Nonviolent Communication contains nothing new. It is based on historical principles of nonviolence - the natural state of compassion when no violence is present in the heart. NVC reminds us what we already instinctively know, about how good it feels to authentically connect to another human being - CNVC
In practical terms, Nonviolent Communication (NVC) or Compassionate Communication is a learnable, doable, process of interpersonal communication, designed to improve connection on three, interconnected levels: within self, between others and within groups and social systems.
It was developed by Marshall Rosenberg Ph.D. (1934-2015) in the 1960s, and has since been taught and practiced in over 65 countries around the world, touching the lives of hundreds of thousands of people in communities, tribes, prisons, hospitals, corporations, schools, governments and the house next door.
Universal Human Needs
are central to the theory of NVC, which supposes that all human behaviour stems from attempts to meet needs, and that people only resort to unwanted, or harmful behaviour, when they can’t recognise more effective strategies for getting their needs met.
The basic model consists of the following: Two frames: Intention to connect and, Attention on the present; Three modes: Self - empathy, Listening Empathetically and Expressing Honestly and Four ingredients: Observations, Feelings, Needs and Requests
NVC is described by practitioners as a tool for social change, a spiritual practice, a set of values, parenting best practices, a mediation tool, an educational orientation, and even as a worldview. For those who integrate the principles into their day to day, it is reported to be life changing. Check it out for yourself, and be the change you want to see in the world today.
Our survival as a species depends on our ability to recognise that our wellbeing, and the wellbeing of others are in fact one and the same- Dr Marshall Rosenberg Ph.D.
After graduating in Music from Bath University in the UK, I packed up my clarinet, and spent the next 7 years playing music at street festivals and other events around the world. This extensive travel experience gave me an education not only in the rich diversity of people on the planet, but also in the striking similarities that characterise humans and their behaviour.
I settled in Australia in 2000, marking the beginning of a very colourful career: as a fire dancer, stilt walker, cabaret performer, children’s entertainer and professional musician. You will still find me moonlighting as an entertainer with Kush Cabaret.
I first discovered NVC in 2010 and it changed my life!: Concepts and beliefs that I already knew in my heart to be true, were now laid out for me in the one, easy to follow communication model. Paradoxically, learning to not know the answers, and cultivate openness and curiosity instead, has become my new practice and spiritual aim.
NVC has given me the tools to show up in ways that better align with my integrity; address and heal childhood trauma; overcome addictions; recover quickly from shame, grievances, or altercations; deepen connection with those I love; and develop tolerance, kindness and compassion for those I find harder to love.
I have been lucky enough to study with, and work alongside, some esteemed NVC trainers in Australia, and Internationally. Most mentionable is my mentor, colleague and dear friend Shari Elle , who continues to inspire and support me with her invaluable insights, peer guidance and generosity of spirit.
Sharing the gifts of a compassionate consciousness with others, is my Ikigai. I’m proud to have achieved international certification with the Centre for Nonviolent Communication and am humbled to be in the company of such reputable peace warriors. I currently live in Narara on the Central Coast of Australia, with my teenage daughter, who lights up my life and helps keep my practice real.
