About this Event
Ego & Essence is a dynamic day retreat inspired by Gestalt therapy, the Enneagram of Personality and the work of Claudio Naranjo.
Through drawing, movement, self-enquiry and shared experiences, we'll explore our personalities, the ways we seek love and belonging, and the possibility of relating to ourselves and others with greater awareness, spontaneity and freedom.
Who are we beneath our characters and the masks we wear?
So much of our lives is shaped by the character we built in childhood: the jobs we take, the partners we choose, the way our relationships end, what motivates us, our routines, what makes us happy, sad or angry, the way we speak, how we relate to family, friends and children, our sexual energy, and even the way we eat. Many of us go on living within patterns we created as children, often without realising it.
This full-day experiential workshop will give you the chance to start seeing those patterns clearly. You'll gain a clearer sense of the character you've developed, the "mask" you wear, and how it shapes your choices and relationships. You'll be introduced to the Enneagram, a map of nine personality patterns developed by the Chilean psychiatrist and Gestalt psychotherapist Claudio Naranjo, a disciple of Fritz Perls, the founder of Gestalt therapy. And you'll begin to recognise which patterns speak most to you.
Beyond understanding, you'll experience something different: slowing down, being seen by others, and reconnecting with spontaneity through art, movement and play.
No previous experience of Gestalt, the Enneagram or art is needed. You don't need to be able to draw or dance; just bring your curiosity and a willingness to explore. All activities are optional, and everyone is welcome to participate at their own pace.
Your Facilitators
Dulcie Ball is a teacher, artist and founder of Sketch Appeal CIC, a creative organisation bringing people together through drawing and portraiture. She has trained in Gestalt Art Therapy and is passionate about creativity as a means of self-discovery, expression and connection.
Jesús Soto-Aranaz Mayor is a teacher specialising in alternative education and pedagogies. He has trained in Gestalt Psychotherapy and the Enneagram of Personality through Claudio Naranjo's SAT Programme.
Practical information
Our retreat will take place in the chapel at Oxford House in Bethnal Green, an inspiring and atmospheric space for creativity, reflection and connection.
Wear comfortable clothes that allow you to move freely. All art materials and refreshments will be provided. Lunch is not included.
Please note: Ego & Essence is an experiential personal-development retreat, not group therapy. Some activities invite emotional reflection. Participation is always voluntary, and personal boundaries will be respected.
Event venue & nearby stays
Oxford House, Derbyshire Street, London, United Kingdom
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