Core Energetics
How can core energetics nourish you?
Developed by John Pierrakos in the 1970s, core energetics can be described as a body-based psychotherapy. This is because practitioners believe emotional trauma and repressed feelings become transformed into blockages or weaknesses of energy in various areas of the body[1]. Core energetics therapy includes physical motion, breathing exercises, healing touch and similar body-based approaches, as well as counselling and discussion, intended to resolve these blockages of energy.
After being mentored by Wilhelm Reich, an influential and controversial psychoanalyst, Pierrakos partnered with fellow student Andrew Lowen to develop Bioenergetic Analysis[2]. This is a form of somatic therapy, or psychotherapy based on the idea that the mind and body cannot be treated independently[3], and disorders of the mind cause impaired functioning of the body. Pierrakos parted ways with Lowen, and after marrying Eva Broch (a spiritual medium), went on to establish Core Energetics[4].
Core energetics is a four-phase process of gradually working through the constraints you have created, often in response to violations of the ‘core self’ experienced in early life, for example through your emotional needs not being met during childhood[5]. As you become aware of these constructs and realise they no longer serve you, and as the blockages of energy in your body are gradually overcome, you will be able to express your ‘core self’ fully and live from a place of joy and authenticity[6].
The modality takes into account interactions between the physical body, emotions, mind, spirit and will[7], and postulates that everything you need to heal yourself is already within you. The ultimate aim is to become consciously aware of the way all life is interconnected and find your place within that universal context.
Benefits of core energetics
Academic studies on core energetics are not readily available, so reports of the modality’s benefits come from practitioners rather than peer-reviewed research. Therapists offering core energetics regularly assert that the treatment can help you become emotionally grounded and present at the moment, liberate your creativity and conquer unresolved trauma.
The modality is said to support a deeper understanding of unresourceful behaviours and mental patterns. As the ‘emotional wounds’ and insecurities stemming from childhood are gradually resolved, it is asserted that you will learn to let go of psychological limitations which prevent you from living joyfully and experiencing unconditional self-love.
Body-related issues ranging from postural problems to expressions of sexuality[8] may be improved through core energetics practice. It is also suggested that core energetics may promote healing of the physical body, for example from chronic tension in muscles, as energetic blockages are released.
Core energetics may assist in relieving symptoms related to:
What to expect from a core energetics session
A session usually lasts about an hour and often takes place in a group setting. Due to the physical component of the therapy, it is recommended that you wear form-fitting clothes that do not restrict your movement, and allow the therapist to work directly with your body.
The session will involve physical exercises intended to release energy blockages, as well as talking and discussion to increase your awareness of how your thoughts and emotions are interconnected with physical responses in your body.
Core energetics might not provide effective results for major issues with mental health such as schizophrenia or psychosis[9], in which cognitive processing is compromised. Concerns have also been raised about the premise that all people are essentially pure at their core, as well as the spiritual component[10] of the modality.
As with any exercise or wellness program, please consult your medical professional before commencing core energetics. If you have an injury or other health issue, or any concerns at all, also speak to your core energetics therapist, who will be happy to address these and explore the option of adjusting the treatment to your requirements.
References
1. What is Core Energetics? Institute of Core Energetics Greece; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
2. What is Core Energetics. Energetics Institute; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
3. USABP. International Institute for Bioenergetic Analysis; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
4. Pioneer & Founder of Core Energetics. Institute of Core Energetics;
5. Core Energetics. Netherlands Institute of Core Energetics; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
6. What Is Movement Works? Movement Works; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
7. Core Energetics. Springer Link; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
8. Frequently Asked Questions. Core Energetics Polska; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].
9. Individual Therapy Specialist. Energetics Institute;
10. Core Energetics. GoodTherapy; [cited on 2024 Nov 28].