Theory

Systems psychology and family therapy examine relationships within a group of people: Couples, families, organizations. The purpose is to nurture change, for individuals who are part of that group and for the whole system. We all exist and grow within systems of a powerful influence that determine how we live, relate to others and develop. Every person is a reflection of relations: “Horizontal” which concern the present time and “vertical” pointing to the history of a system: Family, nation, civilization. The aim for creating a representation is to demonstrate one’s unique position in a given system and to see how that position is mirrored within oneself. It’s an event designed to show the bonds between individuals and their family, or other group, revealing the specific order and laws which govern such relationships.

Subject

We can explore various problems and seek to find solutions by understanding the specific position we occupy within our family system. With the assistance of representatives for each member of the family an action is created showing how that system has learned to live and evolve, throughout its history. The goal is to facilitate connection with an original love for life which in different ways works behind every system. This love is frequently entangled because of various blockages happening over time to the family. Solutions come about when all members of the system, especially those that were for some reason excluded, are re-connected and integrated within that family group and its particular “fate” sharing a common grief or joy, guilt or achievement.

Process

This is a group experience: Participants sit in a circle and the facilitator invites one person who wishes to explore some problem. There’s a brief interview with general questions and answers concerning the issue but avoiding details. No need to hear the whole story as more information will be revealed during the process. That person will choose other participants to represent different family members and ask them to step in a given position: He/she will actually place them in the room in a way that feels appropriate and then sit back to watch. The representatives by simply occupying that position will connect to what is called the “Knowing Field” and perceive either some sensation in their body or the need to make a movement. These actions provide information about hidden sides of the family history which slowly emmerge bringing to light what is not known consciously. To close the event some “Words of Power” will be used to restore love and family inclusiveness. It’s an opportunity for everyone to experience healing and growth.

Results

You can see where disconnections and exclusions have occurred in the family history and understand how certain relationships developed or ended. The most common reason for a disrupted flow of love in the system is exclusion of family members: Someone who died early, was different or did something deemed to be wrong by others. If those members are not acknowledged and re-connected there will be a feeling of abandonment in the family, following for generations. All of us are children seeking to bring balance and stability to our families, even though unaware and not always conscious about it. By participating in a representation we gain insights as to why things may be malfunctioning in our behavior or attitude and need to be changed. It’s an effective way to uncover those hidden dynamics which allow us to release past entanglements and try to pursue a healthier and happier life.