What is Collective Effervescence?
Google defines collective effervescence as an intense feeling of unity. It is the shared energy that happens when people join a common activity. This often results in a sense of transcendence or sacredness.
I am completely in love with this concept. It perfectly captures what I aim to create in my group sessions. I want people to feel connected, bonded, and relaxed. When they do, they bounce off each other and create their own special atmosphere. I see myself as an energy facilitator.
Creating Magic at Tittesworth Reservoir
Last Saturday, I ran a paddleboarding class at Tittesworth. It was brimming with collective effervescence. I had eight people in the group.
My first goal is always to learn everyone’s names. This ensures everyone feels seen, included, and special. It also makes it much easier to give instructions once we are out on the water.
The Celebrity Name Game
To learn names quickly, I use a celebrity association technique. I ask the group to help me, which always gets everyone giggling. I match each person’s first name with someone famous.
On Saturday, I taught Andy Murray, Henry VIII, and Angela Rippon. We also had Tim Peake, Mary Quite Contrary, Rachel from Friends, Louise Minchin, and Steve Davis. People tend to enjoy embracing their new identities. It creates group cohesion right from the start.
Coaching on the Water
We began the session on our knees. We stayed low until we found a spot sheltered from the wind. I noticed that Angela, Mary, and Rachel weren’t getting much power. I paddled over to coach their technique so they could keep up with the pack.
Once we reached the wind free zone, we practiced standing up. There were a few falls, but the group did incredibly well.
Helping Tim Find His Balance
Tim Peake found it a bit tougher. I guessed Tim was in his 60s and dealing with some hip issues. He also couldn’t swim, which added to his nerves.
I knew he needed support to stay standing. I paddled over and steadied his board. It worked perfectly, and he got up fine. I sensed he wasn’t ready to go it alone yet. I continued to hold his board while he started to paddle. This removed the wobbly factor and built his confidence. He absolutely loved it!
Inspiring the Group to Take Risks
The rest of the group was safe and having fun. I spent five minutes giving Tim a solid grounding in standing up. When I returned to the others, they looked very confident.
Since the group had mixed abilities, I decided not to paddle too far. Instead, we stayed stationary. I pulled every trick out of my mental toolkit for them to try.
We had a very brave 14 year old girl in our group. She was up for anything, even if it meant falling in! I had her performing 180° jumps, forward rolls, and step back turns.
The Power of Shared Energy
Her daring spirit inspired the entire group. They whooped with delight at every attempt. Her bravery encouraged the others to try milder versions of the tricks.
The energy was fantastic. This was collective effervescence in action. If you stoke the right conditions, you can create magic and lift everyone up.
My Calling as a Facilitator
My group left the water buzzing. They were desperate to come back and paddle again as soon as possible.
I think I’ve found my true job title: Collective Effervescence Facilitator. It really is my calling.