Embodied Prayer Facilitated session

Bringing body, mind and spirit together to encourage and empower us in difficult times

The Bible presents a holistic vision of personhood, in which body, mind and heart are equally valued. At the same time, research into the science of the brain shows how much our sense of self arises from the interdependence of body and mind.

Embodied prayer invites us to engage our whole being as we draw close to God. This can be especially helpful when we are navigating the challenges of life and faith.

This session will combine teaching with experiential practice, exploring themes such as:

• Grounding ourselves through developing body awareness
• Moving into the nearness of God’s presence
• Using posture and gesture to deepen awareness of self
• Supporting balance in the nervous system

The workshop will also include small group work to create a short sequence of embodied and verbal prayer, suitable for personal use or as part of communal liturgy.

The session is offered free of charge to clergy, lay leaders and church members in the Diocese of London. If places remain available, registration will open to those outside the diocese a few days before the event begins. If you would like to be added to a waiting list for these places, please email mirjam.ngoy@london.anglican.org.

The session is open to adults of all ages and abilities. The guided practice will begin seated, with the option to stand and move for those who wish and are able. All practices can be adapted according to individual needs and preferences.

The session will be led by Rachel Michael, a dance movement psychotherapist registered for private practice with the Association for Dance Movement Psychotherapy UK. Alongside her clinical work, she runs a project called Embodied Perspective, which introduces people to the practice and benefits of embodied prayer (www.embodiedperspective.org).

Rachel holds an MA in Theology from the University of Wales and continues to reflect and write about embodied practice. Her first publication, Embodied Prayer as Mission: A Response to Cultural Change, was recently published by Grove Books.

About Confident Disciples

We aim to equip church leaders and communities in confident discipleship and spiritual formation. Visit www.wayoflife.com for more information.

For any other questions about this offering, please reach out to our Discipleship Enabler, Mirjam Ngoy-Verhage, at mirjam.ngoy@london.anglican.org.