Unlocking Healing Potential: Understanding Somatic Therapy and Its Transformative Benefits

Melody Wright, LMFT

When I step into a session I pay close attention to my client’s breathing, tone and speed of voice and overall energy. There’s no agenda or predetermined plan; instead, I remain completely present, engaged, and attuned with them. I rely on my own nervous system to pick up on cues from my clients and use that information to support and guide them through the ebbs and flows of the session. Many times, we remain oblivious to the messages our bodies are attempting to convey. As a somatic therapist, my role is to guide individuals in developing awareness of these signals and assist them in deciphering the meaningful communication embedded within their physical experiences. You see, in today's world, it's not uncommon for many of us to feel overwhelmed, stressed, or disconnected from ourselves. We may find ourselves trapped in the whirlwind of our thoughts, often neglecting the connection between our bodies and minds. This is the beauty of Somatic Therapy. 

Somatic therapy recognizes the intricate connection between the body and the mind, understanding that our physical experiences and emotional states are intertwined. In this blog, we will discuss the world of somatic therapy, unraveling its principles, modalities, and benefits. Whether you are a seeker of self-discovery or someone who desires to enhance their overall well-being, this blog will provide you with valuable insights into the transformative potential of Somatic Therapy.

What Are The Benefits of Somatic Therapy

With Somatic Therapy being a holistic approach to psychotherapy its principles focus on the understanding that emotional and psychological issues can be manifested and stored in the body. With that understanding, it can address the body's experiences and sensations which can lead to healing and transformation. Here are some of the principles that guide somatic therapy: 

1. Body-Mind Connection: As already mentioned, Somatic therapy emphasizes the importance of connecting fully with one's body. It encourages individuals to become aware of bodily sensations, emotions, and patterns of movement to gain a deeper understanding of their present experiences.
   

2. Mindfulness and Presence: Somatic Therapy brings awareness by promoting the practice of mindfulness. As people begin to practice mindfulness it leads them to deeper self-awareness and allows them to develop a greater capacity to respond to life's challenges with more self-love and self-acceptance.
   

3. Integration of the Mind and Body for Transformation: Somatic Therapy teaches you how to honor and understand your body. When you are able to listen to its signals and tend to the places in need you honor yourself as a whole. Integrating the tools given to you by your therapist will promote transformation, resilience, and overall healing. 

 How is Somatic Therapy Different from Talk Therapy?

Now that we’ve talked about what Somatic Therapy is and touched on some of its basic principles, let’s discuss the tools used to achieve these goals. The techniques used in Somatic Therapy are like the tools in your tool kit. One tool may work for one thing, but not for the other, like a hammer to drive a nail versus a screwdriver.  When you start therapy, your therapist will begin to provide you with these tools for healing. So what are some Somatic Therapy tools? 

1. Nervous System Regulation: By focusing on levels of activation your therapist can support you with grounding in the moment and regulating your nervous system. Conscious breathing, visualization, and touch exercises can help release tension and provide grounding. This is especially supportive to those who experience anxiety. This allows you to process emotions on a deeper level by providing a deeper awareness of what you’re experiencing in your body.
    

2. Allowing The Body To Move As It Pleases: Incorporating authentic movement helps give the body a voice by allowing the individual to release pent-up energy, frustration, and stress. With eyes closed to reduce distraction and encourage body awareness, the individual can then act out their internal emotions that they may not have words for at the moment. The movement supports releasing the “feel good” hormones like oxytocin to combat depression and trauma-related issues.
   

3. Mindfulness Practices: Mindfulness practices, such as meditation, are a common technique used in Somatic Therapy. These practices invite curiosity and acceptance. Mindfulness is a time to be led by your subconscious mind, thus connecting with authenticity and the present moment in a gentle, loving way. Mindfulness is also a way to connect with your inner resources and strength, explore past experiences, and literally create new neural pathways in your brain. When you meditate or imagine a positive situation, your brain cannot distinguish what is real versus what actually happened which creates a new positive neural pathway in your brain leading to healing in the mind and body.
   

4. Body Scanning: Self-awareness is a key piece to Somatic Therapy. Knowing what your body is saying is essential to developing that self-awareness. Body Scanning has been proven to be a very successful mindfulness technique to increase your body awareness. It supports this by giving you clues into how you are feeling or what you might be needing.

Final Thoughts

As we mentioned above, Somatic Therapy can play an intricate part in your healing journey and self-development. Many times people will visit their therapist to talk about their issues, and yes this can be supportive for a while, however, the body holds wisdom for your healing as well. The body's memory of trauma can have lasting physical effects such as chronic pain, sleep disorders or consistently living in fight or flight mode. Here at Life By Design Therapy, we have a team who is skilled and passionate about utilizing Somatic and Holistic Therapy tools to support you in a safe and non-judgmental space. If you are interested in learning more about what each therapist offers, visit our website at www.lifebydesigntherapy.com or if you are ready to get started CLICK HERE to schedule your free phone consultation with our Client Care Coordinator.

Additional resources

1. Somatic Psychotherapy Toolbox: 125 Worksheets and Exercises to Treat Trauma & Stress by Manuela Mischke-Reeds

2. In an Unspoken Voice: How the Body Releases Trauma and Restores Goodness by Peter A. Levine

3. Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma" by Peter A. Levine

4. The Healing Power of the Breath: Simple Techniques to Reduce Stress and Anxiety, Enhance Concentration, and Balance Your Emotions" by Richard P. Brown and Patricia L. Gerbarg

5. "The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma" by Bessel van der Kolk

6. Sensorimotor Psychotherapy: Interventions for Trauma and Attachment" by Pat Ogden and Janina Fisher

7. Grace Unfolding: Psychotherapy in the Spirit of Tao-te ching by Greg Johanson and Ronald S. Kurtz

8. The Tao of Trauma: A Practitioner's Guide for Integrating Five Element Theory and Trauma Treatment by Alaine D. Duncan, Kathy L. Kain and Michael Hollifield