Harnessing the Power of Instances with Focusing

In our everyday conversations we often use what Gendlin calls ‘instances’ to say more of what we mean. We will explore how Focusing can enhance this capacity in many ways.

We say “It’s like that time when…” or “That reminds of me a story…”.  We use instances quite naturally when we are mulling over a problem or issue. But we may pass over them, unaware that, right there, is the potential for carrying forward the problem or issue: it’s in the instance!

What if we used our Focusing skills to pay more attention to those ‘instances’, harnessing their power to:
•    articulate more of an unfolding felt sense
•    create new ideas/concepts from our experience by noticing the patterns in instances
•    capture fresh meaning with fresh metaphors 
•    use instances as a teaching tool as a Focusing trainer

And more….

In these 4 weekly sessions we will explore how we can work with instances in a Focusing way. We will learn how to spot the patterns in instances and how these patterns, when applied, can bring a ‘felt shift’, releasing new information, new ideas, fresh carrying forward.

We will look at how poets and other artists use the power of instances to generate striking images and insights and how we can be as creative. We will look at how we might collaborate in generating new insights on everyday ideas by sharing our own ‘instances’ and experiences.

Introducing people to Focusing can be challenging at times; it can be hard to find a way in, one that resonates with people. Using ‘instances’ as one way in can work well; starting with what they already know, rather than having to teach particular steps or techniques as a way to begin. We will explore how this might be done in our time together.

With some input on what Gendlin says about ‘instances’, we will work through group discussion, pairs/small groups with an invitation to explore material in advance of sessions.

Notes from Mary will be provided.

This course is intended for those already familiar with Focusing though all are welcome to attend.

Class will be recorded for all registrants and available for viewing for one month after the course concludes. Breakout rooms are not recorded. 

Format
We use Zoom videoconferencing for our online classes. The session will be held in meeting format so that all participants can see the presenters and each other. You will need to have a computer/mobile device. Calling in by phone is also possible but not preferred as participation in breakout rooms will be limited.

Bio
Mary Jennings is a Coordinator & Focusing Trainer, based in Dublin, Ireland. She led a series for TIFI members called "Reading Freshly" this past year. As well as a Mindfulness Teacher, Mary has a background in communications and has worked with many organisations over the years in the area of brand identity. Inspired by Gendlin’s Philosophy of the Implicit, particularly in the area of language, she is interested in how we can use Gene’s insights to fully express more of what we know in fresh, felt-sensed language. Her approach is to facilitate people to draw on their own experience, drawing out the richness that is already there, using accessible, playful practices.

For more information:
Contact Elizabeth at [email protected] or (845) 480-5111