“Life is difficult.” Scott Peck, Psychiatrist

Life is challenging, capricious, and agonizing. It is also wondrous, beautiful and beneficent. Working (and living) within these two realities requires us to develop skills of resilience and the ability to rise, and rise again, while under stress. Research from the fields of positive psychology and resilience provide guidance for us as we seek to enable others to strengthen their capacities while elevating our own.

This workshop provides insight into principles and practices that increase resilience and wellbeing. Specifically we will consider: reframing stress into opportunity, increasing growth mindsets in our clients/patients, leveraging character strengths, heightening gratitude and exploring the principles of authenticity and the ideal self. In addition to these perspectives and tools we will examine why mindfulness is crucial to all resilience and happiness, and learn fast skills that center our minds, calm our hearts, and widen our capacity for wisdom.

Pre-registration is recommended

Dr. Sirois will also be speaking about “The Paradox of Loving Life While Caregiving” on Thursday evening, March 2, from 7:00pm until 9:00pm, also at the Whitley Center. This event is free and open to the public.

This event is hosted by The Institute for the Advancement of Mindful Living, The Mind Science Foundation and the peaceCENTER.

Maria Sirois, PsyD

Dr. Maria Sirois is a clinical psychologist who has worked in the intersections of psychology and wellbeing for more than twenty years, focusing on the resilience of the human spirit, life flourishing through positive psychology, and personal transformation.

Known for her wisdom, fearless authenticity and rampant humor, she brings a depth of experience to the worlds of health and wellness for corporate and non-profit audiences alike.

Sirois is the author of the forthcoming book A Short Course in Happiness After Loss (And Other Difficult Times) and Every Day Counts: Lessons in Love, Faith and Resilience, which is used as a teaching tool in wellness centers, hospices and hospitals and brings forward wisdom from those who are living while dying.

A master teacher, who presents internationally, Sirois has been called an orator of great power and beauty. With Tal Ben-Shahar, she co-leads a year-long certificate training program in positive psychology for executives, educators, entrepreneurs, counselors and the general public. She has recently developed the Teaching for Transformation series, which is designed for all presenters who seek to develop and improve their skills and impact.  She is vice president of curriculum for Wholebeing Institute.

For more information about Sirois visit: www.mariasirois.com