As a chiropractor, I am always looking for ways to help my clients find relief from their pain and discomfort. Over the years, I have found that traditional chiropractic techniques are not always enough to address the root cause of my patients’ physical symptoms. That’s why I have turned to the Hakomi method, which offers a unique approach to healing that focuses on the mind-body connection.

Hakomi is a form of somatic psychotherapy that was developed in the 1970s by Ron Kurtz, a psychologist and student of mindfulness meditation. The word “Hakomi” comes from a Hopi Indian word that means “Who are you?” This is the central question that guides the Hakomi method, which is designed to help people explore and understand the unconscious beliefs and emotions that shape their lives.
At its core, Hakomi is based on the idea that the body and mind are intimately connected. Our physical sensations and movements are closely tied to our emotions, thoughts, and beliefs. By paying attention to the body, we can gain valuable insights into our mental and emotional states.
Hakomi sessions typically begin with a conversation between the therapist and client to establish a sense of trust and safety. The therapist will then guide the client through a series of gentle exercises and body-awareness techniques designed to bring attention to the physical sensations that underlie their emotional and mental experiences.
One of the unique features of Hakomi is its focus on “mindfulness,” or the practice of being fully present and aware in the moment. By cultivating mindfulness, we can become more attuned to our bodies and more conscious of our thoughts and emotions. This can help us recognize when we are experiencing limiting beliefs or negative thought patterns that may be contributing to our physical symptoms.
For example, a person who holds the belief that they are not worthy of love may unconsciously contract their chest muscles, leading to chronic tension and pain in that area. By bringing awareness to this tension and exploring the underlying belief, the person may be able to release the physical tension and work towards changing the limiting belief.
In my experience as a chiropractor, many of my clients’ physical symptoms are rooted in these types of unconscious beliefs and emotions. By incorporating Hakomi techniques into my practice, I am able to help my clients explore and understand these underlying issues, leading to more profound and lasting healing.
Some of the benefits that my clients have experienced through Hakomi include increased self-awareness, a greater sense of inner peace, and relief from chronic pain and tension. Hakomi can also help improve relationships and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
If you are interested in trying Hakomi, it is important to find a qualified and experienced practitioner. Look for someone who has completed a Hakomi training program and who has a background in psychology or other related fields. The best way to experience it would be to attend an event. There’s a big network of Hakomi practitioners around the world and it will not be difficult to find one near you. You can start by exploring this list of Hakomi events here.
It is also important to keep in mind that Hakomi is not a quick fix or a one-size-fits-all solution. Each person’s journey will be unique, and the process can be challenging at times. However, with patience, dedication, and the guidance of a skilled practitioner, Hakomi can be an incredibly powerful tool for self-discovery and healing.
In conclusion, as a chiropractor, I have found that incorporating Hakomi techniques into my practice has been incredibly beneficial for my clients. By recognizing the mind-body connection and helping my clients explore their unconscious beliefs and emotions, I have been able to provide a deeper level of healing that addresses the root cause of their physical symptoms. If you are struggling with chronic pain, tension, or other physical symptoms, I encourage you to consider trying Hakomi and exploring the profound benefits of this unique and powerful healing modality. Here’s a book that I would recommend on the topic: The Practice of Loving Presence: A Mindful Guide To Open-Hearted Relating.