ABSTRACT
The goal-setting process 'involves narrowing the focus of the helping dialogue to a smaller range of manageable units'. Objectives that contribute to achieving the goal include engaging in a regular exercise schedule, developing a better diet, and establishing parameters regarding the amount of sleep needed; all of these tactical objectives work together to help realize the strategic goal. In the goal-setting process, the student should engage in self-exploration, a process that usually leads to new insights. Mindfulness is a process of being present in the moment, suspended from judgment and starting with a simple awareness of one's body and thoughts. Breathing patterns have a profound effect on a student's general health as well as mental well-being. Gillen and Gillen report that 'breathing interacts with and affects the cardiovascular, neurological, gastrointestinal and muscular systems'. Using a creative approach, such as expressive arts, student affairs professionals can help students work through immediate feelings as well as identify a positive coping strategy.
