Sowing Seeds for the Great Turning: A two-part workshop series

Event Overview

Joanna Macy was an eco-philosopher, Buddhist scholar, systems theorist, activist, and guide. She dedicated her life to illuminating the interconnectedness of all life and empowering individuals and groups to confront the ecological and social crises of our time with courage and compassion. 

The Great Turning is a term coined by Joanna to describe the transition from a society driven by industrial growth, resource extraction and consumption to one that values ecological balance, social justice and world where all beings can thrive. According to Joanna, this societal revolution, comparable in scope and magnitude to the agricultural and industrial revolutions, is the essential adventure of our time.

Joanna also left us a toolkit – the Work That Reconnects – a form of group work designed to cultivate the intention and ability to take part in the healing of our world. The practices, teachings, grounding exercises and simple rituals that make up this work help us acknowledge the pain of our times while cultivating resilience, empowerment and a clarity in relation to purpose.

In times of great challenge, whether personal or planetary, we may experience frustration, anger, despair, numbness, or simply wish to turn away from it all. A crisis is also an opportunity to generate our resilience, to bring forth our courage, creativity and care. It may ask us to dig deeper into our inner resources. The great news is we don’t have to do this alone. We can connect with others dedicated to creating a sustainable world and life we love. In our own unique way, we can be part of the Great Turning.

In this workshop series, we’ll:

·         hold space to explore what is emerging for you.

·         journey through the structure of the WTR, exploring key practices and listening for what matters most.

·         explore the story of the Great Turning as inspiration for a personal circumstance,  specific project or collective initiative.

·         Identify next steps for moving forward with clarity, courage and connection, translating insight and inspiration into action.

     All experiences are welcome.

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT?

–       embodiment practices for grounding

–       a supportive circle of humans

–       Space for grief and gratitude

–       practices for positively directing the imagination towards ecological wellness, including social justice

–       self-reflection questions, small and large group activities/discussions

–       a respectful, curious, and nurturing space for community

–       workshop facilitated in English while welcoming opportunities to ask questions in French and share in any language.

–       Land-based practices, weather permitting

Workshop details:

• Two Saturday mornings in a beautiful rural autumn landscape

• time to digest and integrate in between sessions

• support for coordinating carpooling for those coming from Ottawa