We live in an increasingly polarized world. A world where neighbors with different perspectives can feel like the enemy. Where co-workers who voted for “the other guy” are declared as ignorant. Where family gatherings can quickly become divisive.
Can we witness the humanity in others and be willing to be changed by our encounters? Can we take time to deeply listen to the sensations arising in our bodies and explore our own complex cultural frameworks that guide us?
It is not about ignoring the impacts of certain actions; it is about creating connection at a time when we are often taught to separate. Separate from the other, separate from nature, separate from ourselves.
In Radical Aliveness, we call this the “self as instrument.”
This past year I co-facilitated a training of 38 individuals from across Mexico, the U.S. and Canada in the techniques and principles of Radical Aliveness. For four modules the group gathered to explore what leadership looks like in a changing world.
In the group we had people from various healing professions - therapists, doctors, social workers … and also an actor, a coffee farmer, a factory worker, a grandmother, a human rights activist, a comedian, a director and others. Each came to the training for their own reasons, but each had a willingness to honor multiple perspectives and to be in the “knowing I don’t know.”
One participant described it “this work has helped me to be with so much more of what is true, the multiplicity of it. I see the ripples of this work in all my relationships and work. I feel so much more alive!”
This March I will be offering an Intro to Radical Aliveness weekend at the farm. Over the weekend, participants will engage the practices of Radical Aliveness through dynamic experiential exercises, individual and group somatic processes and teachings to support integration and application. I am thrilled to be in this exploration with those who are called to it.
We will gather in the beautiful barn at the farm, and with inspiration from the coming signs of spring - we will step courageously into an exploration together. Because the world needs us. As Joanna Macy says, “The heart that breaks open can contain the whole universe.”
Perhaps this intro will lead into a full year training in western MA. If you are interested in that let me know.
Applications are due by January 24 (but don’t hesitate - spots are limited and I’ll be sending out welcomes as applications come in). Details here.
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