The PG Department of Social Work at School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya, Mangalore organized an enlightening and transformative study tour to the Anugraha Counseling Centre on 25th November 2023, situated in the serene locale of Nochiodaipatti, Dindigul, Tamil Nadu. This four-day study tour, filled with immersive sessions and cultural visits, aimed to deepen our understanding of ourselves, foster stronger bonds within our group, enhance personal and professional competencies, and enrich our practical knowledge of various therapeutic practices.
The primary objective of this educational tour was to provide our students with a firsthand experience of the professional practices in counseling and mental health care. Anugraha counselling centre, renowned for its comprehensive approach towards mental health and counseling services in the rural backdrop of Tamil Nadu presented an ideal setting for this endeavour. The objectives of this study tour were:
- To develop a deeper understanding of ourselves.
- To strengthen our bond and understand each other better.
- To develop personal and professional competencies.
- To improve practical knowledge on therapies.
Day 1: Understanding the Self and Unlocking Inner Potential
Session One: Healing the Inner Child
This session explored the profound impact of the mother-child relationship, addressing pain and wounds from childhood. Through exercises on positive love and hugging, participants embarked on a journey of healing and reconciliation with their inner child.
Session Two: Memories
An in-depth look into various forms of memory, including inherited, imprinted, attachment, separation, flashbulb, and morality (Runanubanda) memories, provided insights into how our past shapes our present behaviors and attitudes.
Session Three: Mind Locks
Participants were introduced to various psychological "locks" such as addiction, power, arrogance, and others, learning about their origins and how they affect personal growth and relationships.
Session Four: Inner Child (Healing) Therapy
The day concluded with a therapeutic session aimed at healing the inner child, providing participants with techniques to nurture and heal their deepest wounds.
Day 2: Emotional Wellness and Relationship Building
Session One: Emotions
This session differentiated between healthy and unhealthy emotions, offering strategies to manage fear, anger, sadness, and guilt while addressing the detrimental effects of anxiety, hatred, depression, and shame.
Session Two: Anger, Resentment, and Forgiveness
A practical therapy session focusing on overcoming anger and resentment through the power of forgiveness, guiding participants towards emotional liberation.
Session Three: Journey of the Heart
Exploring Imago Relationship Therapy and the concepts of love languages and love tanks, this session delved into the dynamics of relationships, including navigating through the hatred phase towards understanding and compassion.
Session Four: Cultivating Relational Potentials
Focusing on building positive relationships, this session emphasized gratitude, altruism, faithfulness, and forgiveness as foundational elements for nurturing healthy interpersonal connections.
Day 3: Positive Transformation and Cultural Immersion
Session One: Positive Affirmation Therapy
Participants learned the power of positive affirmations in reshaping thought patterns and fostering a positive self-image and outlook on life.
Session Two: Reversal Law
An engaging session on the law of reversal, providing tools to counteract negative thoughts and behaviors with positive actions.
Evening Visit: Madurai Meenakshi Amma Temple
The evening was spent visiting the iconic Madurai Meenakshi Amma Temple, a spiritual journey that complemented the day's learning with cultural and historical insights.
Day 4: Exploring Natural Beauty and Reflecting on Learnings
The final day took us to the breathtaking Kodaikanal Hill station, where the beauty of nature provided a perfect backdrop for reflection on the insights and transformations experienced during the tour.
This study tour to Anugraha Counseling Centre has been a journey of self-discovery, healing, and learning. It has not only brought us closer as a group but also equipped us with valuable tools and knowledge to apply in our personal and professional lives. The experiences gained have left an indelible mark on our hearts and minds, inspiring us to continue on our path of growth and development with renewed vigor and empathy.
Our heartfelt gratitude goes to Fr Wilson O.F.M Cap, Fr Arul O.F.M Cap, Fr Matthew O.F.M Cap, Fr Satyan O.F.M Cap, and the entire team at Anugraha Counselling Animation Centre for their invaluable guidance and support throughout the sessions and therapies. A total of 22 students and a faculty member participated in this study tour.
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