The Korason Method in Psychotherapy
by Hugh Smiley
This is the first in a series of short blogs on some of the various aspects of the healing and transformational Korason Method (KM) for Authentic Voices and Dialogue. These articles can be accessed here: Korason Blog.
KM has been created by Hugh Smiley, Canadian bodyworker, musician and practitioner of the Hakomi Method of somatic, mindfulness-based psychotherapy. Hugh has facilitated workshops in both KM and Hakomi in 10 countries & 4 continents.
KM is a unique, powerful and enjoyable approach to healing and transformation for both individuals & groups. It is complex, yet simple. Herein, and through the principle of synthesis, lies its power and effectiveness. It is easy to learn, easy to practice and easy to apply. It stands alone as a modality for healing and psycho-spiritual transformation. Moreover, KM also adapts well with other approaches, for example in the healing of trauma.
KM’s synthesizing nature simultaneously coheres various criteria and thus entrains the conscious mind, neurologic and nervous systems through opening channels of communication from the unconscious mind by way of the right hemisphere of the brain.
The student or client learns to visualize and consciously connect the various parts of the psyche and being through integrating the following aspects and techniques:
conscious vocal sound production combined with:
• conscious breathing patterns
• gentle movement
•basic knowledge of the ancient chakra system
• some knowledge of the subtle, etheric or energy body
• visualization
• attention (mindfulness), and
• intention (purpose intended) for the KM Articulation.
This integration can be learned, practiced, cultivated and applied to real life personal challenges as well as relational situations, including with clients. In particular, there are at least two major areas where ‘Korason’ can enhance the quality of a therapy session.
The therapist may, at different times and according to the needs of the client, play various roles such as facilitator of change, healer, coach, counsellor, friend, active listener, reflective mirror, emotional support, problem solver, challenger, empowerer, confidant, boundary setter and crisis interventionist.Techniques or KMAs (Korason Method Articulations) can be crafted to support each of these roles.
However the role of teacher may be the most important role, especially in the beginning stages of the therapeutic process, where the the therapist often must mentor the client in practicing mindfulness,
KM’s multimodal learning model, i.e. is useful in helping mentor – including gradually training the student or client in acquiring such skills as:
• adaptability and flexibility
• increased pattern recognition
• enhanced memory and retention.
The simplicity of the core practice begins with the conscious production, with the vocal apparatus, of non-verbal sounds related to the chakra system. Then, through the lens of mindfulness (relaxed, conscious attention to experience) and accompanied by gentle authentic movements, investing these sounds (and later speech) with the wings of knowledge, visualization, intention and action.
A safe and nourishing environment is created to facilitate the free expression of emotion and creativity. KMAs can be constructed for the purpose of creating healthy boundaries, improving communication in relationships (including the different parts of one’s self), integrating mind with body & emotions, conscious with unconscious, etc.
By engaging the multimodal learning model mentioned above, i.e. combining simultaneously various techniques along with right- and left-brain hemispheres, individuals can tap into different sensory channels to enhance
The conscious and mindful production of non-verbal sounds related to the chakras can be a valuable tool in psychotherapy for various reasons.
agency, cognitive, relax & charming, somatic awareness