Creating a Sacred Container for Your Virtual Workshop
Any time we gather together, we are creating a sacred space where transformation often occurs. The more you can prepare yourself mentally, physically, emotionally, the more likely this will occur! Remember, this is a gift to you - but also to the whole wide world. As we nurture ourselves, so is the whole world healed.
Prepare yourself mentally and physically for your workshop. Arrive as well-rested as you can. Treat yourself with extra kindness in the days beforehand, putting self-care at the forefront of your mind and schedule.
Clear your schedule
Cancel any appointments, just as you would if you were going away for the weekend.
If you will be remaining at home, complete household and family tasks ahead of time - or arrange for someone else to take care of whatever might be needed during the time of your workshop - and if possible, for a half an hour or so before and afterwards so that you have time to prepare before and assimilate afterwards. This includes child care, pet care, meal prep & clean-up, household duties, etc.
Create as quiet an environment as possible. If you remain at home, select a spot in your home that allows you as much privacy and quiet as possible. Or you may have the opportunity and choose to find a quiet space away from home - at a trusted friend’s home, a comfortable AirBnB or maybe even a secluded retreat center.
Beautify this spot in some way that allows you to really enjoy your time there. Perhaps put out flowers, create an altar with a few sacred items, light a candle. Whatever might make this space feel special and inviting to you.
Give yourself to the retreat schedule. Be fully present during our time together. This is a gift to both yourself as well as the others who are in attendance. Commit with your heart. The schedule is created to allow continuity to your practice, so the more present you are, the more awareness and insight will arise.
Please keep your video camera on, if you are willing, unless you need to temporarily step away from your screen. This really supports your practice and deepens the sense of community. Your presence on screen allows for a more connected and intimate experience for everyone there, participants as well as facilitators. If this is something about which you feel uncomfortable, please reach out to me beforehand so that we can talk about possibilities. Thank you!
You may wish to practice silence during any breaks. This can be a powerful experience and will help to keep your attention and energy in the mode of the workshop. If you live with others, be sure to let them know you will be doing this.
When you do speak, make this, too, part of your workshop. Throughout the workshop, practice mindful speech. Speak with an attitude of mindfulness, kindness, awareness, tenderness, compassion - towards yourself and others.
Know that your workshop includes everything that happens. No matter what occurs, allow it to be a part of your practice, just like all things are a part of life.