PART ONE- OBSERVE / Module 2- RELATE

 There is a basic human need to belong and connect in some way. To a community, a job, a partner, or in a family. This module is about connecting and relating to yourself as well as others. It has become harder to physically connect with many obstacles set in place in our society. We need to find NEW ways to “ re-connect” and break down these barriers that have been set. Updating old rituals, systems and structures to arrive at revised intentions and solutions that brings us together, rather than push up apart.

I arrived into your country 

not knowing

who you were 

but I was eager to know

I could not yet relate with words

so I chose to sense instead. 

- Jennifer Cloutier

An excerpt from the poem RELATE, in Jennifer’s recent publication MIRA Cuba the flaneur way. 

On my first trip to Cuba, I didn’t know the language. All I could do was sense. Look and see, listen to hear and feel. I had to find alternative ways to connect, communicate and relate. I adapted to the moment in which I found myself. 

Whether it is on the road, or in our day to day lives, we are faced with these type challenges in which we need to adapt in order to relate to ourselves, others and this ever changing world. 

This week, will mark the year anniversary to when the global pandemic had arrived at our doorstep in North America and we all went into lockdown. Forcing each of us to quickly make decisions on how we were all going to stay safe and with whom. As well as figure out how to stay connected at a time of great distance and uncertainty 

For the most part, modern technology supplied us with the instant connection we needed but WAS it enough to give us the intimacy that is necessary on a deeper level?  Our smartphones, zoom, social media apps, all served us well under the circumstances, but I feel we NOW we need to find new solutions, and ways to reconnect again.

It is within this theme we start Module two from PART One of the master class to Field guide to Flaneuring. Focusing on how we relate to ourselves, others and the world around us through our senses.  Breaking it down into three parts. observation, creation and exploration. As well as the season in which we find ourselves. 

This module is called “Relate” under the season of spring 

How do we go forward and adapt within all the uncertainty and complexities that are there? Can we stay plugged in and connected during a moment we are apart without feeling overwhelmed and saturated from the constant noise and clutter of the everyday.  

It’s time to observe our lives and reflect on who we are NOW, who we WERE and who would like to become. Find new solutions to bring us together, rather than apart. 

Each relationship we HAVE, is complex. Whether it be with yourself, or another. Taking simple steps to observe and find rituals of relating, can begin to bridge the gaps of the physical distance and disconnection that occurred. Bringing us into alignment with a more updated and authentic version of ourselves that better suits our NEEDS and WANTS, in the present day. 

It is within this theme we start Module two / PART ONE of the master class to Field guide to Flaneuring. Focusing on how we relate to ourselves others and the world around us through our senses. Breaking it down into three parts. observation, creation and exploration.

OBSERVE

Let’s take some moments now, to create space, time and intention on observing our relationships. Wherever you are, close your eyes and bring your attention to the next set of thoughts. 

HOW do you connect and relate in your everyday with yourself, others and the world around you? 

Let’s begin with yourself. 

Are you taking enough time to truly see and listen to your needs and wants .Reserving enough time to connect with who you are, today.  Allowing moments to spend with your thoughts, ideas and dreams. Giving the necessary care you need, mentally, physically and emotionally. What subtle changes or intentions can you make to ease and find flow in your day, with your own self care practice. Can you open some space to simply relate to yourself, away from distractions, and noise.  To find rest, creation, and connection. 

I’ll give you a few moments to reflect and digest on this 

Let’s move onwards to our relationships with others. ( whether it be with a friend, family, sibling or a  parent). 

OTHERS- do you feel in tune with the way you relate within these relationships.  Has there been disconnection, separation, or stress in the past?  Are you willing to bridge the gaps and distance that might have occurred.? 

Think about all the ways in which we can communicate today. Phone, messaging, FaceTime, zoom.  Is there one in which brings up stress, and feelings of saturation. If so, can you find an alternative way to connect with another that will bring back more comfort and ease to form a better and deeper line of communication.

If you have had too much screen time throughout your day, can you now choose to make a phone call or write letter or postcard.  Creating space, a ritual and intention to your action, can change the general mood and outcome.

A small exercise for you.  

In your next interaction with another. Notice how you connect. 

Are you truly seeing, and listening to them.  Take the time to make eye contact, and just LISTEN to them, without wanting to add to the conversation.  Try to let go of expectation to your relationships and go with the flow to what is, at the time. 

THE WORLD- Finally, let’s move forward to how we relate to our outer landscapes. The places that we inhabit.  Take a walk today, outside. Change your perspective for a moment and simply notice.  Even if it’s just in your block.  Without adding your own commentary and clutter to the situation, and just NOTICE. Let the thinking mind rest for now and practice living the direct experience . 

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