What Do Monks and Improvisers Have in Common?

Monks and improvisers have several things in common, despite the fact that they come from very different backgrounds and traditions.

Some of the ways in which monks and improvisers are similar include:

1. Both monks and improvisers value mindfulness and presence. Monks often practice mindfulness as part of their spiritual discipline, focusing on the present moment and being fully aware of their thoughts, feelings, and actions. Improvisers also prioritize mindfulness and presence, as it is essential for being able to respond and react to their scene partners and the unfolding scene in real time.
2. Both monks and improvisers embrace spontaneity and creativity. Monks often engage in spontaneous forms of worship and meditation, such as chanting or singing, and they may be called upon to improvise in their daily routines. Similarly, improvisers must be able to think on their feet and create and develop scenes and characters without the use of scripts or pre-planned material.
3. Both monks and improvisers value community and collaboration. Monks often live and work in communities, where they support and rely on each other for spiritual guidance and practical assistance. Improvisers also perform and create in groups, and they rely on their scene partners and the broader improv community for support and inspiration.

Overall, while monks and improvisers come from very different traditions, they share many common values and approaches to life and creativity. Both groups prioritize mindfulness, spontaneity, and community, and they use these qualities to enrich their experiences and deepen their connections with others.

The good news is you don’t need to trade your clothes for orange robes and shave your head. And you don’t have to move to Thailand either.

PowerProv improv workshops will help you channel your inner monk and best of all, we’ll come to you.

In just 3-hours we’ll give you new tools and techniques that will improve your mindfulness and presence, help you embrace spontaneity and creativity, and get better at communication and collaboration.