The Subtypes and Instincts in the Enneagram

Please note that Friday evening is from 6:30-9; Saturday is from 9:30-4:30 and Sunday is from 1 to 5.

Learning about Subtypes takes our understanding of Enneagram Types to a whole new level.  We come to see that there are three distinct versions of each type, shaped by the basic instinct that is dominant in a person.

What does this mean? We each have 3 primary survival instincts: self-preservation, sexual (sometimes called one-on-one) and social. Each instinct is important to our survival.  One of these three is dominant in each of us.  It is this dominant instinct which has the biggest influence on how our type expresses itself in our lives.  So, for example, there are three 1s – a self-preservation 1, a sexual 1 and a social 1.  Each is a Subtype. They are quite distinct, but nonetheless clearly 1s.

Bea Chestnut has done a masterful job of explaining how the instincts create the subtypes and, having studied with her, we offer her perspective in our teaching.  It is brilliant. As an example, as a sexual 5, I (Sue), care more about connection and intimacy than the other 5s.  It is the dominant sexual instinct that makes my tendency to move into connection different than the other 5s.

Learning about subtypes helps us know ourselves more deeply and again gives us important insight into the people in our lives.  We encourage you to join us.

During the 2-day workshop, we will cover the 27 types in a way that helps you have an embodied sense of these differences.  Some may come away with a deeper confidence in their type, because the nuances are clearer.

Register now.