Body psychotherapy was first introduced in 1935 by Wilhelm Reich, student and colleague of Sigmund Freud, when in the Character Analysis he also introduced the concept of working with the body. Body psychotherapy is a holistic form of psychotherapy which is based in both the theory of Classical Psychoanalysis (transference, defense mechanisms, dream interpretation etc) and the theory of the Body as a means of diagnosing and resolving the conflicts in the individual, as its basic theory is that there is a connection between the mind and the body.
The body has a memory, and all our experiences live in the body. This means that the body is the most authentic source of knowledge for ourselves. Our mental condition, our experiences, our emotions are imprinted and expressed through the body, and Body Psychotherapy, using various techniques can enhance our awareness and consciousness so that we can have a more embodied, abundant and blissful life.
Working with a Body Psychotherapist
A body psychotherapist observes the posture, the movement of the body, the breath, the expressions, the voice, the blockages etc.
By doing that, he can put pressure BOTH in the energy level (body) AND the consciousness level (mind) to help the client:
- realize and express suppressed emotions of the past and the present
- recognize repetitive behavioral patterns
- get in contact with past trauma experiences
- see how and why he/she/it relates to others
- learn how to claim what one needs without fear
- learn how to put boundaries
- and many more…
Examples of Body Psychotherapy techniques:
Breathing exercises
Guiding the client in mindful breathing to activate the parasympathetic nervous system.
Movement and dance
Encouraging free-form movement to help clients become more aware of their bodies and emotions.
Touch and tension release
Therapists may use touch (with consent) to help clients release physical tension or blockages in the body.
