Armoring of the Ocular Segment
This blog is part of a series; its original title was Heilkunst Basics : University, 3rd Year (Armoring of the Ocular Segment)
I introduced the concept of Reich’s seven segments of armoring yesterday, and today I will begin to explore in more detail each one of these segments in treatment. Please keep in mind as you follow through these, that the application of these concepts and therapeutic methods in treatment is quite dynamic and unique to each individual case, and that these are only being offered as a general indication of the emotional content which is found within each of these segments. Also, the entry into this part of treatment with a patient is dependent on how solid of a foundation has already been established in terms of the basic application of the first two jurisdictions (Regimen and Medicine), so as not to create a chaotic situation.
Photo by Jesse Davis “Big baby eyes”
Taking a look at the first segment today, the ocular segment relates to the eyes and vision, as well as other physical aspects of the top of the head, such as tension in the forehead, or temples. The general emotional tone related to a blocked ocular segment is one of depression, which can manifest in greater or lesser intensities. The fundamental characteristic of a rigidified ocular segment is of a split between sensation and perception, and a general dissociation from reality.
Virtually everyone has some degree of ocular segment, especially considering the modern birthing methods in the hospital, where life begins with antibiotic drops being put into every new baby’s eyes. Our very “head dominant” culture also encourages much intellectual dissociation from reality, and a break in contact with living processes.
Any number of common vision problems, such as near- or far-sightedness, astigmatism, or even photophobia are physical indications of a blockage in the ocular segment. Other issues such as headaches, or general tension in the forehead and temples are also related.
Emotionally, as I’ve mentioned, there is some degree of dissociation, or lack of contact with life and reality. Compensatory behavioiurs, such as voyeurism (ie “peeping
Toms”) manifest in an attempt to re-establish some form of contact through the eyes. In general, even if there aren’t any overt vision problems, there is some degree of emotional disconnection, and difficulty in making true contact with another.
Treatment involves all different types of exercises encouraging the movement, and re-mobilization of the eyes, both in an emotional and physical sense. Natural vision improvement exercises are a good area to draw upon, to start to get the eyes freed up.
Another type of exercise is to look into the eyes of someone who can give objective feedback, or a mirror if you are working alone, and intentionally express a variety of emotions through your eyes : surprise; love; hate; fear; anger; etc. This combines both the physical act of moving the muscles around the eyes with the strong emotional content that belongs there. If this is too difficult at first, the practitioner can start more simply with having the patient follow the path of a penlight in a darkened room, to simply get the eyes and surrounding muscles mobilized.
In terms of remedies to consider, Opium is useful for the aspect of dissociation, when someone seems to be living in another world. Ruta Grav is useful when there is chronic strain to the eyes, such as working long hours staring at a computer screen. Gelsimium can help when there is a tired, droopy appearance to the eyes. The Bach Flower Remedy Clematis may also be useful for that dreamy, disconnected from reality state. Also, Chestnut Bud may be appropriate where an occular block has prevented someone from gaining insight from their life lessons, and end up repeating the same mistakes over and over. The homeopathic remedy Cannabis Indica is also quite strongly related to this theme of the ocular blockage, in terms of a dissociation or split from reality. The same is true in various ways of all of the ideogenic remedies.
For all of the above exercises, it is always essential to combine them with a conscious effort to breath fully and deeply, as this is the primary mechanism for armoring and holding in the emotions.