The Embodied Enneagram Workshop

Body, Breath, Emotion & Personality Type

with Peter O'Hanrahan

The Enneagram is a holistic system which describes how personality and character structure are formed in three centers of intelligence - mind, heart, and body. The Embodied Enneagram Workshop is an opportunity to work with all three centers, combining mindfulness with a body-based (somatic) approach to healing and relationship. By understanding the specific issues and defenses of each personality type we can apply the best methods of psychology and body therapy in a way that is attuned to the individual person.

Many of our physical and emotional patterns were formed early in childhood, before the intellect was fully developed. A body-based approach enables us to contact and work with these patterns which are at the root of our type structure. We will use the breath to develop sensory awareness, to relax and open the body, and to contact our emotions. We'll explore patterns of body armor and resistance, and find new internal resources that can help us in the healing journey.

The true self is based in body sensation, instinct, and emotion. Yet in modern culture, emotions and the body are often neglected in favor of the intellect. The path of embodiment brings us closer to true selves, and it opens up our capacity for empathy and skill in relationship.

Through presentation, discussion and experiential work we will explore personality type in all three centers - head, heart and body - and practice body-based methods which support our personal well-being and our relationships. This workshop combines discussion with lots of experiential work. The goal is to create a safe space for the process of embodiment and healing - each participant will be encouraged to go at their own pace. Our practices will include simple breathing and stretching exercises, shoulder and neck massage, and guided breathing sessions.

Topics include: the somatic structures of nine types, defenses, body types, and embodiment practice in relationships.

You will learn:

• How your personality type is reflected in physical structure and habitual patterns of feeling and sensation.

• Practical techniques for working with the body, the breath, and the emotions.

• How to combine mindfulness practice with embodied presence.

• How to handle experiences of stress, overwhelm, and the fight/flight/freeze response.

• How to bring embodied presence to your relationships and your personal or professional practice.

The Format:

This workshop combines discussion with lots of experiential work. The goal is to create a safe space for the process of embodiment and healing - each participant will be encouraged to go at their own pace. Our practices will include simple breathing and stretching exercises, shoulder and neck massage, and guided breathing sessions. Everyone is encouraged to go at their own pace and may opt out of any exercise.

Please bring:

A yoga mat, foam mat, or thick blanket for floor work plus a small towel. Wear comfortable clothing.

Who will benefit:

• Students and teachers of the Enneagram will expand their knowledge of the nine types, deepen their personal work and learn body-based practices for healing and growth.

• Therapists and health professionals will learn methods of addressing personality and character structure in three centers, which will empower their work with clients and support integration.

Here is an article with more information about body practices for the nine types.

Peter O’Hanrahan is a leading teacher of the Enneagram with a focus on Subtypes and Somatics. He has practiced counseling and bodywork for 35 years, with extensive training in Reichian and Bioenergetic methods. Peter has taught the Embodied Enneagram workshop in the US, Europe and China. He began his Enneagram studies in 1978, and he is currently an associate trainer and past director for the Palmer/Daniels Enneagram Professional Training Program (EPTP) and EnneagramWorldwide.com.