The mind-body split does not exist in Gestalt therapy. Instead the mind and body are viewed as inextricably intertwined parts of our whole being. A focus on the body in therapy can be particularly healing for people who have experienced marginalisation of all kinds, when one's body is used as a political or social battleground these scars can manifest in the emotional and mental landscape. We know that emotions can be stored in the body as well as intergenerational and present trauma. Throughout different cultures there has been a rich history of transmuting experiences through bodily expression, from singing, dancing, energy work, breath work and massage to name just a few. So how does this work in counselling? The body can give clues as to what more is going on as you are talking, perhaps we might notice a change in posture or a tapping leg and we might explore together what that might mean. The body can also be a tool for emotional movement, perhaps as you start to become more aware of your bodily experiences the body becomes a tool for processing anxiety or grief as we allow these emotions to move through us. The body can be a powerful means of connection as I share my experiences within my body, perhaps a wobbly knee or a tight chest, and we see whether this has resonance for your current experiences.
Try the below exercise for becoming more ‘in your body’
You can try this exercise first thing in the morning or before sleeping at night or anytime you are feeling a bit detached from your body. Close your eyes if it is safe and possible for you to do so. Imagine the body as an empty container and begin by paying attention to the breath. There is no need to change it, just observe the in breath and the out breath. Now bring the attention to the very bottom of your feet. Imagine a type of bright light beginning at the bottom of your feet, every time you inhale you become more full of this bright light as it begins at your feet and moves all the way up your body like a container being filled with water. Perhaps as you do this your feet spontaneously begin to wiggle and maybe your legs move and your hands, observe what is happening to your body and pay extra attention to any points that the bright light is difficult to pass through. Finish the exercise by bringing the attention back to the breath and gently open the eyes.