What Are Somatic Practices in Therapy?
Somatic practices focus on the connection between your mind and body. In therapy, these practices help you become more aware of how emotions, stress, and trauma show up in your body, and how to use that awareness to promote healing and balance.
The word "somatic" comes from the Greek word soma, meaning "body." These approaches are rooted in the understanding that the body and mind are deeply connected, and that physical sensations, posture, and movement play a key role in emotional well-being.
Why Focus on the Body?
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Emotions are stored in the body: Sometimes we experience stress, trauma, or emotions that don’t just stay in our thoughts—they can linger in physical sensations like tightness, tension, or pain.
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The body remembers: Even if we’ve forgotten a difficult experience, our body may hold onto it in subtle ways. Somatic practices help us gently access and release these stored memories.
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The body supports healing: By learning to tune into your body and work with its natural wisdom, you can create a sense of calm, safety, and balance.
What Are the Benefits of Somatic Practices?
Somatic practices can help you:
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Reduce physical tension caused by stress or emotions.
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Calm your nervous system and feel more grounded.
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Process emotions or trauma that are “stuck” in the body.
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Build a deeper sense of self-awareness and connection to your body.
What Will It Feel Like?
Somatic practices are gentle, and we’ll always go at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Some people describe them as grounding and calming, while others feel a sense of lightness or relief as they release stored tension.
If you’re curious about exploring somatic practices, we can incorporate them into your sessions to see how they work for you.