CORE

10 Week Somatic Training for Men Begins April 2nd

Close the gap between where you are and where you want to be with MELD’s science-backed method for tapping into the wisdom of the body.

  • Increase Emotional Awareness & Regulation​

  • Improve Inter-relational Communication​

  • Overcome Stress & Burnout​

Even the most successful men struggle with feeling dissatisfied and incomplete, like something is missing.

It's no surprise that so many men feel:

Overwhelmed & shut down

Relationship disconnection & disharmony

Anxious, tense, or blocked

Unfulfilled and frustrated

There's not a lot of sympathy today for the struggles of men, but men are not the problem—the model is the problem. The common paradigm has traditionally taught men that strength equates to stoicism and emotional isolation. Vulnerability is perceived as weakness, and the expectation to "figure it out on your own" is ingrained as a hallmark of true masculinity.

This limited and restrictive model of manhood has far-reaching consequences, not only for men themselves but also for their relationships and society as a whole. It leads to emotional repression, unhealthy coping mechanisms, and difficulties forming genuine connections.

With everything we do at MELD, we believe it essential to challenge and redefine these outdated notions of masculinity. It's time to embrace a new model.

True change happens when you stop living from the neck up.​

Our process is built on a scientific foundation and proven effective over three decades of working with men. It distills 70 years of research on the effects of stress on the body into an approachable, intuitive practice that can be used immediately and for a lifetime.

CORE is based on somatic practices—methods that use the innate wisdom of the body—to stop the disruption and overcomplication of natural biological patterns and processes. We work with the body due to the tendency of men towards action and physicality, and because the majority of information in the nervous system flows upward, from the body toward the brain (according to Polyvagal Theory).

Embodied understanding enables sustainable shifts in even the most deeply ingrained patterns.

Men who participate in the CORE program experience a profound and fulfilling transformation in their daily lives. They wake up each morning with a sense of confidence and control, empowered by a regulated nervous system. This inner balance equips them to face any challenge that comes their way – be it personal, relational, or professional – with resilience and unwavering authenticity.

A simple framework

CORE provides men with a comprehensive technique to navigate the complexities of life. These skills enable them to manage stress effectively, regulate their emotions, and cultivate healthy relationships. As a result, they are better equipped to handle conflicts, overcome obstacles, and achieve their goals.

CORE Skills:

  • Slowing Down: moving beyond intellectual understanding and breaking debilitating stress loops, dropping into a deeper embodied knowing

  • Connection: overcoming men’s difficulty to connect at deeper levels, beyond their technical expertise

  • Release: awakening disconnected or dissociated parts, discharge lingering stress, and clearing the blocks that have been holding you back, sometimes for years or decades

The CORE program's emphasis on nervous system regulation fosters a deep sense of inner strength and stability. This allows men to tap into their full potential and live their lives with purpose and passion. They become more confident, compassionate, and resilient individuals who are capable of creating positive change in their own lives and the lives of others.

The Research

A study published in the journal of the American Psychological Association in 2024, entitled Psychology of Men & Masculinities, explores the MELD Method as applied in the CORE program, led by Mike Sagun.

Based on the study, men who go through MELD's Core program experience:

Improved Emotional Regulation

Men reported being able to feel and manage their emotions better, experiencing more positive affect and joy. They became less reactive and more centered.

Increased Self-Awareness

Participants became more attuned to their emotions, needs, and patterns of behavior.

Stronger Connections

Participants experienced growth in their interpersonal relationships, feeling more connected and safe with others. They reported being more authentic and able to share their feelings openly.

Better Conflict Resolution

Men noted being more adept at resolving conflicts in their relationships.

Enhanced Self-Relationship

Participants developed a more compassionate relationship with themselves, becoming less judgmental and more present. They learned to advocate for themselves, set boundaries, and ask for what they need.

Value Alignment

Men gained clarity on their personal values, as opposed to adhering to normative expectations. This led to more purposeful living and integrity.

Program Details

Our expert guidance is a given. Simply choose your start date.

The next CORE training begins April 2nd, 2025. The following program will begin in September, 2025.

MELD CORE meets live online, Wednesdays, from 7:00PM - 9:00PM EST. The 10-week format allows for deep teaching, supervised practice, and integration support.

The program is divided into teaching calls—which contain experiential practice and learning around the science of your physiology and nervous system—and group meeting calls which lean more heavily on practice and facilitation, where you build the skills that stick.

  • Be more present and grounded, even while faced with stress or conflict

  • Build confidence expressing your needs and trusting your instincts

  • Apply practical skills to down-regulate your stress response

  • Build healthier relationships from a position of authenticity

  • Develop and apply a foundational understanding of key parts of your nervous system

Your Range of Resilience

We’ll begin with the Autonomic Nervous System, the science behind the Mind/Body connection, as well as assessing your Somatic Awareness, or SOMAware, your “Window of Tolerance”, and your fluency with felt senses. This lays the foundation for our work together.

Your Survival Kit

We’ll analyze your Interoception, where awareness meets sensation in your body, and discover where your survival system is stuck working avoidable overtime. Take control of your responses and discharge the lingering stress to free up space and bring more of You online.

Your Natural Connection

Access exclusive teaching calls, grounding exercises, and connective practices to walk you step-by-step through redeveloping your felt sense to reconnect with your body, strengthen your ability to bond with others, and create trust and belonging in relationships.

Live Teaching Calls

You’ll be guided by our expert coaches who will educate you, give you feedback, support you, act as a sounding board, and challenge you to live into your fullest form.

A Platform of Resources

Access to the MELD Membership online platform where exceptional men like you are developing their skills with specially designed lesson plans, guided meditations, and group guides.

Turn Up The Intensity

Lay the foundation for more advanced personal development work like our intensive personalized group coaching program, in-person retreat trainings, and professional development initiative and certification for therapists, coaches, doctors, entrepreneurs, and other professionals who work with men.

Core Works – Here's Proof

What men are saying:

"Graduating from CORE is the new 'man card'. I feel more grounded in my body, more connected to my emotions, more aware of what's happening to me, which helps me show up better as a man in my family, work, and community."

- Geoff S.

Therapist

"CORE is a great way to learn how to slow down and listen to what our bodies are telling us. From there I can make better business and life decisions."

- Alain D.

Dir, Food & Beverage

"Everyone should experience a class like this and these guys deliver above and beyond!"

- Matthew M.

Attorney

"By teaching us about the science behind connection, and by leading us through facilitated practices, we bonded as a group and each took valuable and actionable takeaways to become the kinds of men we strive to be in the world. CORE helped me better connect with myself, so that I could then connect better with others."

- Brad B.

Real Estate

FAQ

How will I know if this program worked?

You will know this program worked when you:

• feel more aware of your felt senses and more connected to your body's signals

• notice when you are feeling ungrounded or dysregulated in the moment

• stay more grounded in the face or stress

• begin to recognize unhelpful patterns, signs that your survival response is working overtime

• start asking for what you really want

• feel an increase in energy or creativity

We've run this program many times before and these are the results:

• 78% saw a reduction in stress and anxiety.

• 83% felt less lonely or isolated with their emotions.

• 74% expressed improvements in their relationships.

• 67% felt more grounded and present daily.

When a man takes care of himself, there is a ripple effect in his family and his community. For some of you, this is just the beginning. If you’re willing to take a few risks, challenge yourself, and stand with men just like you, enroll into this program. If you attend the live sessions and do the exercises, you will see benefits. If you don’t, we will return your money, no questions asked.

Why is a somatic approach important?

80% of information in our system flows upwards from your body towards your brain [1], yet we live in a “top-down” world where almost everything is determined and dictated by the mind. While the mind is a powerful tool, it cannot be the only avenue for exploration, because understanding what to do is only part of the puzzle. The mind can often function as the biggest distraction from the root of an issue due to its power to rationalize. An experience must be felt in order to be truly understood, and for a new pattern to become sustainable.

[1] Porges, S. (2007). The polyvagal perspective. Biological Psychology, 74(2), 116-143.

When are the live calls?

Core meets on Wednesdays, from 7PM - 9PM EST.

What if I can't make it to a class?

While we encourage participants to come to every class, we know that's not always possible. If you can't make it to class, the live calls are recorded for later viewing.

Will Core help me to fix my relationship or save my marriage?

Many men have shared with us how our programs have helped them repair and deepen their marriage, their relationship with their kids, and even with their parents. By restoring your natural alignment, connecting with male friends on a similar path of discovery, and building skills beyond any men's group therapy or men's support group, you will be able respond (instead of react), resolve harmful patterns, and show up to your life with authenticity, all of which help to build trust with the people closest to you.

What kinds of science and research go into formulating the Core program?

Core is developed through decades of research from the leading experts in trauma and stress management, like Peter Levine, PhD, Stephen Porges, PhD, Bessel van der Kolk, MD, and many others. We have integrated the data on the nervous system, emotional regulation, co-regulation, and mindfulness to create a program that can help any man feel different and feel better.

What happens after the program?

After Core you'll be added to our alumni group where you'll be able to connect with fellow Core graduates. If you and your small group wish to stay together, we will help you launch your group so it can stand on its own with minimal support from us. And as long as you are a member of our platform, you'll always have access to the Core lessons.

Completing Core prepares you for deeper training with MELD's more advanced programs.

With Core You Can Expect

Expert Guidance

Receive support from our team of coaches who have guided hundreds of men to heal old wounds, break unhelpful patterns, and create fulfilling lives.

Experiential Learning

Core is a hands-on program, you learn by doing and receiving. Reconnect with body-based tools and skills that already dwell in you and just need to be awakened.

Accountability

Stay on course to reach your highest aspirations with the guidance of our facilitators and the support of a community of men who are invested in your success.

Science-based Approach

At the heart of MELD’s work is a dedication to the research and data from the last 70+ years. Our practice is tested and refined over three decades of working with men.

Community

Support and be supported by a group of men on a similar journey. Build the framework for starting your own men's group that offers ongoing support and brotherhood.

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In this 4-Week Program, You Will:

  • Develop a foundational understanding of your autonomic nervous system so you have more agency over your actions (and reactions).

  • Apply practical skills to help you down-regulate your stress response.

  • Build healthier relationships by increasing your awareness.

  • Improve your ability to share authentically, listen, and connect.

  • Build a larger emotional vocabulary

  • Connect with a community of men on a similar journey.

  • Increase your energy levels.

  • Increase your ability to be present even under stressful situations.

Men’s Emotional Leadership Development

MELD utilizes the latest research on stress, trauma, polyvagal theory, and attachment theory to take advantage of an untapped asset: our physiology. Rather than ignore our physiological and emotional responses, we develop the skills that make them our allies.