Focusing-Oriented Relational COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT TRAINING PROGRAM

What will we study and how?

We will delve into the essential philosophy and skills of Focusing to nurture our connection to ourselves, each other and the larger world. The program is based on the principle that deep listening and access to embodied awareness not only transforms our personal lives but also enlivens our communal lives. 

 

It includes themes such as:

·      Deepening our own Focusing practice 

·      Helping others to speak from their lived experience 

·      Practicing embodied listening and genuine relating

·      Finding the edge of awareness—the felt sense of “the more”

·      Embracing difference and diversity

·      Learning the art of disagreement and conflict transformation 

·      Anchoring ourselves in the sources of inspiration

·      Valuing the unique contribution of each participant—each of us with our own unique experience, culture and way of being is an essential ingredient of the “us.”

 

This learning experience is not only a study of how Focusing ideas and skills can help community life; it is a lived experience of the kind of relating we are studying. As Gendlin put it, we must “BE THE INTERACTION that makes it better.” We are challenging ourselves to enter into living conversation with each other with the understanding that our group is a microcosm of the larger systems of community life.

 

Who is eligible to participate?

We are seeking a diverse group of twenty participants who have some knowledge of Focusing and a commitment to learning how it can be used to vitalize community life.

 

What are the requirements?

Classes meet every other Wednesday evening from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. Readings, videos and practice sessions will be assigned.  Focusing partnerships will meet on alternate Wednesdays from 6:00 pm-7:00 pm. Focusing coaches will be available to Focus with participants. Students will develop a project that will be presented as a culmination of the study program.