What is Somatic Therapy?
Somatic Therapy uses the body as its starting point for healing. The word “somatic” is derived from the Greek word “soma” which means “living body”.
It is a holistic form of therapy that is grounded in the relationship between the mind and the body.
Three decades worth of research in the fields of neuro-biology, psycho-neuroimmunology, and other medical fields have demonstrated the connection between the mind and the body. Brain science and the advent of imaging technology have made it clear just how embodied the mind is. The mind exists throughout the entire body.
Somatic therapy offers a variety of benefits. It reduces discomfort, strain, and stress in the body.
It transforms negative emotional experiences, creates a greater sense of Self, builds resilience and offers hope.
Stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship conflicts are problems that exist both in the body and the mind – so the cure must involve both as well. Traditional therapy engages the mind looking for insights through talking and telling the story. This is important but it is not the whole picture.
We live our lives in our bodies and experience the world through our five senses. Our nervous system is the mediator and registers our responses to life’s events throughout our body systems.
Your body is where your emotions live, your thoughts occur, your soul dwells, and your wisdom abides. It is a reliable resource, ally, and guide.