The longest relationship we’ll ever be in is with yourself. So how can we practice being with ourselves in a way that’s patient, compassionate, and supportive? How can we work to accept our challenging parts that might show up in moments of self-sabotage?
In this monthly salon, we’ll explore research, essays, poems, and mindfulness practices around themes of self-acceptance, self-compassion, and self-observation. As we share how we see ourselves moving through the world, our group will be able to offer insights and support.
While this series will take place online, we are hoping to also offer in-person salons in the D.C. and N.Y.C areas.
About the Hosts
Gina Hafez is a therapist and educator with a history of working in jails, clinics, mental institutions, schools and hospitals.
Grace Bialecki is a writer, workshop facilitator and meditation teacher who helps people be present with their art and in their lives. Her writing has been published in numerous publications, such as The Millions, Catapult, and Epiphany Magazine, and she’s taught hundreds of workshops for organizations like The Peace Education Center, Detroit Horse Power, and DOROT. Grace holds a BA in Literature from Pomona College, and a Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification through the Greater Good Science Center at the University of California, Berkeley.
Third Tuesday of the Month, 4:30 – 6 pm ET
| Date | Episode |
| Nov 26, 2024 | Being with Ourselves: With/Without Our Families |
| Dec 17, 2024 | Being with Ourselves: A New Year Approaches |
| Jan 21, 2024 | Being with Ourselves: As We Evolve |
| Feb 18, 2024 | Being with Ourselves: Grief and Restoration |
| March 18, 2024 | Being with Ourselves: Impermanence |
Community Guidelines:
Try It On: Be willing to “try on” new ideas, or ways of doing things that might not be what you prefer or are familiar with.
Move Up/Move Back: Be present during our time together and aware of how we’re sharing our time. Take note of who is speaking and who is not. If you tend to speak often, consider “moving back.” If you are shy, consider “moving up.”
Practice Mindful Listening: Try to avoid planning what you’ll say as you listen to others. Be willing to be surprised, to learn something new. Listen with your whole self.
Practice “Both/And”: When speaking, substitute “and” for “but.” This practice acknowledges and honors multiple realities.
Example: “This poem was engaging, but the end confused me.” vs “This poem was engaging, and the end confused me.”
Agree to Politely Disagree: May we all agree to politely disagree and set aside the idea of being “right” in order to explore other perspectives.
Confidentiality: Take home learnings, but don’t share names or specific details. If you want to follow up with anyone regarding something they said during a session, ask first and respect their wishes.
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