Because of its physical approach to human emotions, bioenergetics is sometimes regarded as the West's therapeutic version of yoga. (For a discussion of yoga, see Chapter 15.)

Applications of Bioenergetics

Bioenergetics appears to be most useful for people with any of these characteristics:

* Their feelings are markedly inhibited, or they feel deadened emotionally.

* They feel impaired sexually or do not experience orgasm for nonphysical reasons.

* They are rigid, uptight, and inclined to be obsessive perfectionists.

* They have pent-up feelings of anger, hostility, or grief that are in need of an outlet.

Bioenergetics is not the treatment of choice when deeper insight and self-knowledge are important. Bioenergetic therapists are not in general especially concerned with a client's personal history, family and work environment, or specific adaptation problems.

PRIMAL THERAPY
For individuals who continue to suffer from
childhood pain.