Ally Work in Three Steps
We could describe the practice of ally work as a simple three step process: mindfulness, compassion, and the ally.
Step One: Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a good foundation for ally work. Mindfulness prepares us in various ways. It builds our attentional focus. It grounds us. It helps us to have an open and receptive orientation. Mindfulness can also bring us in touch with humility.
Step Two: Compassion
Ally work could be described as a relational practice of compassion, or love. It can be helpful if we have a comfort level with giving and receiving compassion. In the mindfulness field, there’s a curriculum approach called Mindful Self-Compassion. If you’re interested to learn more about the theory and practice of compassion, it’s worth checking out.
Step Three: The Ally
With our foundations of mindfulness and compassion, we now may like to explore ally work. Very simply, the practice of ally work is meeting the ally and building relationship with it. The core practice of ally work is written dialogue between you and your ally.
Ally work is a practice that is fairly simple and which can have a profound impact.