Trellis for the Soul

In Trellis for the Soul, psychotherapist and retreat director Martina Lehane Sheehan provides a framework for anyone struggling to navigate the dizzying maze of twenty-first-century life. Drawing on wisdom from many ancient sources, including the Christian, Desert and Celtic mystical traditions, as well as from contemporary psychology and her own experiences hosting workshops across the country, the author invites the reader on a profound journey of spiritual development.
As an antidote to the many stresses and uncertainties of these times, Trellis for the Soul explores real ways of cultivating a meaningful spiritual life where reflection, quietude and silence can combat anxiety, stress and an always-switched-on mindset. This book guides us to retrieve what is lost in our spiritual lives and encourage whatever is real, truthful and life-giving to grow and flourish again from the roots.
Divided into two parts, Trellis for the Soul begins by honing in on the modern malaise and explores how, by refocusing attention on a more soulful rhythm of life, we can become more creative, spontaneous and attuned to the natural environment with which we are inextricably linked. In part two, readers are invited to adopt soul-strengthening practices that will create a supportive trellis, especially for times of uncertainty and new beginnings.

About the Author
Martina Lehane Sheehan is an accredited psychotherapist, spiritual director and author. Her four previous books are: Seeing Anew; Whispers in the Stillness; Surprised by Fire; and Waiting in Mindful Hope.

Praise for Trellis for the Soul
‘This book provides a true scaffolding for the spiritual in our everyday lives. It will be a great support for many people.’
– Mary Kennedy

‘This book provides a useful guide towards freedom for those living in frustration with conventional structures and yet seeking a satisfying spiritual life. Combining wisdom from every possible source, it does in the twenty-first century what St Benedict did in the sixth century. A very impressive and timely presentation.’
– Mark Patrick Hederman, OSB

‘This is a book for everyone. While rooted in the Christian tradition, the author has drawn generously on other faith and wisdom traditions and blended them in with modern psychology in a very creative and rich way. It is a very beautiful book. I strongly recommend it.’
– Sr Stan Kennedy

‘Martina Lehane Sheehan has distilled the wisdom of the monastery to create a relevant, accessible programme for personal and communal growth. Trellis for the Soul is a practical, down-to-earth guide for anyone seeking a more contemplative, balanced, and joyful life.’
– Carl McColman, author of Eternal Heart and Unteachable Lessons.