The Art of Listening
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- August 2, 2024
Listening is in itself such a simple act. We don’t have to advise, coach or seem wise – what a relief! We simply have to be willing to quietly sit there and truly listen.
‘The art of conversation lies in Listening’ Malcom Forbes
However, to do it well is a great art and skill. It requires us to be fully present and drop the mental chatter of our minds.
Indeed, as Rumi said: “The quieter you become the more you are able to hear.”
Being a good listener has been shown to improve empathy, build mutual trust, demonstrate respect, and diffuse conflict.
It is impossible to create a healthy culture if we refuse to meet and listen.
As listeners we need to create a space inside ourselves, we need to let go of our own beliefs and opinions and instead sit with gentle wonder, curiosity and an open heart. In doing so we learn what it is to be someone else, to walk in another person’s shoes.
Thus, listening helps us to move closer.
It is the antidote to the fragmentation which causes so much suffering in our society today.
As we listen so we understand and as we understand, fear and judgement dissolve.
Then, and only then, in this beautiful place that Rumi referred to as ‘the field beyond ideas of wrongdoing and right doing’ can we finally sit together and reweave the world once more into wholeness.
To practice improving your listening skills start by setting the intention to listen and then ask a friend a question. It can be as simple as “Tell me what’s going on for you in life right now?” and then … listen.
Slow down your mind and listen from your heart.
Words: Helen Prosper
Helen Prosper, Founder and CEO of A Touch of Gentleness – a CIC which trains volunteers to offer beautiful, soothing hand massages whilst listening with full and gentle presence.
Join Helen & Team for Half-Day Workshop
Wednesday 28th August, 10.00 am-12.30 pm, Rottingdean, East Sussex
A half-day workshop for those who would like to learn how to give friends and family a lovely hand massage. Minimum donation request is £20.
For More Information https://www.atouchofgentleness.org/join-us
