resources & inspiration

  • Nonviolent Communication (NVC), otherwise known as Compassionate Communication “is based on the principles of nonviolence– the natural state of compassion when non-violence is present in the heart. NVC begins by assuming that we are all compassionate by nature and that violent strategies—whether verbal or physical—are learned behaviors taught and supported by the prevailing culture.” ~ The Center For Non-Violent Communication.

    NVC works to addresses the importance of how peaceful communication can create compassionate connections with friends, family, strangers, and most importantly with oneself. NVC provides an opportunity to break patterns of undesirable states of being by bringing awareness, recognition and articulation of feelings and universal needs.

  • “Hakomi is a form of guided self-study that relies on the power of present emotional and somatic experience to access and study core material: the memories, images, beliefs, neural patterns, and emotional dispositions that shape how we experience ourselves in the world. A defining characteristic of core material is that it is unconscious. Hakomi provides a method for becoming conscious of and exploring this material, as well as for integrating new, more nourishing experiences.” ~ The Hakomi Institute of the Pacific Northwest.

    At its most basic level, Hakomi is the therapeutic expression of a specific set of Principles:

    • Unity – an inclusive awareness of the interrelatedness of things. Unity suggests that we all enter a collaborative healing system together. As we enter into this healing system, the answers are as much inside us as they are within the person guiding the Hakomi session.

    • Organicity – the recognition and honoring of each person’s individuality. Organicity implies that there is an innate wholeness on the part of every individual. The therapist is there to assist one’s own natural evolution into well-being and self-awareness.

    • Mindfulness – the value of being genuinely aware of exactly what is happening. Mindfulness is an intentional state of nonjudgmental conscious observation that allows you to observe yourself without interruption. Through this practice, it is possible to shift habits and patterns, thus supporting greater choice and freedom in life.

    • Nonviolence – a commitment to respect and loving regard. Nonviolence is a system that allows for peaceful interaction in which both participants are left unharmed. This is not to say that non-violence is not confrontational, rather it achieves its goals in a way that both needs of the participants are met with respect and compassion.

    • Mind-Body Holism – the assumption that all elements of experience are essential. Mind-Body Holism views the body and mind as co-occurring simultaneously and holistically, giving us constant signals and clues to our state of being. This supports an organic expression of one’s body and mind to work intuitively with itself.

    • Truthfulness – the pursuit of the actual nature of things. Truthfulness asks that one stands in authenticity and integrity with oneself and others as much as is recognizable and possible. It is through these interactions that the healing process can be fully catalyzed

    • Mutability / Change – the trust that things can and will move and evolve. Mutability / Change suggests that the Universe is constantly in flux, adjusting and moving both extrinsically and intrinsically. It is not a linear system of balance, but rather cyclical and expansive. Your ability to be present (via the concept of mindfulness) can support a greater awareness. It is within this awareness, that there is infinite possibility for change and growth.

    For more information of Hakomi visit The Hakomi Institute