Exploring “The Essence of Focusing" - PART 1

By Bruce Nayowith A way to deepen our practice of Focusing and apply it to new areas I have felt very drawn to Focusing since I first read Gendlin’s book in 1986. Curious about why it felt so important to me, I began wondering: What was it about Focusing that really spoke to something in me that I treasured What was it that Focusing helped put me in touch with, connect with, live into? What new doorways did it open for me? The first question was about the nature of Focusing; the second was about the nature of myself in relationship with it. What came to me was nothing I had read or heard in any trainings or books: “The essence of Focusing is the bodily-felt resonance of aliveness.“ Focusing was a way for me to get in touch with a felt movement of living process in myself, in others, in the world…. As I spent time with this understanding, I found that it began to open up new and powerful ways to integrate Focusing into other processes and practices, and not just "when I was doing Focusing." Wanting to share my insights without putting my ideas in someone else’s head, I decided to ask other Focusers “What is the essence of Focusing for you?” I assumed that, as they explored it, they would come up with something like what I had come to. But instead, each person had their own unique response! Different aspects of the Focusing process spoke to different people - the core of Focusing for each person was quite different. I collected many of these responses, and found that many of the others’ responses opened up fresh perspectives and creative ideas. I would like to share some of them with you, but first, in the spirit of learning, I invite you into this exploration, and ask yourself any of the questions mentioned earlier: - What is the essence of Focusing for you? - What about Focusing speaks to something deep or meaningful for you? - What does Focusing put you more deeply in touch with in yourself or in the world? If you do this, you may get a better understanding of Focusing, and you may well get a better understanding of yourself – of certain inner movements or states that are very meaningful and nourishing to you. Coming Attractions Over the next few posts, I shall share some responses to these questions, and offer ways that these can help to connect Focusing to many other practices and activities. Which, of course, is the theme of these “Focusing, And….” blog posts. No need to take my word for it – you will see for yourself soon! Til next time, Bruce Comments or Questions? If any of this prompts a question or a comment, we would love to hear from you. Use our Contact Form at the bottom of the page to reach out. "Evolution is based on the concept of mutual benefit and the extension of generosity." ~ Louie Schwartzberg - Fantastic Fungi "The best educational spaces are where you see people in terms of their capacity and wisdom, and you invite that into expression and leadership…." ~ Libby Hoffman - Catalyst for Peace

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Group felt-sensing

Exploring “The Essence of Focusing" - PART 1

Posted on August 17, 2025

Symphonic Reflecting Through Group Felt-Sensing

Posted on May 17, 2025