Workshops

Thriving with life work balance

Does your chest constrict, breath becomes shallow; does your stomach churn at the impossibility and unattainability of that goal?

We are told that all the moving parts of our life must fit neatly; the have-to's must absolutely balance out the get-to's. Yet, the harder we try to attain this ephemeral balance, the further it seems to move away.

How in the world are we supposed to BALANCE conflicting priorities, excel across multiple life domains, and fit 48 hours of activity into 24-hour days?

We can't. At least not in a permanent kind of way. Balance can only exist in a singular moment; once the moment is gone so is the 'old' balance. Permanent balance is only achievable when we are already six feet under. Instead, we should aim for Life Harmony.

Think of a beautiful symphony. With more than 100 instruments playing, each gets its turn to shine and a turn to rest, each has a role of importance assigned by the composer and interpreted by the conductor. Some instruments play throughout the score, some only get a brief part. The result is not balance, but beautiful harmony that touches the soul and nourishes the spirit.

Emotional connection in the family

Modern research shows that human connection and attachment are essential to feeling happy and healthy. Specifically, we need emotional connection with other people in order to thrive. And the best place to receive connection is with our kids and partner.

This workshop focuses on how to develop, maintain and repair the emotional connection between romantic partners, and between parents and children. Topics include ways to foster productive communication, to notice and share your partner’s wins, and to find time and energy to be present. The workshop consists of a lecture followed by a question and answer period.

Living your best self

Are you feeling blah, unmotivated, or melancholy of spirit? Do you find things you used to like aren't as enjoyable? Or do you have less patience with your partner and children? Do you remember the last time you were truly inspired in a meaningful way? If you can relate to these experiencing this is the workshop to reset and bring back your guiding light.

A common reason we get stuck in these tough places is learning about ourselves is hard. We can also feel (mistakenly) it won’t change anything. Mostly, however, it’s because when we approach the mirror to examine ourselves and the dark places we find, it brings discomfort we fear we won't get out of. And frankly, none of us have time to get stuck in darkness. So we keep going, but our cup is not full.

This workshop uses key concepts of self compassion and self awareness as a guide to personal renewal as it relates to individual goals, improving career satisfaction and connecting in marriage and family. We explore how and why to fuel a happy mind, take meaningful action, lean into positive relationships and distant from toxic relationships, and use time wisely making sure not to miss iconic moments.

The workshop consists of a lecture, large group discussion and a question and answer period.

Parenting the tween years so they will want to talk to us at 25

We often spend the years between 9-12 years old focusing on academic abilities and social concerns in elementary years and then prepare for the teen years. And we miss the explosion that is taking place right in front of us right here, right now. This is a time to lean into our children and who they are and yet to become. This tween period of development is when they are most vulnerable and we as parents can be impactful. Tweens need to have people and places to feel safe and supported through these years because in reality, tweens are confused, too!

In this workshop Dr. Craig walks us through the neurobiological milestone before puberty, discusses ways to build emotional connection and offers survival tips for parents during this developmental stage.

Men and depression

The physiological differences between men and women, as well as the differences in the life circumstances and familial and societal expectations, contribute to the onset of symptoms related to depression and inform how each gender experiences, expresses and copes with depression.

Men are more likely to experience symptoms that differ from the commonly referenced presentation of depression - sadness. Anger, aggression, and irritability are more likely expressions of depression in men. They are also less likely to recognize and acknowledge their symptoms and less likely to seek treatment.

This workshop was created to help men and their families navigate this common, albeit difficult to face, problem: to provide the resources, tools, and encouragement needed to recognize and treat depression.