I have been at the Healing House now for over two months. I have been experiencing and learning so much here.
It was at first a difficult transition. I came to Cusco believing I would be working with kids and young mothers in programs offered at the house. When I arrived I learned that these programs no longer existed, and no one there knew anything about them. From there I had to figure out what I was going to do for the next three months. The first few weeks were difficult, and I strongly considered switching placements.
Despite my rough beginnings, I’ve found ways to spend my time, and be involved in community out reach as well. The most valuable experience for me here has been taking all three Reiki training courses. Everything about this experience has challenged my beliefs as well as taught me lifelong lessons. My favorite part about it all is that I now can offer my services at our weekly clinics. On Tuesday afternoon the Healing House and all its therapists give free treatments to Cusqueñans. At first I was pretty nervous to start giving Reiki to strangers. I wasn't really sure of what I was doing and I was convinced that the Cusqueñan women I was working with knew this as well. But as the weeks have gone by I’ve found that most people are sincerely very appreciative of the treatment. That alone has made the experience worth it. I used to dread treatment day, because I was uncomfortable, and nervous, and not really even sure that Reiki was a real thing. Now I look forward to treatment day. I always learn something new, and I love being able to offer my time to these people who would normally not have access to such treatments. Its been a great experience.
As well as my Reiki training and Clinic days, we hold a kids program on Saturday, where we get to know the neighborhood kids by drawing with chalk and markers and playing games right outside the house. On Wednesdays we also sometimes make trips to the orphanage to play at the park with the kids.
This biggest challenge for me of this placement have been creating projects for myself. I find it much easier to be directed in an existing project, than to make one up myself. That has been and interesting challenge for myself, with ups and downs.
In the next few weeks I am going to begin Yoga Training, which I’m sure will come with its own challenges and struggles. I am, however, very excited to begin this new chapter of my trip, and continue learning new amazing things.
-Claire