Key Principles of Somatic Experiencing®
Titration: Trauma is processed emotional pain in manageable doses, a pace that is comfortable for the client and prevents retraumatisation.
Pendulation: Clients learn to move from activation and distress through to deactivation, discharge, and relaxation.
Completion: Traumatic experiences that were once interrupted or unprocessed can be revisited and brought to a natural resolution, freeing the mind and body from their lingering effects.
I was first introduce to Somatic Experiencing in 2019 when I was going through a high conflict divorce. It brought me a lot of ease during this transition when I felt triggered for the most part. Several years later, I’m helping clients find more ease in their professional and personal lives. My aim is to help people re-wire their nervous system to support them during and after their transition.
Key Principles of Somatic Therapy
Mind-Body Integration: Somatic therapy recognizes the interconnectedness of mind and body, emphasizing that emotional and psychological experiences are deeply intertwined with bodily sensations and responses.
Trauma-Informed: This approach acknowledges the impact of trauma on the nervous system and provides tools to regulate and heal from its effects.
Body Awareness: Somatic therapy cultivates present-moment awareness of bodily sensations, emotions, and thoughts, fostering a deeper understanding of how they interact and influence one another.
Self-Regulation: Through various techniques, somatic therapy teaches individuals how to regulate their nervous system responses, manage stress, and cultivate a sense of calm and safety within their bodies.
Empowerment: By providing individuals with the tools to understand and heal their own bodies, somatic therapy fosters a sense of empowerment and agency.
Techniques Used in Somatic Therapy
Grounding Exercises: These practices help individuals connect with their bodies and the present moment, promoting a sense of stability and calm.
Breathwork: Conscious breathing techniques can regulate the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and increase self-awareness.
Mindful Movement: Gentle movement practices, such as yoga or tai chi, can release tension, improve body awareness, and promote relaxation.
Sensorimotor Processing: This technique involves exploring and integrating bodily sensations, emotions, and thoughts to facilitate healing and self-regulation.
Touch Therapy: In some cases, gentle touch and massage can be used to release tension, promote relaxation, and enhance body awareness.
Somatic therapy offers a holistic and empowering approach to healing from trauma, stress, and other mind-body symptoms. By addressing the root of the problem within the nervous system and fostering a deeper connection with the body, somatic therapy can lead to lasting transformation and a more fulfilling life.