Lifting Your Spirits is a unique and practical audio guide designed to help people coping with illness or disability. Drawing on the insights of those who have experienced the challenges of serious illness, it introduces seven simple tools to develop inner strength and enhance well-being on all levels. Each tool offers practical and inspiring ways of dealing with the physical and emotional upheaval and uncertainty which illness presents. Some focus on preparing for surgery and treatment, others on coping with pain, anxiety or depression. Each chapter contains background information, illustrative examples, ideas for practice, and meditations for deep, healing relaxation.

The guide can be used by individuals for their own sustenance, or introduced into patient support groups, treatment and therapy centres, hospices, day centres and other healthcare services.

Contents

Illness and change

Illness and opportunity

How to use this guide

Tool 1 Meditation: discovering the power of peace

Tool 2 Visualisation: picturing good health

Tool 3 Appreciation: giving thanks

Tool 4 Creativity: learning to express ourselves

Tool 5 Listening: deepening our connection with others

Tool 6 Play: enjoying the benefits of fun and laughter

Tool 7 Reflection: making time for meeting ourselves

Going forwards