Blossom, Bud, Leaves & Stem Exercise
Welcome to Going Forward: Survivors to Thrivers, a community built to empower individuals who have experienced sexual abuse. In the wake of the #MeToo movement, many have wondered what comes next. We have broken our silence and worked to heal our wounds both visible and deeply personal. Are you feeling caught between worlds of light and dark, grinding your gears to get to that next plane of living? Join our community of people striving to live fully realized lives as Thrivers.
Earlier in the month you got to know us. Now we would like to meet you. Best part, you can do this exercise in a comfortable space without having to leave your tech bubble. You are going to take a subliminal trip to introduce yourself to Tambry and in the process possible gain some new insights or reframing about yourself. We ask that you approach this exercise with an open heart and a spirit that is both curious and loving.
Begin by finding a comfortable space and then open the About page featuring Tambry’s story. Focus on her image and start to soften your gaze. Let your mind create an outdoor space to meet Tambry. Use all your senses to experience the space. Be mindful to sights, smells and sounds; perhaps you can feel the sun’s warmth or the coolness of a breeze. You notice a gate, it begins to open and Tambry walks over to you. Introduce yourself and sit in pleasant company for as long as its comfortable for you. When you are ready, begin to notice a flowering plant nearby. This plant represents facets of you, as you currently are, on your journey.
Take notice first of the Blossoms, this is what you display to the outside world. When you are ready, drift your attention towards any buds. What stages of development are they in? What are you trying to develop within yourself? Next observe the leaves. Often overlooked, leaves are fragile, yet critical as they produce the energy for the plant to thrive and the byproduct of the energy conversion is oxygen, the building block for all life. Where are you directing your energy? What in you feels fragile and might require additional attention? Finally, pay attention to the stem, which provides the plant internal and external support. What are your supports systems like? Are you giving yourself enough self-care? Are you surrounding yourself with uplifting people or do you have things weighing your down?
Use this space to garner insights without judgements, and if called, consider Tambry as a sounding board. When you are ready, say your (temporary) goodbyes. Know you are adding to your support system. As you leave this space, notice how you might be filled with peace, gratitude and fellowship.
When you return to your present, you can journal your experience or draw the plant. Be patient and loving to yourself. Be willing to accept that all aspects are comprised of both the light and darkness. Feel free to email us or share your experiences on our socials. Your voice and your spirit are welcomed and treasured in the Going Forward: Survivors to Thrivers community.
Talk To Tambry
I am glad you have taken the time to engage with this blog. Sometimes it is helpful to process new insights that emerge. If you would appreciate brief time with a someone who understands, our Talk to Tambry offering is for you. For 30 minutes, you can receive support from Tambry who is a certified life coach, spiritual director and a survivor who has been on the journey as well. This is offered at a reduced rate of $50.