The human experience is frequently marked by invisible threads connecting individuals to their familial past. These threads, often formed through trauma, loss, or unresolved relational dynamics, can manifest as persistent emotional pain, relationship difficulties, or a general sense of being "stuck" in life. The concept of healing these old wounds has evolved significantly within the field of systemic therapy, particularly through the methodology known as Family Constellations. While traditionally this therapeutic approach required physical representation by other people acting as "representatives," a significant shift has occurred towards self-guided practice. This evolution allows individuals to access the profound healing potential of the method without the logistical and financial barriers of group sessions. The core text, Genees jezelf van oude wonden (Heal Yourself from Old Wounds) by Dr. Bertold Ulsamer, serves as a pivotal resource in this domain, offering a self-help guide that demystifies the process of internal constellations.
The methodology of Family Constellations was originally introduced by the German family therapist Bert Hellinger. Hellinger's work revolutionized psychotherapy by focusing on the hidden dynamics within families, suggesting that individual suffering is often a reflection of unresolved systemic issues within the family unit. Dr. Bertold Ulsamer, a jurist, psychologist, and trainer with extensive experience in systemic work, has adapted these principles for individual application. His work provides a pathway for individuals to address familial traumas—such as the loss of a family member, the lingering impact of past traumatic events, or the invisible presence of former partners—through internal visualization and guided exercises. This approach is particularly relevant for those who cannot or choose not to attend group sessions, yet still desire the clarity and healing that constellations offer.
The central thesis of Ulsamer's work is that the healing power of the "knowing field"—a concept deeply rooted in indigenous wisdom and spiritual traditions—can be accessed individually. This "knowing field" is described as a place of healing and knowledge that indigenous healers and teachers have accessed for thousands of years as a natural part of life. In Western thought, the connection to creation, the creator, and ancestors has often been surgically removed, leading to a disconnect that fuels modern psychological distress. By utilizing the method of "constellations without representatives," individuals can re-establish these vital connections. The book provides seventy concrete examples of problems that can be addressed at home, covering a wide spectrum of personal and professional challenges. This allows the reader to gain clarity on issues that are blocking their progress in both private life and work situations.
The Foundations of Family Constellations and Systemic Trauma
To understand the efficacy of self-guided constellations, one must first grasp the foundational principles of the systemic approach. Family Constellations is not merely a talk therapy; it is a phenomenological method that seeks to reveal the hidden dynamics within a family system. These dynamics often include "unresolved traumas" that are passed down through generations. The text highlights that numerous factors can stamp themselves upon the well-being of a family. These include the loss of a family member, the burden of traumatic events from the past, and the invisible presence of a former partner.
A critical aspect of this systemic view is the impact of disturbed relationships within the family, specifically between parents and children. Such disturbances leave behind painful wounds that heal very slowly. These wounds are not just emotional; they can manifest as chronic psychological distress, relationship failures, or a pervasive sense of unhappiness. The core belief is that the family system operates as a single entity, where the suffering of one member is often a reflection of a systemic imbalance. When a family member is excluded, forgotten, or carries a heavy burden, other members may unconsciously "represent" that burden, leading to a cycle of suffering that repeats across generations.
Bert Hellinger, the originator of the method, posited that every family member has a right to their place within the system. When this order is disrupted, the system attempts to restore balance, often through the suffering of a specific individual. The "old wounds" referenced in the title are essentially these systemic imbalances. They are not isolated incidents but are deeply embedded in the family history. The healing process involves acknowledging these dynamics, honoring the excluded or forgotten members, and restoring the proper order within the family system.
The transition from group-based constellations to self-guided practice represents a significant evolution in the field. Traditionally, constellations required a group setting where "representatives" would stand in for family members, allowing the facilitator to observe the movements and feelings of these representatives to gain insight into the family dynamic. However, this method has limitations: it requires finding a facilitator, paying for sessions, and coordinating a group of willing participants. The self-help approach removes these barriers. It relies on the individual's ability to visualize and "feel" the positions and relationships within their family system. This internalization of the process allows for a more personal, intimate engagement with one's own family history.
The "knowing field" plays a crucial role in this internal process. In the Western mindset, the connection to the "knowing field" is not well developed. This field is described as a place of healing and knowledge that has been accessed by indigenous healers for millennia. It is a space where the soul's movements can be observed. The book emphasizes that listening to the wisdom of this field is essential for healing. By closing one's eyes and visualizing family members, the individual can access this field. This process is not about intellectual analysis but about sensing the emotional and energetic connections between family members.
The methodology also touches upon the concept of "watching the soul." This involves observing the "movements of the soul" in an experiential and everyday language. The text notes that this observation is highly stimulating and offers significant gain for readers. The goal is to help individuals understand the root causes of their suffering and find a new beginning. The self-help guide is designed to be studied independently, allowing the reader to perform the described exercises without the intervention of a therapist. This empowers the individual to take active control over their healing journey.
The Methodology of Self-Guided Constellations
The practical application of family constellations without representatives is the core innovation presented in Ulsamer's work. The book provides seventy concrete examples of problems that can be set up at home. This specificity is vital; it transforms an abstract therapeutic concept into a tangible, actionable process. The method involves the individual acting as their own facilitator. Instead of relying on other people to stand in for family members, the individual uses their imagination and intuition to visualize the family system.
The process begins with identifying the specific issue or "wound" that needs healing. This could be a relationship problem, a recurring pattern of failure, or a deep-seated emotional blockage. The individual then visualizes the family members involved in the dynamic. This visualization is not a random act of imagination but a deliberate entry into the "knowing field." By closing one's eyes, the individual can "see" the family members and feel the emotional currents between them.
The text emphasizes that this method is suitable for both private life and work situations. The systemic dynamics are not limited to the home environment; they permeate all aspects of life. A disturbed relationship between parent and child, for instance, can manifest as difficulties in professional relationships or an inability to form stable partnerships. The self-guided approach allows the individual to explore these connections in a safe, private space.
One of the key advantages of this method is the removal of the need for external representatives. In traditional constellations, the presence of representatives can sometimes introduce their own biases or emotional baggage, which might cloud the clarity of the session. By working alone, the individual accesses a purer form of the "knowing field." The internal visualization allows for a direct connection to the soul's movements without external interference.
The exercises described in the book are designed to be accessible to anyone. They do not require specialized training to begin, although the author, Dr. Ulsamer, brings his background as a jurist and psychologist to ensure the method is grounded in psychological principles. The book serves as a comprehensive manual, guiding the reader through the steps of setting up the constellation, observing the dynamics, and finding a resolution. This step-by-step approach demystifies the process, making it a practical tool for self-healing.
The concept of "healing old wounds" is central to the methodology. These wounds are often the result of "systemic entanglements." For example, a child might unconsciously take on the grief of a deceased parent or the guilt of a sibling who was excluded. By visualizing these dynamics, the individual can acknowledge the hidden burdens and release them. The process is described as a way to gain clarity on what is blocking the individual, providing a new start for those suffering from old pains.
The book also includes references to literature and websites, providing a broader context for the method. It is presented as an appealing and inviting publication. The author's extensive experience in systemic work, developed by Bert Hellinger, lends credibility to the self-help approach. Ulsamer's background as a jurist and psychologist ensures that the method is not just spiritual but also grounded in psychological reality.
The Role of the Knowing Field and Indigenous Wisdom
A profound aspect of the self-guided constellation method is its reliance on the "knowing field." This concept is deeply rooted in indigenous wisdom and traditions. The text describes the "knowing field" as a place of healing and knowledge that has been accessed by indigenous healers and teachers for thousands of years as a normal part of life. This field is a space where the soul's movements can be observed, and where the connection to creation, the creator, and ancestors is maintained.
In Western thought, this connection has been "surgically removed" from healing practices. The text suggests that this disconnection is a primary cause of modern psychological distress. The self-guided constellation method seeks to restore this connection. By entering the knowing field, the individual re-establishes the vital link to their ancestors and the broader web of life. This restoration is not merely a psychological exercise but a spiritual reconnection.
The book by Francesca Mason Boring, Wandelen door het wetende veld (Walking through the Knowing Field), further elaborates on this concept. Boring's work is influenced by indigenous, ritualistic, or original ways of thinking. She describes the field as a place where one can listen to the wisdom of the field, a skill that is not well-developed in Western thinking. The connection to creation, the creator, and ancestors is essential for healing. This book provides the reader with tools to restore this bond.
Boring's background is significant in this context. She is of Shoshone descent on her mother's side, an indigenous tribe from the western United States, and of Irish, Scottish, and Lithuanian immigrant descent on her father's side. This mixed heritage informs her approach to system work, blending Western psychological concepts with indigenous spiritual practices. Her work in Germany, the birthplace of systemic work, involves facilitating family and system constellations and ceremonial constellations.
The integration of indigenous wisdom into the self-guided method adds a layer of depth that goes beyond standard psychotherapy. It suggests that healing is not just a cognitive process but a spiritual journey. The "knowing field" is not a metaphorical concept but a tangible reality that can be accessed through meditation and visualization. By closing one's eyes and entering this field, the individual can observe the movements of the soul and gain insights that are not available through rational analysis alone.
The text also mentions Ursula Franke's work, Als ik mijn ogen sluit, kan ik je zien (If I Close My Eyes, I Can See You). Franke, a seasoned therapist who has been one of the first to work with constellations in individual therapy, has documented her years of experience and discoveries in individual constellations. Her work highlights the evolution of the method towards one-on-one situations. This aligns with the self-help approach, emphasizing that the therapeutic power of constellations can be harnessed without a group setting.
The combination of Hellinger's systemic principles, Ulsamer's practical self-help guide, and the indigenous wisdom of the knowing field creates a holistic framework for healing. It bridges the gap between psychology and spirituality, offering a comprehensive approach to resolving old wounds. The method is not just about solving immediate problems but about restoring the fundamental order of the family system.
Practical Application and Specific Scenarios
The book Genees jezelf van oude wonden provides seventy concrete examples of problems that can be addressed through self-guided constellations. These examples cover a wide range of issues, from relationship difficulties to professional blocks. The text specifies that the method is ideal for gaining clarity on what is blocking the individual, both in private life and work situations.
One of the primary scenarios addressed is the "disturbed relationship within the family, between parent(s) and child." This disturbance often leaves painful wounds that heal slowly. The self-guided method allows the individual to visualize this relationship and identify the hidden dynamics causing the pain. For instance, a child might be unconsciously carrying the grief of a deceased parent, or a parent might be struggling with unresolved guilt. By visualizing these dynamics, the individual can acknowledge the hidden burdens and work towards resolution.
Another key scenario is the impact of "invisible presence of a former partner." This can manifest as a persistent feeling of being haunted by the past, preventing the individual from moving forward in new relationships. The self-guided constellation allows the individual to bring this invisible presence into the field of awareness, acknowledge it, and release its hold.
The method also addresses "loss of a family member." The grief of losing a loved one can create a void in the family system. If this loss is not properly acknowledged, it can lead to systemic imbalances. The self-guided approach helps the individual to honor the deceased and restore the proper order within the family.
The text emphasizes that the book is a self-help guide. It is designed to be studied independently, allowing the reader to perform the described exercises without the intervention of a therapist. This accessibility makes the method available to a broader audience. The book includes references to literature and websites, providing a comprehensive resource for those seeking to heal old wounds.
The author, Dr. Bertold Ulsamer, brings a unique combination of skills to this work. As a jurist and psychologist, he has extensive experience in systemic work as developed by Bert Hellinger. He conducts constellations, management trainings, and courses worldwide. His background ensures that the self-help method is grounded in both legal and psychological principles, providing a robust framework for healing.
The book also touches upon the concept of "emotional intelligence." Ulsamer is the author of eighteen books, including Werken met emotionele intelligentie (Working with Emotional Intelligence). This suggests that the self-guided constellation method is not just about resolving family trauma but also about developing emotional intelligence. The ability to recognize and manage one's own emotions is crucial for healing old wounds.
Comparative Analysis of Constellation Methods
To fully appreciate the self-guided approach, it is helpful to compare it with traditional methods. The following table outlines the key differences between group-based and self-guided constellations:
| Feature | Traditional Group Constellations | Self-Guided Constellations |
|---|---|---|
| Participants | Requires a group of representatives | Individual only |
| Facilitator | Requires a trained therapist/facilitator | Individual acts as their own facilitator |
| Setting | Group session, often in a workshop setting | Home or private space |
| Cost | High cost for sessions and travel | Low cost (book purchase only) |
| Accessibility | Dependent on finding a facilitator and group | Accessible to anyone with the book |
| Methodology | Physical representation of family members | Internal visualization and imagination |
| Focus | External observation of representatives | Internal observation of the "knowing field" |
| Outcome | Insight through group dynamics | Insight through personal visualization |
The table highlights the accessibility and efficiency of the self-guided method. It removes the logistical barriers of group sessions, making the healing process more inclusive. The internal visualization allows for a deeper, more personal connection to the family dynamics. The method is not a replacement for professional therapy in severe cases but serves as a powerful tool for self-discovery and healing.
The text also mentions the work of Ursula Franke, who has focused on individual constellations. Her book, Als ik mijn ogen sluit, kan ik je zien, is described as a handbook for practice. This further validates the trend towards individual application. The evolution of the method from group to individual settings reflects a growing recognition of the power of internal work.
The self-guided method also aligns with the concept of "watching the soul." This involves observing the "movements of the soul" in an experiential and everyday language. The text notes that this observation is highly stimulating and offers significant gain for readers. The method is not just about solving problems but about understanding the deeper spiritual and emotional currents within the family system.
The book by Francesca Mason Boring, Wandelen door het wetende veld, further supports the self-guided approach. It emphasizes the importance of the "knowing field" and the connection to ancestors. This spiritual dimension adds depth to the method, suggesting that healing is not just a psychological process but a spiritual journey.
The Author's Background and Expertise
Dr. Bertold Ulsamer (born 1948) is a central figure in the development of self-guided family constellations. His background as a jurist and psychologist provides a unique perspective on the method. He has extensive experience in systemic work as developed by Bert Hellinger. Ulsamer conducts constellations, management trainings, and courses worldwide. His expertise is not limited to therapy; he is also an author of eighteen books, including Werken met emotionele intelligentie (Working with Emotional Intelligence).
Ulsamer's work is deeply rooted in the principles of systemic therapy. He has adapted these principles for individual application, making the method accessible to a broader audience. His book, Genees jezelf van oude wonden, is a practical guide that provides seventy concrete examples of problems that can be addressed at home. The book is designed to be studied independently, allowing the reader to perform the described exercises without the intervention of a therapist.
The text also mentions the work of other authors who have contributed to the field. Francesca Mason Boring, with her indigenous heritage, brings a spiritual dimension to the method. Ursula Franke, a seasoned therapist, has documented her experience with individual constellations. These contributions highlight the diversity of approaches within the field, from psychological to spiritual.
Ulsamer's background as a jurist adds a unique dimension to his work. The legal perspective emphasizes the importance of order and structure within the family system. This aligns with the core principle of family constellations: restoring the proper order within the family. The method is not just about healing emotional wounds but about restoring the fundamental structure of the family system.
The book is described as an appealing and inviting publication. It includes references to literature and websites, providing a comprehensive resource for those seeking to heal old wounds. The text emphasizes that the method is ideal for gaining clarity on what is blocking the individual, both in private life and work situations. This versatility makes the method relevant to a wide range of issues.
The Psychological and Spiritual Dimensions of Healing
The self-guided constellation method bridges the gap between psychology and spirituality. It combines the structured approach of systemic therapy with the intuitive, spiritual connection to the "knowing field." This dual approach allows for a holistic healing process that addresses both the mind and the soul.
The psychological dimension is grounded in the work of Bert Hellinger, who emphasized the importance of acknowledging the hidden dynamics within the family system. The method involves identifying and resolving "systemic entanglements" that cause suffering. This is a rational, structured process that can be studied and applied independently.
The spiritual dimension is rooted in indigenous wisdom and the concept of the "knowing field." This field is described as a place of healing and knowledge that has been accessed by indigenous healers for thousands of years. The method involves listening to the wisdom of the field, a skill that is not well-developed in Western thinking. The connection to creation, the creator, and ancestors is essential for healing.
The text emphasizes that the method is not just about solving immediate problems but about restoring the fundamental order of the family system. This restoration involves acknowledging the excluded or forgotten members, honoring the deceased, and releasing the burdens that have been passed down through generations. The process is described as a way to gain clarity on what is blocking the individual, providing a new start for those suffering from old pains.
The book by Francesca Mason Boring, Wandelen door het wetende veld, further elaborates on the spiritual dimension. Boring's work is influenced by indigenous, ritualistic, or original ways of thinking. She describes the field as a place where one can listen to the wisdom of the field, a skill that is not well-developed in Western thinking. The connection to creation, the creator, and ancestors is essential for healing.
The self-guided method also touches upon the concept of "watching the soul." This involves observing the "movements of the soul" in an experiential and everyday language. The text notes that this observation is highly stimulating and offers significant gain for readers. The method is not just about solving problems but about understanding the deeper spiritual and emotional currents within the family system.
Conclusion
The methodology of healing old wounds through family constellations without representatives represents a significant advancement in the field of systemic therapy. It democratizes access to this powerful healing tool, allowing individuals to address deep-seated familial traumas from the comfort of their own homes. Dr. Bertold Ulsamer's work, Genees jezelf van oude wonden, provides a comprehensive self-help guide that bridges the gap between psychological rigor and spiritual wisdom.
The core insight of this approach is that the healing power of the "knowing field" is accessible to everyone. By closing one's eyes and visualizing the family system, individuals can access this field and gain clarity on the hidden dynamics causing their suffering. The method is not just about solving immediate problems but about restoring the fundamental order of the family system. This restoration involves acknowledging the excluded or forgotten members, honoring the deceased, and releasing the burdens that have been passed down through generations.
The book provides seventy concrete examples of problems that can be addressed at home. These examples cover a wide range of issues, from relationship difficulties to professional blocks. The method is ideal for gaining clarity on what is blocking the individual, both in private life and work situations. The self-guided approach removes the logistical and financial barriers of group sessions, making the healing process more accessible.
The integration of indigenous wisdom, as highlighted by Francesca Mason Boring, adds a profound spiritual dimension to the method. The "knowing field" is a place of healing and knowledge that has been accessed by indigenous healers for thousands of years. The connection to creation, the creator, and ancestors is essential for healing. This connection has been surgically removed from Western healing practices, leading to modern psychological distress. The self-guided method seeks to restore this connection.
The work of Ursula Franke further validates the trend towards individual application. Her book, Als ik mijn ogen sluit, kan ik je zien, is described as a handbook for practice. This evolution from group to individual settings reflects a growing recognition of the power of internal work. The method is not just about solving problems but about understanding the deeper spiritual and emotional currents within the family system.
Ultimately, the self-guided constellation method offers a pathway to healing old wounds. It empowers individuals to take active control over their healing journey. By acknowledging the hidden dynamics within the family system, individuals can find a new start. The method is not just a therapeutic tool but a spiritual practice that restores the fundamental order of the family system. This holistic approach provides a comprehensive framework for healing, bridging the gap between psychology and spirituality.
Sources
- Rozet (2011). Genees jezelf van oude wonden : familieopstellingen zonder representanten. Haarlem: Altamira.
- Deslegte.com. Genees jezelf van oude wonden.
- Kwaliteitsopvoeding.nl. Genees jezelf van oude wonden.
- Ellytebrake.nl. Publicaties/Literatuur.
- Bookmatch.nl. Studieboeken.