The Keys to Mindful Communication
This programme introduces the keys to mindful communication and builds confidence in the transformative power of mindfulness in communication. Taught in English. Translation upon request.
This five day-seminar is designed to introduce the keys to mindful communication and to build confidence in the transformative power of mindfulness in communication. As such it stands in line with many other approaches like ‘non-violent communication’ (NVC), ‘systemic thinking’ and other movements of bringing peace and insight into our world.
In the Buddhist approach all life is interrelated. Communication expresses the relationship between ourselves, others and our environment. Mindfulness and awareness practices give us profound means to re-visit our beliefs and patterns of communication in a non-violent way.
Our body, heart & mind naturally allow us to listen deeply and to speak in ways we can be heard. However, in a context where we encounter aggression, we often shut down the natural flow of our communication. When we feel anxiety and insecurity, we loose touch with our body, heart and mind, becoming mind-less, heart-less or body-less.
Applying the practice of mindfulness and non-aggression to our communication offers a bridge between a deep understanding of interdependence (‘We-First’) and the everyday pain of putting up our fences and hiding behind defense walls and blaming (‘Me-first’).
In the context of a much needed global change, the approach developed by Susan Chapman (author of ‘The Five Keys to Mindful Communication’) invites a shift out of the culture of fear into a new culture of open heart and mind, awake and connected to the people and environment around us.
‘Men, for years, have been talking about war and peace. But now, no longer can they just talk about it. It is no longer a choice between violence and non-violence in this world; it’s non-violence or non-existence.‘
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The retreat includes:
Introductory meditation and guided mindfulness sessions
Guided contemplations
Individual and group exercises
Dialogue practice
Talks exploring the Buddhist teachings on Selflessness and Interdependence
Individual interviews
Practical
Arrival day (Sunday 14 July): Intro talk at 8 pm. You’re invited to come from 4 pm in order to register and settle in your room. Dinner is served at 6.45 pm.
End of programme (19 July): Closing circle and Banquet in the evening.
Departure day (Saturday 20 July): You may leave anytime (no programme). You’re welcome to stay for lunch.
This programme is taught in English. Free translation into French or other languages needs to be confirmed. Important: We need 2 months notice of translation requests. If you are registering late, please contact us directly about translation.
