How I helped train forest school staff using nature-informed psychology
I recently had this crazy opportunity to lead a workshop called “Nature-Informed Psychology for Neurodiverse Children” at a forest school in Nova Scotia. The session was a key part of their staff training day, aimed at equipping educators with effective strategies for supporting neurodiverse children through nature. Despite a minor setback with the projector (yes, technical glitches happen!), the didactic part of the workshop remained engaging. I seized the moment to take the team on a nature…
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Harvard Divinity School invited me to speak about Tarot
So, I now have a publication with Harvard University. It was an honor to be invited to present my research paper entitled “Diasporic Mysticism, Psychology, & Tarot: A Path to Decolonizing Intuitive Development”, at Harvard Divinity School on April 25, 2024. I talked about the fascinating intersection of Tarot, psycho-spirituality, and the struggles of diasporic communities throughout history. It explores how the historical disenfranchisement of the Roma people has influenced Tarot’s modern interpretation and how the cards can serve as a powerful tool for…
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Diasporic Mysticism
As I delve into the rich tapestry of Romani spirituality and its intersection with various cultural and religious influences, I’m reminded of the research I’ve conducted for my upcoming presentation at Harvard University’s conference on Alternative Spiritualities: Engaging our Colonial and Decolonial Contexts. Titled “Diasporic Mysticism, Psychology, & Tarot: A Path to Decolonizing Intuitive Development“, my paper explores how diverse spiritual practices can offer profound insights into decolonization and intuitive growth, based on the academic…
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Your Brain on Ritual
Rituals are an important part of life regardless of one’s beliefs. Psychology research has shown that we need rituals to regulate emotions and foster social connections. Whether it’s moving into a new home, losing a friend or welcoming the winter solstice, we feel good when we can externalise the shift that we are grappling with by practising a ritual to honour these life changes. Unlike ordinary actions, rituals don’t have a clear goal, they’re arbitrary. Brushing your…
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Tarot as an Act of Resistance
Tarot, often misunderstood as mere fortune-telling, offers a profound avenue for personal empowerment and spiritual exploration. Unlike traditional monotheistic religions that require intermediaries for spiritual guidance, tarot allows individuals a direct, independent connection to the divine, challenging hierarchical structures.In Western culture, we tend to favour the logical and linear aspects of the “left brain,” often overlooking the symbolic and intuitive language of the “right brain.” Tarot bridges this gap, offering a language of symbols, metaphors, and…
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Exciting News: NURTURING YOUR INTUITIVE SOUL Course is Live!
It’s here, friends. 🚀 If you’re feeling ready for a new self-care strategy and want to connect with your creative, right-brain holistic parts, but you hold off because you’re too busy or feel depleted this course is DESIGNED for you. Discover NURTURING YOUR INTUITIVE SOUL, my new course that offers effective strategies for self-care and creative exploration. Combining evidence-based practices like nature connection and values work with heart-centred activities like tarot and ritual, this course…
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What are the Benefits of Nature Informed Therapy?
This post was originally posted on my sister site, https://lauracohen.org/ Don’t you love the feeling you get when you drive out of the city, the skyscrapers and traffic sounds fade away and you find yourself surrounded by crisp air, lush trees, and chirping birds? Ahh…the peace, the quiet, the release. If you’ve had this type of experience, you’re not alone: increasing research demonstrates the many mental health benefits of spending time in nature. Ecotherapy, applied…
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Western Psychology Meets Ancient Myths
Western Psychology meets Mythical Narrative In the dynamic intersection between Western psychology and mythical narratives, we uncover a rich tapestry of insights that weave together the holistic aspects of the human condition. In the realm of Western psychology, we delve into the complexities of the human psyche, exploring the intricacies of thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. The emphasis on empirical research and evidence-based practices forms a solid foundation for understanding mental processes. But, the integration of mythical…
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The Transformative Power of Intuitive Writing
Today, let’s explore the therapeutic power of handwriting, a practice often overlooked in our digital age. I’m not dismissing typing—it has its place in reports and storytelling. However, when it comes to an effective and self-care exercise, the handwritten approach takes the stage. Research suggests that intuitive writing, and a particular form of journaling, can significantly impact mental well-being during life transitions. Whether navigating a new job, a lifestyle change, or coping with loss, the act of…
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