A haiku is three simple lines, and traditionally, a syllable count of 5-7-5. This workshop, led by licensed mental health counselor Alison C. Issen, will explore using the reading and the writing of these short poems as a way to practice mindfulness. Creating your own haikus encourages you to calm the restless mind, notice what is overlooked, explore the world around us and fully encounter the present moment. As many spiritual practices seek to do, the haiku’s spare yet acute noticing of the immediate and ordinary, grounds us in the now. Bring pen and paper, and look at aspects of haiku composition including seasons, a haiku diary, and how to read haiku.
This program is presented by Alison C. Issen and is hosted by the Winter Park Health Foundation.
Special notes: Please bring a notepad and pen or pencil to this program for taking notes and to practice writing your own haikus.
About the Presenter:
Alison C. Issen has a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from the University of Central Florida, and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, as well as a Registered Nurse. Alison recently retired as the outpatient counselor at Orlando Health/UFHealth Cancer Center. For several years, Alison coordinated the Sage-ing Center, a program that encourages and supports adults of all ages, and particularly those in the second half of life, to inventory, evaluate, and intentionally plan a life of purpose, learning, fulfillment, and community service. Alison brought this comprehensive program to the hospice several years ago and developed Hospice of the Comforter’s Quality of Life Education Program. Alison has taught psychology at the college level and has worked in the field of health and wellness for over 35 years, including over 10 years as a hospice nurse and counselor. Her specialty areas include stress management, grief and loss, end-of-life, aging and relationship issues, Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy, and Positive Psychology. Beyond her professional life, Alison is an “extreme gardener,” volunteers at a local animal shelter, and performs with local singing and theatre groups.
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