Group Session Guide

Preparation

• Please find a quiet, private space where you can speak and listen without distractions
• Use a device with a stable internet connection and access to MS Teams, preferably a laptop
• You may like to have a notebook or journal for personal reflections
• The session may be up to 75 minutes, so it is advisable to have water or tea and anything else that supports your comfort and presence
• Please join the call on time, as group access will be closed after 5 minutes
• Please notify if there are any unforeseen delays or changes in ability to attend
• Come as you are — there is no expectation to perform, explain, or convince
• Curiosity, presence, and willingness to listen deeply are more important than having answers
• Your lived experience is valid and welcomed — there is no right or wrong
• The session is meditative and attention will be guided both inwards and outwards into the relational field
• Remember your involvement is optional and you can leave at any time

What to expect during the session

Session structure (approx. 60–75 mins):

Welcome and introduction

A brief outline of the session purpose, ethical guidelines, and shared agreements (e.g. confidentiality, non-judgment).

Personal introductions

Each participant is invited to briefly state their first name and what drew them to participate in the session.

Guided meditation (5–10 mins)

A short mindfulness or grounding practice to help settle and attune to the group field.

Open-ended inquiry

The facilitator will introduce a central question related to the theme of collective wellbeing.

Dialogue and sharing

Participants will share insights, reflections, or questions in a mindful manner, noticing and naming what arises in the moment — silence is welcome.

Closing

Each participant will be invited to share a brief closing word or takeaway. A short survey will follow the session, to share any insights and feedback on the experience and approach.

Facilitation

• The session will be moderated by the researcher, Sarah Keane, an experienced facilitator in meditative inquiry and group process
• The facilitator will ensure the space remains respectful, inclusive, and attuned to group dynamics
• The facilitator may direct attention towards individuals in the group, prompt introspection and ask questions about moment-in-time experience — it is at all times at your discretion to express or not
• The facilitator may share observations about what is perceived to be moving in the group field or within her personal field — at all times you are guided to simply notice your own experience and what arises in response to what is shared

Confidentiality and ethical conduct

• All participants have signed a consent form prior to joining a session, agreeing to respect the privacy of those participating in the group and not repeating what is shared within the session
• You may choose not to answer any question, and you can leave the session at any time. However if you have capacity, it is advised to share any discomfort or resistance prior to making the decision to leave
• You are encouraged to be aware of and express your needs if / when they arise

Self-care during and after the session

During

• The purpose of this group is exploratory — the intention is to gain insight regarding what can support the wellbeing of the collective at this time through meditative dialogue
• The nature of this discourse means that the themes and experiences within the group are unknown and emergent — as such, a curious and open perspective with willingness to listen and embrace diverse input is preferable
• If any intensity arises during the group dialogue (physical / emotional / psychological), you are encouraged to share your experience with the group and/or request the support of the facilitator to navigate the experience — however this is at all times at your own discretion
• Alternatively, it may be helpful and supportive to take a few breaths or a moment of silence if needed at any point
• Feel free to pass on a question or decline to engage if it does not feel right
• Your feedback is very welcome if something that is shared does not resonate
• Keep water nearby and adjust your posture as needed during the session

After

• You may wish to journal or take time in nature after the session
• It can be helpful to reflect on how you're feeling and integrate the insights and experience of the session
• Please reach out to the researcher if you have additional feedback or questions
• If intense emotions arise, participants are encouraged to seek additional support from a trusted peer or professional, as the researcher does not have capacity to provide additional support after the session

Health and safety

Contact and support

If you have any concerns, questions, or need clarification before or after the session, please contact:

Sarah Keane (Investigator)
Email: 9921257@studentmail.ul.ie