What are Somatics? A Beginner’s Guide to Healing Through the Body
Somatic therapy is an innovative approach that centres on the connection between mind and body, making it particularly effective for emotional healing.
The Origins of Somatics
Somatics originated from the understanding that the body and mind are interconnected, a concept that has been explored in various cultures and therapeutic modalities throughout history. The term "somatic" — from the Greek word "soma," meaning "body" — emphasises the physiological aspects of the body in understanding mental and emotional health.
The roots of a somatic approach to healing can be traced back to ancient practices in many cultures. Including Eastern philosophies such as yoga and traditional Chinese medicine, which recognise the importance of bodily sensations and the flow of energy in promoting overall wellbeing.
In the 20th century, this idea gained traction in the field of psychology, particularly through the work of figures like Wilhelm Reich, who explored the link between psychological trauma and physical tension.
The development of somatic therapies further evolved with the contributions of various disciplines, such as body-oriented psychotherapy and trauma-informed care. Important figures like Peter Levine, who developed Somatic Experiencing, have significantly influenced modern practices by focusing on the body’s innate ability to heal itself.
Today, healing through the body incorporates a range of techniques that encourage awareness of bodily sensations, helping individuals release stored trauma and navigate chronic anxiety. By integrating these physical experiences with psychological insights, somatic healing brings a holistic approach that promotes healing through both the mind and body.
Why Somatics?
Nervous System Regulation: Our bodies store trauma and stress in the nervous system. Somatic therapy recognises that unresolved emotional issues can manifest physically, leading to chronic anxiety, tension, and other health concerns. Focusing on these bodily sensations allows us to access these stored emotions and begin to process them.
Empowerment Through Awareness: Somatics allows a deep connection with our bodies. Many of us have become disconnected from our physical selves due to trauma, stress, and the constant demands of modern life. Somatics brings awareness to bodily sensations for a deeper understanding of how emotions are experienced physically, which can lead to greater empowerment and self-regulation.
Holistic Healing: Addressing only the emotional or cognitive aspects of trauma often leaves the physical component unexamined. Somatics provides a holistic approach that engages the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. This emphasises the importance of treating the entirety of an person rather than just symptoms.
How Somatic Techniques Work
Mindful Awareness: I guide you to focus on your bodily sensations, thoughts, emotions, and memories. This mindful awareness can help you identify areas of tension or pain associated with emotional experiences.
Somatic Techniques: I use various techniques such as basic breath work, gentle movement, or self-touch to help release stored emotional energy. These practices can lead to profound shifts, as they encourage the body to let go of what it holds.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Integration: By combining somatic approaches with IFS therapy, you can explore your inner sub-personalities—each representing different aspects of yourself. This integration can help identify and heal parts that are holding onto trauma, creating a more cohesive sense of Self.
Safety and Trust: A key aspect of somatics is creating a safe space where you can explore your emotions without judgment. Building trust between the client and therapist allows for a deeper exploration of feelings and sensations.
Somatics is not about quick fixes; it's a journey of self-discovery and healing that aligns the mind with the body. For those curious or skeptical, understanding this integrated approach can be a transformative experience that brings lasting change and empowerment in our life.
Somatics differ from traditional talk therapy primarily in its approach to healing. While talk therapy focuses on verbal communication and intellectual understanding of thoughts and feelings, somatic emphasises the connection between the mind and body.
I encourage you to pay attention to physical sensations, bodily movements, and emotions experienced in the body. This process allows you to access deeper layers of your experience that may not be fully expressed through words alone. By engaging with the body, you can uncover and release trauma stored in the nervous system, which is often a root cause of emotional distress.
We do still talk about and reflect upon past experiences, as this helps you to make sense of your past. Body-based healing strengthens the new understanding that is gained through verbally and visually exploring your experiences.
Somatics prioritises the body’s role in emotional wellbeing, offering a dynamic and immersive approach that complements the insights gained through talk therapy.
Reflections
What might your body be trying to tell you?
Spend a few moments today tuning into and listening to the wisdom of your body. Notice without judgement the sensations that come up in different situations and conversations.
Gentle observation is always the first place we start with somatics. Allowing for a greater connection and integration of the mind-body.
If you’re interested in working with me one to one or in a group class, drop me an email at claire@harmonyhealingservices.co.uk or you can book a free 30 minute consultation by clicking the button below.
