“I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship.” ― Brené Brown
About this workshop:
In this 2.5-hour workshop, we will introduce you to the practice of co-meditation dyads — a simple yet profound way of feeling seen and heard, of giving and receiving without judgement, of experiencing a deep and transformative sense of resilience, wholeness and belonging.
Through conversation, reflection, mini-practices and demos, we will guide you through the process of this powerful practice, culminating in an opportunity for you to share a full-length dyad with a fellow participant.
The co-meditation dyads in this workshop offer a welcoming space to explore our thoughts, emotions and sensations, while having a compassionate and open-hearted companion to accompany us on our journey.
In this workshop you will have the opportunity to experience both roles: the explorer and the companion.
What is a co-meditation dyad?
In a co-meditation dyad two people sit together. The companion supports the flow of the practice by offering a set of gentle prompts (which we will provide!) designed to help the explorer meet their experience as it is. These gentle prompts, combined with the welcoming presence of the companion, help the explorer feel safe and held while meeting and being with their experience.
Rooted in the non-dual teachings of iRest, the practice of co-meditation in this workshop is based on the premise that we are already whole. There is nothing to fix, change or solve. It’s a way of offering support without feeling the pressure to give advice, interpret, or find the “right” words. At the same time, it creates a space where the explorer can simply rest in being as they are, knowing that there is nothing about them that needs to be different than it is.
Benefits of co-meditation dyads:
feel a deep sense of connection, belonging and wholeness
experience a comforting sense of common humanity
feel more steady and less overwhelmed in the face of difficult life and world events
gain access to unshakable inner knowing
learn a simple, meaningful way to support others
Who is this workshop for?
Hearing the wisdom of our own inner knowing while navigating the intensity of what’s happening around us can be challenging. If you are looking for a supportive practice to help you move deeper into self-inquiry, are feeling anxious, isolated or overwhelmed, or have been struggling with how to support the people you care about, we invite you to join us!
We welcome anyone who is curious to explore this way of connecting! No previous yoga or meditation experience necessary.
The workshop will include:
an introduction to the practice of co-meditation dyads
tips for giving and receiving with openness, curiosity, and a welcoming presence - while sitting together
time for reflection, mini practices and connecting with each other as a group
an opportunity to share a full-length a dyad with a fellow participant, in both roles (in a breakout room)
a printable PDF handout for you to keep
a short break in the middle
plus lots of co-regulation and togetherness!
What others have said about the practice:
"After a co-meditation, I feel relieved, spacious, sometimes quiet. I often leave with an insight or intention that helps me move forward."
"I am reminded that I am whole."
"Bathing in the warm glow of someone else’s attentive presence feels like coming home."
This workshop is co-facilitated by Heidi Kalyani and Margot van Wolferen.
About us:
HEIDI is a writer, artist, musician, facilitator, long-time meditator and change-maker. One of her deepest passions is creating warm, welcoming, nervous-system-friendly spaces where we can connect deeply with ourselves, others and the world around us. In addition to her work in the field of embodied leadership, she offers classes and retreats featuring meditative sound journeys, kirtan (chanting) and yoga nidra. She also loves designing, hiking, singing, cooking, and sipping steamy mugs of tea.
Visit Heidi's website here.
MARGOT is an iRest Yoga Nidra and Restorative Yoga teacher, passionate about sharing the powerful and nourishing gifts of rest. Living with a chronic health condition, yoga taught her how to tune into her body’s wisdom and reconnect with her innate wholeness. Margot is dedicated to creating inclusive, accessible and neurodiversity-affirming yoga spaces. Outside of yoga, she finds joy in music, art, being in nature (especially the mountains!), and spending time with loved ones.
Registration:
FRIDAY April 4th, 10am - 12:30pm ADT (Nova Scotia); 3pm - 5:30pm CEST (Europe)
This workshop is held online, through Zoom.
Registration is offered on a sliding scale (approx $35 - $55 CAD).
Please choose the fee that feels possible for you at this time. (If price is still a barrier, please reach out!)