Healthy
Connections
Mediation
- The dictionary defines mediation as the act or process of intervening
between conflicting parties to promote reconciliation, settlement, or
compromise. By incorporating empathy, mediation is the process of becoming
clear about each party's (individuals, couples, tribes, families, countries,
etc.) universal needs so that strategies can be agreed upon that will
meet the most important needs of both parties. Two underlying assumptions
are: that the needs of each party are held as precious and equal and
that it is possible to meet the needs of both parties simultaneously.
Empathy - The dictionary defines
empathy as the capacity for participating in another's feelings or ideas.
As we use empathy, it is a tool that asks the question, "Are you feeling
(a Universal feeling) because you are needing (a Universal need)?" This
tool offers listening and presence to its recipient and frequently generates
spaciousness, clarity, and healing. It often meets needs for: clarity
about what is happening, clarity about what is needed, being seen and/or
heard, understanding, and compassion.
Communication Classes - Introductions
to Non-Violent Comunication
as developed by Marshall B. Rosenberg, 12-week workbook study groups,
and other types of classes designed to meet specific needs of its members
(parents, couples, singles, etc), provide new tools and/or skills for
communication, understanding, and/or connection between members.
Practice Groups - Formats differ,
depending upon the needs of members, but generally consist of a few
members sitting together silently (for presence and self-connection)
along with time to both give and receive empathy (see above). I'm happy
to support you in getting your own practice groups started and/or on-goingly
facilitate them. My weekly group meets Sundays 1-3 at The
Center for Spiritual Living in Santa Rosa, CA, and is open to the
public on a drop-in basis for a donation of $5-25. Also inquire about
joining a weekly Friday morning and/or Sunday evening practice group
(open to those who have taken the 12-week workbook study group class),
if interested.
Greater Understanding in Your Relationships
- Are you fascinated by the differences between the masculine and feminine?
Do you want greater harmony in all the relationships in your life? PAX
programs fosters understanding, compassion, humor, and greater harmony
between men and women by offering workshops, CD's, and books on this
subject. Originally focused on educating women, many of PAX's workshops,
CD's, and books are now available to both men and women.