I am a case manager working with clients who have intellectual and developmental disabilities. This particular group of women live together in a group home and are fairly independent. They hold jobs of varying levels of responsibility, are out in the community and advocate for themselves to the best of their abilities. In doing AWBW workshops, the women have grown a lot in allowing themselves to be still and listen to their breaths. For one woman, the very action of intentional deep breaths takes concentration and using motor skills that do not come easily.

Our Windows Workshops have become a space to gather around their dining table and pause at the end of the day. A chance for them to reflect, to think, to dream or just be. And they really love it.

As they each chose two Touchstones and began to create, one drew things she liked and that represented her—flower for gardening, heart for love. Another woman needed assistance as she wanted to write the words, “You are so special” and “Thank you.” One elderly woman did nothing with her stones and the project, but as she listened to others talking about themselves or their lives, she began to reminisce about her family and shared proud memories of her long-deceased father and his military service. Her space was less about creating Touchstones and more about touching on memories that brought her joy.