Comments on: What We Say Matters – Book Review and Giveaway!

By: Michelle

Michelle — Sun, 07 Nov 2010 20:02:58 +0000

Luckily, when we meditate and do asana regularly, I think beneficent communication comes naturally. I was a very hot-headed person who reacted without thinking, in the past. Now, when I am in a situation that would have formally infuriated me, my emotions are automatically brought into the field of conscious awareness and transmuted into understanding, therefore bringing forth considered words and deeds. It’s with habitual practice holding that space of meditation, that the gift of non-voilent communication comes. Thus it is said, “Keep practicing and all is coming.” –Thankfully

By: What We Say Matters Book Giveaway: Congrats to the Winners!

What We Say Matters Book Giveaway: Congrats to the Winners! — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:51:21 +0000

[...] part of our review last week of What We Say Matters by Judith Hanson Lasater and Ike Lasater, we included a little big giveaway [...]

By: Roz

Roz — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 22:23:50 +0000

What we say AND how we say it matter. Yoga and meditation in particular has helped me slow down as well as reflect on my behavior. After being not necessarily angry, but just short and not present in a phone call with my mom, I went upstairs for some yoga. When my practice was over and my mind felt reset and refreshed, I called her to apologize for my shortness and tried to share with her what was going on elsewhere in my head. I think yoga has helped me focus on TODAY as the only day and being more present and aware of the moments that make up that day.

By: Shana Skaletsky

Shana Skaletsky — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 05:23:27 +0000

Before I began a consistent yoga practice, much of my communication came from a place of frustration, stress, and even rage. I felt that in order to succeed in my career (one outside the yoga world), I needed that anger to get my point across. It didn’t work (surprise, surprise). Has my practice completely changed the way I communicate? Not entirely, but I’ve noticed that I’ve become more aware of the manner in which I communicate. Much like making a physical adjustment in asana, when I notice that my words and actions are out of alignment and coming from a place of pain, I adjust my point of view.

By: Bob Weisenberg

Bob Weisenberg — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 22:25:58 +0000

Nicely put, Meaghan.

By: Meaghan Hutchings

Meaghan Hutchings — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:43:55 +0000

I have found the practice of pranayama to be my most useful tool in practicing speech with intention. Often, the things we say out loud are connected to a deeper emotional reaction to the situation at hand. Pranayama (from the simple “breathe deeply” variety to my favorite calming practice, alternate nostril breath) is a way to connect with what your heart really feels and what your mind really thinks in any given moment. A deep, full breath can miraculously open our eyes to other perspectives and possibilities, leading our words in a more openhearted, understanding direction.

I have never studied nonviolent communication, but the idea has always been intriguing. This book sounds like a perfect introduction.

By: Bob Weisenberg

Bob Weisenberg — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 14:46:35 +0000

My wife Jane is a master of “kill them with kindness”. Whenever she starts to get angry at someone, she treats the person with respect and kindness, and she tries to help them out in any way she can.

She doesn’t suppress her anger entirely. She might come home and rant and rave to me. But rarely to the person in question. Often these people are so surprised they end up changing their behavior and they become great friends.

Bob Weisenberg
http://YogaDemystified.com

By: Zippy Mama

Zippy Mama — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 02:49:11 +0000

I just finished taking a mini-course on yoga and non-violent communication. These methods have allowed me to be more of the physical reactions in my body that are connected to certain emotions. Greater awareness has led me to be able to apply strategies to deal with these emotions before conflicts or interactions get out of control.

Also, through these methods, I have become more aware of not only my own needs, but the needs of others, which helps makes communication more meaningful.

I have enjoyed some of Judith Lasater’s other books and I am certainly looking forward to reading this one!

By: Lauren

Lauren — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 02:42:31 +0000

I think nonviolent communication or being aware of an intention has helped me to connect to those around me on a whole new level, articulate what I am feeling and thinking without hurting others and give of myself through speech in a way I had never thought of before. I now believe that my intentions shape my life.