Somatic Therapy Explained: Benefits, Techniques, and How It Works
Somatic psychotherapy is a body-based therapeutic approach that focuses on the connection between the mind and body. It recognizes that trauma, stress, and emotions are not just processed cognitively but are also stored physically. By integrating body awareness techniques with psychotherapy, this approach to therapy helps individuals regulate emotions, release stored tension, and promote overall healing. Keep reading to learn about what this is, how it works, the benefits, and more!
What is Somatic Therapy?
Somatic psychotherapy is a form of body-based therapy that acknowledges how past experiences, specifically trauma and stress, can become stored in the body. Unlike talk therapy, which primarily focuses on verbal expression, this therapy incorporates physical awareness and movement to facilitate emotional processing and nervous system healing.
How Somatic Therapy Works
This form of psychotherapy operates on the principle that unresolved emotional distress manifests physically in the body. By engaging in specific techniques, individuals can reconnect with their bodies and release stored tension. Common techniques used in somatic healing include:
Body Awareness: Recognizing physical sensations such as tightness, warmth, or discomfort.
Breathwork: Using conscious breathing techniques to regulate the nervous system.
Grounding Exercises: Engaging in sensory awareness to stay present and reduce anxiety.
Mindful Movement: Utilizing yoga, stretching, or guided movements to release tension.
Body Scanning: Bringing attention to different body parts to identify areas of stress.
Expressive Arts: Using creative outlets like drawing, writing, or movement to process emotions.
The Benefits of Somatic Therapy
This type of therapy offers a range of benefits that support emotional well-being and mental health, including:
Emotional Regulation: Helps individuals manage emotions more effectively by recognizing and responding to bodily sensations.
Trauma Recovery: Facilitates the release of stored trauma and reduces symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
Improved Body Awareness: Encourages a healthier relationship with one’s body, improving self-image and self-esteem.
Relief from Chronic Pain: Helps release muscular tension that may be linked to emotional stress.
Better Relationships: Encourages healthier communication and emotional connections by fostering self-awareness and resilience.
Who Can Benefit from Somatic Therapy?
This modality is beneficial for individuals experiencing:
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety and chronic stress
Depression
Chronic pain and physical tension
Emotional dysregulation
Relationship difficulties
Disconnection from bodily sensations
Somatic Therapy vs. Traditional Talk Therapy
While traditional talk therapy primarily focuses on verbal exploration of thoughts and emotions, somatic psychotherapy integrates physical awareness to promote healing. Key differences include:
Talk Therapy: Centers around cognitive processing and verbal expression.
Somatic Therapy: Involves body-based techniques to release stored trauma and stress.
Combination Approaches: Many therapists integrate both methods for a holistic healing experience.
How to Find a Somatic Therapist
When looking for a therapist trained in these therapeutic techniques, consider the following:
Look for professionals with training in trauma specific modalities and somatic healing.
Research their experience with body-based therapy techniques such as breathwork, movement, and grounding exercises.
Schedule an initial consultation to discuss their approach and determine if it aligns with your needs.
Conclusion
Somatic therapy offers a unique and powerful approach to emotional and physical healing by addressing the mind-body connection. Whether you're dealing with trauma, stress, or emotional imbalance, this therapy can help regulate your nervous system, enhance self-awareness, and promote overall well-being.
If you’re interested in exploring this modality, book a free consult with one of our available somatic therapists, Brynlyn or Ash.
If you're not sure who is the best for you, try our therapist matching tool or contact us at info@thecognitivecorner.ca and we are happy to help you!.
References
Harvard Health Publishing. (2023). What is somatic therapy? Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/what-is-somatic-therapy-202307072951
MyWellbeing. (2023). Exploring the depths of somatic therapy. Retrieved from https://mywellbeing.com/therapy-101/exploring-the-depths-of-somatic-therapy
Payne, P., Levine, P. A., & Crane-Godreau, M. A. (2021). Somatic experiencing: Using interoception and proprioception as core elements of trauma therapy. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 718238. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8276649/#s0007
Verywell Mind. (2022). What is somatic therapy? Retrieved from https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-somatic-therapy-5190064
