Welcome to interconnectedness. This module may be a challenging one with as it involves a real shift in the way we think of ourselves, and the world around us. In this module, you will learn about what interconnectedness is, where the notion comes from, and why it matters. The challenge at the very start is to be open to new ways of thinking and ideas that may seem foreign at first, but with reflection and contemplation, come to make sense and offer insight into a way of looking at the world with less isolation, judgement, and suffering. Interconnectedness means that we are not separate from the world or people around us, but rather intimately connected to them.
All modules follow the same 3 part format. Part 1 is for grounding. Part 2 is for learning. Part 3 is for practicing. Along the way you’ll see prompts to check in with how this module feels, and you can use the workspaces provided to reflect (if it suits you).
Part 1: Grounding
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Part 1: Grounding -
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Take a moment to be still and ground yourself in the way you know to be right for you.
To get started, please choose an exercise for regulation and grounding. For this exercise, whichever option you select, try to notice what happens to your body when your mind tells it what to do. It may accept the instruction, knowing you are working from a place of safety and growth mindset, it may resist in anticipation of future discomfort. You don’t have to do anything with this feeling, simply notice it.
Once you have finished regulating your nervous system and taking control of your attention, you may wish to get a small ‘fidget tool’ or a pillow to hold. This can help with maintaining attentional control, comfort, and a feeling of security.
Part 2: Learning
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Part 2: Learning -
When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the Universe ~ John Muir
Interconnectedness can be understood through the Buddhist concept of dependent origination, which has profound implications for understanding the nature of reality and our place within it. In dependent origination, all phenomena arise in dependence on other phenomena. You could not be here, reading these words, contemplating these ideas unless the entire universe had conspired to make it so. This teaching is often summarized by the statement: "This arises, that arises; this ceases, that ceases." It suggests that nothing exists independently or in isolation; rather, everything is connected and arises in dependence on causes and conditions.
Interconnectedness can be challenging for several reasons. Firstly, from a young age, many people are conditioned to perceive themselves and the world around them as separate entities. This sense of separation can make it difficult to grasp the concept of interconnectedness, as it requires a shift in perspective to recognize the underlying unity and interconnectedness of all things. Secondly, interconnectedness involves recognizing the intricate web of relationships and interactions that exist within and between all beings and phenomena. This complexity can be overwhelming and difficult to comprehend, especially when considering the countless factors and variables involved in any given situation.
Interconnectedness is not merely an intellectual concept but a deeply experiential truth that must be realized through direct experience. This experiential understanding often requires contemplation, meditation, and reflection to penetrate beyond the surface level of understanding.
Interconnectedness is further challenged by cultural norms and societal structures, which often reinforce the perception of separateness and individualism. Messages promoting competition, self-interest, and division can hinder our ability to see ourselves as part of a larger whole. Embracing interconnectedness may challenge our sense of identity and individuality, leading to feelings of insecurity or loss. Some people may resist the concept of interconnectedness out of fear of losing their sense of self or autonomy.
In Mahayana Buddhism, the teaching of emptiness (shunyata) further explores the nature of interconnectedness. Emptiness teaches that all things lack inherent existence or inherent identity, as they are empty of independent self-nature. This is supported by the first law of thermodynamics, also known as the law of conservation of energy, which holds that something cannot come from nothing. This fundamental principle in physics states that energy cannot be created or destroyed in an isolated system; it can only change forms or be transferred from one object to another.
Therefore, the reality is that everything is empty of independent self-nature, because of dependent origination. Things can only come into existence through a transfer of energy from one point to another, and in order for energy to transfer, to occur, connection is necessary, either through a direct connection point or that of fields or quantum entanglement. This understanding helps us break the illusion of separateness and realize the interconnected nature of reality. Nothing exists in isolation.
When we understand this, we learn that all beings are interconnected and share a common essence. This understanding fosters a sense of compassion and empathy for all living beings, as we recognize that we are all part of the same web of existence. Interconnectedness also highlights the impermanent and ever-changing nature of reality. Because all phenomena are interdependent, they are constantly in flux, arising and ceasing in response to changing conditions. This insight encourages us to develop equanimity and acceptance in the face of life's ups and downs. This is key because interconnectedness also teaches that our actions have consequences that ripple out into the world. Our thoughts, words, and deeds affect not only ourselves but also the interconnected web of life, influencing the well-being of all. When we develop a mode of operating in the world that is compassionate, patient, kind, and non-judgemental, then we are adding that to our own lives, and others’.
Module Preparation WorkSpace
Before you start a practice within a module, it is best practice check in with your mind. This workspace will help you notice your own thinking and can help to guide family or other supports in how best to support you through this module. Your answers are likely to change a bit each time you come to this workspace, and with each new area of focus you decide to work on. Take your time. YOUR answers are the right answers.
Part 3: Practice
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Part 3: Practice -
This section offers descriptions of two different exercises you can try to tap into the concepts detailed within this module. Feel free to try one, or both, and see what suits you. One may resonate better than another, or one may feel more accessible today. Well done for taking the time and making yourself a priority.
Exercise one
In Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), an exercise that can help foster interconnectedness is the "Interpersonal Effectiveness Skill: Relationship Mapping" exercise. Here's how it works:
1. Identify Important Relationships: Take some time to identify the important relationships in your life. These may include family members, friends, romantic partners, co-workers, and others with whom you have regular interactions.
2. Draw a Map: Draw a map or diagram representing your relationships. You can use circles or other shapes to represent each person, with lines connecting them to indicate the nature of the relationship.
3. Label the Relationships: Write the names of the people represented by each shape on your map. Then, use different colours or symbols to indicate the strength and quality of each relationship. For example, you might use a thicker line for close relationships and a thinner line for more distant ones.
4. Reflect on Interconnectedness: As you create your relationship map, reflect on the interconnectedness between yourself and others. Consider how each person contributes to your life and how your actions impact them in return.
5. Identify Areas for Improvement: Take a closer look at your relationship map and identify any areas where you would like to improve your connections with others. This may include strengthening existing relationships, resolving conflicts, or building new connections.
6. Set Goals: Based on your reflections, set specific goals for improving your interpersonal relationships. These goals should be realistic, achievable, and aligned with your values and priorities.
7. Take Action: Finally, take concrete steps to work towards your goals for improving interpersonal effectiveness. This may involve practicing communication skills, setting boundaries, expressing appreciation, or seeking support from others.
By engaging in this relationship mapping exercise, you can gain a clearer understanding of the interconnectedness between yourself and others, as well as identify areas for growth and improvement in your interpersonal relationships. This can ultimately lead to greater satisfaction, fulfilment, and harmony in your interactions with others.
Exercise two
In Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), an exercise to foster interconnectedness involves mindfulness and visualization techniques. Here's a step-by-step guide to the "Connecting with Others" exercise:
1. Find a Quiet Space: Sit comfortably in a quiet space where you won't be disturbed for the duration of the exercise. Close your eyes if it feels comfortable to do so.
2. Focus on Your Breath: Begin by focusing on your breath. Take a few deep breaths, allowing yourself to become present and centred in the moment.
3. Visualize Your Connections: Now, visualize yourself surrounded by a web of connections—connections to your loved ones, friends, acquaintances, and even strangers. Picture each connection as a thread of light extending from your heart to theirs.
4. Feel the Interconnectedness: As you visualize these connections, allow yourself to feel the sense of interconnectedness that binds you to others. Notice the warmth and energy flowing through these connections, connecting you to the broader human experience.
5. Expand Your Circle: Gradually expand your circle of connections to include all beings—humans, animals, plants, and even the Earth itself. Visualize yourself as part of a vast and interconnected web of life, where each being is connected to every other being in a web of mutual support and interdependence.
6. Practice Acceptance and Compassion: As you continue to visualize these connections, practice acceptance and compassion towards yourself and others. Recognize that all beings are worthy of love and compassion, regardless of differences or perceived flaws.
7. Reflect: After completing the exercise, take a few moments to reflect on your experience. Notice any emotions or insights that arose during the practice, and consider how you can carry this sense of interconnectedness into your daily life.
By practicing this exercise regularly, you can cultivate a deeper sense of interconnectedness and compassion towards yourself and others. This exercise helps to shift your perspective from a sense of separateness to one of interconnectedness, fostering greater empathy, understanding, and well-being in your relationships and in the world.
After practicing an exercise is a great time to check in with your mind. This workspace will help you notice your mind, and maybe if anything has changed since you started the module. Your answers are likely to change a bit each time you come to this workspace, and with each new area of focus you decide to work on. Take your time.
