A stance with soft knees, feet parallel and shoulder-width apart. The sense of contact with the floor, of support, of stability. The foundation of all bioenergetic work.
Step-by-step guide
- Invite the client to stand, feet parallel, shoulder-width apart
- Knees slightly bent — not locked
- Weight even on both feet — sway a little, find the center
- Attention on the feet: feel the contact with the floor
- Breath free, into the belly. Do not control
- Hold 3-5 minutes. Note vibration, warmth, heaviness
When to use
- At the start of every session, or as a standalone practice between sessions
- In anxiety, dissociation, loss of contact with reality
Key phrases
Stand with your feet shoulder-width, knees soft, weight even. Let the floor hold you. Breathe into the belly. This is the starting place we will return to.
Follow-up questions
Is there vibration in the legs? That is a good sign.
Where is the weight living — heels, toes, even across?
What happens to the breath when the knees soften?
What does it feel like when the floor does the holding?
Alternative phrasings
If the legs lock, bend the knees a little more — we want charge, not effort.
If you get dizzy, sit down. No hurry.
Warnings
- ⚠️ Locked knees — energy does not pass through.
- ⚠️ Vibration is a normal reaction, do not startle the client.
- ⚠️ If dizziness arises — sit down.
Source: Lowen A. 1975 — Bioenergetics; Lowen & Lowen, 1977
Materials are informational and educational and summarize publicly available scientific sources. They are not medical or psychological advice, are not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, and do not replace consultation with a qualified professional.