Three Centers Approach

The integration of the physical, emotional, and intellectual aspects of being is a primary focus throughout all the classes at IPSB. In accordance with this ideal of balancing the three centers, courses are designed to deliver information for all three main learning styles: visual, auditory and kinesthetic.

I.    The Physical Center, also called the Kath, T’an Tien or Hara, is the seat of fire energy, vitality and movement. The body components are the feet, legs, pelvis and abdomen. Through the Physical Center we are grounded to the Earth. Grounding is the state of being bonded and connected to the earth, which is the mother of all and the source of all nourishment. When this center is functioning we are in tune with the natural processes and connected to the feminine principle. If the physical center is blocked, the person has difficulty getting needs met and may feel hopeless, insecure, despairing, confused, etc. To open the physical center, we use T’ai Chi, Kath generation and subtle movement.

II.    The Relational Center, the Oth or heart center, is the seat of air energy and connects us with the outside world through feelings, emotions, empathy and expression. The body components of the Relational Center are the lungs, arms, heart, hands, chest, back, shoulder and throat. The heart center is connected to active, expressive, externalizing processes, the masculine principle, and the ability to express oneself creatively with the voice, arms and hands. If we are blocked in the Relational Center, we will have difficulty expressing ourselves. Symptoms of compulsive activity, doing and overdoing may manifest. To open the Relational Center we use breath exercises such as diakath breathing, sounding and mantra, as well as interactive exercises and movement.

III. The Intellectual Center is also called the Path or Third Eye. This is the center of thinking. It assimilates information from the physical and relational centers in order to form concepts. It collects, organizes and categorizes information. The body components are the back of the neck, the face, head, and nervous system. When this center is functioning optimally, genius can manifest. The Intellectual Center becomes blocked if the first and second centers are poorly developed. Illusions and delusions are symptoms of this blockage. To feed and inform the Intellectual Center, in addition to those methods enhancing the functioning of the other two centers, we examine anatomy, physiology, somatic psychology, principles of bodywork, and intentions in touching others.