From Tension to Harmony: A Transformative Peace Adventurers Experience.
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- Apr 1
- 2 min read
In March, we returned with a new Peace Adventurers workshop titled "Peaceful Solutions: Understanding Conflicts, Managing Anger, and Communicating Kindly." With 11 children in attendance — our highest participation yet — we were delighted to welcome both new and familiar faces.
Gathered in a circle, we began with introductions before diving into an engaging discussion led by Chimbuani on conflicts, why they happen and how people express and manage anger. Every child contributed, bringing their thoughts and experiences into the conversation, making it a truly interactive and reflective moment.
Following the discussion, we played a dynamic group game where children were presented with various situational conflict scenarios. They had to determine whether the response given was a "Peaceful Response" or a "Problem Response" by moving towards the corresponding wall where these labels were displayed. When a response was identified as problematic, the children were challenged to come up with a more peaceful alternative. Through this activity, they developed a deeper understanding of conflict language, tone, and formulation, recognising what fosters peace and what escalates tension.
After this engaging exercise, we took a break for snacks, providing the children with the opportunity to bond further in a relaxed setting. Laughter and conversations filled the space as they connected with one another.
The session then transitioned into a meditation led by Merope, guiding everyone through an inner journey on navigating anger and calm. Using imagery of doves, feathers, rivers, and storms, the children and parents explored the symbolism of emotional balance. Each participant held a soft feather and an ornamental white dove—a guardian angel figure to remind them that in moments of conflict or doubt, they can choose a peaceful path.
Following this meditative moment, we moved into a physical movement session, where participants explored weight and lightness in their bodies. Through paired exercises, they experienced the contrast between tension and release, simulating movements of pushing, resisting, and letting go. A mirror exercise helped them connect with others, feeling harmony in synchronized motion while mimicking positive gestures of admiration, respect, love, and celebration.
The workshop aimed to:
Encourage children to view conflicts neutrally, understanding them as natural occurrences that should be addressed rather than avoided.
Increase self-awareness regarding anger—acknowledging that people experience, express, and manage anger differently and that constructive strategies exist.
Develop communication skills by modulating words, tone, and body language to express thoughts and emotions peacefully.
Enhance body awareness by detecting states of tension and peace, using movement as a tool to navigate conflict and anger.
This session provided a valuable space for children and parents to reflect, connect, and equip themselves with tools to navigate conflicts with kindness and understanding. We look forward to our next Peace Adventurers gathering, where we will continue our journey in fostering peace together.
Peace Adventurers is a unique series of peace learning events with the following upcoming dates:
- 26/04 - "Bridging gaps: Diplomacy and Finding Peace When We Disagree”
- 24/05 - "Winning Together: Exploring Competition, Collaboration, and the Path to Peace"
In conclusion, Peace Adventurers provides a wonderful opportunity for children and parents to bond, find quiet moments together, and foster closer relationships.
Chimbuani Ngaliae.
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