What is a constellation, what can I imagine it to be?
A constellation is an experiential method for bringing inner issues and ‘entanglements’ to light and, ideally, transforming them. We are all embedded in systems (family, work, circle of friends, hobbies, school, etc.), and usually there are several of them. Within these systems, there are conscious and unconscious rules and hierarchies, and blockages or disruptions can also arise within the system. Constellations prove effective in highlighting these. By arranging the representatives as ‘system parts’ within a system, one can perceive relationships and how they interact. Even dynamics that seem to operate unconsciously can become visible. And so something becomes visible that was previously hidden. This provides insights, clarity and the opportunity to change the current situation. At first, the order within the system appears chaotic, and my aim is to find a better order in line with the objective of the issue being addressed.
What topics can be covered? Any examples?
In my view, constellations are suitable for personal, family, professional and inner issues. These can include relationships, decisions, recurring patterns, inner conflicts or the feeling of being stuck. Even questions that cannot be put into clear words often find expression here.
From a purely practical point of view, I’ll simply list a few examples: dissatisfaction in a relationship, uncertainty about a new job, needing to make a decision but not knowing which one, a sense of heaviness for no apparent reason or a feeling of being weighed down, a project that just won’t move forward, a lack of success in a particular area, any kind of family relationship (difficulty), fears or worries, I’m so much in my head but not enough in my heart, ancestral issues, stress – these are just a few examples; the list is by no means exhaustive. The best thing would be for you to get in touch so we can briefly discuss your concerns and then decide.
How many people must/may be present?
A constellation can take place in a group or individually as part of my one-to-one coaching. Both have their own character and depth.
In individual constellations, no other people are present, and we work with symbols, objects and/or floor anchors. The client then has the opportunity to take up each ‘position’ and empathise with it.
Age group: from – to?
This method is suitable for people who are open to self-exploration and inner processes. It is less about age than about inner maturity and a willingness to engage with these issues. I generally work with adults. For children, a representative constellation can be set up if desired.
What needs to be set up, and how do you do it?
Elements relating to the issue at hand are set up. These may be people, inner aspects, decisions or abstract concepts. They are positioned in the room in such a way that relationships and tensions become visible. The constellation can also reveal blockages that are not, or were not, conscious.
In practice, you can picture it like this: representatives for you and your partner stand in a room, and we can see what the relationship is like based on their behaviour. I then usually make the first adjustment or bring in someone else who is significant to this relationship. And so the constellation develops step by step, position by position. I make the adjustments (other constellation facilitators work differently) and together we search for and test a better arrangement than the initial situation.
Representatives do not need to ‘think along’ or come up with steps or parts; it is enough simply to notice how they are feeling at that moment – that is indication enough for me.
I therefore guide even inexperienced people through the process. Again, no prior knowledge is required; curiosity and openness are enough.
How long does something like that take?
A constellation takes as long as the issue requires. Some processes become clear surprisingly quickly, whilst others unfold gently, step by step.
For me, a constellation usually lasts 45 minutes (+/- 10 minutes). Some sessions are shorter or longer. Unfortunately, I cannot be more precise about this, as it depends on many factors (the complexity of the issue, the openness of the participants, expected and unexpected blockages, etc.).
What can it help with?
Constellations can help you gain clarity, find inner peace, make decisions more easily and recognise entrenched patterns. Often, a new sense of order or coherence emerges.
In classical family constellations, the focus is often on letting go of and returning burdens from previous generations, so that greater success and/or ease can return to your life. Here, too, the same applies: you don’t need to know in advance what is blocking you or where it belongs. It is my role to 1) identify the issue, then 2) locate it within the constellation, and 3) find a better order than the one that existed previously.
Essentially, this covers all issues relating to conflict, stress, emotional burdens or failing to achieve something you’re working towards. In my opinion, it’s worth taking a look at the family system in such cases.
Do I need to know anything about my family or the topic of my constellation?
No, not in theory. It isn’t necessary to know everything or to be able to explain everything. What’s important becomes clear during the process. Even vague feelings or unanswered questions are enough.
During the preliminary discussion, we take note of whatever information is available about the family system. If there isn’t much, it doesn’t hinder the constellation.
You keep reading about ‘representatives’ – what does that mean?
Representatives are people who stand in the space on behalf of elements of the theme. They perceive what manifests in that space, without knowing anything or acting a part. Through their assigned role, they tap into the corresponding external energy and represent it.
How can they help me with my
issue?
Their perceptions give rise to a vivid picture, and a dynamic becomes apparent. This enables insights that go beyond mere reflection. Often, these dynamics emerge very clearly and with surprising honesty, precisely because they can be perceived from every perspective.
What’s the point of me being ‘just’ a representative?
Even as a representative, you often experience your own ‘aha’ moments. Many people say that they learn something about themselves in the process or take away inspiration for their own lives. This means you are chosen for a role (and this process doesn’t happen in a planned or deliberate way, but subconsciously) that relates to your own self, and through this you can gain your own insights.
Apart from that, it gives you the chance to step out of your head and into your feelings for a few hours. In this day and age, I’d say that’s a value in itself.
Do I need to bring a specific topic?
No. Sometimes the feeling that something isn’t quite right is enough. A clear theme may only become apparent during the process itself.
If you’ve booked a constellation, we’ll have already discussed your issue in detail beforehand.
As a representative, you’re registered and then join us on the day of the constellation (without having a prior discussion with me).
I’m not feeling well and I don’t know why – is this still the right approach for me?
Yes, that’s exactly what it can be well suited for. When words fail or the mind can’t find an answer, constellations can open up a path that goes beyond explanations. Apart from that, we’ll try to narrow down the issue during the preliminary discussion, and you can rely on me and my coaching techniques for that.