Aikido, Process Work, and the Deeper Currents of Conflict – with Gary Reiss and Miles Kessler

About this episode

Anouk Lorie discusses conflict resolution with Gary Reiss and Miles Kessler, exploring the integration of Aikido and Process-Oriented Psychology.

What does it mean to meet conflict—not with reactivity or avoidance—but with presence, clarity, and a willingness to go deeper? In this episode of RAW, Anouk sits down with therapist and conflict facilitator Gary Reiss and Aikido teacher and meditation guide Miles Kessler—two longtime friends who bring decades of experience in trauma healing, martial arts, and group facilitation. Gary shares insights from his work in Israel and the Palestinian territories, including collaborations with trauma experts on both sides. Drawing from Process-Oriented Psychology, he explores how we can access the wisdom hidden within personal and collective tension—even, and especially, in heartbreaking times. Miles brings the perspective of Aikido, a martial art rooted in harmony and non-resistance, and how its philosophy can help us engage conflict with grounded strength rather than force. Recorded during Gary’s recent visit to Tel Aviv, where the two were leading joint events, this conversation invites us to reflect on what it means to respond—not react—in the midst of profound uncertainty. For more episodes, reflections, and guided meditations, subscribe to RAW on your favorite podcast platform…

People in this episode

Host: Anouk Lorie

Guests: Gary Reiss, Miles Kessler

Topics covered

• conflict resolution
• Aikido
• trauma healing
• Process-Oriented Psychology
• martial arts
• non-resistance

Keywords

• conflict
• Aikido
• trauma
• Process Work
• meditation
• non-resistance
• healing

Mentioned in this episode

Places: Israel, Palestinian territories, Tel Aviv

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