Better Together: Embodying Empathy

ABOUT THE PROJECT

"Better Together: Embodying Empathy” is a project designed to create space for youth workers to explore the topic of embodied empathy and cultivate empathy skill. The program is inspired by the Nonviolent Communication (NVC) principles and will include learning the basic concepts of NVC such as the language of giraffe, feelings and needs, requests, empathic listening or honest expression. NVC is a powerful tool for understanding ourselves and others, building empathy and
resolving conflicts.

The emphasis of the training is placed on learning through practice and experience, with sufficient theoretical input to clarify the basic elements of NVC. The whole learning process will combine verbal activities with a wide range of practical exercises inspired by Contact Improvisation, Mindfulness, Dance and Somatic Methods so that participants will fully embody the whole learning experience.

ACTIVITIES

The training course programme is designed to explore the topic of empathy through the holistic process of embodying a nonviolent approach to communicating with self and others. We will explore how embodiment movement practices can support us in communication from a place of authenticity, even in the moments of doubts.

We will explore those topics by engaging in activities inspired by:

• dance, movement & body-work,
• somatic movement methods,
• artistic expression,
• mindfulness & listening to yourself,
• exercises inspired by NVC.

PARTICIPANTS

This training course is designed for youth workers - people who are directly or indirectly involved in youth work. The participants must have an interest in adopting the learnt material in their own work in the youth context, which means it’s essential that they work with young people.The whole project involves online preparation, a 6-day training course with full presence, and the follow-up activities implemented & documented by the participants in their home countries. We are hence looking for participants who are ready to get involved in the whole process and are willing to learn and contribute, share their perspectives & experiences, and inspire each other through the duration of the entire project.

Important! The project is designed for people who are willing to increase their self-awareness and ready to share their feelings and their private stories in order to make their learning experience more authentic and profound. Although it’s not a therapy some therapeutic tools may be used and there is a chance that some strong emotions can come to the surface. If you are following any therapy please consult with your therapist if the project is right for you.

The project is intended for participants from the following countries: Poland, Italy, Spain, Romania, Lithuania, Croatia, France, and Austria. We are looking for 1-2 additional participants from Poland, Italy, Spain, France, Lithuania, and Austria.