Aug 9

Embracing the Felt Sense: The Heart of Holistic Healing

In the realm of holistic healing, the felt sense is a vital yet often overlooked concept. Rooted in the work of psychotherapist Eugene Gendlin, the felt sense bridges the gap between the physical and emotional aspects of our being, allowing for profound personal transformation. As a practitioner dedicated to nurturing the mind, body, and spirit, I have found that engaging with the felt sense is pivotal in facilitating holistic wellness.

What is the Felt Sense?

Eugene Gendlin introduced the concept of the felt sense as part of his groundbreaking therapeutic approach known as Focusing. The felt sense is an internal, bodily awareness that encompasses a complex amalgamation of sensations, emotions, and intuitions. Unlike a simple emotion or a physical sensation, the felt sense is a subtle, pre-verbal experience that provides deep insights into our current state of being.

Why I Value the Felt Sense in Healing

In my practice, I have witnessed the transformative power of working with the felt sense. This approach not only enhances self-awareness but also fosters self-regulation, enabling individuals to navigate their healing journeys with greater ease and clarity. When clients connect with their felt sense, they often uncover underlying issues that traditional talk therapy or medication might miss.

Many clients have shared how this method has empowered them to release long-held traumas and negative patterns. One particular case involved a client who, after several sessions, expressed a newfound ability to perceive and process emotions that had been previously inaccessible. This shift opened the door to a more vibrant and authentic life, demonstrating the profound impact of engaging with the felt sense.

The Practitioner’s Role in Felt Sense Healing

A key element of working with the felt sense is the role of the practitioner. As a practitioner, my ability to maintain a neutral and spacious state of being provides a larger relational field, or container, for clients' emotions. This expansive, supportive environment allows clients to co-regulate their emotional states, making it possible to meet and process bigger emotions and traumas.

By holding this space, I help clients feel safe and supported as they navigate their inner experiences. This co-regulation is crucial in allowing clients to remain present with their felt sense without becoming overwhelmed. The practitioner’s grounded and neutral presence acts as an anchor, enabling clients to explore and release deeply held emotions and traumas effectively.

The Felt Sense in Practice

Incorporating the felt sense into my healing sessions involves creating a safe and sacred space where clients can comfortably explore their inner sensations. Here’s how I guide clients through this process:

Grounding and Centring: We begin with grounding exercises to help the client become fully present in their body. This might include deep breathing, gentle movements, or visualisation techniques.
Tuning Inward: Clients are encouraged to tune into their bodies, noticing any subtle sensations without judgment. This inward focus allows the felt sense to emerge naturally.
Exploration and Dialogue: As clients describe their felt sense, I help them articulate these sensations, fostering a deeper understanding of their internal experiences.
Processing and Release: Through gentle guidance, clients learn to process and release the emotions and energies associated with their felt sense. This often leads to significant emotional and physical relief.

Benefits of Working with the Felt Sense

The benefits of engaging with the felt sense are many:

Enhanced Emotional Well-being: Clients often report a greater ability to process and manage their emotions, leading to improved mental health.
Physical Relief: By addressing the body’s stored traumas and tensions, clients frequently experience alleviation of physical symptoms and discomfort.
Greater Clarity and Intuition: Connecting with the felt sense sharpens one’s intuition and fosters a clearer understanding of personal needs and desires.
Empowerment and Self-regulation: Clients gain tools to self-regulate and navigate their emotional landscapes more effectively, promoting long-term well-being.

Conclusion

The felt sense offers a pathway to holistic healing that integrates the mind, body, and spirit. By cultivating this inner awareness, individuals can unlock profound insights and facilitate deep personal growth. The role of the practitioner in maintaining a neutral and spacious state is crucial in supporting clients to co-regulate and process larger emotions and traumas. I invite you to explore and engage with your felt sense, experiencing firsthand the transformative power it holds. If you are interested in discovering more about this approach, please book a session or schedule a free consultation. Together, we can embark on a journey towards healing, growth, and profound inner peace.