Gestalt As a Way of Life

A Holistic Approach to Life

We are intricate beings living in an environment with nature and other beings, on a planet, in a universe which is a part of multiple universes and on and on… Seeing ourselves in this context of the larger picture broadens our understanding of who we are.

The word Gestalt means "the whole is greater than the sum of its parts". This implies that the whole has an essence, which we can sense and feel if we are tuned into it. Each being has an essence, each organization, group, family and environment as well. So often when we live in the fast lane, experiencing others as "labels", understanding only in "sound bites", we miss the essence of everything.

By understanding our essence, we become clearer about "the me who is aware", who we are deep inside, under the layers of personality, education, training and socialization. Knowing, honoring and listening to this inner being is the most important thing we can do. And then many of our concerns will fall into place.

This holistic approach I follow implies "a way of life", which I've often said is the case with Gestalt, which has similarities to indigenous ways and larger philosophical systems.

Finding balance in the here and now, personally and in our families and organizations, helps keep us alive and healthy as we move forward during these unusual times.