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TAE Academy 2024 - Dana Ganihar and Baruch Brenner Bio

Baruch Brenner and Dana Ganihar

Dana and Baruch are the founders of Shakio Institute, where we explore how Art, Focusing and Prayer can open us to the flow and wisdom of life going beyond categories and perceptions. They have been leading TAE workshops in Israel and internationally, with an emphasis on working with artists, researchers and creators from varied backgrounds.

Dana Ganihar, M.Sc. is a Focusing Coordinator since 2007. Over the last couple decades she has led numerous workshops and seminars exploring the work of psychologist and philosopher Eugene Gendlin. Dana has initiated cooperative research exploring the potential impact of Focusing and TAE on diverse fields such as biology, architecture, creative writing and religion, in institutions including the Technion, Bar Ilan University and Tel Hai College.

Baruch Brenner is an Israeli theater director, actor, singer, teacher, focusing trainer and an ordained Orthodox Rabbi. Over the last 25 years, he has been a leading innovator in integrating spiritual practices with experiential work in theater, movement and vocal arts. He was the artistic director of the Vertigo lab in the eco-art village, and a research fellow and member of Jerzy Grotowski theater ensemble. Baruch facilitates educational programs and workshops exploring religious and mystical traditions, with an emphasis on Jewish mysticism - Kabbalah and Hasidic philosophy - making them accessible to the general public.