What is Somatic Therapy?
Somatic therapy takes a holistic approach to healing and wellness by recognizing the deep connection between the mind and body. This therapeutic approach acknowledges that emotional and psychological issues can manifest physically, leading to symptoms such as tension, chronic pain, or other bodily discomforts. Somatic therapists believe that the body holds onto unresolved trauma and emotions, which can be addressed by exploring and releasing these sensations.
Central to somatic therapy is the belief in the body's innate ability to heal itself. When we encounter a distressing event or trauma, the body responds with a "fight, flight, or freeze" response. In some cases, this response may not be fully discharged, leaving the body in a state of dysregulation and leading to various symptoms like anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and other physical ailments. Somatic therapy aims to help individuals complete this natural healing process by safely and gradually releasing the trapped energy from the nervous system.
Key Features of Somatic Therapy & Healing
Body-Centered Approach: Somatic therapy focuses on the client's physical experiences, sensations, and bodily responses to understand and heal emotional wounds.
Non-Verbal Techniques: Unlike talk therapy, somatic therapy may incorporate non-verbal techniques like breathing exercises, movement, touch, or guided imagery to facilitate healing and self-awareness.
Trauma Resolution: Somatic therapists emphasize the importance of releasing stored trauma and emotional tension from the body to promote overall well-being.
Types of Somatic Therapy
There are numerous approaches to somatic therapy that recognize the body's innate ability to heal. With the guidance of a skilled therapist, individuals can embark on a transformative journey toward recovery, restoring balance and harmony to their lives.
Somatic Experiencing
Somatic Experiencing is a therapeutic technique developed by DR. PETER A. LEVINE, a renowned psychologist and trauma specialist. It is based on the premise that traumatic experiences, whether physical or emotional, can become stuck in the body, leading to a range of psychological and physical symptoms. The aim of Somatic Experiencing is to release this stored trauma energy and restore the body and mind to a state of equilibrium.
EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy integrates elements from various therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychoanalytic therapy, and somatic techniques. The primary aim of EMDR is to help individuals process distressing memories and reduce the emotional and psychological impact they have on their lives.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a mental state achieved by focusing one's awareness on the present moment, acknowledging thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations without judgment. It involves bringing attention to the here and now, enhancing self-awareness, and cultivating a non-reactive attitude toward the unfolding experiences. Mindfulness practices are integrated into somatic therapy to help individuals tune into their bodily sensations, identifying areas of tension or discomfort. By remaining present and non-judgmental during these experiences, clients can gradually release emotional blocks and process unresolved trauma.
Therapeutic Yoga
Therapeutic yoga is a specialized form of yoga that focuses on using the practice's principles and postures to promote healing and improve overall well-being. It is tailored to address specific physical, emotional, or psychological issues. Through mindful movement, breathwork, and relaxation techniques, therapeutic yoga aims to restore balance, reduce symptoms, and enhance the body's natural healing abilities, promoting holistic health and vitality.
Art Therapy
Art therapy is a form of expressive therapy that utilizes the creative process of making art to address emotional, psychological, and social challenges. Through various art materials and techniques, individuals can explore and communicate their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a non-verbal manner.
Breathwork
Breathwork is a holistic practice that focuses on conscious and intentional control of the breath to improve mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It involves various breathing techniques and exercises that can be simple or complex, depending on the specific approach. Through breathwork, individuals can regulate their autonomic nervous system, reducing stress, anxiety, and promoting relaxation.
Dance Movement Therapy
Dance movement therapy (DMT) is a therapeutic approach that harnesses the power of movement and dance to enhance emotional, physical, and psychological wellbeing. Guided by trained therapists, individuals engage in a creative and expressive process using body movements to explore their emotions, thoughts, and personal experiences.
Is Somatic Therapy Right for Me?
If you answer “yes” to any of the questions below, then you may benefit from working with a somatic therapist.
Do you frequently experience physical symptoms like tension, pain, or discomfort without any apparent medical cause?
Are you finding it challenging to express or process difficult emotions, leaving you feeling stuck or overwhelmed?
Have you experienced past trauma or adverse life events that continue to affect your emotional wellbeing?
Do you struggle with managing stress, anxiety, or chronic stress-related conditions?
Have you noticed a disconnection between your mind and body, feeling out of touch with your physical sensations or needs?
What Can Somatic Therapy Help With?
What Does a Somatic Therapy Session Look Like?
In a somatic therapy session, you can expect a compassionate and client-centered approach that prioritizes your unique needs and experiences. Depending on the type of somatic therapy being used, your therapist may guide you through various body-focused exercises, mindful movements, and breathwork techniques to help you connect with your bodily sensations and emotions. Through this exploration, you'll gain insight into the mind-body connection, release emotional tension, and foster self-awareness.
At Repose, all of our therapists are trauma-informed, meaning you can expect a safe and supportive environment for connecting with your body. Your therapist will help you to express yourself freely and encouraging a deeper understanding of yourself. Each session is tailored to your individual journey, promoting healing, personal growth, and holistic wellbeing.
