We Become What We Practice

Scientists at the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences have shown (more here) that a new form of daily meditation can increase social connectedness and reduce feelings of loneliness: the so-called contemplative dyad. In contrast to traditional techniques that are practised alone in silence, this form of meditation relies on joint meditation in the form of concentrated, mindful dialogues.

It has been shown that neuroplasticity increases in the areas of the cortex responsible for social behaviour. Social skills, empathy and the ability to put oneself in another person's shoes are improved. In addition, the cortisol level after social stress was significantly lower than in people who meditated alone.

BE THE RIVER WE BECOME

RIVERS and OPEN HANDS offer us a wealth of contemplative partner exercises.

And that is precisely why we practise them: because they help us to cultivate togetherness. Now, for the first time, we also have scientific results. That is wonderful! Of course, they also make me smile: of course, these different forms of dialogue cultivate togetherness, promote various social skills, reduce social stress and lead to more serenity. My personal experiment with hundreds of participants has been going on for more than twenty years, and in self-experimentation for thirty years.

EVEN WITHOUT A PREFERENCE

The researchers at the institute naturally compared their results with a group of practitioners who practised classical meditation on their own. The practitioners had not chosen their method according to their preference, in the sense of, well, people who already have a social streak are more likely to choose an interactive practice.

What we can conclude from this is that you become what you practise. And that is why we practise integral movement, which includes various partner settings and opportunities for play. We practise a range of movement that is not arbitrary, but rather cultivates our inner spectrum in a clear and targeted way.

Communication enables communion, community. A shared structure enables lasting change.