The Hindu word "Ashram" refers to a spiritual hermitage or spiritual retreat (Wikipedia, 2013). Historically, this sanctuary was located in a distance from human habitation and was a place where one would find inner tranquility and peace.
In my work with trauma survivors (many of which have sexual addiction), especially those who have been physically, emotionally, or sexually abused as children, some share the perplexity of having fantasies that disturb them while arousing them at the same time. As we uncover the deeper meaning of these fantasies, individuals often say that they experience a sense of resolve with this part of their painful past, and begin to be able to embrace intimacy in a new and healthier way, regardless of their sexual preference.
"What is your worth?" How do you answer this question?
Many people typically respond by assigning numeric value to their worth. One's response: "I am worth" is often followed by a disclosure of a numeric value based on their accumulated assets, etc.
If you take out the notion of assigning numeric value to your worth, however, and ask yourself: "What am I really worth?" What comes up for you? What thoughts, feelings, physical sensations arise?
I have treated hundreds of clients in my 10 years of practicing therapy and I must say that I am convinced that one's upbringing has an enormous impact on their future issues in relationships, and with various addictions. Let's face it, we have an addicted society here in the US. People will use anything and more to escape their "realities"....and the age when addictions start is getting younger and younger, no matter what one's faith or background. Neither religion nor other forms of societal control can stop it..... but you and I can. It starts at home.
The recent tragedy in Connecticut that left 20 children and 6 adults dead has stirred up feelings of intense emotional unrest. Several of my clients have shared worrying about their children going to school; some have shared a desire to stand outside of their children’s classrooms to ensure they are safe. As I have listened and attempted to console my client’s worry and sadness (as well as their feelings of guilt and relief that it wasn’t their children’s school), I recognize how easy it is to get emotionally engulfed in fear. Fear of the unknown, fear of strangers, fear of death, fear of the dark, fear of tragedy, fear of poverty, etc., etc.