Individual constellations - Holistic Centre Brabant

Individual/table constellations are a special form of systemic work.

This allows us to do systemic work without needing (living) representatives. By placing wooden dolls, chairs or other props very carefully and with intention, it becomes possible to take a problem/theme out of your head and place it in the room. This allows you to look at the whole from a distance, reducing the risk of your mind identifying with the problem. We then reflect together on what we see and what you experience. Once the elements are in place, you can view and experience the issue or problem as an outsider.

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To perceive literally

It is now important that we observe with an open mind. We call this an attitude of ‘empty centre’. It is based on an awareness of a greater whole in which there is an order that does justice to everyone and in which positive energy can flow again for every element in the system concerned.

This allows you to reflect on the dynamics of the overall picture from a greater distance (helicopter view). Sometimes, during this reflection and/or in dialogue with us as your coach, it becomes apparent that one or more elements need to be shifted. This can lead to more breathing space, a new perspective and greater confidence. Shifting just one element can create an overall picture with a completely new meaning.

A real-life case study

An example of a case is that of Anita (not her real name), who is divorced and has three children ranging in age from 15 to 19. She is fed up with her ex, who does not keep his agreements, and she also wants to protect the children from the pain of the divorce. When drawing up a list of participants in the field, it soon becomes clear that Anita places herself between her ex and the children. This allows her to keep a close eye on whether the children are doing well and to mediate between their father and the children. In this position, she literally feels the pressure from both sides, which she finds oppressive. In addition, she hears from others that she has not arranged things properly... even though she has done her best.

I invite Anita to walk around the table and look at the arrangement from different angles, to view the situation from a distance, as it were, which provides new insights. It is noticeable that the children have no contact with their father because Anita always stands between them. I ask her to try moving her “doll” to a different place, removing herself from between them. This feels a little awkward because she has always placed herself in that spot. Eventually, she places her doll behind her children, facing them, and she can also see her ex. This gives her a feeling of space for herself, but also for her children. In addition, she sees that the children now have the space to make their own choices and feel supported by their mother and seen by their father.

Systemic work, in whatever form, is powerful and offers insights that can help you take the next step towards becoming the best version of yourself!