My own changes, both personal and vocational, over the past 20 years, all relate to my work with Neuro-Somatics and somatic awareness. The parent website, "Cognizant Soma", was a natural next step, but this site was not foreseen. However, the transformations I observed among some who chose to challenge their habitual patterns and ideas, regardless of why or how, were enough to want to share their stories. Those changes always seemed to arise from a newfound awareness or perspective, bringing clarity, a sense of direction, and often a new self-identity. This site is where I hope to share some of those inspiring accounts. We always speak of "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!
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, both before and 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 and a license in Shiatsu Therapy. More than two decades passed before I added Feldenkrais Practitioner and Advanced Breathing Instructor to the list. It's worth noting that during that time gap, several more recent events would factor into our initial story, "An Awakening...to Gift a World", which you'll find in the Content Drop Down Menu.
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 faced may send chills up your spine and bring tears to your eyes, but those effects are a sign of your empathy and appreciation, each being 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 whole new light, and begin to unlock your own potential.
