Performance psychologist Gerry Hussey is sitting on a bench near the Forty Foot swimming spot in south Dublin, looking out to sea. We are meeting to discuss his new self-help book. The book is not out yet, but already booksellers are reporting pre-orders from several thousand people. Over the past few years through wellness events, personal coaching and webinars he has built up an engaged community of people who are interested in his âspiritual and scientificâ approach to health.
The name of the book is Awaken Your Power Within. The title, embossed in gold, glints in the afternoon sunshine. While the country has been coming down with mindfulness discourse in recent years, there hasnât been a Power of Now/Eckhart Tolle figure writing for the Irish market. This is the space Hussey is aiming for. Thereâs a quote on the front describing Hussey, a Galway man, as âa modern-day sageâ. Thatâs David and Stephen Flynn, aka The Happy Pear, talking.
Space for the soul at Holt school Students at Gresham’s School in Holt have been exploring spirituality, prayer and life’s biggest questions with their very own interactive ‘Soul Space’ in the school chapel. The historic interior of the chapel was transformed with stunning and immersive light and sound. The space was also filled with creative, tactile ‘stations’ which gave the students an opportunity to develop skills of personal reflection and spirituality in a fun, open, safe and inclusive way.
In addition to assembly and lesson time, the Prayer Space was also open to all staff and students every evening. The initiative has proved to be extremely popular with hundreds of students choosing to take part.