by Donald Marmara, Personal Development Facilitator, Core Development Sydney
My Early Journey: Overcoming Emotional Distress
At the age of 14, I experienced severe emotional distress, anxiety, and depression. At the time, I was put on a conventional path of clinical diagnosis and prescribed an ever-increasing dosage of psychotropic drugs, with the expectation that I would be dependent upon them for the rest of my life.
I would likely have continued on that path of dependency if I had spent my life trying to force myself to conform to the narrow expectations of society.
Discovering the Somatic Approach to Well-being
When I was 28, I emigrated to London and discovered a profound lineage of body-mind exploration—an approach to somatic learning that recognized that our modern society, often with the best of intentions, frequently fails to understand our deep human needs.
The early pioneers of this work pointed out that society often makes the mistake of deciding how a person should be, rather than seeking to understand and nurture their true nature, along with their psychological and biological needs.
Engaging deeply with these somatic principles was a turning point for me. It provided the clarity and self-understanding I needed to safely move away from medication and completely turn my life around.
This profound transformation inspired me to train in body-mind principles so that I could help others learn how to navigate life’s challenges, build emotional resilience, and lead fulfilling, meaningful lives.
Please note: Some people experiencing anxiety, depression or emotional distress may need clinical or medical treatment. Core Development is a learning approach not a clinical process and it is not a substitute for clinical psychotherapy or medical treatment where this is indicated.
Native American Wisdom
In 1984, I met a Native American Medicine Man, Sun Bear. I was so moved by his presence that a few months later I traveled to America to learn from him. I found his attitude incredibly encouraging and validating, completely in harmony with my personal values and the educational, experiential work I was developing.
Learning from Sun Bear gave me the unique privilege of gaining insight into the life philosophies and ceremonies of Native American traditions.
I learned that Native American philosophy and lifestyle are rooted in the essence of the Medicine Wheel. This framework views life as a continuous, interconnected circle, in sharp contrast to the triangular, hierarchical, and sharp-edged approach of our dominant modern culture. I discovered that while there are various medicine wheels, they are all based on this shared understanding of unity.
The profound respect that Native Americans hold for everyone and everything touched me deeply. Think of the immense difference it would make if we all shared the understanding that minerals, plants, and animals have as much right to exist and thrive exactly where they are as we humans do.
I was also deeply moved by the connection, relationship, and depth of understanding these peoples have for the natural world, and by the fact that I was treated with unconditional love and respect, completely independent of my outward “performance.”
Somatic Insight: Learning to “Be”
This unconditional acceptance was in sharp contrast to the extreme value placed on performance and productivity in modern society.
Through my personal journey with these principles, I was able to validate my own feelings and values. I came to understand from my own experience that the chronic anxiety and distress I felt as a youth did not mean there was something inherently broken or “wrong” with me. Rather, it was the natural result of trying to adopt cultural values that were completely contrary to my true nature.
This is not to say that the people who promote the predominantly materialistic and hierarchical values of our society are bad. I have no doubt they are sincere and well-meaning. However, I believe these rigid social expectations are driven principally by collective, unresolved stress and fear, much of which remains unacknowledged.
Reclaiming Your True Nature
The true purpose of the somatic and emotional learning process of Core Development is to provide an educational space where individuals can learn to manage emotional challenges and reclaim their authentic nature.
My experience with Native American culture continually deepens my understanding of, and connection to, my own true nature, other living beings, the Planet, and the whole of existence.
Important Notice: Practice Transition & Content Review
Please Note: After a rewarding 45-year career, I am currently transitioning my practice in Australia from somatic psychotherapy to focusing exclusively on non-clinical Personal Development Facilitation and Emotional and Somatic Learning.