Description
NVC Retreat @ the Carlson Club in River Falls, WI on Saturday, October 19th, 2024
With guidance from Nonviolent Communication Practice Guide, Jen Gergen, we’ll start our workshop with the basic fundamentals of NVC exploring the OFNR Process of: Observations > Feelings > Needs > Requests with expansion into the nuances of Self-Empathy that add in steps for Beliefs and Body Awareness.
We’ll also dive into discernment skills that foster an understanding of the difference between stating observations and making evaluations, judgments, and assessments. We’ll build needs consciousness that recognizes core needs from our attachments to strategies. We’ll work to decipher when we are making requests instead of demands. And we’ll hone our feelings awareness that identifies belief-based “faux” feelings that can imply blame and wrongness.
Through our time together, we’ll deepen the practice by applying the learning to scenarios of tension and conflict. These scenarios will be internal (self connection) as well as external (empathic connection to another).
Additionally, ample time will be provided to explore skepticism, suspicion, and resistance to NVC as we integrate this new language (including discussion on where NVC can unfortunately be weaponized). This resistance can be due to cultural differences, systemic issues, power dynamics, or simply just the uneasiness people experience as they navigate “feelings” and “needs”.
What to Expect
Agenda
(local Central Time Zone reflected)
- doors open at 9:30am
- acclimating to the space (light refreshments provided)
- 10:00 am – Noon
- welcome & introduction
- authentic relating game
- basics & fundamentals
- defining empathy
- three choices
- OFNR
- Noon – 1:00pm
- working NVC practice lunch (meal provided for in-person attendees)
- making empathy buddies
- managing conflict between us
- working NVC practice lunch (meal provided for in-person attendees)
- 1:00pm – 4:00pm
- authentic relating game
- discernment skills
- observations vs judgements
- feelings vs thoughts
- needs vs strategies
- requests vs demands
- share out tips, takeaways or tension
- doors close at 5pm
Logistics
This workshop is hosted on Jen’s private property and a virtual platform will be used for those unable to attend in person. Virtual attendees will will have their video/audio and participation in the chat feed projected to the live room. All attendees will participate in large-group activities. During breakouts, live attendees will pair off into small groups and virtual attendees will practice as a group with each other. After purchasing ticket, attendees will be sent a registration form to capture their full details.
FAQs
“This is the Virtual Ticket page, how do I register for in-person attendance?”
“How many people can attend?”
This event can accommodate 20 in-person attendees and 100 virtual attendees.
“Where is this event located?”
On a beautiful farm near Hudson in River Falls, Wisconsin (about a half hour East of the Twin Cities, Minnesota). To protect privacy, because this is on private property, the full address will be provided closer to the event date.
“Are there local accommodations for those coming from out of town?”
The Twin Cities are only a 30-45 minute drive away (including MSP International Airport). Because River Falls is a charming small town on Kinnickinnic River with several local state parks close by, there is a selection of local hotels, lodges, B&Bs, and Airbnb rentals close by.
“Is food provided for in-person attendees?”
Yes. A lunch as well as modest refreshments for the morning and breaks will provided. When registering, please ensure any dietary restrictions are communicated to ensure your comfort and safety. Those registering after October 5th may be asked to bring their own food and drink options (refrigeration and a microwave is available). Any airborne allergies indicated by fellow attendees will be communicated based on the details provided in registration forms, so that you may plan accordingly.
“Are the bathrooms accessible to those with mobility restrictions?”
While the workshop itself is wheelchair accessible, there are a few steps (with secured handles available) that are required to access the bathroom on the property. When registering, please ensure your accessibility needs are communicated by September 30th, so that Jen may secure an accessible portal toilet.
“Where do I park my vehicle?”
There is a large, flat paved driveway as well as ample parking on the paved road leading to the property. Very close parking to the event space can be reserved for those with mobility restrictions (please ensure to communicate this on your registration form).
“Is this event accessible to neurodivergent individuals and those with visual or hearing impairment?”
Automated captions will be projected on the screen, an ASL interpreter will be available, and all visual content will be audibly described. Large-print workbooks can be made available upon request by October 5th. For those with personal care assistance, free attendance will be provided to their PCA. All service animals are allowed and there is easy and close access to a large outdoor space. All attendees are encouraged to advocate for their needs when registering, so that accommodations may be made. Your full humanity is welcome.
“Is this venue temperature controlled?”
While charming, this workshop venue is considered rustic and does not have central heating or air conditioning. In the event of cool weather, space heaters will be provided and for unseasonably warm weather, fans and ample air flow from a very large garage-sized open door will be available. Fall in Wisconsin is typically quite lovely, however (and you are encouraged to drive the area to take in the beautiful views).
“Do I need to bring anything with me?”
Because this is a more rustic venue, you are asked to dress in very casual, comfortable, layered clothes. Seating is provided, of course, but you are welcome to bring your favorite camping chair and/or yoga mats with pillows to ensure your greatest comfort. Pens and a detailed workbook will be provided, but you are encouraged to bring a notebook and writing utensils. While food will be provided, please feel free to bring any snacks or non-alcoholic drinks you like (a prohibited list with any airborne allergies indicated by fellow attendees will be communicated before the event).
“What if I need to step away during the workshop?”
Organic breaks and movement activities will arise through the day, but you are encouraged to take bio breaks as needed.
“Are there animals on this farm?”
Outside of two house cats and local wildlife taking up residence, no.
“Are there any discounts available for those who cannot afford the full price of the event?”
Yes, Jen employs the Green Bottle Method in all of her sessions and events (learn more about the Green Bottle Method). Contact Jen at info@jengergen.com to learn what options are available. Do not let your resource scarcity prohibit you from attending!
“Are there other ways to work with Jen?”
Yes! Book 1:1 here or check out upcoming events here.
