What is the Enneagram, and how can it be useful in preparing for your labor and birth?
So how does the enneagram apply to birth?
When you discover why you do what you do, you can uncover possible trip up points along your labor journey!
When you're able to pinpoint root fears, you can combat them proactively before they become areas of anxiety.
When you understand your deepest longings, you can pursue the birth you've always dreamed of!
What is the Enneagram?
Enneagram is essentially:
Ennea - "9"
Gram - "graphing points"
A circle and numbers are used to represent each of the 9 personality types so that no one personality is unintentionally elevated above another. All are unique and different, and we need every personality in order to reflect beauty and diversity!
If you scroll back and look at the image above, you'll notice that lines connect the numbers across the circle. This is because when someone is under stress, and their typical coping mechanisms are no longer working, they travel this line to another number to "try out" some of their coping mechanisms. This is done completely automatically and subconsciously. For instance the "9" who is typically laid back and nonchalant may move toward "6" becoming hypervigilant and prepping for worst case scenarios in stressful seasons.
The second line is a "growth" line. And when someone is in a healthy and content place and growing in their personal health, they will travel their growth line to become a more well-rounded individual. For instance, the "9" who is typically lower energy and struggle with motivation will travel to the "3" in health becoming more goal oriented and focused on accomplishments.
If you'd like to discover your type, check out these two tests:
or
What else can I learn from the Enneagram?
Each of the nine numbers process the information they receive from the world in one of three ways. We call these the "center of intelligence." This is where information "COMES IN." Then each number may use a slightly different method to integrate that information into their bodies.
GUT - 8, 9, and 1
HEART - 2, 3, and 4
HEAD - 5, 6, and 7
Each number also has a different way that they will respond in relation to other people when they are under stress. Some will get aggressive with the people around them. Some will withdraw (physically, mentally, or emotionally). And some people will go to their trusted people looking for guidance and reassurance in times of stress.
Aggressive - 3, 7, and 8
Withdrawn - 4, 5, and 9
Dependent - 1, 2, and 6
Each number also has access to the two numbers that sit next to it. Your primary number (and with it your motivations, fears, and longings) remain the same and don't change over time. But you have the ability to "borrow" some of the thoughts or feelings of the numbers next to you which may alter your core motivations or fears in a way that semi resembles both numbers. This also means that you may travel the stress and growth arrows of your neighboring "wing" or number that is a primary motivator in your life.
Finally, based on the ways we were raised and how we had to go about getting our needs met, we may interpret the characteristics of our enneagram number in a certain "subtype". This plays out in whether we trust ourselves, our closest friends, or our communities most.
Starting this weekend, we will delve into each of the numbers - so get ready for the ride, friends! It's gonna be great!
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