Often, we have a mind-body-spirit disconnect—to ourselves and others—that can impede transformative learning. The transformative learning activities introduced in this experiential session will be mindfulness activities aimed at examining our deeper selves and embarking on a journey of self-discovery. These activities will focus on emotional experiences and edge-emotions that reflect transformative learning perspectives by Tisdell, Dirkx, and Mälkki. Their work suggests that by bringing conscious focus to our edge-emotions in the present moment, we can choose how to respond to our emotions. Using intentional breathing techniques, physical movement, and cognitive thought patterns, we can reduce our stress response to emotional triggers.

In this session, we will use these theories and practices to welcome self-awareness and empowerment. One transformative learning principle we will introduce is a soul-searching meditation that increases self-awareness and helps people describe their essential beings. We will introduce a second practice that enacts the mind-body-spirit connection through mindful, intentional breathwork, focal points, and movements to move energy through the body. Combining these practices will encourage mind-body-spirit connection through mental focus, movement and postures, and intentional breathing. This kind of soul work facilitates emotional reactions and the process of transformative learning.

Presenters: