Somatic Workshop: Building Bridges of Emotional Connection

Join this immersive experience designed to deepen your connection to yourself, others, and the world.

Today, meaningful connection is more important than ever. Research consistently shows that the quality of our relationships is the most significant factor in our overall happiness and health. Yet, many of us feel that our connections aren’t as deep or authentic as we’d like them to be. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to discover the science and practice of authentic connection through a blend of somatic movement, Emotional Intelligence, and creative expression.

This day-long workshop integrates **Azul Conscious Dance**, **Authentic Movement**, and reflective practices to help you connect more deeply with yourself and others. By engaging with these practices, you’ll learn to sense, on a visceral level, what true connection feels like and how to create it in the moment.

Why Connection Matters:

Connection isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a fundamental human need. Here’s what research tells us:

1. Vital for Health and Longevity: Studies from the Harvard Study of Adult Development show that strong relationships are the most significant predictor of long-term health and happiness.

2. Reduces Stress and Enhances Resilience: Research indicates that close connections can lower stress levels and help us cope with life’s challenges more effectively.

3. Supports Emotional Well-being:** Our connections shape our sense of self-worth, belonging, and emotional stability.

4. Enhances Cognitive Function: Engaging in meaningful relationships has been shown to improve brain function and reduce cognitive decline as we age.

5. Fosters Personal Growth: Authentic connections provide a safe space for vulnerability, growth, and self-discovery.

What You Will Experience:

- Morning Session:

- Opening Circle: Set intentions and create a welcoming space for exploration.

- Azul Conscious Dance: Engage in mindful movement that deepens self-awareness and presence.

- Authentic Movement: A practice that allows you to explore your inner world through spontaneous, non-judgmental movement.

- Insights on Connection: Discover how your nervous system influences your ability to connect, with references to polyvagal theory and attachment styles.

- Reflective Practices: Drawing and journaling to help integrate your experiences.

- Lunch Break: A chance to pause, connect, and reflect.

- Afternoon Session:

- Partner Exercises: Simple practices that emphasize trust, empathy, and authentic communication.

- Group Movement: Explore the dynamics of connection within a community, understanding how we relate in collective settings.

- Emotional Intelligence Tools: Gain insights into how to navigate emotions and enhance communication.

- Creative Reflection: Further integrate the day’s learnings through creative expression and sharing.

- Integration and Closing Circle: Reflect on your experiences and insights.

Throughout the day, participants will explore how the way we move reflects the way we live, using the body as a guide to uncover deeper truths and foster a sense of unity and belonging. This journey provides a safe space for being yourself and expressing your true nature, where all interactions and connections are facilitated within a guided framework and with full consent. The practices are designed to delve deeply into subconscious layers, allowing participants to identify and reflect on images, thoughts, beliefs, fears, and emotions. Participants will sense through the nervous system and body, gaining clarity on what deeper connection feels like.

What You’ll Gain:

This workshop offers an experience grounded in both research and embodied practice. You’ll leave with:

- A Deep Sense of Connection: Experience the feeling of true connection in your body through movement and presence.

- Practical Insights: Learn simple, effective practices to enhance your emotional intelligence and communication skills.

- Greater Self-Awareness: Explore how your body and emotions interact, helping you navigate relationships with more clarity and confidence.

- Joy, Fun, Creativity and Flow: Enjoy a day filled with joy, positive connections, creative expression, a sense of flow and discovery.

"The way we move is the way we live, and through mindful movement, we can rediscover our authentic selves." — Thomas Hanna

"Movement connects us to the present moment, to ourselves, and to the world around us, fostering a sense of unity and belonging." — Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen

"Through somatic awareness, we can decode the messages of our nervous system and re-pattern our connections to self and others." — Dr. Pat Ogden

Join us on a journey towards greater self-awareness, connection, and joy!

What to bring/wear:
- Wear comfortable clothing suitable for movement. You can dance in non-slippery socks or barefoot.
- Please avoid or minimize perfume use, as strong scents can be distracting or uncomfortable for some participants.
- Bring water to stay hydrated.
- You can bring your art (drawing/painting/sculpting) supplies, if you want. Basic materials will be provided.

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What is Azul conscious dance?
Azul conscious dance is a practice of deep listening and authentic movement. It's not about performing or looking good; it's about tuning into your body's natural rhythms and expressions. Whether you find yourself moving freely or engaging in subtle, internal movements, this practice is all about embracing what feels true for you in the moment. It’s an exploration that is freeing, fun, and deeply relaxing, allowing you to reconnect with your authentic self.

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No prior dance experience required. Everyone is welcome to go on this journey.

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Date/time: October 27, 2024, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm (CET)
Important: We start at 10 am sharp, and aim to finish at 1 pm. We always start on time. Come 15-20 mins earlier.
Location: Volkshaus, Gelber Saal, Stauffacherstrasse 60, 8004 Zürich
Price:
Early Bird: 95 CHF (until end of September)
Full Price: 145 CHF.
Language: English.

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Registration, payment:
https://The-Humans.ch

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About Your Facilitator:

Dr. Ekaterina Kamenskaya is a coach, mentor, and somatic movement facilitator with a background in engineering and emotional intelligence. With 17 years of experience in the tech industry, including a 13.5-year tenure at Google, she brings a unique blend of scientific insight and holistic practice to her workshops.

Ekaterina has a rich and diverse background and experience:

- A PhD in Engineering and a scientific book publication

- A 17-year engineering career, including 13.5 years at Google

- Taught various courses to Google employees, such as Life Design, mindfulness, emotional intelligence based on neuroscience, human connection, etc.

- Led D&I and educational communities, gave talks at the various conferences, organized hundreds of events

- Studied and practiced somatics, body psychotherapy and conscious dance

- Offered mentorship and coaching

- Led multiple conscious dance workshops in Zurich since 2022

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