Philosophy

“The best antidote for addiction is joy and competency.”

Learning by doing Something Fun

New Life Adventures utilizes structured, experiential, adventure-based activities as learning “tools”. These activities require direct participation with the environment and interaction with others in “real life” events. They require climbing, balancing, rolling, jumping, stretching, skipping, running, walking backwards etc. in ways that are different and unusual. People are encouraged to “go for it,” by playing 100% and not holding back. The environment is relaxed, open and playful. Research indicates that the mind learns faster and more efficiently when it is relaxed.

Learning by Supporting and Interacting with Others

Our programs are interactive. People are encouraged and taught how to talk directly to each other by using “you” and “I” messages. After each activity participants give and receive positive and constructive feedback to each other using open, honest, accountable communication. Many activities require high levels of interpersonal trust, where participants hold each other’s lifeline or spot each other for protection. This develops strong and lasting bonds between participants.

Learning by Exploring and Discovery

All of our programs are facilitated. Our facilitators are specially trained to assist in the learning process by encouraging people to explore and discover their own solutions to a problem or task. This quickly develops a sense of self-reliance and self-confidence along with the understanding “I can do more than I thought I could.”

Learning by taking Appropriate Risks

All New Life Adventure programs involve some level of risk, physical, mental, emotional or all three. Given enough support from the group participants quickly learn how taking risks is invigorating, produces high energy and authentic connection among group members. Participant’s are encouraged to step outside their Comfort Zone throughout the program.

Learning by Self-Reflection and De-brief

Each activity is De-briefed through a conscious process of self-reflection with this question: What did I do, think and feel during this activity? Participants learn to use their power of awareness and observation to explore, experiment and validate their own experience and to support others in reaching their maximum potential.

A Whole Person, Open Systems approach to learning and healing

New Life Adventures focuses on the concept of a whole or coherent Self, made up of our body, mind and emotions. Experiential Learning addresses this whole person and focuses on an Integrated model of recovery. One of the fundamental principals of the New Life Adventures Philosophy is to create a nurturing, safe environment where participants are encouraged to Talk to each other honestly and openly, by developing high levels of interpersonal Trust, where it is safe to Feel authentically without shame or guilt.