Introduction
I know, I know… this is a rather unpopular opinion for providers like me – cognitive-trained therapists… But I gotta keep it real, so here are several reasons why somatic, body-based healing techniques can be so effective when it comes to healing trauma, addressing inner child wounds, and overcoming self-doubt:
7 Reasons Somatic Psychotherapy Supercharge Healing
- Direct Access to the Body’s Wisdom: Somatic techniques acknowledge that the body stores emotional memories and traumas. By engaging with the body, individuals can access and process emotions and memories directly, bypassing verbal labels, because 80% of the central nervous system is “body-to-brain” whereas only 20% if “brain-to-body.”
- Holistic Approach: Somatic approaches support a holistic view of the individual – meaning it recognizes and honors the natural interconnectedness of the body, mind, heart and soul. This comprehensive approach allows for a more complete healing process, as it considers the physical, emotional, and energetic aspects of your well-being.
- Regulation of the Nervous System: Somatic practices can help regulate the autonomic nervous system, which plays a critical role in how the body responds to stress and trauma. Tools such as grounding skills, breathwork, and mindful movement like yoga or intuitive yoga can promote relaxation and a sense of safety. That sense of safety then builds self-trust for engaging in healing work.
- Embodied Release and Integration: Somatic methods often involve physical movements, somatic tracking, gestures, or touch that allow individuals to release stored tension and trauma from the body. This release is then supported by integration, where new, healthier patterns are established, leading to deepening self-trust.
- Non-Verbal Expression: Trauma and deep emotional wounds can be challenging to express verbally because of where/how the brain stores traumatic memories. These are stored in a totally different structure of the brain than verbal functioning Somatic techniques offer non-verbal avenues for individuals to express and process their emotions, providing a safe space for the release of trauma-related feelings/thoughts..
- Enhanced Bodymind Connection: Somatic practices often help individuals get to the root cause of distress and thereby develop a stronger mind-body connection. This fosters greater awareness of the body signals as feedback – all of which can lead to better self-regulation and emotional resilience.
- Empowerment and Agency: Engaging in somatic healing helps individuals take personal ownership of their healing journey because each individual’s set of tools will be unique to them. This autonomy reduces “outsourcing” and improves self-trust which is transformative and contributes to long-term well-being.
It’s important to note that while somatic techniques can be highly effective, they may not be suitable for everyone or every situation. There may be some body-based activities that could retraumatize clients if they haven’t learned and practiced enough self-soothing and grounding tools.
Somatic Psychotherapy
Now that I’ve walked you through why somatic skills are so effective…I’m also going to fall on the sword just a bit, because it’s not “all-or-nothing” when it comes to healing.
I realize after what I just outlined, one might think I believe somatic skills are more effective in healing – period. But really, it’s not a matter of which approach is better than another.
It’s actually about the order of the approaches, meaning this: Engaging in somatic approaches FIRST in order to achieve the above and then proceed with talk therapy and cognitive tools to “unlearn and relearn” is the key. This is what we call Somatic Psychotherapy, which can only be conducted with someone certified in somatic skills/practices and is a licensed mental health provider.
Because the brain-to–body connection provides about 20% neural communication and the body-to-brain connection provides an astounding 80% neural connection, if you’re only talking and reframing thoughts, you’re only maximizing 20% of the healing potential.
By healing using both somatics and talk-therapy, you’re hittin’ a home run in your healing process.
Conclusion
Somatic psychotherapy, the practice of somatic skills along with talk-therapy tools, can provide a comprehensive and customized approach to healing and personal growth.
Work with Me
My Kairos Transformation Memberships are both self-paced and coach-assisted. I’ll help you elevate your well-being and create lasting transformation as your dedicated Certified Somatic Practitioner & LMFT. Using a unique blend of integrative, body-based, and cognitive skills, I’ll guide you on your profound journey of healing emotional wounds, conquering anxiety, fostering nourishing relationships, and shedding self-doubt.
Let’s collaborate to reclaim your inner resilience, rediscover your story, and rebuild a life of vibrant holistic wellness.
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In health & Wholeness,
Shannan
