The parent website, "Cognizant Soma" (in Links), was a natural extension of my work over the years, but this sister site, "Stedawi," was not foreseen. It was purely a result of my observing the dramatic changes that occurred among those who were willing to challenge their habitual patterns and ideas by exploring and examining from within to find a different perspective, a clarity and sense of direction that only awareness and understanding can provide. This site is where I hope to share some of those inspiring accounts. We always talk about "personal growth," but this sounds more like something the "world in general" could use right now, doesn't it? Perhaps inspiring one person at a time is a step in that direction, and that would include myself.
The acronym "Stedawi" (Steh-dah'-vee) was initially an artist/author signature years ago, but quickly became a nickname. With the arrival of the internet, it became an online moniker and has remained so, as well as a website name and business name. Residing in Hawaii since 1976, I've seen many changes to this place that has been my home for so many years. But I've also seen many changes in myself during that time. I mention this because it would seem to account for a life that others find unusual. I don't see it as such, but we seldom see ourselves as others do, and that may well describe much of what this site is about, as well as the parent site, "Cognizant Soma" (Links). My long association with Neuro Somatics and Somatic Awareness began in 1977, soon after arriving in the islands. A life-threatening experience took me full circle...back to undergraduate study in behavioral science. Working three jobs at the time, I was certainly open to options, but migrating into the personal care sector was completely unforeseen. My interest in cognition led to resuming post-graduate study in Neuro-Psychology, while an active role in a martial arts society led to earning an M.A. in Chinese medicine/acupuncture and a license in shiatsu therapy. My practice in Shiatsu & Somatic Therapy occupied most of the next 20 years, before adding Feldenkrais and Respiration/Breathing, shifting the practice to solely somatic therapy & education. Several events within that two-decade period would actually create the connections to our initial story, "An Awakening To Gift A World, and the connection exists to this day.
I'm Stephen Williams, and I invite you to join me for inspiring stories of personal growth and transformative change. You'll follow the journeys of individuals who've managed to discover and unlock a version of themself that was always there to some degree, perhaps suppressed by a mistaken self-identity, or held hostage by unwarranted fears or doubts. Their journeys toward discovery and the challenges theyfaced may send chills up your spine and bring tears to your eyes, but those effects are a sign of your empathy and appreciation, each a step toward growth in its own right. Moreover, if a story can evoke such reactions, then it may also inspire you to look beyond your current view of yourself. Once the blinders are removed, you may see yourself in a whole new light and begin to unlock your own potential.
