SAMPLE OF PRESENTATIONS
Lectures are usually one hour in length, but can be shortened or lengthened to suit the
specific time allotted. Many of these topics can also be arranged as half or full-day
workshops and would then include experiential activities.
(Click on highlighted presentations to view a sample of descriptions)
STRESS REDUCTION:
Life is stressful, and the aging process can and often increases stress in our lives. Stress appears to play a role in the onset of both emotional/mental and biological inharmonies and disorders. Obviously being “stressed out” impairs ones sense of happiness and psychological well-being. It is also directly related to the ability of the individual to meet and creatively adapt to the changes and challenges associated with aging. Being aware of the state of one’s emotional well-being provides the impetus for facing these challenges and developing skills and creative adaptations to cope with them. Successful coping strategies are suggested.
THE CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES OF AGING: AN OVERVIEW:
Aging presents many challenges including social and cultural forms of ageism, physical and mental diminution of capacity, personal and interpersonal loss, meaningfulness and purpose, death and dying and other changes. This presentation brings to awareness these challenges and provides stimulating insights that enable us to transform them into opportunities for rebirth and the continued creative growth and development of the individual.
A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO HEALTH AND WELL BEING: THE CHOICE IS OURS:
Provides an overview of concepts and assumptions concerning aging, emphasizes the importance of nurturing all aspects of oneself – physical, psychological, emotional and spiritual, gives helpful insights into “conscious aging”, and inspires one to use the challenges of life as opportunities for renewal and rebirth.
AWAKENING THE ELDER AT ANY AGE:
The “elder” has become synonymous with the apex of a mature life culminating in the development and acceptance of a role and purpose in society that consists of giving back to society, especially the younger generation in terms of one’s expertise, experience, judgment, wisdom and wealth. It is a more selfless role that is concerned about the well-being of others. This presentation defines this ideal role, speaks to some of its parameters and attempts to awaken people to seek and accept this responsible, meaningful role for themselves.
THE SPIRITUAL DIMENSIONS OF AGING:
A discussion of the critical nature that the role of spirituality can play in facing the particular challenges of aging including death and dying, loss and suffering and the need of purpose and meaning in ones life. Defines spirituality through a review of its ideal components in the light of developing these components in ones own life as a source of strength, blessing, wisdom and meaningfulness, as well as being able to relate to and help others in their aging challenges.
SPIRITUALITY, AGING AND EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING:
A review of the particular mental and emotional challenges inherent through the aging process. The utilization of spirituality and ones own spiritual development as a resource in meeting these challenges, and the benefits derived from active engagement in this process – enhancement of meaning and purpose, increased wisdom and power, a source of guidance and direction and social support amongst others.
LIVING LONGER: A TIME OF INCREASED OPPORTUNITY:
Innovative medical practice and increased public health standards through the years have advanced the life span from 47 at the beginning of the 20th century to over 80 in the 21st. We are living healthier, better quality lives than ever before in history. This evolutionary development has provided this present population with over three decades of increased opportunity to experience and appreciate more of this miracle we call life; to continue to develop our wondrous, inexhaustible human potential; to give back to society in the spirit of elderhood; and to have the time to delve deep into the meaning of life and individual purpose. This presentation will explore the incredible possibilities inherent in this time.
POEMS and REFLECTIONS on AGING:
Poetry readings that beautifully and succinctly reveal the experiences, insights, tragedy, humor and revelations of the aging experience. Comments from the speaker and discussion with the audience. Copies of the poems will be available.
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