CEEPS On-Line Activity Database

Silent Lift

Description

An effective alternative to the classic "Trust" or "Commitment" Fall, which offers more safety, and more participant empowerment.

Instructions

The facilitator first establishes a no-talking environment.  This is best done by simply miming and signing everything from the very beginning.  The first thing to demonstrate (and then have everyone do together) is the lift skill.  This should include foot placement (shoulder width and one further back), bent knees, relatively straight back, hands under object on ground, lift to waist, breathe, lift to shoulder height, and optional sway in the descent back to ground.  The facilitator should also emphasize (in mime) for those with imperfect backs to make wise participation choices.

Next, the facilitator motions for a volunteer to come forward and lie on the ground, and for at least 10 other participants to get into position for lifting the volunteer. They should position them as 4 per side, plus one to manage the head and neck, and one at the feet to coordinate the effort.  Coordination is done (again demonstrated), by a silent finger count of "1-2-3-lift".

Once this has been done (or at least made clear), the facilitator can then share the four options that are available to each and every member of the group.  (It is best if this can also be done in silanece with miming and demonstrations.)  The availability of choice is critical!

Thumb up - "I'm OK.  I will support the group."

One finger up - "I'd like to be lifted from the ground and back again."

Palm horizontal to vertical - "I'd like to be lifted from the ground and placed upright on a waist-high platform."

The person is lifted from the ground and placed, face-forward, on the platform.  It is important to have 2 or 3 additional people to act as spotters in front of the participant.  It is also best for the group to practice the simple lift, before trying this option.

Palm vertical to horizontal - "I'd like to start standing on a waist-high platform, lean back, and be lowered to the ground."

The person starts on the platform, with their back to the group.  Having 1 or 2 spotters in front of the participant is recommended.  The participant must be in contact with the supporters from the moment they step on to the platform - this is not a fall.  As such, no particular hand position or rigidity is required, although you may wish to create a communication sequence (silent or otherwise) between the participant and the supporters to initiate this option.

Facilitator Notes

The silence is a particularly powerful aspect of this activity, as is the empowerment of choice.  The volunteers may take this further by miming requests for no swaying on the lower and other such variations.  This is a sign of a successful understanding of what this challenge is all about.

As with most powerful experiences, the opportunity for the group to discuss its impact is often desired, so end the silence when everyone is at the thumbs-up point, and allow a debrief to take place.

http://ceeps.ca/activities/SilentLift.htm

Contents © Copyright 2007, Andrew Welch.  Please note and credit activity Source at the top of this document.   This page was last updated 28 February, 2007