Guided Practices

Guided practices have a long history—from the Buddhist and Taoist traditions of visualization to the more modern guided practices of hypnosis, sensory awareness and beyond. Guided practice can take many forms, including movement-based practices such as Feldenkrais, breath practices, dream work, and more. A variety of these approaches are accessible in the materials below and more will be shared here as this archive develops.

The gestalt practice approach frequently utilizes imagination and visualization to bring us closer to our direct experience, helping us focus and contact what we notice. It is also an effective way to address unfinished business and close the experiential gap between past and present, allowing healing in the here and now. Visualizing alternatives to old patterns is a powerful way to assimilate new possibilities. Imagery can also be used as an avoidance—distracting us from current experience. If this is done purposefully, as titration, it can be helpful. But when it is done habitually and without awareness, it may limit healing and growth.

In gestalt practice, the reflector may guide people through remembering and entering a moment from the past “as if this is happening now.” For example, one might imagine sitting around a dinner table in a childhood home and slowly noting outer details and inner feelings, all grounded in what is being noticed now in the process of remembering. These explorations are intended to make present-moment feelings about the past available, both in terms of unfinished business and in the recognition of what from the past still evokes a sense of nourishment or support.

Many of the guided practices offered in this library are called Taking Our Seat. For those acquainted with current gestalt practice, this form of guided practice will be very familiar. For those who are new to gestalt practice, stay tuned for a link to more information about the history and intention of this essential practice. Regardless of previous experience, Taking Our Seat is a gateway to noticing, awareness, and grounding.