Expansion of the Heart
It is no secret that for the past 10 years, Gilda’s Club has undergone multiple transitions and transformations. From new faces on the staff to shifting to virtual programming, it has not always been an easy feat. Many of us, especially in the face of cancer, can become uncomfortable when faced with uncertainty about the future. Ambiguity is oftentimes marketed as something that is outside of our control and to be feared. While there is some truth about the unknown being outside of our control, there are positive offerings in every challenge that we may face. So, here’s what I’ve learned:
1. Uncertainty leaves room for growth.
2. Being open to not knowing and accepting what comes leads to beautiful outcomes.
When we entered the year 2020, there was so much doubt and uncertainty that we would be able to maintain our connection in the community. There was no way for us to know that being open to the shifts that happened that year would lead to serving more Minnesotans and their families facing cancer. That openness has allowed for growth beyond our imaginations, starting with a name change.
In 2024, we are now fully ready and able to step into a new dimension of community as Gilda’s Club Minnesota! When we open our hearts and minds to growth and expansion, beautiful things begin to dwell, sprout, and bloom within us and the community around us. If there is one thing we all know to be true, it is that change is inevitable. How we decide to move forward with that truth is entirely up to us. As we open our hearts to change and sit in the grey area, we allow beautiful things to flow to us. Here is a quote that can remind us of that:
“With each breath, allow your heart to expand. With each breath, allow the love that you are to overflow into your life.”
– Panache Desai
We are eternally grateful for each of you who has journeyed with us through each phase and transition. It is only with your love, kindness, and support that we have been able to sustain for the past decade. I hope you can take a moment to rest and reflect to open your hearts to more possibilities that need to be uncovered. To help you do so, I’ve listed some programming that can support your journey:
- Cancer & Relationships: Intimacy, Body Image & Sexual Dysfunction – Online with Reclaiming Intimacy
- Monday, February 5th from 7:30 – 8:00pm
- Losing yourself and your “normal” sexual function is all too common for cancer patients and their partners. In this presentation, learn about how to reclaim your intimacy needs, learn about the most common dysfunction issues facing male and female bodies, and combat sexual dysfunction with holistic, at-home therapies and therapeutic aids. Empower yourself with information and take back your intimacy and sexuality!
- Art Therapy On the Go: Minneapolis Institute of Art – In-person with Karie Amstutz
- Thursday, January 11th from 6:15 – 7:45pm
- January sees the start of a new art therapy series: Art Therapy On the Go! Join art therapist Karie Amstutz in the galleries at the Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA) and find Inspiration through the power of art. You may find ways to bring that healing power of creativity into your life. No art experience is necessary – just bring an open mind!
- Beginner Tai Chi and Qigong – Online with Marie Mathay
- Wednesdays, January 10th – February 14th from 1:00pm – 2:00pm
- For centuries, the Chinese have recognized the beneficial effects of Tai Chi and Qigong to improve health and wellbeing. Join Certified Instructor Marie Mathay in this gentle, slow-moving series of ancient healing exercises based on Traditional Chinese Medicine. Experience the calming harmony of balancing body, mind, and breath. No experience is necessary.
- The Gifts of Gratitude – In-person with Joan Saunders
- Mondays in March from 3:00pm – 4:30pm (4-class Series)
- This multi-session class explores how gratitude practices can bring us more peace and joy, even during tough times. We’ll take our inspiration from short readings and quotations and class exercises involving music, movement, awareness-raising, and discussion. Participants will write and decorate pages in a gratitude journal to help deepen awareness of all there is to be grateful for and to enhance the depth of feelings.
Sign up for these upcoming program offerings on our virtual program offerings page and in-person program offerings page, in your class registration account, or call us at 612-227-2147.
With love and gratitude,
Shaunequa James, MSW, LICSW
Program Director
612-227-2147 office | 952-767-7627 direct
10560 Wayzata Blvd., Minnetonka MN 55305
