Genuine Relating – in the “new normal”
What is going on right now?
Are we moving towards freedom, or away from it?
Does anyone even know?
2021 has been such a unique year with lockdowns, vaccine debate and uncertainty creating a state of stress, anxiety and more anxiety. These challenges have tested our resilience and resources around how to best survive and live within a stressed, fearful and confused society. The feedback I receive from clients is that they are under resourced and struggling to cope with the new normal. This has prompted me to reflect on my own personal practice, my resilience work around Genuine Relating, and my practice as a counsellor and psychotherapist and querying ‘Where to from here?’
As our society moves out of restriction and towards relative freedoms, new stresses and fears are apparent. We are now asked to make choices whether to vax or not to vax, amid the possible implications and consequences of that decision. This need to choose is now the new restriction and lack of freedom. There’s an old saying that goes “the abnormal is now becoming the normal,” and I see it ringing true as rules are imposed on us but sold as choice.
As I watch and observe our community, I see relationship stress growing and issues around shame and guilt are becoming more part of our culture. So many types of stress are entering the equation at the moment:
- Personal stress
- Relationship stress
- Family Stress
- Community Stress
- Work Stress
- Financial Stress
And the list goes on.
It’s no wonder so many people are struggling in relationships right now. So. Much. Stress.
How does Genuine Relating fit into this mess?
How can Genuine Relating work with these pressures?
This is exactly where Genuine Relating thrives. Genuine Relating promotes healthy intimate relationships throughout all seasons, the rosy and the thorny. By supporting people to understand that there’s a whole complexity of emotions and other “hidden stuff” going on in the relationship, Genuine Relating moves people towards deeper intimacy. Genuine Relating honours each person’s unique experiences of stress and the current situation, to draw together to focus on connection. It’s this connection that is often broken during times of stress and misunderstandings. It’s also something I’m passionate about helping people with.
During times of stress such as these, we also often see the rise of addiction and addictive behaviours as people seek ways to avoid their difficult reality. Uncertainty is difficult for many. Isolation has been difficult for a great many as well. Genuine Relating’s dynamic approach cuts to the core and uncovers the uniqueness of how each person experiences triggers, difficult experiences and conflict. People experiencing the same event, don’t always have the same response. Genuine relating is so helpful in healing addiction and providing support to the surrounding relationships.
Now, more than ever, we need strong, healthy relationships. Healthy relationships can provide support and a buffer against the storms of life’s difficult times. They are also a great source of joy and bring vibrancy to life.
Contact me today to discuss how Genuine Relating can support you and your relationships through this new normal.