Hey Reader,

Last week I had a pretty mammoth anxiety episode. It wasn't enjoyable (**um, obviously**), but coming out the other side, I quickly reflected on the toolbox I had to help me through an event like this. I have learnt that mental health isn't the absence of having crappy things happen to you; it's being as equipped as possible to reach for your action plan when an emergency strikes to help you recover as quickly as possible.

Also, while our society has created a narrative that we are in control of our own destiny, I would like to remind us all that community is essential to our mental health and overall human existence. Knowing what services are available and who we can lean on when we need a hand reminds us of that connection and is incredibly valuable as a way to set ourselves up to get through tougher times.

Something that has helped me in the past is the Self-Soothing Action Plan I put together. It is a simple downloadable you can mindfully colour in or share with your kids. It allows you, in advance, to note the things you need in case of an emergency.

*** In an emergency where soothing your nervous system isn't enough, please call your appropriate helplines***

Join us This Weekend for Creative Play and Community!

I would also love to invite you to a FREE online session of the Permission to Play members group this weekend! 🌟

Imagine carving out a small pocket of time dedicated to creative play, connecting with community, and boosting your mental well-being. That's exactly what I am offering you!

I want this opportunity to be open for everyone as I fundamentally believe that making more time for the things that boost our creativity, connect us in supportive ways and encourage us to develop and grow in a safe environment are the steps forward for us as a collective body.

Just showing up can do wonders for your mind. Engaging in creative activities reduces stress, anxiety, and depression, leaving you feeling refreshed and more centred.

And this invitation goes out specifically to those folk who have used the line before, "Oh, I'm not creative!"

Think again! I believe everyone is born curious, and this group is the place to start making small pockets of time to refind that spark. Our sessions are designed to help you discover and nurture that wonder, no matter your experience level.

Here is something I worked on over the last few sessions.

What to Expect

Our upcoming session will begin with an acknowledgment of Country, an introduction, and a discussion of what we will play with. I always encourage self-expression and imagination, and each session is very open-ended. We are actually focusing on affirmations in this session, so I look forward to that! You'll be surprised at how therapeutic and joyous it can be to let go and just play! We chat and connect and it's very low-key and chilled. Those that wear bras; they are always optional, as I say!! haha.

Details for the Session:

This Sunday night 7.30pm AEST online via Zoom.

Join this session for free so you can see for yourself the way we gather and what we do. If you love it, like Sarah and Helen, our most recent members, you can join later on!

Whether you've told yourself you're not creative or simply haven't found the right outlet, this is your chance to see how transformative creative play can be. It's not about being perfect; it's about showing up, connecting, and finding some joy!

Reply with "READY TO PLAY" and I will send you the Zoom link!

Until soon.

With Kindness,
Delphie Joy xox

P.S. Feel free to invite friends or family who might benefit from a little creative boost!