MLL - Youth Work Training Days: Workshop on Relating

What?

In the Relating-workshop, we focused on human connection in its purest form—without a pre-set script. The goal was to learn how to break free from familiar patterns, expectations, and controlled interactions. Instead, we encouraged participants to step away from automatic responses, let go of rehearsed questions and answers, and be genuinely present with another person.

The workshop included safe exercises that help create space for authentic encounters, and participants were able to use these practices in their own work with young people.

"The best part of the training days!"—Participant

How?

The workshop methods included mindfulness exercises, playful and physical activities to create sense of belonging and relating, theatrical exercises for non-verbal communication, and conversation practices for authentic relating.

Workshop outcomes:

• The workshop provided tools and exercises for self-encounter, as one cannot truly relate to others without first encountering oneself.

• Participants learned through experiential and hands-on methods what holistic relating means.

• Participants gained easy, practical techniques for facilitating authentic interactions, which can be applied in their work with youth.