Jaap van der Wal is a renowned Dutch embryologist, somatic educator, and researcher in the field of prenatal and early life development. He has focused much of his career on how the experiences of the fetus, from the earliest stages of gestation through birth, have a profound and lasting impact on the individual throughout their life. His work integrates insights from embryology, developmental psychology, and somatic (body-oriented) practices to explore the deep connection between early physical experiences and the adult the fetus eventually becomes.

Van der Wal’s ideas revolve around the understanding that prenatal and perinatal experiences lay the foundation for the body-mind connection, affecting not just physical development, but emotional and psychological health throughout life. Here are key aspects of his wisdom:

The Body Remembers Early Experience:

Van der Wal emphasizes the concept that the body “remembers” its earliest experiences, especially during the prenatal and perinatal periods. He argues that the sensations and movements experienced in the womb are stored within the body, creating a somatic memory that can affect a person’s responses to stress, relationships, and even their sense of self in adulthood.

Jaap van der Wal’s work highlights the incredible importance of the prenatal and perinatal stages as they shape not only the physical development of the child but also the emotional, psychological, and even spiritual foundation of the adult they will become. According to his wisdom, the early experiences in the womb, ranging from the emotional state of the mother to the quality of prenatal attachment and birth experiences, become deeply embedded in the body and psyche. These foundational experiences shape how a person will relate to themselves, others, and the world throughout their life.

Van der Wal’s ideas suggest that healing or working through early prenatal experiences can have transformative effects on an adult’s emotional and physical health, as it reconnects them with a more balanced and secure self.

I help people find more ease in life as we explore their pre and peri natal experience with the wisdom of the forefathers of Pre and Peri Natal study such as, Jaap Van der Wal, William Emmerson, Ray Castellino and Ray’s students.

A free fifteen minute consultation can change everything!