by Marah Russell, Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE, Maine—On February 11th, Amazon best-selling author and therapist Helen McKibben hosted her first live public lecture at the Mark & Emily Turner Memorial Library.
The “evening of learning” was free and open to the public. Guests gathered in the Akeley Gallery for her presentation on “dropping to the blank screen,” a technique for managing triggered emotions outlined in her book Drop: Making Great Decisions.
With over 35 years of experience and licenses in eight states, the seasoned clinical therapist from Maryland shared insights into applying her technique to various aspects of life, including addiction, sleep, dating, and nutrition.
McKibben described dropping to the blank screen as a seated neutral position where individuals can work through overwhelming emotions. By allowing the full weight of their body to be supported by the surface beneath them, relaxing their upper body, and practicing breathing exercises, their brain can receive maximum oxygen and blood flow. This taps into memory, manages emotions effectively, and processes decisions efficiently.
The author demonstrated this technique live, showcasing its practical application and benefits. She expressed her hope to have more research done on her method.
Following the presentation, attendees participated in a book signing. The intimate setting allowed people to discuss the author’s works and receive personalized advice from the author herself. Students from the University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI) received a complimentary copy of the book by presenting their student identification.
Miranda Cole, director of campus engagement at UMPI, attended the event and expressed that while she hadn’t read the book beforehand, she now plans to. “She framed her lecture in a way that makes a person want to read more about it,” Cole said.
