TIS THE SEASON TO BE HEALTHY, WEALTHY & WISE Family law and holistic therapies To all of our loyal readers, the team at Calley Family Lawyers wishes you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Many of our clients experience significant stress and emotional trauma when their marriage or de facto relationships end. For some, the uncertainty of negotiating a possible ‘legal minefield’ is ever present whereas others may have difficulty finding a way forward knowing that their relationship with a long term partner is at an end. There can be an inability to sleep, focus or function as a consequence of feeling overwhelmed by the major change of managing children and finances or being alone. There are many reasons why relationships end and in cases where break-ups have been unexpected or riddled with sadness, clients may carry an emotive burden. Common reactions include confusion, grief, anger, anxiety, depression or a combination of these effects. Some clients may have a sense of relief after many years of indecision however others present with guilt for making what seems like a ‘selfish’ yet necessary choice. Low self esteem and disempowerment from years of emotional or physical abuse may also manifest. At Calley Family Lawyers we take an empathetic approach with our clients and recognise that one size does not fit all. As expert family lawyers we are able to provide clients with tailored advice and strategies aimed at dealing with the legal aspects of separation in a dignified and considered manner. As is the case with modern medical practice where patients are encouraged to explore comple mentary treatments, holistic therapies may benefit a number of individuals experiencing the effects of a relationship breakdown. A number of clients undertake counselling and psychotherapy with suitably-credentialed practitioners to assist them to deal with their stress and trauma in a discussion-based environment. The key to this process is trust and an inter-personal connection between the treatment provider and the client. A recent trend has seen spiritual-based practices such as reiki, holistic counselling, mediumship and techniques to alter belief systems drawing in an increased number of participants. Many clients are seeking more introspective and philosophical approaches to managing change in their lives. Angela McMahon of Angel Road Healing is an experienced intuitive healer, psychic and medium who has assisted many separated parties over a number of years. She explains that “the aim is to settle down the adrenaline or scattered and fear energy and to give practical tips and healings to help gain clarity, strength and a sense of empowerment. The ability to function by taking one step at a time is important for an individual as they work through the many changes and decisions”. For some separated parties, walking, meditation or even a gym workout can help clear the mind and give the body the opportunity to release nervous energy. Carmen Jordan of Spiritual Discovery, a life coach and medium also notes that clients in the throes of a relationship breakdown are seeking clarity arising from a loss of purpose. Many separated parties opt for life coaching services to re-focus on their goals and aspirations which may have changed as a result of their separation. Ms Jordan states, “achieving peace of mind is important for many. Clients are seeking re-assurance for the future.” In some cases this may involve simple steps such as receiving encouragement to re-enter the dating scene whereas for others this may entail more targeted self-reflection. Every case is different and reactions to separation reflect this. Parties should consult with a medical practitioner, counsellor, accountant or family lawyer for advice about areas of concern to assist in gaining some control via knowledge. This will often pave the way for the right courses of action to follow. Parties should also consider recording their thoughts in a diary or journal. Once written down, the stress of retaining that information in the mind dissipates. The nervous system will invariably settle and this can prove cathartic in releasing worries. A journal may also act as a “new best friend” – a trusted source with whom personal thoughts and feelings can be shared without having to disclose these details to a person for the fear of betrayal. As advised by Ms McMahon, separating parties should “try to take one day at a time rather than looking to the future which in the early days can be overwhelming. Don’t be in a rush to fix things …. A big change such as a relationship breakdown is a time of grieving and change so it is best to surrender to the process.” Calley Family Lawyers was recently involved with the Think Body and Love Summer event facilitated by divorce blogger, ‘The Divorce Go To Girl’ aka Renee Catt. As the platinum event sponsor, Firm Principal, Vic Rajah spoke to the audience about the importance of getting legal advice early in the separation process. The theme of the evening was about empowerment and Mr Rajah’s message emphasised that being knowledgeable about one’s rights and entitlements worked hand in hand with resolving all aspects of one’s separation quickly and quite often amicably. All the best for happy and healthy 2016! |
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