"Creating mandala stones has taught me a lot about myself - one, I need to learn some patience! But it also showed me how to be present and how to learn to let things go.... to be a little more carefree" - Kimberly
The Mandala is a form of Buddhist art, which encompasses a variety of symbolism. The centre of the the Mandala represents awakening - moving from suffering into enlightenment - or in the case of our workshop, moving along your own personal journey toward self-expression!
Creation of your individual Mandalas has many benefits, particularly as a meditative process. Meditation has been found to decrease stress, improve the immune system, decrease blood pressure, and improve cognitive function (Ref) And best of all, creating Mandalas is fun!
This workshop is for women who are, or have been, affected by cancer. It will provide an opportunity for you to express your individual story in a creative way, while learning meditative practices to facilitate self care and well-being.
At the end of the day you will feel refreshed and will have three beautiful Mandalas to take home with you as a reminder of your journey in expressing your past, present, and future.
What to Expect
The workshop will be held at The Sunrise Regina Public Library - 3130 Woodhams Dr, Regina (see the map below for directions)
- Please arrive a little bit early so that we can get you set up for the workshop.
- Please wear clothing that you are comfortable in. We don't expect to get too wild, but be aware that we are working with paint that is difficult to get out of fabrics.
- A mat (e.g. yoga mat) and blanket is recommended for our meditation activities.
We will take a one hour lunch break. There are a few restaurants within walking distance and more within a short drive.
Schedule - Sept 29, 2018
9:45 Arrive
10:00 Welcome Circle (Body Scan)
10:20 Scribble Warm-up
10:30 Break
12:00 Lunch
1:00 Afternoon Activity
5:00 Closing Circle
$100/ Participant - Supplies included
About the Facilitators:
Heidi Watson is an Occupational Therapist by trade. After graduating from the University of Manitoba she started a private practice to help service the needs in south-east Saskatchewan. She has worked with adults and children of all ages with many different intervention styles.
Art has always been an important part of her life as a way to relieve stress and express her inner world. She tries to use art in her daily practice as a way to develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and cognitive skill development.
She is excited to utilize art as a way to facilitate expression and healing in this workshop!
Kimberly Bitz is an Occupational Therapist with a background in Kinesiology and Mental Health. A native of Alberta, she brought her experience and diverse skill set to Saskatchewan to help populations across the lifespan. From pediatrics to end of life care, Kimberly has a passion for helping clients achieve their best life by exploring their personal interests and goals.
A mother of two teen daughters, Kimberly leads an active life, and has embraced using physical activity and meditative practices as tools for achieving both mental and physical health. As a member of the board of directors for the Weyburn branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association, she places a high value on the promotion of mental health in individuals and the greater community.
Kimberly looks forward to growing with you as you explore new ways to express and nurture your individual self!