The Hakomi Method
Joy and suffering are both part of life. Yet, as humans, we often suffer unnecessarily and block ourselves to the potential emotional nourishment that surrounds us. Hakomi is about exploring our unconscious habits that create unnecessary suffering, block our ability to take in the beauty of our world and stop us from stepping into our full vitality. The method leads us through a process of profound transformation that opens us to more presence, internal freedom and open-heartedness.
Hakomi is based on relational mindfulness, somatic explorations and deep compassion. The method is at its best when the work is driven by an open curiosity and awareness in the client of their present moment experience. We are not interested in conversations about one’s past or analyzing one’s situation; instead we create a safe and loving space, to slow down and listen deeply to what emerges spontaneously within. This offers a door into our core beliefs about who we are and how we relate to the world; as well as what is needed to heal and transform our limiting beliefs that create unnecessary suffering. This gentle yet powerful approach can be practiced one-to-one with a trained Hakomi practitioner or in a group setting.
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Ron Kurtz (1934-2011) is the creator of Hakomi and established the first iteration of this method in the late 1970’s, described as somatic psychotherapy, which brought together a broad spectrum of influences: humanistic therapeutic traditions (such as Gestalt therapy), body work (such as Feldenkrais and Bioenergetics), Taoist and Buddhist philosophy, among others. He was a pioneer in bringing the practice of mindfulness to the therapy room. As the method was refined over time by Kurtz and his collaborators, he began expanding the vision of his work as more than just therapy but also as a potential spiritual practice. It purposely cultivates a deep sense of presence, capacity for non-egocentric joy and nourishment, and importantly creates an expanded sense of self and connection with others.
Below you can learn more about the evolution of Hakomi, its principles and why it works:
Brief Introduction to Hakomi
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Ron Kurtz (1934-2011), Creator of the Hakomi Method
Five Principles of Hakomi
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Donna Martin, Senior Trainer and Legacy Holder of the Hakomi Method
The Six Foundational Skills of Hakomi
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Georgia Marvin, Senior Trainer and Legacy Holder of the Hakomi Method
What is Skillful Hakomi?
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Georgia Marvin, Senior Trainer and Legacy Holder of the Hakomi Method
TEDxAustin Talk
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Flint Sparks, Zen Priest, Senior Trainer and Legacy Holder of the Hakomi Method
"This is the first, wildest and wisest thing I know, that the soul exists, and that it is built entirely out of attentiveness."
Mary Oliver