The essence of Enneagram Type 7 goes beyond personality traits. It represents a universal archetype that offers deep nourishment, not just for Type 7s but for everyone.

The desire for connection, for grounding, and for a deeper understanding of our place in the world has led to the development of unique practices that merge ancient wisdom with modern mindfulness. One such integration is the combination of the Enneagram, a powerful tool for self-discovery, with the reflective practice of nature journaling.

During my presentation at the IEA conference in Amsterdam, an audience member who identified as a Type 8 "challenged" the way I use the term "essence" within the Enneagram framework. His question was thought-provoking and inspired me to delve deeper into the theory behind essence.

I just returned from the IEA conference in Amsterdam, where I presented on the Enneagram of Essence and Embracing Our Wholeness. It was an enriching experience, and I wanted to share some key takeaways and reflections with you. The full video is available at the end of this post.

In our world, conflicts often arise from the struggle for resources. While some wars are fought over tangible needs like land or money, many conflicts stem from deeper, less obvious sources.

This post explores how each subtype embodies a deeply nourishing aspect of our nature, enriching our capacity to thrive across various life levels. By reflecting universal properties, these subtypes serve as gateways to distinct dimensions of wellness, fostering deep nourishment and personal maturity.

Did you know the Enneagram and neuroscience have followed remarkably similar journeys to understand the human mind and personality?

Imagine finding an intricate key tucked away in a lesser used drawer. This key, unique and unexpected, fascinates you with its design and craftsmanship. For a moment, it captivates your attention, making you wonder about the lock it opens. However, when you realize it doesn't belong to the main door you use every day, you are tempted to dismiss its value..

Did you know each Enneagram type points to a physiological orientation within?

In the landscape of Enneagram traditions, mindfulness stands out as a primary path, offering nine distinct paths to presence. This approach has deeply shaped my journey with the Enneagram over three decades. Yet, as my path unfolded, I began to seek something more—beyond the practices of presence and acceptance. My quest for a vibrant inner life has inspired an Enneagram approach that builds upon mindfulness, broadening the spectrum of inner qualities and resources.

While there is an abundance of material on the historical origins of the Enneagram, I’ve noticed a significant gap in clarity on its practical application in different traditions. This has inspired me to clarify the mechanics of the Enneagram, offering practical insights into how it facilitates personal growth across various contexts.

This tendency to oversimplify and pigeonhole reflects a superficial engagement with the Enneagram, pointing to a deeper issue in its presentation and understanding.

The most striking wisdom of the Enneagram is its capacity to illuminate the paradox of our nature. The primary theme of your personality type—your greatest challenge—mirrors the essence of your most profound strength.

Have you or your loved ones ever felt overwhelmed, deflated, or self-conscious after an Enneagram learning experience?

It doesn't have to be this way.

Engaging your senses in the exploration of the Enneagram essences can be a powerful catalyst for personal growth and transformation. By creating sensory memories associated with each essence, you deepen your connection with their universal qualities.

In this blog post, we'll explore how to anchor the nourishing qualities of Enneagram essence using five simple steps.

Each Enneagram type has its universal essence with distinct qualities, which nourish and heal your personality's more challenging aspects.

Techniques from somatic experiencing, can help you actively connect with and embody these qualities.

This blog post invites you to delve into various pathways that evoke your inner essence, allowing you to connect with it and draw upon it in times of nourishment and growth.

The Enneagram, a psycho-spiritual model, has gained widespread recognition for its profound insights into human personality. However, there is a vital component often overlooked in many Enneagram teachings - essence.

Within the modern Enneagram teachings, too much emphasis is placed on understanding the deficiencies, imbalances, and limitations of the Enneagram personality types.

While it's captivating to delve into the intricacies of these traits, the conventional approach to the Enneagram leaves us wanting for practical guidance on how to nurture and address these characteristics effectively.