14 Dec 2011 Comments Off
Growing Authentic Relationships: Exploring Intimacy, Sex & Compassionate Communication
This workshop is sure to stir stuff up – and open the door to new ways of interacting with yourself and your partner(s). I believe stirring stuff up, looking at it, and communicating what’s alive in a caring, compassionate way (even when triggered) is a path to healing in authentic, intimate relationship. I believe that deeply knowing and loving oneself is key to showing up for a partner in this way.
Using presence, humor and creative expression, we’ll explore needs and core beliefs that drive our sexual experiences and intimate relationships. Then, we’ll consider the extent to which these needs and beliefs serve our life now! As we “savor the beauty of the needs”, we’ll allow strategies to unfold which support us in taking responsibility for our needs while including others in the process.
[sexuality/intimacy] is a subject that has almost infinite “hot buttons”.
The environment of the program allowed it to be approached safely.
~ Liz, Manhattan, NY
During the weekend, we’ll explore using Nonviolent Communication (NVC) as taught by Marshall Rosenberg to create and/or deepen intimate, sexual relationships with self or others. While NVC will serve as the foundation, a variety of modalities, resources and topics will be interwoven throughout the weekend based on the needs and intentions of the participants. Expect a mixture of presentation/teaching, self-inquiry, large and small group discussion, NVC practice, and Q & A.
Feedback shows participants leave with:
- Capacity for microscopic honesty with ourselves and our partner(s).
- Insight into fear-driven relationship patterns.
- Tools to support presence when angry, triggered or reactive.
- Clarity about staying in or leaving a relationship.
- Insight into habitual communication patterns that are not serving our lives now.
- Communication strategies that support deeper intimacy and connection.
- Ability to identify our sexual needs and communicate them to our partner(s).
- Increased discernment about habits, feelings, needs and strategies.
- Self-acceptance around sexual behaviors and relationship choices.
- An understanding of the interrelationship between sexuality, spirituality and communication.
- More choicefulness in relating with intimates (vs. habitual patterns of relating).
I enjoyed the scary honesty – of my partners, of me, and of Emilah.
I enjoyed the feeling of trust knowing that everything shared was lifted up.
I loved the openness to what was really in the room, as opposed to a set plan.
~ Anonymous, NYC workshop
This workshop is designed for singles and couples (attending together or singly) identifying as heterosexual or LGBT spectrum who are familiar with Nonviolent Communication (NVC), have an intention to connect, and want to experience authentic, passionate, and compassionate relationships.
Please contact me to sponsor this workshop in your city or organization!
