Bert Hellinger pioneered Family Constellation work in Germany, and it is currently one of the fastest growing therapies in the world. The goal of constellation work is to see and understand the impact of historic dynamics of a family or organization. Once we see the dynamics, it is easy to understand the connection to personal issues we have. It is very affirming to see that there really were dynamics that cause certain issues in our lives. The work can help to heal old patterns and it shows us ways to approach current relationships in a healthy manner. In some cases, healing occurs regarding long-standing issues.
How it works: Participants come to the workshop to address a particular issue or they come to witness others work. Issues addressed are often difficult problems (physical or emotional) that plague a person's life, regardless of repeated attempts at change. The issue would be one of a serious nature (not just because one is interested or curious about their family). It could be an issue one might take to a therapist. A few examples of such issues: a problem (such as fighting or distancing) with a spouse or child; an ongoing problem with one's child (such as sadness, anxiety, acting out); illness that impairs ones ability to function (emotionally or physically); addictions; emotions that feel "over the top" in particular situations; behavior that feels stuck or unchangeable regardless what you do; anxiety; inability to commit in relationships.
At the beginning of the workshop, constellations and how they work are discussed. Someone who wants to do a constellation volunteers (the client) who wants to do a constellation. The client will then pick individuals from the group to represent his/her family members. The client places representatives in the circle without comment, based on how it "felt" to be in the family. The representatives become a living model of the original family system. The representatives begin to notice feelings and thoughts which reflect those of the actual family members. The best explanation for this phenomenon (often called the “knowing field”) can be found in the work of biologist, Dr. Rupert Sheldrake
( www.sheldrake.org/Research/morphic). Sheldrake refers to a field of energy, which connects us, as the morphic field, which has memory and influence.
Once we understand the family dynamic and its impact on the problem, representatives will move to a new position to find a place of healing that will bring some resolution to the issue. There is then time for group discussion regarding the constellation.For more information about family constellations, go to:
www.systemicfamilysolutions.com and click on “articles.”
Bert Hellinger's book, Love's Hidden Symetry is very good;
journal abstracts at:
www.theknowingfield.co.uk/journalextracts.php. |
