What does BALM mean in UNCLASSIFIED

BALM stands for Be a Loving Mirror. It is an approach to communication which emphasizes self-exploration and expression, holding space for the other, and cultivating empathy and understanding.

The central purpose of BALM is to provide support to people during challenging or difficult times by creating a safe environment where all feelings can be expressed, accepted and shared. This practice encourages self-reflection in order to help process difficult emotions and to gain insight into one's thought patterns.

The core values of the BALM approach are non-judgemental acceptance, empathy, openness, respect, truthfulness, growth, kindness and understanding. These values are aimed at building trustful relationships that foster healing and healthy development in individuals.

When using the BALM approach when communicating with others it is important to focus on listening more than speaking, being open-minded and curious about another's perspective, validating their emotions without judgement, using reflection techniques as needed to help them move towards understanding themselves better and offering compassionate feedback rather than criticism.

To successfully implement a BALM process some key steps include taking time for mindful activity prior to your session (e.g., meditation), creating an atmosphere of safety through clear boundaries (e.g., ground rules), providing introductions that emphasize human connection vs technical jargon (e.g., ask participants how they identify rather than what their job title is), making sure everyone has equal opportunity for speaking and for being heard without judgement or interruption; as well as embodying care through your own language choices (e.g., using “we” instead of “I/you).

If someone in your group has strong disagreements over something that was discussed during a session it's important too first remain calm and validate each other's feelings before diving into problem solving strategies. It might be useful to try out various reflective questions such as "What do you think we could all agree on?" or "How can we move forward while still addressing both sides?". Even if you don't reach resolution it's okay to simply agree on taking time apart until calmer moments emerge where further discussions may occur since this will enable deeper connection over time between members of an interpersonal group or team setting.

There are several different frameworks used for facilitating conversations with the BALM approach such as Nonviolent Communication (NVC), The Compassion Focused Therapy Model (CFTA) which emphasizes integration of emotion regulation skills from mindfulness practices alongside self-compassion processes; Structured Dialogic Design (SDD) which utilizes reflective questioning techniques among others tools; Affective Dialogue Methodology (ADT); Open Space Technology (OST); Circle Processes; Appreciative Inquiry (AI) ; Open Detailed Exploring Conversation (ODEC); Seven Essential Elements for Peaceful Conflict Resolution; Relational Leadership Theory Framework which focuses on developing meaningful relationships amongst participants in order understand underlying issues better; Transformative Facilitation Model which takes into account intersectionality while emphasizing creative action planning strides towards achieving set objectives etcetera.