Narrative storytelling as a therapeutic methodology

 

Storytelling as therapy involves exploring, creating, and re-imagining personal narratives to gain deeper understanding of experiences, emotions, and challenges.

 

It goes beyond simply recounting events and delves into identifying themes, values, and turning points within personal stories.

This process allows individuals to re-author their narratives, potentially shifting from limiting beliefs to empowering perspectives.

During the program. You will be facilitated to flow through ;

Externalisation:

A technique used to separate your sense of self from problems and challenges you face. By viewing issues as external entities within your personal narrative, you can gain a deeper understanding of your experiences and potential for change.
The approach involves examining four key aspects of your being:

The Experiencer:
This is the "you" who navigates life, encountering joys and difficulties. Observe your emotions, sensations, and reactions to situations without judgment.

The Data Provider:

This part collects information about your experiences, like thoughts, memories, and observations. Be an objective observer, gathering information without interpretation.

The Creative Mind:

This is the storyteller, weaving your experiences into narratives. Explore different perspectives, imagine alternative possibilities, and identify recurring themes.

The Storyteller:

This is the voice that shares your narrative, choosing specific details and shaping the overall message. Craft your story with intention, highlighting strengths and learning opportunities.

By examining these distinct yet interconnected roles, you can build a more conscious and empowered version of your story. Externalisation allows you to step back from problems, understand their influence, and ultimately, rewrite your narrative towards a future you desire.

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A journey of Deconstruction:

Uncovering internal stories and beliefs that might be holding you back. We'll delve into:

Dominant Narratives:

These are the prevailing stories surrounding you – cultural norms, societal expectations, even family dynamics. Examining them helps you understand their influence on your own beliefs.

Break the Limiting Beliefs:
These are often subconscious ideas that restrict your potential. By identifying them, you can challenge their validity and open doors to new possibilities.

Sensorial Data:

Pay attention to your five senses. How do physical sensations and environmental cues impact your thoughts and emotions? This awareness provides valuable insights into your internal landscape.

Narratives of Feeling:

Explore the stories you tell yourself about your emotions. Do you label them as good or bad? How do these narratives affect your behaviour? Recognising these patterns empowers you to choose conscious responses.

Relationship Arrangements:

Analyse the stories you tell yourself about your relationships with others. Are they empowering or constricting? Understanding these narratives can strengthen connections and personal growth.

By deconstructing these elements, you gain a deeper understanding of who you are and what shapes your choices. This awareness empowers you to break free from limiting narratives and craft a more fulfilling story for yourself.

 

Re-authoring: Co-creating alternative narratives that are more empowering and life-affirming.

Embrace New Lenses:
Challenge limiting beliefs and societal narratives that might be holding you back. Explore diverse perspectives, immersing yourself in inspiring stories and experiences.

Co-create Empowering Narratives:
Facilitating to identify insights can illuminate unseen pathways.

Craft Affirmed Pathways:
Identify your core values and desires. Then, envision powerful journeys – pathways paved with affirmations and positive intentions – that lead you towards embodying those values and achieving your vision.

Restructure with Intention:

Realign your goals and aspirations with your newfound self-awareness. Let go of limiting patterns and embrace goals that resonate with your deepest desires and authentic self.

Re-authoring is a dynamic process, not a one-time rewrite. As you grow and evolve, You will revisit your narrative multiple times, refining and adapting it to reflect your story.
 

Here is another way of looking at the narrative story program :

Narrative Story Mandala: A Tapestry of Growth

Here's how you can approach your narrative story mandala using the elements you've provided:

Center (Crux):

• This is the core message, theme, or question your story explores. What lingers after the last page is turned? Could it be a discovery of identity, overcoming a fear, or understanding the consequences of a choice?

First Circle (Emotional Connection):

• Capture the emotions your story evokes. Use colors, textures, and symbols to represent joy, sorrow, anger, hope, or any other emotions woven into the narrative.

Second Circle (Environment):

• Depict the world your story inhabits. Is it a bustling city, a serene forest, or futuristic, Use imagery and symbols to transport readers into the atmosphere.

Third Circle (Hero & Villain):

• Showcase your hero and their opposing force. This may not be a traditional villain, but rather a challenge, internal conflict, or external obstacle. Show their contrasting personalities and motivations.

Fourth Circle (Plot):

• This circle portrays the narrative arc. Use symbols or images to depict key events, turning points, and the journey your hero takes.

Fifth Circle (Learning End):

• Show the transformation or outcome of the story. How does the hero change? What lesson is learned? Use imagery that reflects the newfound understanding or the impact of their choices.

​Program Facilitated by Prasad Naveen