-being, and it's essential to pay attention to and take care of your mental health just as you would your physical health.

Building A Foundation Of Love In Intimate Relational DynamicsWhere the heart is full of purity which seeks no injury to ...
12/08/2022

Building A Foundation Of Love In Intimate Relational Dynamics

Where the heart is full of purity which seeks no injury to another, either in act or thought or wish, this full love creates an atmosphere of harmony, whose benign power touches with healing all who come within its influence. Peace in the heart radiates peace to other hearts, like a flowing river, this energy emulates, even more surely than contention breeds contention.
Patanjali

There are varying and specifically individualized ways to root your intimate relationship in love. With this awareness, a few mentionable notes include:

Communicate openly and honestly with your partner, and be willing to listen to their thoughts and feelings without judging or reacting defensively.

Show your love and appreciation for your partner through words, actions, and gestures, such as compliments, acts of service, and physical touch.

Make time for each other and prioritize your relationship, setting aside regular time to spend together and engage in activities that you both enjoy.

Practice forgiveness and let go of grudges, resentment, and anger, and instead focus on building trust, understanding, and mutual support.

Be patient and understanding, and remember that every relationship goes through ups and downs, and that it is important to work together to overcome challenges and grow together.

By taking these steps and being committed to fostering a loving and supportive relationship, you can help to root your intimate relationship in love.

How is your relationship rooted in love?

Alan Watts found a common principle that, intentionally or otherwise, seems to be used wherever therapy is trying to ove...
09/04/2022

Alan Watts found a common principle that, intentionally or otherwise, seems to be used wherever therapy is trying to overcome one’s false sense of themself as an isolated ego. Both Eastern philosophy and Western psychotherapy engage the individual in experiments that vividly reveal the fallacy of this conception and give them a new feeling of identity

The main resemblance between the Eastern way of life and Western psychotherapy is in the concern of both with bringing about changes of consciousness, changes in our ways of feeling our own existence and our relation to human society and the natural world. The practice in therapeutic space is an interested in changing the consciousness of those peculiarly disembodied. The disciplines of Buddhism and Taoism are concerned with changing the consciousness of normal, socially adjusted people. But is it increasingly apparent that the normal state of consciousness in our culture is both the context and the breeding ground of mental disease? A complex of societies of vast material wealth bent on mutual destruction is anything but a condition of social health. 
The parallel between psychotherapy and one of the most important differences is suggested by the prefix psycho-. Historically, Western psychology has directed itself to the study of the psyche or mind as a clinical entity, whereas Eastern cultures have not categorized mind and matter, soul and body, in the same way as the Western. But Western psychology has to some extent so outgrown its historical origins as to become dissatisfied with the very term "psychological" as describing a major field of human behavior. It is not that is has become possible, as Freud himself once hoped, to reduce psychology to neurology and mind to body. It is not that for the entity "mind" we can substitute the entity "nervous system". It is rather that psychology cannot stand aloof from the whole revolution in scientific description which has been going on in this twentieth century, a revolution in which conceptions of entities have become obsolete. The language of modern science is simply concerned with changing patterns of relationship.

Art therapy is an integrative mental health and human services profession through artistic application, creative process...
08/19/2022

Art therapy is an integrative mental health and human services profession through artistic application, creative process, applied psychological theory, and human experience within a psychotherapeutic relationship.
 •
Art therapy effectively supports personal and relational treatment goals. Art therapy is used to improve cognitive and sensorimotor functions, foster self-esteem and self-awareness, cultivate emotional resilience, promote insight, enhance social skills, reduce and resolve conflicts and distress, and advance societal and ecological change.

• Look without looking • Tell your story • Practice mindful drawing • Explore what you're creating & letting go of • Use art as a release • Collage your emotions • Play with clay • Draw your mood daily •

How do you apply your artistic practice of self-care inclusive of acknowledging, honoring and holding space for your emotions?

Utilize the website for further details & book an appointment with the link in bio.

www.claritytherapylv.com
call/text for details & booking (702) 482-8866

The ATCB’s Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) credential, accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).

Today in the office, there was discussion about proponents of the wellness model (e.g., Chopra, 1989). Assume that the b...
07/06/2022

Today in the office, there was discussion about proponents of the wellness model (e.g., Chopra, 1989). Assume that the body has an inherent wisdom or intelligence, and that the best way to know one's health is through one's own experience and awareness of one's own body. As physical postures in yoga are held to be an essential gateway to spiritual discovery (Iyengar, 2005), it is clear that the philosophy of yoga is congruent with the assumptions of the wellness model. Stated Iyengar (2005): There can be no realization of existential, divine bliss without the support of the soul's incarnate vehicle, the food-and-water-fed body, from bone to brain. If we can become aware of its limitations and compulsions, we can transcend them. We all possess some awareness of ethical behavior, but in order to pursue yama and niyama at deeper levels, we need contentment, tranquility, dispassion, and unselfishness, qualities that have to be earned. It is asana that teaches us the physiology of these virtues. Health begins with firmness in body, deepens to 91 emotional stability, then leads to intellectual clarity, wisdom, and finally the unveiling of the soul. There is physical health, moral health, mental health, intellectual health, and even the health of our consciousness, health of our conscience, and ultimately divine health. As long as the body is not in perfect health, you are caught in body consciousness alone. This distracts you from healing and culturing the mind. The body will prove to be an obstacle unless we transcend its limitations and remove its compulsions. You cannot catch a glimpse of the divine except through the body. (pp. 11-26)

A definition of attunement 'is a kinesthetic and emotional sensing of others knowing their rhythm, affect and experience...
06/25/2022

A definition of attunement 'is a kinesthetic and emotional sensing of others knowing their rhythm, affect and experience by metaphorically being in their skin, and going beyond empathy to create a two-person experience of unbroken feeling connectedness by providing a reciprocal affect and/or resonating response.

Is there presence of attunement in you today?

Address

Las Vegas, NV

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 6:30pm
Tuesday 10am - 6:30pm
Wednesday 10am - 6:30pm
Thursday 10am - 6:30pm
Friday 10am - 6:30pm

Telephone

+17024828866

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