Home - The Quieter Way

Finding A Quieter Way

with Psychologist Nicolette Deva

A WORKSHOP SERIES IN CHRISTIAN CONTEMPLATION FOR BEGINNERS

II am delighted to invite you to Finding A Quieter Way: A Workshop Series in Christian Contemplation for Beginners, where we will delve into Christian contemplative practices designed to help you experience rest, calm, balance and a deeper connection with yourself and God

What is Christian Contemplation?

Mary and Martha

I In Luke 10: 38-42, Jesus addresses Martha’s busyness and pre-occupation with what needs to be done, while Mary seems to be able to quieten down all that’s happening around her and is able to simply sit at His feet, listening to Him. Jesus, in response to Martha’s frustration at Mary, says “You are worried and anxious about so many things, but Mary has chosen the one thing that is necessary…”.

I One way of interpreting this passage of scripture is to think of Mary & Martha as 2 sides or 2 parts of us or even life. The doing part of us is like Martha. & the being part of us is like Mary. While Jesus goes on to speak about doing later in the passage, here He emphasises the importance of (Mary’s) being

Do you long to learn how to be?

I Most of us know how to do. The doing part of us is usually well trained & coached by cultures, church traditions, family, societal roles to name a few. But the being part? How much training & coaching does the being part of us get? Usually not much.

Come and join us and learn how to be, and experience the profound and proven benefits of Christian Contemplative practices.

THE BENEFITS

I Extensive scientific research highlights the compelling benefits of mindfulness and meditation:

Reduced stress and anxiety, depression levels
Improved focus and concentration
Enhanced emotional regulation
Improved mood
Enhanced mental and physical well-being
Increased self awareness
Better sleep
Pain reduction
Improved social connectedness and relationships

I Christian contemplative practices, a form of meditation, offers the same benefits, with the added dimension of deepening your relationship with God.

Nicolette Deva

Psychologist

About Me

I I am a Christian, a Psychologist and a Spiritual Director (in training). I bring more than 25 years of experience in teaching and counselling, to supporting you through this series.

My Journey to Contemplation

I I heard God’s invitation to find a quieter way in myself and in Him through the passage in Luke 10, that I shared with you earlier. I haven’t identified historically with Mary, even though I have really longed to. Martha on the other hand, I identified with all too readily…!

I In staying with God’s invitation to be, I began to explore how to be in the context of my christian faith. While I knew of mindfulness and meditation practices through my work as a psychologist, I wanted to learn not only how to connect with the present and myself more deeply but also with God. What I discovered were Christian contemplative practices, that have enriched and nourished my life. I’ve experienced firsthand the transformative power of integrating these spiritual practices into daily life. And I’m passionate about helping others find this balance and deepen their journeys.

What You Will Discover & Experience Through This Series

Introduction to Contemplative Practices:

We'll start by exploring what contemplative practices are, how these practices - supported by scientific research and grounded in scripture - can enrich all aspects of your well-being.

Grounding Practices:

I will guide you through grounding practices designed to calm your nervous system and anchor you in the present moment, fostering a sense of connection, calm, and clarity.

Attunement Practice:

You'll learn and practice a body scan practice integrated with an awareness of God’s presence. This will help you connect deeply with yourself and God's presence, promoting relaxation, grounding, and self-awareness.

Centering Prayer:

I will introduce and guide you to centering prayer, an ancient contemplative practice. This practice allows us to be present, quiet our minds, open our hearts, and deepen our connection to God.

Integration into Daily Life:

Finally, you will explore how to integrate these practices into your everyday life, ensuring they become an enriching part of your routine.

So please come and join me and begin the journey of finding a quieter way

I Whether you’re new to contemplative practices or seeking to reconnect to a practice that you have lost touch with, these sessions are designed to support you. The intention of this series is that you will not only learn practices but will have the opportunity to experience them and think about integrating it into your every day life. I hope you will join us for this immersive, gentle and nurturing series.

Series Details

The 3 sessions will be delivered live on:

Format:

Content:

What’s Included:

Ready to learn how to carve out a sacred space and find a quieter way? Don’t miss this opportunity!

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Join our waitlist to hear about future events

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I can't make it to all sessions?

Don’t worry! Each session will be recorded and available for you in an exclusive facebook group

Will there be a way to keep in touch with others between workshops or get support between practices?

Yes! When you register, you’ll gain access to a pop-up Facebook group. This will be your community hub
for support and connection throughout the workshop series.

Is this suitable for beginners?

Absolutely. This series is designed for anyone, whether you’re new to contemplative practices or looking
to reconnect with your existing practice.

Is this suitable for me if I already have a regular contemplative practice?

Yes, you’re welcome to join! While this series is designed with beginners in mind, it also offers unique insights
and components from Nicolette's experience as a psychologist. If you already have
a regular practice, you'll find additional elements to enrich your practice.

What do I need to participate?

1 hour on 3 Saturday mornings
An internet connection and access to Zoom
A quiet space and an open heart