Nevertheless: The Shapes of Love

How do you break free from a past that holds you captive? This is the profound question explored in "The Shapes of Love", an 8-episode series available on Netflix, which masterfully intertwines art, love, and healing.

The story follows Miu, a young woman struggling to find her footing after a painful breakup. Guided by a mysterious and rebellious professor, Miu learns that sometimes, destroying the symbols of the past is the first step toward freedom. In a pivotal moment, the professor destroys a sculpture as an act of defiance, teaching Miu an essential lesson: time is not real unless we remain trapped in suffocating moments that weigh down our souls.

This theme resonates deeply with the teachings of Dr. Gabor Maté, author of "When the Body Says No." He explains how unresolved trauma and guilt can keep us stuck, affecting both our health and our ability to live fully in the present. The series illustrates this beautifully, showing that healing begins when we release the past and embrace the present.

Moreover, the professor's philosophy that "we are not defined by what we do" mirrors the insights of Marshall Rosenberg, author of "Nonviolent Communication." Rosenberg teaches that people should not be labeled by their actions - a "guitarist" is not solely a person who plays guitar, and a "drunk" is not just someone who drinks. The series reflects this wisdom, emphasizing that breaking free from labels allows us to discover our true essence.

A poetic metaphor woven throughout the series is that love is like a butterfly. The more desperately you chase it, the more it eludes you. But when you find stillness and embrace vulnerability, it comes to you effortlessly. In this story, the professor becomes Miu's butterfly, as she becomes his, in a delicate dance of mutual liberation and present-moment connection.

Yet, "The Shapes of Love" is not just a love story. It is an invitation to introspection, urging you to ask yourself: What holds me captive in the past? What can I destroy to set myself free? How can I live more authentically?

Take It Further: Books That Deepen the Message

If the themes of "The Shapes of Love" resonate with you, consider exploring:

"When the Body Says No" by Dr. Gabor Maté, which delves into how trauma and suppressed emotions affect your health and life.

"Nonviolent Communication" by Marshall Rosenberg, a guide to connecting with yourself and others without being defined by labels or judgments.

Both books, like the series, can open your eyes to a freer, more authentic, and present-centered life.

If you're ready for this emotional and intellectual journey, start with "The Shapes of Love." Then, dive into the works of Gabor Maté and Marshall Rosenberg to learn how to transform pain into art and suffering into freedom.

Watch the series, explore these books, and reflect: What keeps you trapped, and what could you destroy to let yourself blossom?