We’re pretty incredible as humans. We genuinely do (in my opinion) have a sixth sense, made up of a whole manner of things. We can tell when we walk into a room if the vibe feels off. if the atmosphere isn’t right. Many actor trainers agree. Michael Checkov talks a lot about how acting is basically all about sending and receiving energy on stage.
But off stage the ‘energy’ we give off is important too. And as facilitators we have got to keep our energy in check, because our energy carries so much influence in a group. One of the ways we can keep it in check, is by keeping aware of what our body language is saying. If you stepped out of your body and took a look at your body language in a session, what would it say? Would it give: oh they’re loving being here. Slay mamma! Or would it say “Jesus H Christ… they are so uncomfortable and bored”.
The fact of the matter is, the energy that your body language as a facilitator gives off is infectious. I have seen so many successful directors, facilitators, peer mentors be successful because when their students are asked “what makes them so great” the answer isn’t to do with their technical skill, or their knowledge, wisdom or experience… the answer is simply: “I just love their vibe”.
Your body language and physicality is how you put your vibe out into the universe. So get those good vibes out there!