The Art of Encounter · Somatic movement workshop for couples in Vienna

The Art of Encounter is a monthly couples workshop in Vienna facilitated by Jessica Gerdel (movement facilitator grounded in somatic practices and relational embodiment. Jessica creates calm, guided spaces where couples can slow down and reconnect beyond habits and roles).

Through simple guided invitations based on mindful movement and somatic practices that you follow at a pace that feels right for you, couples can slow down, reconnect, and feel more present together in their relationship. No prior experience with movement is required, only willingness to meet and see each other through a different lens.

Each session follows a clear and gentle structure, so you always know where you are and what’s being asked of you. You can think of it as a structured time to be together with attention, rather than a workshop where you’re taught techniques.

Sessions usually include:

• Time to arrive and settle, individually.
• Simple guided invitations to notice breath, sensation, and attention.
• Moments of movement or stillness, at your own pace.
• Partnered experiences that invite listening, proximity, or shared attention.
• Short moments to reflect and integrate.

The Art of Encounter is not a dance or yoga workshop. There is no choreography to learn, no performance, and no pressure to “do it right”.

You don’t need to know what somatic practices or mindful movement means. Most of the work happens through noticing and responding, using stillness or movements you already know from daily life: if you can stand, sit, walk, and are open to notice what you feel, you already have everything you need to take part.

The emphasis is on everyday movements and natural attention, not special techniques.

You will always receive clear guidance.
Most of what you do is notice. You can opt out of any invitation. Movement is simple and optional. Touch is optional and consent-based.
You are free to participate in ways that feel appropriate for you.

Many couples are surprised by how accessible and simple the experience feels, even if they have never done anything like this before. They often notice after attending:

• More ease and presence together.
• Greater comfort with closeness and difference.
• Renewed curiosity and shared attention.
• Simple ways to return to connection in daily life.

The Art of Encounter is an experiential space for couples who are resourceful and functioning, and who wish to cultivate togetherness through presence rather than intervention. It is not therapy or counseling. It does not replace psychological or relational treatment. Couples in distress are encouraged to seek therapeutic support alongside or instead of this work.

The Art of Encounter is well suited for couples who:

• Are in a relatively stable phase of their relationship.
• Wish to deepen connection rather than fixing problems.
• Are curious about embodied or experiential approaches.
• Want to grow together without pressure to perform or explain.

No prior experience with somatic or movement practices is required.

Further details at www.jessicagerdel.com

Sunday 10:30-12:00

Feb 15
March 8
Apr 19
May 17
June 21
July 19
Sep 20
Oct 18 or 25 (to be confirmed in advance)
Nov 22

Zentrum Exist, Sechshauser Str. 38-36, 1150 Wien

You’re invited to a 9-monthly sessions journey, with options that respect the realities of daily life while encouraging continuity and depth.

The Art of Encounter unfolds over time:
Continuity is what allows the journey to deepen —between the two of you, and in the group. Couples who attend regularly can notice greater comfort and trust in the space, a deeper sense of shared language and attunement, and more ease bringing the experience into daily life.

However, there is no pressure beyond what feels aligned. You’re invited to choose the level of commitment that feels right now, knowing that you can naturally move toward longer engagement once you experience the work, and that showing up consistently helps shape a deeper, more held space for everyone, and pave your path to deeply transform how you meet each other.

Registration options:

• Intro / One session: €50 per couple

Includes participation in 1 session and option to upgrade to a bundle or full journey pass.

• Short Journey Bundle: €142 per couple for a 3-session Pack, or €225 per couple for a 5-Session Pack

For couples who want continuity with flexibility. This option offers a middle ground: enough time to start integrating the work, without committing to the full cycle right away. Includes your choice of 3 or 5 sessions within the 2026 program and option to upgrade to the full journey pass.

• Full Journey Pass: €425 per couple

Possible to pay on 3 monthly installments of €145 each. Includes 9 monthly sessions (pause in August) for a consistent container that deepens over time, priority access and guaranteed place.

You can register to these options on Jessica's Website.

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Host or Publisher Jessica Gerdel - Abrazatango