What does the Intimacy Experience consist of? It consists of a series of simple exercises that direct and train attention, alone, in pairs and in small groups. Sight, listening, movement and occasionally touch are used as the medium for attention. There is a clear structure and careful regulation to make sure that everyone remains safe and respected during each session
Is the intimacy Experience connected to any other organisation? No, though Alan and I have trained or worked with a variety of other people and organisations, there is no affiliation or connection to them. We are independent.
How many people attend an Intimacy Experience? Small groups attend, from a handful up to about twenty people.
Is there a theoretical base for the intimacy Experience? The Intimacy Experience is primarily experiential. It has the goal of suspending models and theory in favour of direct experience. In retrospect it is possible to explain the experience according to a number of different models; however these will never describe or predict the actual experience. You can find some of these here.
Does the Intimacy Experience differ from week to week? The attendees differ from week to week which can radically alter the flavour of an Intimacy Experience even if the exercises themselves remain largely unchanged. More importantly when you enter into the experience it is constantly fresh, constantly new.
If the structure is the same what is the point of coming back more than once? As in the last question it is always different. However what we work on is a skill, and like any skill it becomes deeper and more powerful with practise.
The Intimacy Experience also acts as a safe place connect with people and to emerge relaxed, refreshed and energised. Most of us can appreciate the value of having a healthy space in which to do this regularly.
Is there any forced disclosure? You do not have to reveal any sensitive information about yourself during an Intimacy Experience. You can choose your content of what you say if you decide to talk knowing that what you say will remain strictly confidential. You could also choose to remain silent throughout the entire experience.
Is the Intimacy Experience sexual? No. It is common for attendees to have a strong sense of appreciation and closeness with each other. The sense of safety and respect are paramount we take care that sexuality does not encroach on this.
Is the Intimacy Experience therapy? No. The aim is to recognise what is already full and perfect in each moment and in each person rather than search for problems to be repaired.
Is the Intimacy Experience connected to any religion? No, though it has parallels in many religions.
What kind of people come to the Intimacy Experience? The people who attend generally have a certain openness of mind, and a capacity to take responsibility for their own emotions. They may come from a variety of professions, teachers, performers, business people, and carers. Some come with their own goals in terms of learning or performance; others come simply for the pleasure of the experience.
Are there any hidden agendas in the Intimacy Experience? We have some open agendas. We want the Intimacy Experience to thrive because we believe it helps people develop healthily and make wise choices in different areas of their lives. This applies equally to us. We would like to see that the communication skills and links that people develop through the Intimacy Experience contribute to a more just, compassionate and caring society, however we have and desire no control of what you do when you leave the practise room.
What language does the Intimacy Experience happen in? This depends on the languages of the attendees. In Paris if the majority of people are primarily Francophone then it is French – with some English, it can also be in English with some French. In Basel the same principle applies with English and German.
Is there any obligation after an Intimacy Experience? We want to encourage autonomy in the people who attend the Intimacy Experience. What you do with your life outside the Intimacy Experience is entirely up to you. We will send you reminders that we exist and tell you are welcome to visit us when you want.
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