Celebrations…

Four of us met today in Children’s Park, in the capital
city of Panaji –
1.     
Projot
2.     
Rajan
3.     
Rahul
4.     
Harish
We started with season’s greetings and some casual talks,
and then quickly started following the agenda planned- 

1.     
Introduction Activity
One member had to tell about himself to the other. The
other had to then introduce his compatriot to the entire group, as if he’s
speaking on his behalf. The activity was suggested by Projot. Another challenge
of this activity was to remember all the things your partner has told you. So,
listening skills were also put to test.
2.     
Breathing Exercises
Next, we did breathing exercises. Keeping our hands on
our chest and tummy, we began to observe our breathing. Then, we tried to
breathe with our chest, and then with our tummy only. We practiced tummy
breathing for sometime, and discussed it’s significance in good communication
and management of blocks.
3.     
Practice Rounds
It was then time for practicing some techniques. We
started with bouncing (5 times, 3 times), followed by Easy Onset and block
correction (pre/in/post) techniques. In between we also tried to bring some
humour with the sentences which we used for practice. In the end, we discussed
about the challenges of implementing these practices in real speaking
situations.
4.     
Mi Me Ma Mo Mu…
We all then tried the Mi Me Ma Mo Mu technique from Apna
Hath Jagannath. Some of us tried it on the consonants with which we had
problems. It was also evident from this exercise that Rajan had a good singing
ability.
5.     
Eye Contact
In this exercise, we tried to interview each other, while
maintaining eye-contact. We practiced eye-contact and also discussed it’s
significance. Everyone contributed with their opinions and suggestions.
6.     
Communication Games
It was then time to add some fun with Games. We played
two games – Two truths and a Lie, and Forming the story. Both the games brought
in a lot of cheers and the story forming activity gave rise to a very
interesting story with funny twists and turns.
When we were done with the items in agenda, we then had a
casual discussion. Rajan and Harish shared some moments of Coorg. We then asked
Rajan few questions about Vipassana, and he shared his experiences with the
same.
In the midst of the festive season and celebrations all
around the city, we also celebrated our stammering in our own pleasant way, to
go home wearing a smile…

Post Author: Harish Usgaonker

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