Mindfulness has become a widely recognised tool for wellbeing, often associated with stress reduction, relaxation and self-care. Yet its roots go far deeper than modern wellness culture. The term itself was first coined in 1910 by scholar T. W. Rhys Davids to translate the Buddhist word sati, meaning to remember the present moment. For centuries, Buddhism, and particularly Zen, has emphasised this quality of presence: moment-to-moment awareness, acceptance of “what is,” and the recognition of our interconnectedness with all things.
“The promotion and encouragement of full and free-flowing awareness is the cornerstone of Gestalt practice” (Joyce and Sills, 2001: 27)
Gestalt believes that the interruption of this awareness leads to discomfort and distress.
It is perhaps no surprise then that Gestalt therapy, developed in the mid-20th century by Fritz Perls, shares so much common ground with these ancient traditions. Gestalt is a relationship-focused, experiential psychotherapy that sees awareness as the cornerstone of change. Perls himself was influenced by Zen philosophy, and in recent decades a specialised integration has emerged known as Buddhist Psychology Informed Gestalt Therapy (BPGT). This approach brings together Buddhist mindfulness and Gestalt methods to address suffering with both compassion and practical awareness.
At the heart of both systems are several shared principles:
• Present moment awareness: Change begins with noticing what is happening right now.
• Interconnectedness: Gestalt’s “field theory” echoes Buddhism’s teaching that we exist only in relation to the wider whole.
• Fluid self: Neither approach views the self as fixed; instead, it is a process that unfolds moment by moment.
• Acceptance of what is: Suffering arises less from events themselves and more from resisting them.
• Organic growth: Lasting change comes not from forcing outcomes but from trusting awareness and presence.
For clients, this can feel less like “trying to become someone else” and more like making space to be exactly who they already are. Gestalt therapists sometimes call this the paradoxical theory of change: we change most deeply when we stop striving and instead accept our present experience.
In practice, Gestalt therapy is a mindful process. Although conversation plays a role, the essence of the work is to slow down, pause and notice. Clients are invited to explore sensations, feelings and thoughts without judgment – even the judgments themselves. The therapy room becomes a space of radical acceptance, where being is valued alongside doing.
Gestalt expands the concept of mindfulness by talking about relational mindfulness or awareness. This practice is both intrapersonal and interpersonal or relational. Intrapersonally, Gestalt encourages listening inwardly: to the body, to feelings, to desires and yearnings. Outwardly, it cultivates mindful presence with others and the world, around us: truly hearing, sensing and respecting others, the world around us and our planet. In both directions, the goal is not correction or production, but noticing and allowing.
Over time, this kind of mindful awareness can bring clarity, soften resistance and open the door to authentic change. In a world that prizes speed and productivity, Gestalt therapy offers a countercultural invitation: to be present, to breathe and to discover that wellbeing and growth begins with awareness and acceptance of how we are right now.
‘In Gestalt therapy, the only goal is awareness’ Gary Yontef
At The Eaves, Gestalt therapy is one of many approaches offered by our diverse team of practitioners. Whether you are drawn to humanistic therapies like Gestalt, or would benefit more from behavioural, psychodynamic or integrative approaches, our experienced therapists can help you find the right fit. To learn more about the different types of therapy available, or for support in choosing a practitioner, click here.
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