William Schmidt Somatics

Ten years ago today I painted the last corner on what was to be the next chapter of my life, my Counseling Office.

Its turned out to be SO much more than I ever imagined; not just a Counseling or Therapy office for people to come and "dump out their problems", but more so a space that people use to slow down for a few minutes, to come into themselves, to face themselves and often some pretty tough demons that have been running the show for them, usually for all of their lives.

From a telephone call one morning in late February of 2013 from my Boss telling me that he was laying me off from my position at a global technology company, to having the really unique opportunity to ask myself how I wanted to spend the rest of my life. Going from flying around the country 70% of my days to using my 30 years of experience in inner work to settle down full time; and then offering that same energy and space to anyone interested in exploring themselves. Current times are a perfect example of how disconnected we've become from our own selves and from one another.

What a ride its been.
Not easy by any definition.

I can share firsthand that sitting in a room with someone as they uncover the bits and pieces of their lives that have been unconsciously directing their actions to this very day is nothing short of Grace; and I look forward to offering that space and energy to people for as long as I can.

I have two Willow Trees that I’ve grown from cuttings in large half barrels. One of the trees “broke out” of its barrel a couple of years ago and sent roots out to find the earth and more nutrients.

The tree grew and filled out so much more than the other tree that has (so far) remained in its planter.

Now, because the tree that broke out has sent a large root out of the bottom of the planter into the earth, the planter no longer sits flat on the ground. In strong winds, the planter and tree get knocked over.

I thought this was a great example of going outside of convention, of taking a chance on something greater than what you’re used to. Reaching beyond what you’re used to can be risky; you might get knocked around from time to time.

But the benefit can be that you grow; larger, stronger and deeper than you ever were before.