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From Tension to Flow

Training Course

7-13 July 2026 | Laumas Nature park, Latvia

From Tension to Flow focuses on conflict transformation and emotional regulation through embodied learning. Using Playfight, Feldenkrais method and theatre improvisation, youth workers gain practical tools for their work with young people.

From Tension to Flow is an experiential training course designed for youth workers, educators, social workers and facilitators working in the field of non-formal education. The training focuses on transforming tension and conflict into opportunities for connection, learning and growth.

In today’s reality, young people face increasing emotional pressure, social fragmentation and conflicts in schools, families and peer groups. Youth workers often lack practical tools to respond to these situations in a constructive and embodied way. This training addresses this need by combining conflict transformation approaches with body-based and creative methods.

Objectives of the training

The training aims to:

  • Shift the perception of conflict from a problem to a learning opportunity
  • Strengthen emotional regulation and self-awareness of youth workers
  • Develop practical skills to manage group dynamics and tension
  • Provide concrete, transferable tools for everyday youth work
  • Foster inclusive, safe and supportive environments for young people
  • Encourage international exchange and peer learning between participants

Methodology .

The training is based on experiential learning and “learning by doing”. Participants will actively explore and embody the methods before reflecting on their application in real-life youth work. Methods include:

  • Playfight – exploring boundaries, cooperation and safe conflict through physical interaction
  • Feldenkrais Method & somatic practices – developing body awareness and recognising tension patterns
  • Theatre improvisation & role play – experimenting with conflict situations in a creative way
  • 7 Levels of Tension (Jacques Lecoq) – understanding emotional and physical states
  • Active listening (Zwiegespräch) – structured dialogue and deep listening
  • Conflict models (Thomas-Kilmann) – understanding different conflict strategies
  • Daily reflection and debriefing sessions to connect experience with practice

Nature will also be used as a learning environment, supporting regulation, awareness and reflection.

Learning outcomes.

By the end of the training, participants will:

  • Gain a deeper understanding of conflict dynamics and transformation Improve emotional regulation and self-awareness
  • Develop practical tools to work with tension in groups
  • Strengthen communication, empathy and facilitation skills
  • Increase confidence in handling challenging situations
  • Be able to apply embodied and creative methods in youth work

Participant profile

The training is designed for 24 participants (are at least 22 years old ) who are actively working with young people in non-formal or formal settings.

We are looking for:

  • Youth workers and youth leaders
  • Educators and teachers
  • Social workers working with young people
  • Volunteers and facilitators in youth organisations
  • Project coordinators and team leaders

Participants should:

  • Have experience working with young people
  • Be interested in conflict transformation and personal development
  • Be open to experiential, body-based and creative methods
  • Be motivated to apply and share the learning after the training

Special attention will be given to participants with fewer opportunities (e.g. from rural areas, early-career professionals, or working with vulnerable youth).

Impact and follow-up

The training is designed to have a practical and long-term impact. During the training, participants will design small activities for their own context. After the training, each participant is expected to implement at least one follow-up activity (e.g. workshop, session with youth, training for colleagues). The project will also result in shared materials and methods that can be reused by partner organisations.

Approach The learning environment will be safe, playful and exploratory, allowing participants to experience tension not only cognitively, but also physically and emotionally. This approach supports deeper understanding and long-lasting learning.

Infopack: https://canva.link/l2k2pfwk0o115m4

Disclaimer!

Information about training activities reaches SALTO from the most different directions. SALTO cannot be held responsible for incorrect information or changes in the training activities. However, please inform SALTO, whenever you should come upon incorrect data in the European Training Calender. Always contact the organisers of the training activities themselves for the latest information.

Training overview

http://trainings.salto-youth.net/14702

This Training Course is

for 24 participants

from Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, Latvia, Poland, Spain

and recommended for

Youth workers, Youth leaders, Youth project managers, Volunteering mentors, young people in non-formal education settings such as youth centres, schools, community organisations, or who work in support roles (e.g. social centres).

Working language(s):

English

Organiser:

Design Yourself (Youth NGO)

Design Yourself was established in 2023 with the mission to facilitate events that promote self- development, growth, health, and well-being for young people and youth workers, ultimately benefiting both individuals and society as a whole.
Our primary focus is organizing activities that enhance mental well-being and foster social inclusion for all young people through diverse forms of experiential learning. We incorporate nature-based methodologies,
dance, movement, embodiment, breathwork, coaching techniques, games, and community-building practices. The organisation was founded out of a shared desire to collaborate globally with friends and to promote a nature-centric, non-formal educational approach among youth workers and young individuals.
We emphasize accountability, self-discovery, artistic expression, initiative, and personal responsibility, encouraging active participation in various aspects of community life. We aim to provide young people and
youth workers with tools to foster meaningful dialogue and embrace authentic, adaptable ways of living.
Our mission is to empower today’s youth to uncover their unique strengths, cultivate a passion for learning, and drive positive change in their communities through inclusive and innovative initiatives.

Contact for questions:

Laura

E-Mail:

Phone: +371 26465537

Costs

Participation fee

There is no participation fee.

Accommodation and food

The training will take place at Laumas Nature Park, a unique location in Latvia known for its forest trails, meadows, bird-watching trails, and well-equipped workshop spaces. The environment offers a special combination of indoor learning and outdoor activities.

This peaceful and inspiring setting will support mindfulness practices, movement exercises, and reflective learning.

Laumas Nature Park is located near Talsi (120km from Riga). It takes approximately 2,5h to reach it by public transport.

There will be shared rooms for 2–4 people. Some rooms have a private bathroom, while others have a shared bathroom.

The venue offers a calm and relaxing atmosphere, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience. It will be our home throughout the programme, so we will all share responsibility for taking care of the space, including keeping common areas clean and tidy.

Meals will be prepared by the venue’s kitchen team, and participants will enjoy delicious vegetarian meals.

2-3 times per week meat will be served also. 

More information: www.laumas.lv

Food, accommodation, international and local travel costs (only during the workshop dates) will be covered by Foundation “Design Yourself” through the support of the Erasmus+ Programme.

Travel reimbursement

This project is co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme, covering accommodation, food, materials, and travel costs up to the maximum allowed per country. Green travel options (bus, train, carpooling) are available for Czechia and Poland. Sustainable means of transport (green travel) means you did MORE THAN 50% KM in train/buses/cars.

Country: Regular travel (plane); Green travel (bus, train, etc.)

Czechia, Poland- regular travel 309 EUR, green travel 417 EUR

Germany- regular travel 309 EUR-

Greece, Spain- regular travel 395 EUR-

Latvia- green travel 28 EUR

Participants are entitled to receive a Youthpass certificate from the organiser, for recognition of their competence development during the activity. Read more about Youthpass:

Youthpass Logo
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