Valerie Harms

In several of my books I list journal techniques inspired by the Intensive Journal Method developed in the 1960-70s by Dr. Ira Progoff. He was a psychotherapist who wanted to provide ways for people to work on their own. The journal techniques dig much deeper than ordinary journal or diary writing. The sequence and approach evoke unconscious potentials for one's life. I have used the method for 30+ years. I have explained how in my book Crossroads. I highly recommend the method. It goes beyond therapy into spirituality.  Read More 

Symbols of Renewal and Rebirth excerpted from my book Your Soul at a Crossroads
may your life be filled with renewals in 2015...

Here is a personal glossary of universal symbols that appear in dreams or stories about change and renewal. They will naturally appear in your soul work at the right time for you.

Vessel—The vessel is the womb. The female body is such a container.

Vulva—The vulva, yoni, or vagina is the place of putting in the semen, which jumpstarts procreation and birth. Through it passes all human birth.

Fire—Used to create vessels and tools, to fry/broil/roast food, it is thus an agent of transformation. Emotions and conflicts, religious and sensual desire, heat our temperature; containing them allows inner fires to work their changes.

Water—Our bodies are mostly composed of water; water covers most of the planet’s surface. The water cycle moves between the heavens and earth. Water is considered the mother/creator of all life. Because it dissolves most things, it’s been a primary image for the swallowing of our egos. The ever-changing waters of the soul’s journey sustain and refresh.

Egg—The incubator and newly born, the container of life.

Seed—In the cycle of life or inner transformation, life begins in the spring with the seed.; the seed puts forth tender shoots (while many die or get trampled on); with luck the seed blooms; it then must wither and die and endure the cold dark winter in order to be regenerated. Inner growth follows the same cycle: first we are lit up by the seed of inspiration; then we struggle to make a project a reality; we all like success or the blossoming stage, but equally important is the passing away of the bloom and facing the empty unknowingness before the new seed can be born.  Read More 

If you're in or near Billings, come to Barjons Bookstore at 1:30 for my program and signing. Be sure to browse their wonderful books. I'm eager and it looks like the weather will be cooperating.

Am excited to have new blog on Huffington Post about my book...
Article: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/valerie-harms/silence-the-soul_b_4192659.html

Special offer for 4 sessions of instruction in soul writing -- $125.00. Involves depth psychology techniques, Jungian-oriented exercises in relationships, work, and health issues. If you are unsure what to do next, here is your chance to find your true path based on your own inner resources. Based on my forthcoming book, Your Soul at a Crossroads.

Ordinary diary-keeping differs greatly from the Intensive Journal method. When people keep a diary, they write what they already know mostly. In the Intensive Journal you do exercises that bring up new material from your creative unconscious. You cover:

1. Persons of inner importance – angry, harmonious…
2. Work projects; short term goals; what started, what completed or blocked
3. Physical condition: health, sensual life, outdoor experiences
4. Social attitudes: beliefs, politics, historical roots
5. Striking events: fateful, mysterious, synchronistic
6. Dreams or images: symbols, insights
7. Inspiring persons from history or mythology, authors, political or spiritual leaders
8. Crossroads of decisions: choices & consequences
9. Experiences of connection or meaning; times of alienation or disconnection

Ira Progoff at Amazon books Read More