Coming Home to Your Body Through Art
An Online Support Group for People Living with Chronic Illness
Living with chronic illness can be exhausting and isolating. Many of us can feel unsafe in our own bodies over time. We may live in a constant state of vigilance, feel as though we’re fighting against our bodies, wish we could escape them, or find ourselves shutting down altogether. Thoughts about our symptoms can become intrusive or all-consuming, and we may alter our behaviours and routines in search of relief and a sense of safety.
If this resonates with you, please know you are not alone. The impact chronic illness has on the nervous system is real.
It can sometimes turn into a reinforcing cycle: the stress of living with ongoing illness can leave the nervous system on high alert, and that heightened state adds more stress to the body and can make symptoms even more intense. When the body is carrying that much strain, it’s very understandable that experiences of anxiety, low mood, isolation or a sense of helplessness can show up.
This online support group offers a gentle, compassionate space to slow down, soothe, and exhale. Here we practice slowing things down to offer the nervous system a moment of ease, and help the body feel safer and more supported.
Goals of this drop-in online support group
In this therapeutic arts group to support folks with chronic illness, we will:
Support nervous system regulation through art-based invitations, visualizations and somatic practices
Explore your identity beyond illness
Cultivate a more compassionate and collaborative relationship with yourself
Support a sense of safety and gentle stabilization by prioritizing the routine of gathering biweekly
Reconnect with your body at your own pace
You are invited to show up exactly as you are.
Mondays biweekly at 8:00–9:15 pm ET |5:00–6:15 pm PT
We meet online every two weeks in a supportive, welcoming environment where you can gently begin the process of coming home to yourself.
Starting April 6, 2026 | Mondays biweekly 8:00–9:15 pm ET and 5:00–6:15 pm PT
$30 exchange per session (on a monthly subscription)
Open to individuals 16+. No art experience required. If you happen to miss a session, you will receive an email with the invitations from that week so you can engage with them in your own time, if you wish.
For inquiries or to join, email janet@twopinesarttherapy.com
About the facilitator
Janet Ho is a Registered Psychotherapist, Professional Art Therapist and chronic illness warrior. In her health journey, she has navigated the complexities of living with symptoms that have ranged from mild to debilitating, the challenges of the medical system, and the impact illness can have on relationships, finances and career. Through this journey, she has also deepened her relationship with her body—learning to listen more closely, discovering the meaning of inner safety as well as pleasure, and practicing a sense of embodiment and care in the midst of uncertainty.
Beyond being a chronic illness warrior, Janet is also an avid explorer, life-long learner, food enthusiast, and thriller/comedy/reality TV/fantasy nerd who loves the outdoors, moving to music, creative pursuits, cultural activities and adventuring with friends.
In her work with clients, Janet brings a trauma-informed, strength-based approach that nurtures self-awareness, self-expression, mindfulness, play, growth and resilience to lead more fulfilling and meaningful lives. She appreciates each person’s uniqueness and works alongside clients as a companion and advocate through their journey.