“I wish for a world that views disability, mental or physical, not as a hindrance but as unique attributes that can be seen as powerful assets if given the right opportunities” ― Oliver Sacks
One of Refuge’s main focuses is to provide affordable and accessible services to all in our community! Once a month, we will share what is in the works, resources, and tools for your benefit as well as useful for clients.
Stay tuned for future spotlights on our many other property amenities!
Exciting news!
Refuge home at 4317 Long Lane!
An accessible with every inch intentionally designed to provide a unique and empowering experience to clients and visitors. From our sensory garden, labyrinth, outdoor chapel, walking, trails, sensory, provisions such as water, wind, and sensory garden, you will find our home as a place of comfort and growth.
-Many programs, some new, are focused on exploring various interactive sensory interventions truly beneficial for all clients, especially the disabled. Stay tuned as we highlight these various services to foster growth and autonomy!
New Property Spotlight: Fire Feature
Refuge has 2 fire pits-one gas and one firewood. Research demonstrates that mindfulness meditation practices, including fire-based techniques, provide measurable psychological and cognitive benefits. Zhang et al. found that an 8-week mindfulness meditation program significantly reduced anxiety, depression, and rumination scores while enhancing emotional regulation and attention in participants. Similarly, Dharmadhikari et al. specifically examined Trataka (candle gazing meditation) and discovered it effectively enhanced cognitive functions in elderly participants, proving to be an accessible technique that individuals could easily learn and practice independently. Both studies provide empirical evidence that structured meditation practices, whether general mindfulness training or fire-focused techniques like Trataka, offer quantifiable improvements in mental health, emotional stability, and cognitive performance.
Click here for a fire meditation script as an example.
Growth Lab-Experiential Group – Sign up now!
The growth lab takes you into the lab of experience of your senses. Try new activities that enhance grounding, regulation, and self-care! Be introduced and educated on water, fire, the labyrinth, massage, art, music, and more! Our senses and tuning into the world around us aid us in personal growth and strength. Spots are limited! Sign up at www.therefugecenter.org. View this promo here:
Did You Know?
The Refuge Center for Counseling offers many intentional provisions to allow our mental health services to be accessible. Some of these include:
-Accessible intake and counseling processes
-Continual training with staff and therapist on disability etiquette
-Hardship grants and sliding scale to limit financial limitations
-Accessible property, waiting areas, offices, etc.
-Translation and interpretation services for over 200+ languages including ASL!
Specialty Sensory Features
News and Stories
-Informal care givers of heart patients need more support. Click to read more.
Other Resources
Resource Spotlight: Empower TN
The organization provides resources and support for people with various challenges throughout the state of Tennessee. One resource they provide is. Monthly support group on various topics. This month’s topic is resources that will enhance living independently.
Learn more about Empower and this group here.
Thank you for taking the time to look at these resources and tools. Together, we will continue to serve all in our community, including individuals who may or may not have been diagnosed with disabilities. If you see or hear about a need that is not being met, please reach out to [email protected]. Your feedback is very valuable!
