What is Somatic Therapy?

Somatic therapy is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on the connection between the mind and the body. It is based on the idea that our bodies hold onto physical and emotional trauma, and that by focusing on physical sensations and movements, we can release the effects of trauma and increase our overall wellbeing.

The word "somatic" comes from the Greek word "soma," which means "the living body." Somatic therapy emphasizes the importance of experiencing the body as a source of information, wisdom, and insight. This type of therapy is often used to treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and addiction.

One of the main principles of somatic therapy is that our bodies store memories and emotions in the form of physical sensations. For example, a traumatic experience might be stored in the body as tension, pain, or discomfort. By paying attention to these physical sensations and working with them, somatic therapists can help clients process their emotions and release the physical effects of trauma.

Somatic therapy often involves a combination of talk therapy and physical exercises, such as breathing exercises, body movements, and mindful awareness of bodily sensations. The therapist may guide the client through different physical movements and ask them to focus on how those movements make them feel.

There are many techniques used in somatics and one is called "somatic experiencing." This approach involves paying attention to physical sensations in the body and using those sensations to help clients process trauma. For example, if a client feels a tightness in their chest when they talk about a traumatic experience, the therapist might encourage them to focus on that sensation and use it as a starting point for processing their emotions.

Another modality used in somatic therapy is called "sensorimotor psychotherapy." This approach focuses on the relationship between the mind and the body, and aims to help clients develop new ways of regulating their emotions through physical movement and mindfulness.

Somatic therapy has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of mental health conditions, and it can be particularly helpful for clients who have experienced trauma. By focusing on physical sensations and movements, somatic therapy can help clients release tension, process emotions, and improve their overall sense of wellbeing.

In conclusion, somatic therapy is a powerful form of psychotherapy that recognizes the connection between the mind and the body. By working with physical sensations and movements, somatic therapists can help clients process trauma and improve their mental health. If you are struggling with a mental health condition, or if you have experienced trauma, somatic therapy may be a helpful option to consider.