Achtsamkeit und Bogenschießen

Bows and arrows play an important role as ancient symbols in the mysticism of all high cultures and have long been transcendent symbols for body and soul, for life and death, this world and the next. Accordingly, bows and arrows symbolize the human longing to overcome polarity, to experience unity.

A fundamental problem of our time is the one-sidedness with which we approach not only our private but also our professional tasks. Yet there are always situations where our logical thinking with its often rigid concepts is not what is required – rigid concepts that we often cling to desperately. But by letting go of all concepts and rules and by engaging with the "now," we might achieve a more intuitive grasp of a moment.

The workshop "Mindfulness and Archery" initially focuses on practical experiences with shooting the simple longbow (bows without sights and stabilizers) and an introduction to mindful archery. We experience what it feels like to find our stance, follow our breath rhythm, maintain our posture, and let go at the right moment.

We learn about material, technique, and equipment – the bow must and should not be overstretched – as well as mindfulness exercises related to stance, posture, and breathing.

Various bow weights as well as suitable arrows and equipment items (arm guards, gloves) are available.

Direct experiences that one can gain include:

• Handling the bow and arrow is simply fun
• Joy in clear body awareness
• Mental pleasure in doing something without goal or purpose, just for its own sake
• I can let go and hit the target
• Tension and relaxation alternating relieve physical and mental tensions

"Mindful Archery" takes place in a ritualized process. The archer must find the right stance, breathe, align, draw, and then simply let go. This pattern can be transferred to many everyday situations. It can help to manage the problems encountered in daily life more easily through a changed perspective and approach.

The workshop is conducted by Dr. med. Alexander Ullrich