| Aim | This activity aims at enhancing our presence and at fostering our awareness of the moment and the space we are in, through a process of mindful observations. |
| Trainee profile | People with special needs can participate as long as they are able to see and express themselves. |
| Learning Objectives | To foster effective listening
To be able to describe and explain ideas To enhance your perception of new perspectives To foster curiosity |
| n° participants | Up to 20 people. Ideally an even number. |
| Duration | 45 minutes |
| Materials | Printed version of the handout (see the Annexes), representing a picture frame. |
| Preparation | Print a copy of the handout for every participant. |
| Implementation | Ask participants to walk |
| Debriefing | Ask the participants to gather up in a circle and discuss the following questions (you may ask more):
Do you think focusing on details makes you feel like you are more present and in control of the situation? Why do we usually lower our attention to what we have around? How does changing perspective influence the way you perceive things? Do you think that embracing other people’s perspectives may enhance our perception of the world? |
| Tips and hints | This is an activity which works well also in an outdoor setting, as it usually offers more richness in terms of inputs and also much more engagement of the body and movement. It is an element to consider according to the specific resources available in terms of space and possibilities. |
| Safety measures | Be sure there is nothing dangerous in the room and that participants walk slowly, thus, to avoid people bumping into each other. |
| Added value | This activity can show how many things go unnoticed, especially when we are in a context that we believe ordinary or that we know well already. The process of awareness begins with exploration, curiosity and is about looking for the small cues. |
| Variances | A possible shorter variation of the activity could be “The Story Behind My Last Picture”. |