What is somatic therapy?

 

Trauma can take a significant toll on the mind and body. Unfortunately, traditional talk therapies are typically not enough to heal the physical impact of traumatic experiences. As a result, somatic healing has become an increasingly popular approach in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other forms of trauma. Somatic healing aims to heal trauma from the body by addressing the physiological response to emotional and mental trauma.

The body’s physiological response to trauma includes an increase in heart rate, a rise in cortisol levels, and shallow breathing. These physical responses reflect the body's natural response to protect itself from danger, an automatic response that is often referred to as the “fight or flight” response. Unfortunately, this response can become chronic after experiencing trauma, leading to a heightened state of alertness that is physically exhausting.

Somatic healing involves working with the body to release the tension, energy blocks and restore a sense of safety, calm, and balance needed to heal. There  are many techniques used in somatic healing for trauma such as: Movement can help release tension trapped in the body, and restore a sense of safety and confidence as you release the energy through the body via movement. Physical movement could be anything related such as yoga, dance, hiking, sports, and any activities that require the use of the body to release and restore optimal conditions.

 Breathwork - Breathing exercises that involve slow and deep rhythms of inhaling and exhaling can be useful for calming the nervous system and reducing anxiety. It entails intentionally controlling the breathing process, using breathing techniques like count-based, belly, and alternate nostril.  Body Work - This helps release the muscular tension, knots, and scars from previous injuries to create a sense of comfort and rejuvenation for the body. This can include massage, acupuncture, or other forms of bodywork. Mindfulness - Often in engaging in mindful practices, the mind and the body are relaxing together releasing stress and tension from both. Engage in mindfulness activities like meditation, gratitude, visualisation, observing silence, and being creative. Talking Therapy - Speak with a therapist specialising in trauma-sensitive therapies, including psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), somatic experiencing, and EMDR. These trauma-sensitive therapies use a combination of body-based and talk-based techniques to help individuals learn to manage their trauma responses.

Incorporating somatic healing practices into one’s life can be the gateway to long-lasting healing. It is an approach that acknowledges the physical impact of trauma, and actively engages individuals in taking actionable steps to heal their physical and emotional response to the trauma. This approach offers new possibilities of hope for individuals who have struggled to find that their trauma healing through traditional therapies. Through these practices, individuals may have to face uncomfortable sensations and re-experience buried emotions, but in the end, it may create the space to learn and heal emotions and transform them into a more fulfilling and enriched life. It is a commitment to patient self-work, but slowly, individuals will start to regain a sense of confidence, trust, and inner-strength. Healing trauma from the body is a gradual process. It involves the acknowledgment of the physical and emotional impact of trauma, which can manifest through prolonged anxiety, panic attacks, and other forms of maladaptation. It requires a commitment to engaging in resourceful techniques and techniques that can offer a safe and comfortable environment. With time, healing trauma from the body using somatic healing practices can lead to a sense of balance, a healthier relationship with oneself, and the world around oneself. 

Keep in mind that somatic healing for trauma can be a profound and powerful healing tool, but it should be approached with care and respect. Be gentle with yourself, and take the time you need to explore the sensations and emotions that may arise during your healing work. If you are having trouble processing your trauma or finding it hard to help yourself, it’s important to not hesitate in seeking out support through a licensed therapist or a mental health professional.

If you feel you would like support, and you feel therapy may be the answer. I offer 15 minute free insight calls, for you to have the chance to discover how therapy might support you. Visit my website for more information. 


www.mindfulmomentstherapies.co.uk


Or email

enquiries@ mindfulmomentstherapies.co.uk


Call today for a new tomorrow. 

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