3.4. Basic Principles of NLP: Representational Systems in NLP

3.4. Basic Principles of NLP: Representational Systems in NLP

The representational systems in Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) are a fundamental part of the framework of NLP and its understanding of how humans perceive, process and react to information. They are the way in which we encode, store and retrieve our internal experiences.

According to NLP, we have three main representational systems: visual, auditory and kinesthetic. Each of these systems plays a crucial role in how we interpret and react to the world around us. Let's explore each of them in detail.

Visual

The visual representational system refers to the way we visualize things in our mind. When we use the visual system, we are seeing images, colors, shapes and movements in our mind. This system is often used by people who are good at remembering faces, places or images. They might say things like "I see what you mean" or "I see that clearly".

Auditory

The auditory representational system refers to the way we hear sounds, tones, rhythms, and words in our mind. People who predominantly use their auditory system are good at remembering conversations, voice tones or songs. They might say things like "That sounds good to me" or "I hear you".

Kinesthetic

The kinesthetic representational system refers to the way we feel things in our bodies. This includes tactile sensations such as touch and texture, as well as emotional and physical sensations such as hunger, tiredness or excitement. People who predominantly use the kinesthetic system are good at remembering sensations, emotions, or physical movements. They might say things like "That doesn't feel right to me" or "I feel that way".

In addition to these three representational systems, NLP also recognizes two additional systems: the olfactory system (smell) and the gustatory system (taste). However, these two systems are generally less dominant and are used more complementary to the three main representational systems.

Understanding representational systems and how they work is critical to the effective application of NLP. By understanding how a person encodes and processes information, we can communicate more effectively, help the person overcome obstacles or trauma, and assist in developing new and improved skills and abilities.

For example, if you are working with someone who is predominantly visual, you might want to use language and techniques that involve images, colors, and shapes. Likewise, if you are working with someone who is predominantly auditory, it may be more effective to use language and techniques that involve sounds, tones and words.

NLP representational systems are a powerful tool for understanding how people think and learn, and can be used to improve communication, learning, and personal and professional development.

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