Engaging the Transformative Dimensions of Consciousness in Research at the Transpersonal Research Colloquium (TRC) 2019, Paris
The fourth Transpersonal Research Colloquium (TRC) was held last month, with the mission to engage researchers world-wide in dialogue and training related to research methods and procedures that further the study of transpersonal, spiritual, and related topics.
Jevon Dängeli from the Alef Trust faculty shares some insights:
The theme for TRC 2019 was “Engaging the Transformative Dimensions of Consciousness in Research”. A spectrum of transformative approaches to research is now developing in many fields, reflecting a renewed spirit of collaboration within mainstream science and an emerging recognition that consciousness, research, and concrete applications are interrelated in the study of complex topics. In this era of collaboration, transpersonal researchers can offer unique experience and contribute to the development of transformative approaches to research throughout mainstream science. TRC 2019 Paris was dedicated to furthering this development.
This year’s TRC attracted researchers from around the world, all of whom value the transpersonal perspective in their research.
Common themes that arose in the presentations and discussions were:
· Research as a vehicle for transformation for both the research participants and researchers:
It was generally agreed that when the research itself evokes a transformative process, it is largely due to the transpersonal nature of the relationship between the research participants and the researchers. As such, transformation arises from the inter-subjective space that is co-created between the research participants and the researchers, therefore the transformative potential of the research may influence all who are involved in the research.
· Research methods to explore transpersonal phenomena:
Most of the researchers presented qualitative methods. Some examples: Imaginal Inquiry, Intuitive Inquiry, Integral Inquiry, Cooperative Inquiry, Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, and Integral Transpersonal Inquiry.One researcher, Nigel Hamilton from the UK, showed his quantitative method to study the significance of directional movements in Lucid dreaming.My own presentation was on the value of Open Awareness as a complimentary tool in service to methods that explore the transpersonal dimensions of consciousness.
· The value of embodied (soma-centred) approaches in transpersonal research:
Emphasis was given to the importance of soma-centred practices for re-centering and re-focussing in the conduct of research.
· Nature as a catalyst for transformation and as an important source of nurture:
There was consensus that those involved in transpersonal research should spend plenty time in nature.
· The need for self-care and support for researchers who engage the transformative dimensions of consciousness:
Yes to supervision, boundaries and taking good care of oneself if engaging in transformative research.
Jevon Dängeli
Jevon Dängeli is a constant gardener in the field of consciousness studies. He is a certified NLP trainer, transpersonal coach and hypnotherapist, who has provided training in these areas since 2004.
Jevon has written seven training manuals and recorded over 30 audio-programmes, as well as a comprehensive video series where he teaches a vast range of empowering and transformative methods. Jevon gained his MSc in Professional Development (Consciousness, Spirituality and Transpersonal Psychology) from Alef Trust.
His dissertation research focused on the value of mindfulness-based practice for people experiencing chronic stress and burnout. Jevon is a co-founder of the International Association of Coaches, Therapists and Mentors (IACTM), which includes a Foundation that aims to provide humanitarian aid volunteers with free educational resources and support.
He is the developer of the ‘Authentic Self-Empowerment (ASE)’ approach that combines the holistic aspects of NLP with mindfulness and transpersonal psychology.
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