for Feb Samachar

GESTALT at Pasayadaan

The Gestalt course held for the first time in Vasai at Pasayadaan from 2-10 January, 2013 was a tremendous success. The 70 participants, the majority of whom were of other faiths, included professional trainers and social entrepreneurs from Kerala and Tamilnadu in the south to Nepal and Shillong  in the north. While Dick McHugh  was a major attraction and his astute facilitation skills combine therapy with humor, sound and dance, much of the credit goes primarily to the  initiative, the creativity, compassion and courage of our lay collaborators. The Jesuits were quite content to play a more supportive role. InterPlay playshops after the session on some days helped participants to integrate the wisdom in their body besides giving them an opportunity to loosen up and let go.  Several participants mentioned that the quality of the workshop, the facilities, meals and hospitality were truly excellent – far beyond their expectations. They were struck by the professionalism with a human touch which made them feel so much at home and appreciated the massive effort put in to create the appropriate environment enabling easy entry into deeper realms of the spirit.
The holistic approach of Gestalt and its focus on the ‘here and now’ fits  well into the broader vision of Pasayadaan. Quite a few participants showed a keen interest in networking  with Pasayadaan for more effective mission.