IBSR Method
What is Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction?
Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction (IBSR) is the method I use in my practice to help clients identify and question the causes of their suffering. Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction is also known as The Work of Byron Katie.
IBSR is a way to identify stressful thoughts that we hold as true. For better or worse, when we hold a thought as true, we may become attached to that thought.
If someone were to say to you, “You are a tree!” or “You are a cat!” Does that cause you any stress?
Probably not, …right?
You might be amused or curious about why someone would say that, but since you know for sure that you are not a tree or a cat, the words are harmless and pass right through you.
However, if someone says, “You are rude!” or “You are a liar!” Is there an impact? Do you feel stress? Do you feel hurt?
If you feel any irritation or hurt, something inside of you believes what it hears and attaches meaning to it. And it is this attachment that causes your suffering.
IBSR is a deep, meditative practice which allows you to see the wiring underneath your thoughts. During our work together, we’ll start by taking a close look at the concerns you have and what you believe about them. I’ll ask you a series of questions, one at a time, with plenty of room for you to process the thoughts that arise inside. In our work together we’ll also take time to consider what life would be like if you didn’t automatically answer to your stressful thought system. We’ll also explore diverse perspectives in regards to your concerns.
Once I started inquiring into my own stressful thoughts using IBSR, I have felt lighter and lighter. I’ve gained self-esteem and now have a new loving relationship with myself. My focus has sharpened like never before. Eventually IBSR became a part of my daily routine, just like brushing my teeth.
I would love for you to access this very simple yet extremely powerful tool. All you need is curiosity.
What are you waiting for? Come join me!