14 – 16th June 2024
“Let silence take you to the core of life.” Rumi
The impact of silence throughout life tends to have a wealth of meaning and influence – like thought itself it permeates all levels of human functioning in all ages. Thus it is argued it provides a continuous medium for communication and emotional expression.
It is said that some of the most poignant emotional experiences in life are enjoyed or endured in reflective silence. The expression of emotions in states of grief and mourning or the feeling of ecstasy when in love tends to be essentially a silent, internalised process, as silence enhances thought and fantasy and facilitates the process of identification with lost or wished-for objects. As John Grossmann indicates: “Silence is not the absence of something but the presence of everything.”
In this experiential workshop we will explore the process of silence in silence for the first part of the workshop. We will then work with the emerging issues within a safe, relaxing, inspiring and transformational space in which you can connect with yourself and others. It is an invitation to reflect on yourself and your life, individually and collectively, and identify and address blockages that stop you from being your potential and live the life you desire. Drawing on art, creative expression and playfulness, will help us to delve into the depth of our process and gain clarity of what needs addressed, corrected, enjoyed and celebrated.
“I will find new meaning in every joy and sorrow. In that silence I will hear the voice of spirit, and freed from this world, I will see another world, where the end is another beginning.” Rumi
It is open to individuals who wish to engage in personal exploration and development. It allows for an introduction to psychodrama psychotherapy or to deepen the experience in this creative and deep psychological method. Group members will be able to participate to the degree they feel comfortable, combining collective and individual exploration, based on the themes that emerge. The weekend creates a therapeutic community space where participants will work and live together, as well as have time for individual reflection.
“In the stillness of your own being, discover the serenity that arises when you embrace the silence within.”
The retreat takes place in Mullaghbawn, a small village and townland near Slieve Gullion in County Armagh. We will stay in a self-contained unit at the Ti Chulainn Centre that has a large kitchen where cooking and meals take place, and a spacious living room which will be our therapeutic space for working in. Accommodation offers single ensuite bedrooms, of which some have more than one bed if people wanted to share: https://discovernorthernireland.com/accommodation/ti-chulainn-cultural-events-and-accommodation-centre-p687961
Time schedule for the weekend:
Friday at 7 – 9
Saturday 10 – 5
Sunday 10 – 3
There are only 10 spaces available.
This workshop counts for 15 CPD hours.
Cost: Early Bird £395 ends 1st May; Regular Price £445 ends on 13th June; This includes 2 nights accommodation and a Five Star fresh homecooked Vegan adventure Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday.
Please contact Biggi for a booking form and questionnaire. Your booking is secured once you have received an invitation and your payment in full has been received. Payment is non-refundable unless the retreat is cancelled. biggi@aronatherapy.com
In the silence of LOVE you will find the Spark of LIFE. Rumi
Biggi Hofmann, originally from Germany and living in Northern Ireland since 1980, has been leading workshops and residential weekends for over 20 years. She is an experienced group psychotherapist who has a passion for facilitating healing and change through creative expression.