Soultalk - Dialogue for the Soul
Duration
1 hour
Recommended amount of people
minimum 2
Skills
Deep listening, gratitude, empathy, mindful communication, social awareness, trust, connectedness, curiosity, relation
Materials
Questions (Click here)
What?
Throughout the “Soultalk”, we would like to invite people/you to maintain and nurture empathy and meaningful connections among participants. The activity tries to achieve numerous outcomes by engaging in purposeful, personal conversations centred on meaningful questions. Hence, participants gain a deeper understanding of each other's emotions, perspectives opinions, and values by sharing personal stories and experiences. The empathetic connection formed through the dialogue enhances a sense of shared vulnerability and openness, leading to strengthened relationships and group cultures. Reflecting on profound questions encourages self-awareness, allowing individuals to obtain insights into one's own values and beliefs. The atmosphere created by the activity extends to group dynamics, generating a sense of community and understanding.
Why?
The purpose of this activity is to meet the natural human urge for connection and understanding. This exercise provides an intentional space for individuals to authentically engage with one another in a society defined by fast-paced interactions. By sharing stories, thoughts, and emotions, participants not only encourage empathy but also contribute to a more compassionate and interconnected community. Thus, this practice is designed to facilitate and stimulate genuine, human connections that go beyond the surface, thereby enriching the lives of those involved and participating.
Instructions
Preparations
1
Create a comfortable and calm environment for the activity to enhance the feeling of safety and encourage vulnerability and authenticity, as these qualities/traits contribute to deeper connections.
2
Setting the tone for the Soultalk dialogue by emphasising the value of active listening, respect and confidentiality, as well as assuring participants that they can choose not to answer a question if it causes them discomfort. Further, underlining the importance that this is not a debate or discussion, but rather an opportunity to share and connect.
3
Execute the activity within a small group of people and encourage diverse pairings to encourage a variety of perspectives and opinions.
1
Participants take turns asking and answering questions about their connection to oneself, others, and nature (3 level questions). Start with the catalogue of questions about “connection to oneself”, then move to “connection to others”, and finally get engaged with the questions about “connection to nature”. Everyone should be able to express themselves and share their thoughts without interruption.
2
Encourage participants to elaborate on their responses, noting not only the “what” but also the “why”.
3
After both participants have had a chance to ask and answer questions, take a few minutes for reflection.
4
Ask participants to consider what they learnt about each other and how the dialogue deepened their understanding and interpersonal connection.
Activity
More intense level suggestions:
An optional addition could be a group discussion:
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Conclude the activity with a group discussion where participants can share insights, interesting disclosures, feelings, or any common ground identified during the dialogue and experience.
Considerations:
Take enough time to embrace the preparation for the activity by creating a suitable environment and setting the tone for the dialogue