A Four-Part Introductory Series in October–November 2020
Join us online for a four-part series designed to introduce you to the foundations of Conscious Communication and Nonviolent Communication (NVC). Each session will be offered multiple times and you are welcome to join us as often as you’d like. Contact us to receive instructions on how to join these sessions online.
These sessions are appropriate for those who are new to Conscious Communication, those who would like a refresher, and those who would like to practice with others in order to deepen our practice together.
While the greatest benefit may be had by participating in all four sessions, you are not obligated to do so. These sessions are a great way to experience a “taste” of Conscious Communication.
The Four Parts
Each session meets 7–9 p.m., with an optional technology check and orientation to Zoom at 6:45 p.m.
Empathy Poker
Sept. 29, Oct. 1 and Oct. 7
At this session, we will define our terms and practice with a game called “Empathy Poker.” You will get a taste of what it feels like to communicate from this perspective.
Please print and have ready:
Please bring:
- Scratch paper with at least one blank side (about 5–10 sheets)
- Thick, dark marker to write with
Take Back Your Power: How to Never Be Insulted Again
Oct. 8, Oct. 13 and Oct. 14
We will work with our real-life “trigger statements.” Experience what it is like to use the basic principles of Conscious Communication in a challenging situation with another person.
Thoughts Get in the Way
Oct. 15, Oct. 21 and Oct. 27
A fun exercise demonstrates how thoughts can get in the way of effective communication and connection.
Working with “Enemy” or Fixed Images
Oct. 22, Oct. 28 and Nov. 10
We will explore communication with few words, an embodied practice that can quickly identify and release difficult or repetitive patterns in a relationship.
Orientation to Our Communities of Practice
Before joining us for the first time, or anytime you would like a refresher, we invite you to review the following:
Orientation to Zoom
PLEASE NOTE that we have updated our Zoom link for greater security. Check your email or contact us to request the correct Zoom link.
- 6:45 p.m. — Orientation to Zoom
- 7–9 p.m. — Group practice
- The meeting will be conducted online using Zoom. To find the Zoom link, check the email announcements you receive for these sessions (these come from “Greater Madison Area Conscious Communication”), or contact us for instructions.
There is no cost to attend. Donations to our regular hosts, who have closed their doors for our protection, continue to be appreciated. They are: Friends House, Joyful Path, and Common Grounds.
Zoom is the platform we will use for these online meetings. We will have an orientation to Zoom and technology check before each session at 6:45 p.m. Please plan on attending to familiarize yourself with the basic functions we will be using in these sessions. You will be able to sign on beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Before joining a Zoom meeting on a computer or mobile device, you can download the Zoom app. Otherwise, you will be prompted to download and install Zoom when you click the “join meeting” button. If you do not have a camera on your computer or mobile device, or prefer not to enable video of yourself, you can participate with audio only and see others (we will not be able to see you).
If you are new to Zoom, you may wish to download or save this tip sheet and have it available during the meeting:
Additional resources for Zoom users:
- One-minute tutorial on joining a Zoom meeting
- Tips for using Zoom safely