Nonviolent Communication

This week Colin and Matt meet Florence, who introduces us to the concept of nonviolent communication. Marshall Rosenberg, a clinical psychologist active in the USA. Non-violence is a concept with which practitioners of yoga will be familiar: "Ahimsa" is the first of the Yamas, the first limb of yoga.

Nonviolent communication is not a technique to resolve all arguments, but rather a way to increase empathy - within yourself and towards others. Many times when we have argued, or been angry, or spoken sharply with others we have clumsily expressed that a need within us has not been met. Observing, understanding the facts dispassionately and working out how your needs, as well as my needs, can be met, is key to the approach.

Nonviolent communication gives us the opportunity to be open and honest in a way that encourages parties to seek solutions that can fill the need of all involved, rather than search for a compromise that may lead to further unhappiness. Understanding and experiencing our feelings, as well as making requests, may help us to find more harmony with family, friends and colleagues. Nonviolent communication techniques are ready-made for yogis!