THE SHUDOSHO PROGRAMME


The Shudosho programme consists of a total of ten sessions in all. The sessions will be divided into two parts running for seventy-five minutes each with a refreshment break in-between. The first part of the session focuses on the theoretical bases underpinning the programme and which are necessary prerequisites to understanding it. After the break the second part of the session will encompass interactional discussion between the members of the group. This will relate variably to the earlier information or in fact to the individual experiences of the participants in relation to the issues being elucidated. Group process is expected to be pivotal in the whole Shudosho experience. 

The programme is divided into three modules. The first module includes the presentation of the Shudosho model and examination of the theoretical bases upon which the model is based. The Shudosho model is a uniquely developed concept and is the end result of three years of intensive research and thought. It is a model of 'the self in relation to its-self' and the 'self in relation to the world'. It is a model which incorporates a substantial amount of contemporary thought in terms of the brain's relationship to mood (affective neuro-science) and general functioning as well as ideas surrounding contentment, happiness, life-effectiveness and satisfaction (well-being theory). It is of necessity therefore a model that attempts to expand upon (and simplify) what is inherently complex in human nature.

The second module of the programme focuses on understanding the model and consolidating the depth of this understanding in order to engender further insight into the implications and ramifications of the model. The aim is to encourage insight into the process of being.

The third module aims to reinforce the ideas implicit in the model with the view to the implementation of these ideas in the reality of individual's real world experience. It consists of investigation of the requisites for a healthily functioning self and finding ways of consistent application of these in the service of self survival.

The last session is an open forum for discussion of thoughts and ideas evoked by the previous sessions and elucidation and clarification of issues arising from them.

There will be a supportive post Shudosho series of group meetings for those who would like to build upon or reinforce the experiences of the initial programme.

The programme does not teach or focus specifically on meditation techniques. However there is recognition that meditation is an important component of many, if not most, contemporary psychotherapies. Each Shudosho session will consequently begin and end with a few minutes of meditational music.

Shudosho is a process. Understanding this process is essential. Learning the process and its application requires a constancy of experiential learning and practice to be fully understood. Attendance at all sessions is therefore very important. It is expected that group members will engage in ongoing learning experiences as suggested. To this end there will be recommendations in relation to appropriate literature or online resources throughout the course.

Shudosho is influenced by both eastern and western scientific, philosophical and psychological perspectives but is primarily based on contemporary psychiatrically accepted therapy. It promotes a disciplined model aiming to enhance life management skills in order to promote harmonic existence. It is inclusive and incorporative in approach believing that intra and inter-relationship skills are vital in the pursuit of contentment.

Its aim is 'to help you live inside your own life, not outside of it.'