Tuesday Afternoon - Talk Sense! Reconnecting After Conflict with Laurie Pyne

Welcome to the wild-and not-so-wonderful-world of misunderstandings, meltdowns, rows that spring from nowhere, and those “Wait… how did we even get here?” moments. You know the ones: voices get sharp, doors get slammed, and before you know it, you’re starring in a soap opera you didn’t audition for.

Using skills from Nonviolent Communication, basic neuroscience, and more, this workshop is for anyone who wants less drama and more “we’ve got this” — whether that’s with your partner, your family, your friends, or even the barista who definitely misheard your coffee order.

We’ll dig into the mechanics of reactivity - why your brain sometimes takes over like an over-zealous bodyguard — and how to step out of the moment before you say something you’ll spend 3 days regretting. You’ll meet the cast of characters living in your head:
  •   The Wounded Child — sensitive, fiery, easily hurt.
  •   The Wise Adult — calm, grounded, good at seeing the big picture.
  •   And a few other cameo roles you might recognise from your own inner family.

Through simple, science-based tools and playful experimentation, you’ll learn to:
  •   Spot your triggers before they hijack your mouth.
  •   Shift from defensive mode to listening mode without feeling like you’re “losing.”
  •   Speak so you can actually be heard — and hear without instantly planning your comeback.
  •   Use compassion as a real-world skill, not just a fridge magnet quote.

Expect practical exercises you can take home and use the same day — in the middle of a fight, after one, and even to prevent the next one from happening.

We’ll work with the real-life examples you share — the current challenges, the recurring rows, the merry-go-rounds you’re tired of riding — and unpack the moves that keep the conflict dance going. Then we’ll rewrite the steps so your Wise Adult can lead you back into true connection.

What You’ll Walk Away With
  •   A clear understanding of what happens in your brain and body during conflict — and how to interrupt it.
  •   Simple phrases and approaches to defuse tension without giving up your truth.
  •   Practical steps to repair trust after a blow-up.
  •   Tools to keep you from falling back into the same old arguments.
  •   A fresh sense of connection — with yourself and with others.

Venue: The Round Tower, Black Swan Arts, Frome

Time: 1 - 2.30pm

Price: £20

Places: 14

Things to Bring/materials required:

Biography: Direct. Compassionate. A little bit sassy. 
I’ve spent many years helping people find their words, their hearts, and their way back to each other — whether in an classroom, a Pilates studio, or wtih young people in desperate need of life skills.

 I blend the somatic awareness of a movement teacher, the calm focus of a long-term meditator, and the sharp ear of someone who’s listening to what’s really being said beneath the words.

 If you’re ready for practical tools, clear insight, and the occasional unexpected laugh, you’re in the right place.

I can’t wait to connect with you!

Please note follow up details may come from Ali Hutchinson of Wildheart Wellbeing, the event organiser, as well as the individual event teacher.