Workshops
The Connection Series was created to fulfill a longtime desire of mine:
To feel deep connectedness with others.
Having spent the majority of my life feeling like nobody really understood me, I often felt lonely, sad, and hopeless in my search to find others with shared interests and desires. These included meaningful conversation, and reciprocity of consideration and appreciation. I became extremely proficient at noticing all the ways people weren't consistent, and didn't appear to appreciate or reciprocate what I was giving into the relationship. This proficiency along with other beliefs I had cemented my loneliness and disappointment. Afterall, having these beliefs protect me from experiencing the hurt and disappointment that inevitably come with relationships.
Angry, Overly Sensitive, Irritable, Impossible to Please -- These were words often used to describe me growing up. As an adult, I believed these to all be true. It was especially easy to believe when I was feeling so alone and disappointed in others. Something had to be wrong with me when it seemed like most others weren't consumed with such thoughts and expectations.
It's true that I was angry and irritable. As with all other feelings, these were mine to own and I could determine the reasons behind my feelings. While I can now embrace my sensitivity and (often strong) preferences, I also understand how some people would interpret me as...all of the above...and more. Everybody is entitled to their beliefs and opinions. It's when these opinions are believed to be the same as truth that can give rise to issues in relationship.
“What other people think of me is none of my business. One of the highest places you can get to is being independent of the good opinions of other people.” - Wayne W. Dyer
One's opinions will always reflect more about them than who or what their opinions are about. Trust there is always reason(s) for why and how someone thinks and feels. The practice of relating requires a willingness to meet someone exactly where they are and not take things personally -- much easier said than done -- hence the emphasis on PRACTICE.
Each of us is on a unique journey; one where the duration, forks, and undulations vary indiscriminately. I am not an expert. I am committed to the practice of relationships and invite you into a space for us to practice together intentionally relating in a way that is mutually fulfilling.
We innately care about one another and in doing so, want to 'help' by offering a solution that may have worked for us.
Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy (BCST) taught me the healing capacity of listening to someone without offering a solution or a fix; Simply listen. In my BCST training, I had been invited to be seen and heard in a way that was spacious and accepting. I would like to extend this invite to you through these workshops and our time together.
The Practice:
Owning yourself (and all your various parts) while simultaneously accepting another (and their various parts) as they are.
Be present. Listen intently and with neutrality.
Disclaimer: Only you can determine which relationships are ones you want to pursue and do the practice with. Relationships fluctuate and change as people's needs and desires are constantly changing. It's important to determine the exchange that happens in each relationship.
A mutually fulfilling relationship is a partnership or connection between two or more individuals that brings satisfaction, happiness, and benefits to all parties involved. In such a relationship, each person's needs, desires, and well-being are considered and prioritized, creating a sense of balance, reciprocity, and mutual support.
Key characteristics of a mutually fulfilling relationship may include:
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Respect: Each person values and appreciates the other's thoughts, feelings, and boundaries. There is a foundation of respect for each other's individuality.
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Communication: Open, honest, and effective communication is essential. This allows for the expression of feelings, thoughts, and concerns, fostering understanding and problem-solving.
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Trust: There is a sense of trust and reliability in the relationship. Each person feels secure in the knowledge that they can rely on the other(s) and that their interests are respected.
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Empathy and Compassion: Each person is attuned to the emotions and experiences of the other(s) and responds with empathy and compassion. They seek to understand and support one another.
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Shared Values and Goals: While not every interest or goal needs to be identical, there is a foundational alignment of values and objectives that provide a sense of unity and purpose.
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Independence and Autonomy: Each person maintains their own individuality, interests, and pursuits, even while being part of the relationship. This independence is valued and supported.
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Equitable Give-and-Take: There is a sense of fairness and reciprocity in the relationship. Each person contributes to the relationship in ways that are meaningful and valued by the other(s).
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Growth and Development: The relationship supports the personal growth and development of each individual. It provides a safe and encouraging environment for self-improvement.
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Joy and Fulfillment: The relationship brings joy, happiness, and a sense of fulfillment to all parties involved. It enhances their overall well-being and quality of life.
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Flexibility and Adaptability: The relationship is able to adapt to changes, challenges, and evolving circumstances. It is not rigid but rather able to evolve as needed.
A mutually fulfilling relationship is a dynamic and evolving partnership that brings positivity and enrichment to the lives of those involved. It's important to note that such relationships require ongoing effort, communication, and a willingness to grow together.