num_pages: 240
description: There are many kinds of helpers in our world the caregivers among us. They are the social workers who serve the vulnerable the nurses and doctors who treat the ill the teachers who instruct the young the first responders who rescue the imperiled the faith leaders who comfort the congregation the volunteers who support the community. And whether or not it is our professional calling each of us is likely to serve as a caregiver at some point in our lives as a parent raising a child for instance or as a loved one caring for an aging relative. These and many other efforts to serve are among the most noble pursuits we can imagine but they come with a danger worth recognizing. In their devotion to the well-being of others caregivers routinely put their own well-being last and can unintentionally burn themselves out physically emotionally and spiritually. Their self-neglect paired alongside a deep desire to help others has the potential to stir up feelings of anger and resentment leading to a sense of guilt and shame. They often believe that if they were to grant themselves any rest or grace they would be at risk of failing in their duty. In The Soul of the Helper Dr. Holly Oxhandler shows caregivers and fellow helpers a more self-compassionate way to cope with their overwhelming responsibilities and to attend to their own needs particularly when it comes to their mental health and spiritual journey. She invites them to pause and realize that if they let their personal resources run dry they cannot possibly care for others as fully as they wish. In fact their efforts are likely to cause more harm than good. With a background in spiritually-integrated mental health Dr. Oxhandler teaches helpers a seven-step process to slow down and reconnect with the stillness within themselves. It is in this space of stillness that Oxhandler guides helpers to reconnect with the sacred spark within their soul. By allowing themselves to enter that stillness caregivers will recognize that they too are worthy of care. And with that realization they will see anew the sacred spark that dwells inside everyone else especially within those theyre helping. As a social worker researcher and person of faith Dr. Oxhandler writes in a warm and welcoming style shares many relatable stories and widens her scope to include believers of all faiths and spiritual traditions. Her book is for caregivers everywhere who sense the sacred spark within them saying in effect: Come to me all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest.
language: English
title: The Soul of the Helper: Seven Stages to Seeing the Sacred Within Yourself So You Can See It in Others
publisher: Templeton Press