August Conferences: The Transpersonal Psychology Section of the British Psychological Society (BPS)& Breaking Convention
The Transpersonal Psychology Section of the British Psychological Society (BPS) Conference in August explored the theme of transpersonal psychology, spirituality and creativity.
“We had a wide range of presentations and workshops, including poetry, dance, yoga and music. We were inspired by being back at Cober Hill, Scarborough, which is one of the most beautiful parts of the UK. There was a great harmonious atmosphere, and it was a wonderful experience,” reflected Steve Taylor, Alef Trust faculty and Chair of the Transpersonal Psychology Section of the BPS. Alef Trust director Jessica Bockler also participated with an exploration of the role of creativity in tackling our societal challenges and ushering in a new post-materialist paradigm. “Creative practice and play can anchor us in the deeper Source from which all arises… reminding us of our interconnectedness, and enabling more expansive perception and thinking,” Jessica affirmed. “I think it’s time for playful, whole-hearted, imaginal activism to tackle the problems of our time! Questions which all change agents might explore include: How much do you play and create in your life? How do you enable creativity in others? What wants to be born through you?” she asked.
If interested, you can join the Transpersonal Psychology Section of the BPS. If you don’t have a degree in psychology or don’t live in the UK, you can still join as an affiliate member (or e-subscriber), and then register for the Transpersonal Section.
Breaking Convention, Europe’s largest conference on psychedelic consciousness, also returned at the end of August. There were more than 200 international presenters including Alef Trust student Nir Tadmor who spoke about his vision of Transpersonal Psychiatry. “It was an honour to be a part of such a mind-blowing line-up of speakers that came from all across the world to share their research, knowledge and practices,” he said. “My talk was made out of a deep respect to the indigenous cultures of the Amazon and the lessons they, as well as all other indigenous culture across the globe, have to teach our global mental health system.”
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