Becoming Grounded: A detailed guide for Bioenergetic therapists

Guy Tonella writes “This is a book of great clarity on a fundamental theme at the heart of therapeutic bioenergetic process: “Grounding”. This book begins by examining the complexity of the concept of grounding in bioenergetics and focuses specifically on fine tuning your skills with grounding and alignment. The misalignments in our bodies are often unconscious and it takes a sharp focus by the observing therapist and some good techniques to correct them, so that an energetic charge can move through the body. Thereby, helping one to feel more body awareness and aliveness with the energy to move throughout one’s day with grace and ease. This book takes you step by step to solve this problem with detailed descriptions and numerous photographs to aid the reader in understanding each position and exercise. The authors describe what to do from “toe to head”. The various breathing patterns of each character structure are described as well as what to do to help improve one’s way of breathing. The concepts of self-awareness, self-possession and self-expression are discussed and adapted to present day concepts of neuroscience. The last chapter discusses therapeutic observations that are critical to aiding a client in achieving an energetic flow. This book also delineates the difference between tremors, vibration and shaking. This book is a valuable resource for all somatic psychotherapists. “This gem of a book distills the essence and the practice of “grounding” in Bioenergetic Analysis. Its simplicity belies the years of practice wisdom that have gone into making the ideas and the exercises crystal clear and so easily accessible. An indispensable handbook for all practitioners of Bioenergetic Analysis.” Garry Cockburn, Local Faculty, New Zealand Society for Bioenergetic Analysis. Past President of the IIBA