How to ask for what you need when you're recovering from withdrawal syndrome... http://wp.me/p5nnb-bdH

[GiaK]

I wrote another post about my dancing today...

 

in it is a paragraph that is simply about how I create a safe place for myself when I go into the world among "normal" people ... I always make sure I can be accommodated because I still need that and if I didn't do this ahead of time I wouldn't be able to go out at all. 

 

I'm sharing the paragraphs about how I do that so that folks can consider it when they are ready to rejoin the world to some degree...

 

"I’m still rehabbing so before I attend any class (yoga, dance, Tai Chi, or even non-exercise events, actually) I always ask the teacher or organizers if it would be okay if I sit down or leave early. I tell the people that I do not want to disrupt the class or event in any way and if it’s not a situation that comfortably allows for such accommodation I will not be offended in any way. That has worked out really well. I express my needs and also my concern for the classes needs. Most of the time there is no conflict. On a couple of occasions I have been told it probably wouldn’t work out and I’m grateful to know that and I simply don’t go to the class or event. This is how I have learned to take care of myself and make healthy boundaries.

 

So yesterday, I actually danced for about half an hour and then I left. It was perfect for me. My nervous system goes into overdrive very easily and so I need to listen very intently to my body so that I don’t overdo it. I know a lot of folks recovering from psychiatric drug use and withdrawal are in similar conditions so I share my strategies that you, too, might learn to ask for what you need and start to create safe spaces for yourselves as I am learning to do. I’m so grateful to have found so many lovely people in my community that are willing to help support my rehabilitation process. I needed to ask, though, to find them."

 

you can read the whole article and watch a Nia video here: http://wp.me/p5nnb-bdH

[compsports]

GiaK,

 

Why would it be disruptive to the class if you were to situate yourself in the back in case you needed to leave early?  Just wondering.

 

Excellent advice.

[GiaK]

there are many situations in which a teacher prefers participation. I'm not only talking about one thing here either...not just about leaving...but also maybe sitting doing nothing while others are still doing stuff...or doing something different altogether. that's not always welcome...for me it can be necessary. Putting props and equipment away can also be distracting...there are many things I've run into that I have to consider.