What is somatic or body-based therapy?

Somatic experiencing is a form of therapy that focuses on healing trauma by allowing the body to release stored energy and tension. In Greek, the word Soma evolved to mean 'the body living in its wholeness. This technique was developed by Dr. Peter Levine, who noticed that animals in the wild could shake off traumatic experiences and quickly return to a state of calm. He realized humans have similar abilities, but we often suppress our natural instincts to avoid appearing vulnerable or weak.

 Somatic experiencing is a powerful tool for healing trauma and promoting overall well-being. By accessing the body's natural ability to release energy and tension, you can experience relief and renewal and move towards a more positive and fulfilling life.

Through somatic experiencing therapy, you will be guided to focus on physical sensations and movements rather than just talking about your experiences. This nonverbal process allows you to access and release the stress that has trapped in your body, often for years. Your therapist will help you to stay present and notice any physical changes that occur as they explore their feelings and memories.

 Somatic experiencing can be helpful for anyone who has experienced trauma, including those who have been through a single traumatic event and those who have experienced ongoing stress or abuse. It can also be beneficial for those who suffer from anxiety, depression, or chronic pain, as it helps to regulate the nervous system and reduce stress.

What are the Stages of Somatic Experiencing Therapy?

Initial Stages of Somatic Experiencing Therapy

The initial stages of Somatic Experiencing therapy involve establishing a sense of safety and trust between the therapist and the client. Your therapist will support you to identify the physical sensations that arise in your body when they feel stressed or triggered. This process is called resourcing, and it involves identifying internal and external resources that can help the client feel more grounded and present in their body.

Middle Stages of Somatic Experiencing Therapy

The middle stages of Somatic Experiencing therapy involve working with your therapist to process traumatic memories and experiences. 

This process is called titration, and it involves working with small pieces of the traumatic experience at a time, rather than overwhelming you with the entire experience all at once. In this stage, your therapist will help you to pendulate between the traumatic memory and a resource, such as a pleasant memory or a physical sensation, to help regulate their nervous system.

Final Stages of Somatic Experiencing Therapy

The final stages of Somatic Experiencing therapy involve integrating the traumatic experience into your life in a way that promotes resilience and healing. 

This process is called completion, and it involves helping you to find meaning and purpose in their experience, and to develop a sense of empowerment and agency over their life. The therapist may use a variety of techniques, such as touch, movement, and meditation, to help the client feel more present in their body and to promote relaxation and healing.

Somatic therapy can be done in individual or group sessions and is often used in conjunction with other forms of treatment. Finding a qualified somatic experiencing therapist trained in this technique is important, as it requires specialized skills and understanding to not cause further harm.