Bengston Method Deep Dive Review - Fall 2026

Overview:

The class is for those who want to deepen their understanding and practice of the Bengston Method beyond the foundational workshop. Each session is part presentation and review, participatory and discussion-based. Discussion will be driven by the needs of the participants. We will be learning and exploring as a group and the number of participants is limited to allow the best experience. 

Before each session we will ask you to send us any questions or discussion topics you would like discussed. In addition, we encourage you to come with any additional questions and experiences. Please be aware that if you miss a session, you should review the recording before coming to the next session.

Session 1: Your List — Self-Exploration & Belief

The list is more than a collection of things you want — it is a tool for self-discovery. This session looks closely at your list, why it can be difficult, and beliefs and assumptions about selfishness. Come with your current list. Expect honest discussion, group participation, and a clearer understanding of what belongs on it and why. We will cover: 

• List making concepts and key principles
• Beliefs: why they matter and how to examine them in your own life 
• Selfishness as self-love — moving beyond preconceived notions 
• Common pitfalls and how to avoid them 

Session 2: Cycling & Gimmicks — Practice, Play & Refinement

Cycling is a skill that develops with practice and application. This session reviews the basics, explores how to distill list items into images that work for you personally, and addresses the sticking points practitioners commonly encounter. We will practice and increase cycling speed, discuss the role of emotion, letting go, and keeping your practice from becoming mechanical. Bring your current list and cycling gimmick. We will cover:

• Cycling basics review 
• What cycling can be used for 
• Experimenting with speed, direction, and changing your gimmick on the fly 
• Autopilot and the practice of observing your cycling 
• Emotion: what it does and how to work with it 

Session 3: Healing

Research has shown that healing has no boundaries. This session covers in-person and distant healing — and explores the practical questions that arise in each. We will discuss intention, dose, disconnecting after treatment, and more. We will also take up one of the most important principles in the Method: we do not make anyone heal. Something comes through us. We will cover: 

• Hands-on or in-person healing
• Ways to approach distant healing
• Intention 
• Dose 
• Healing in general

 Session 4: Play, Ritual and Healing Surrogates

Please bring cotton and water for treating. In this class we will discuss play and ritual and how it relates to healing and the method. We will treat cotton and water, discuss, answer questions and explore the use of healing surrogates, including cotton and water. We will: 

• Discuss ritual 
• Discuss play 
• Explore materials and treat cotton and water 
• Distant treatment of materials 
• When to use what 
• Other surrogates

Session 5: Concepts Underlying the Method

The basic concepts of the techniques have been reviewed in previous sessions. This session is an opportunity to go deeper and explore the thinking behind the Method — cycling, intention, how energy and information relate, and resonant bonds. In addition, Margaret will share how her background influenced her.  Drawing on the work of Bill Bengston, this class encourages open questioning and helps you develop a relationship with the Method that is genuinely your own. We will cover:

• Other concepts and thoughts underlying the Method 
• Energy versus information 
• Being sensitive 
• Resonant bonds and connection 
• What is illness 
• Cycling as a way of life