About Hakomi

Hakomi has been described as a body-centred psychotherapy and words like gentleness and mindfulness are associated with it. It explores such concepts as 'loving presence', compassion and 'perceptual wisdom' as these seem important ingredients of a therapeutic relationship.

A body-centred psychotherapy is based on the principle that psychological problems manifest themselves not only in our emotions and relationships, but also in our muscular tension, our breathing patterns and our energy levels.

We all express ourselves nonverbally as well as verbally, and a therapist learns to pick up clues from the body language. Increased awareness of the patterns experienced in the body and the mind can bring about understanding, change and growth.

The Hakomi workshop begins with a focus on self-study. Various apparently simple experiential practices, with a partner or a group are designed to show us how we characteristically respond to other people.

After self-study comes an exploration of good listening skills and effective communication based on mindfulness, compassion and perceptual wisdom. Again exercises illuminate this by experience.

The Hakomi Method seems a gentle and nurturing form of therapy. It helps us to express ourselves and bring what has been unconscious into consciousness. It assists us in understanding and changing limiting beliefs and habitual behaviour patterns.

The Hakomi Experiential Method is base on the work and creative genius of Ron Kurtz, who wrote Body-Centred Psychotherapy: the Hakomi Method, and who continues to develop and write about the work.

Hakomi Experiential Method (HEM) has now evolved into a whole approach to personal development and human relations which expands the focus and application of the original Hakomi Method into a wide variety of other settings for individuals, couples, families, communities, organisations, agencies and other health and wellness focused lay and professional groups.

Donna Martin from British Columbia has been instrumental in bringing Hakomi to Britain. As well as being an internationally known Hakomi therapist and trainer, she is a yoga teacher, addictions counselor and stress management specialist. She has written several books including (with Paul Brenner) :Seeing your life through New Eyes.