I am an engineer working on implementing the European energy transition. Beyond my professional work, I am deeply interested in somatics and group processes. After completing the Intimacy Training with my wife, I am now preparing to host my first Primal Play workshop in Cologne, and I am excited to continue developing and expanding this path further. I wanted to learn how to facilitate transformational group spaces, for example by offering Primal Play workshops. A friend recommended the Intimacy Training as a way to get to know myself and my shadows more deeply, which felt essential before stepping in front of groups where all kinds of things can get triggered. It also turned out to be an excellent introduction to the somatic culture of Authentic Relating and Primal Play, the kind of work I want to learn to teach.

The love I felt for everyone in the group, and the experience of how an environment that invites people to show up more authentically and vulnerably can create that kind of connection, deeply moved me. We cannot do this from the mind. Only when we are grounded in our bodies can we truly connect and feel one another.

The training helped me understand how to use my body almost like a tool to feel the room and reach attunement. I also learned what shadows are and how others can help reveal these unconscious patterns within me. I discovered how powerful it is to feel and communicate my needs and boundaries, and that doing so does not create rejection but actually fosters deeper connection. This allows me to meet others more authentically and stay attuned to what is truly happening in the space between us.

These last months have shown me that another way of living and working together is not only possible, but also feels far more natural than the culture most of us are used to. It deeply motivates me to live and work in community and to share what I have learned with others, rather than feeding the story of separation. What still feels like a big and exciting challenge is finding ways to bring these learnings into everyday life, to bridge the two worlds with awareness and authenticity. In my relationships, I often use tools we learned, like somatic tracking, especially with my wife. Starting my days with physical practices such as yoga helps me stay embodied and centered, and to share that grounded energy with others. I am also preparing to lead my first Primal Play workshop in Cologne, to explore how these practices translate into connection from a facilitator’s perspective. More and more, I am learning to show up even when I feel vulnerable or not enough, instead of withdrawing.

I would love to connect with more people from the community and keep learning about facilitation, whether by assisting, co creating something meaningful, or simply sharing experiences. I am also curious to exchange with others who work in corporate environments about how we can bring more of this culture into our workplaces, fostering a sense of community rather than separation. And of course, to simply enjoy good times together and celebrate life. Trust yourself. and trust others.

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/manuel-ostertag-12b23010a